Plotplundering...
Plotplundering...
Chapter 1.31
Erin discusses the mechanics of the leveling system with Krshia and Selys, learning how classes and skills are acquired. Later, she shares a deeply emotional game of chess with Pawn in memory of Klbkch, which leads her to level up and gain a unique Skill.
Inside The Wandering Inn, Erin Solstice sits down with Krshia and Selys to ask questions about how Levels and Skills function in this world. The two explain the intricacies of the System, revealing that almost any dedicated activity can grant a class. They use examples ranging from combat roles like [Duelist] and [General] to lifestyle classes such as [Gourmet], [Gossip], and [Hedonists]. Erin learns that classes become more solidified the higher one levels, making them nearly impossible to lose or change once deeply ingrained.
Later, Olesm and Pisces arrive at the inn, accompanied by the Antinium Workers. Erin takes the time to speak with the clicking worker, whom she has named Pawn. Their conversation turns to the recent death of Klbkch. Pawn explains the nature of the Antinium Hive and their Birther Sacs, noting that standard Antinium lack true individuality. However, Klbkch was unique and deeply respected, leaving Pawn and the other workers to process an unfamiliar sense of grief.
Seeking a way to honor their fallen friend, Erin and Pawn sit down to play a game of chess. The match is not played competitively, but rather as a beautiful, emotional tribute to Klbkch. They replicate a stunning sequence of moves akin to the legendary "Immortal Game." The profound emotional weight and singular focus of the match triggers the System. Consequently, Erin reaches Level 11 in her [Innkeeper] class, gaining [Lesser Strength] and a rare, reality-altering Skill called [Immortal Moment].
Erin questions Krshia and Selys about how classes and skills are acquired, learning about various mundane and specialized classes.
Erin speaks with Pawn about Klbkch's death, learning about Antinium Birther Sacs and Klbkch's unique individuality within the Hive.
A skill learned by Erin Solstice after a deeply emotional chess match.
aka [Skill – Immortal Moment learned.], [Immortal Moment]
World mechanic where thinking races gain levels and classes. Some classes can be gained suddenly by satisfying class requirements without formal apprenticeship (e.g., gaining Farmer levels by growing many carrots). Some creatures (animals, Dragons) cannot level and instead retain natural might.
aka The Skills, leveling system +14
An Antinium Worker who exhibits Aberration-like behavior by creating rhythmic noises, but remains peaceful.
aka Worker, the clicking Worker +5
Erin and Pawn play a highly emotional and beautiful game of chess to honor Klbkch's memory.
As a result of the profound chess match, Erin levels up to [Innkeeper] Level 11 and gains the Skills [Lesser Strength] and [Immortal Moment].
A Human mage from Wistram Academy, specialized in Elementalist and Illusionary schools, who admits to necromancy.
aka the mage, Mister Mage +30
A small, child-like Goblin who attacks Erin out of grief and is spared by her.
aka the small Goblin, the ragged Goblin +5
A class that grants its user Skills related to strategy, giving them a significant advantage in games like chess.
aka [Tactician], [Tacticians] +1
Magical abilities granted by the System to enhance a person's physical capabilities or profession.
aka Skills
A polite, blue-scaled Drake who is the highest-leveled [Tactician] in Liscor. He is roped into playing a high-stakes chess game against Erin by his uncle, Lism.
aka The Olesm, the Drake +6
A historically famous chess match that Erin recites entirely from memory.
aka famous chess game, immortal game +1
A species of large, sentient insectoid people; one arrives at Erin’s door with a companion.
aka giant insect, Ants +25
“I still don’t get it. Where do levels come from? Why do people have them? Why do people only level up when they sleep?”
“I do not know, Erin Solstice. These are mysteries of the world. They are what they are, yes?”
“Fine. But if that’s the case, why don’t we get levels for everything? Like…walking. Is there a [Walker] class?”
“Walking is something we do, not something we live for, yes? Only things that we make our goals and dreams form classes. However, there is a [Runner] class.”
“But that makes no sense!”
“People run for a living, Erin. I’ve never met anyone who walks. That kind of class would be a [Traveller] or a [Journeywoman]. You see? No wait, [Journeywoman] is an apprentice class. See? Now you’re getting me confused.”
“But that does mean you could get a class for eating, right?”
“You mean a [Gourmet]? I’ve heard some rich merchants and nobility have that class. Lifestyle, Erin. I hear there are some fat slobs who live all their lives just partying and living life up. [Hedonists].”
“No way. Really? Okay, I think I get it. But people can have multiple classes, right?”
+124 more quotes →“In theory, you could have as many classes as you want. But in practice, even most Adventurers only have three or four classes, tops. It’s because you don’t just get a class even if you qualify for it. It has to become part of your life.”