Amelia and Bruce walked over to the bench, placed explicitly for moments like this, and sat down together. "Oh, right," Amelia began, turning slightly towards Bruce, "I got a new class just like you. I'm unsure who Mimir is, but this seems connected to him. The class is legendary, too."

Class: Seer of the Sagacious Depths (Legendary)

Description: The Seer of the Sagacious Depths is deeply connected to the profound wisdom of Mimir and his well, Mímisbrunnr. Revered in Norse mythology, this class embodies the boundless insight and understanding of Mimir, the guardian of knowledge. Seers of this class can tap into the depths of Mimir's well, drawing upon its endless reservoir of ancient wisdom and foresight.

Effects:

Enhanced Perception

: Gain a heightened ability to discern hidden truths and detect illusions, traps, and lies.

Foresight of Mímisbrunnr

: Grants a 20% increased chance to predict enemy actions and uncover secrets in quests or battle.

Shared Wisdom:

Allies within a 30-foot radius gain a 10% boost to intelligence-based skill checks and magical resistances.

"That is a fancy class you got, my dear. Congratulations. I would like to know more about how this happened, though. I mean, while yes, we have been doing things related to building for me and knowledge-based for you. They seem like big upgrades for what feels like minimal work?" Bruce stated as if talking to himself. It was a confusing matter.

"Thank you. I kind of wondered about that myself. I would imagine that Odin or Jörd is stacking the cards in our favor. He even said himself that this was in his best interest to get a strong start here." She then delved into the details of her previous skills. "The skills for an Administrator were probably even more boring than yours. It was all administration-based and dull stuff."

She elaborated on some of her new skills. "Codex of the Commons involves developing and enacting policies with a blend of arcane knowledge and practical governance. It even decreases morale drop from new laws and increases the chance of seamless integration."

New Skill: Codex of the Commons (Common)

Description: Harness a combination of arcane insight and practical governance to craft and implement policies that strengthen community cohesion. Codex of the Commons ensures smoother transitions during change and fosters a stable, unified populace.

Effects:

Policy Integration:

Reduces the morale drop from new laws or policies by 10%, ensuring smoother adoption among the populace.

Harmonized Governance:

Increases the likelihood of successful integration of new systems or structures by 15%, minimizing resistance and disruptions.

Continuing, Amelia described another skill, "Treasury of the Titans. It's about mastering the city's wealth and resources, including mythical treasures and ancient artifacts. It even reduces accounting errors by 10%."

New Skill: Treasury of the Titans (Uncommon)

Description: Channel the wisdom of the Titans to oversee and manage wealth and resources with unmatched precision. This skill ensures the effective stewardship of mythical treasures, ancient artifacts, and city finances, fostering prosperity and stability.

Effects:

Titan's Precision:

Reduces accounting errors and resource mismanagement by 10%, ensuring efficient allocation and use of assets.

Artifact Stewardship:

Enhances the effectiveness and value of mythical treasures and ancient artifacts by 15% when integrated into civic systems or defenses.

"Festival of the Fates. This one's about planning and promoting cultural and recreational events that align with celestial and mystical occurrences, enhancing the city's cultural allure. It increases the chance of secondary effects during festivals." Her explanation provided a clear picture of how her new class would function in the context of city management.

New Skill: Festival of the Fates (Rare)

Description: Harness the power of celestial and mystical events to create awe-inspiring festivals that enhance cultural unity and prosperity. Festival of the Fates transforms ordinary celebrations into profound moments that resonate with the threads of fate, drawing visitors and boosting the city's renown.

Effects:

Celestial Alignment:

Increases the effectiveness of festivals by 20% when timed with celestial or mystical occurrences, amplifying their impact on morale and cultural appeal.

Resonant Celebration:

Enhances the chance of secondary effects during festivals—such as temporary boosts to productivity, trade, or diplomacy—by 15%, turning celebrations into moments of strategic significance.

Mystic Attraction:

Draws visitors, scholars, and merchants from afar, increasing the influx of unique goods, knowledge, and cultural artifacts by 10% during festivals.

Amelia turned to Bruce as she explained her new abilities. "So, I've got this skill called Arcane Algorithmist. It's all about mastering advanced mathematics, but it's intertwined with the mystical elements of our world. It's not just playing with numbers and equations; it's about seeing the deeper patterns that control everything around us. With this, my intelligence gets a 15-point boost, and I have a better chance of understanding complex mathematical problems."

New Skill: Arcane Algorithmist (Uncommon)

Description: Blend advanced mathematics with mystical insight to uncover the deeper patterns governing the world. Arcane Algorithmist enhances the ability to solve complex problems and decode hidden truths, bridging the gap between logic and magic.

Effects:

Enhanced Calculation:

Grants a permanent 15-point boost to Intelligence, improving cognitive and analytical abilities.

Mystic Comprehension:

Increases the likelihood of understanding and solving complex mathematical or arcane problems by 20%, enabling breakthroughs in research and strategy.

She paused momentarily, gauging Bruce's reaction, then continued, "There's Envoy of the Accord. This one's crucial for diplomacy. It's all about navigating the tangled web of alliances, negotiations, and conflicts. It allows me to handle sensitive political situations, build alliances, and resolve disputes. It's not just about negotiation; it's about understanding everyone's viewpoints and finding a way that benefits everyone. This skill improves my relationships with others and leads to more favorable negotiation outcomes." Amelia was clearly pleased with the potential of her new skills.

New Skill: Envoy of the Accord (Rare)

Description: Master the intricate art of diplomacy, alliances, and conflict resolution with Envoy of the Accord. This skill enables users to navigate complex political landscapes, fostering unity and achieving mutually beneficial outcomes even in the most sensitive situations. By understanding diverse perspectives and balancing competing interests, Envoy of the Accord strengthens relationships and builds lasting alliances.

Effects:

Diplomatic Insight:

Enhances the user's ability to read and understand the motivations and goals of others, increasing the likelihood of favorable negotiation outcomes by 20%.

Alliance Builder:

Improves relationships with allied factions, granting a 15% boost to trust and cooperation in ongoing diplomatic efforts.

Conflict Mediator:

Reduces the severity and duration of disputes or conflicts between groups by 25%, enabling quicker resolutions and maintaining stability.

Bruce nodded in agreement, a hint of amusement in his voice. "You're right. You are more suited to those than I am. Snore fest for me. But it looks like any deal-making will be up your alley, not mine, since you get a bonus now."

Amelia responded lightly, "You are so kind, dear husband." She then focused on her class skills, "I have three class skills; hopefully, they are more interesting."

She began detailing them, "First, there's Abyssal Insight. It unlocks the ability to perceive hidden truths and secrets, granting me a deep understanding of mystical and arcane matters."

New Skill: Abyssal Insight (Epic)

Description: Channeling the wisdom of Mímir, the Norse figure of profound knowledge and keeper of secrets, Abyssal Insight grants the ability to delve into the hidden layers of reality. This skill reveals truths shrouded in mystery, unearthing arcane knowledge and uncovering the threads that connect the mortal and divine realms. With Mímir's guidance, the user becomes a seeker of the unknown, capable of perceiving the depths of existence.

Effects:

Veilpiercer's Vision:

Grants the ability to perceive hidden truths, uncovering illusions, concealed pathways, and cryptic arcane energies within a 60-foot radius. This effect enhances problem-solving and discovery in both combat and exploration.

Runic Decipherer:

Enhances the understanding of ancient scripts, magical runes, and forgotten texts by 30%, allowing users to decode and unlock their full potential.

Cosmic Threads:

Temporarily enhances the user's intelligence and arcane affinity by 20% for 1 minute after uncovering a hidden truth, allowing for immediate application of newly acquired knowledge.

Note: The knowledge gained through Abyssal Insight often comes with weight and consequence, requiring discernment in its use.

She continued, "Then there's Runic Revelation. This empowers me to decipher and utilize ancient runic languages, unlocking powerful spells and hidden knowledge."

New Skill: Runic Revelation (Rare)

Description: Runic Revelation grants mastery over the ancient runic languages that connect the mortal and divine realms. This skill empowers the user to uncover hidden knowledge, decipher long-forgotten scripts, and harness the latent power of runes to unlock spells and secrets that have been buried in time.

Effects:

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Ancient Decipherer:

Increases the ability to interpret and decode ancient runes by 30%, unlocking access to hidden spells, enchantments, and knowledge.

Runic Amplification:

Enhances the potency of runic-based magic by 20%, empowering spells and effects drawn from deciphered runes.

Runic Transcription:

Grants the ability to inscribe runes on objects or surfaces, imbuing them with magical properties or storing spells for later use.

Finally, Amelia concluded, "And lastly, Wisdom of the Ages. This skill allows me to accumulate and retain vast knowledge, making me a living library of historical, magical, and cultural information." Her explanation was clear and concise, outlining the capabilities and potential of her new skills.

New Skill: Wisdom of the Ages (Legendary)

Description: Bestowed with the essence of Sága, the Norse goddess of history and knowledge, Wisdom of the Ages transforms the user into a living repository of ancient and modern understanding. This skill grants unparalleled access to historical, magical, and cultural knowledge, allowing the user to serve as both a guide and a strategist. The depth of accumulated wisdom empowers decisions, enhances magical potential, and preserves the legacy of forgotten truths.

Effects:

Boundless Recall:

Grants the ability to instantly recall detailed historical, magical, or cultural information, providing insights that enhance decision-making and strategy.

Ethereal Archives:

Creates a personal mental library that stores all discovered knowledge and allows for rapid reference during critical moments, increasing research and analysis speed by 25%.

Cultural Resonance:

Improves interactions with diverse groups by 20%, leveraging historical and cultural understanding to foster diplomacy and resolve disputes.

Chronicle Weaver:

Empowers the user to imbue magical constructs or spells with knowledge from their archives, increasing the effectiveness of enchantments and runic magic by 15%.

Bruce chuckled lightly, a playful glint in his eyes. "So basically, you're now the resident library, and I'm here to buff the town to keep you safe. I can deal with that." He said this with a hint of jest, pulling her in for a kiss and a side cuddle. Slow horror dawned on him, "Wait, does that mean you won't ever forget anything I have said?"

Smiling devilishly, "Why, dear husband, why would that matter? If you would just admit I am right when I try to remind you of something you said, we wouldn't have to go round and round until you capitulate." It had been a long-running joke with them as she had always had a steel-trap of a mind.

Their moment of affection, however, was abruptly interrupted. No sooner had they started kissing than Bruce and Amelia received a message on their system screens.

Message - Teleport Portal New Hope

Wolf's Run,

We need troops for this village ASAP. Surrounding forests house monsters in the 20-30 level range. Send backup for locals immediately.

Sinclair

Pulling away slightly to read the message, Amelia let out a small, exasperated sigh. "And there goes that. How does he get into trouble so quickly?" Her tone was a mix of amusement and mild frustration, as she was still getting accustomed to the sudden calls to action that seemed to punctuate their lives.

Bruce sprang up, quickly adjusting his clothes with a sense of urgency. "I'll gather the council and take a small force there to find out," he declared, already strategizing their response.

Amelia tried to maintain a light-hearted tone, saying, "Send my love. I'm sure he's fine, but he was in a hurry. You know how he is about being blunt through text messages. I have things I can do here. Let me know if you need anything." Despite her efforts to sound casual, a hint of concern lingered beneath her words, an unspoken worry she chose not to voice.

Without wasting another moment, Bruce took off at a jog, swiftly leaving the small area and heading back towards the town hall. He covered the distance in less than a minute, his pace quick and determined. Upon arriving, he called out loudly, "General Valthorn! Come quickly."

General Valthorn, who had been conversing in the meeting room with two other elders, burst through the door, his gaze immediately locking onto Bruce with an intense stare. "What is wrong?" he asked, his voice carrying a mix of concern and readiness to act.

Bruce relayed the urgent message to General Valthorn. "Sinclair sent a message through the teleport system. He needed aid and requested backup immediately. The threat levels are around 20-30. It's a small village, I would assume."

General Valthorn, without asking any further questions, nodded and accessed his system screens. As the leader of the local forces, he had an enhanced ability to command and organize. He quickly flagged two units he had been monitoring closely for upcoming combat. These units were not only the highest levels but had also been working together the longest and had decent numbers. He held high hopes for their performance.

In less than 45 seconds, pounding feet approached from outside. The members of the selected groups had been training just down the road, and upon receiving the message, they had come running full pell-mell. As they rounded the corner of the building, they saw General Valthorn standing near the teleport crystal, his wing upraised, ready to direct them to their mission.

Upon reaching General Valthorn, the new soldiers swiftly formed, awaiting further instructions. General Valthorn surveyed them quickly, his gaze sharp and focused. He then addressed them. "The Wolf Lord has requested aid, and we answer. Spread out and form a circle around the teleport crystal there."

As the General and leader of the assembled troops, he had the authority to will them into a group with him to complete the teleportation process. There was no need for them to accept the message individually. He turned towards the teleport portal and initiated the process. Selecting 'New Hope' as their destination, they were soon whisked away to the village.

Teleportation always brought with it a unique sensation. The quality of the experience largely depended on the state of the magical lines crisscrossing the planet. Midgard's network had suffered some damage, which slightly affected their journey. Upon arrival, they experienced a brief moment of vertigo, which quickly dissipated, allowing them to regain their bearings and focus on the task.

Propelling himself into the air with a fierce war cry, General Valthorn took to the skies for reconnaissance. As he ascended, he glanced down and observed his newly assembled army. Men, beastkin, and elves seamlessly formed a perfect circle, with ranged fighters in the middle. Their weapons were drawn, ready, and alert as they meticulously evaluated their surroundings for potential threats.

While airborne, General Valthorn noticed the young Lord approaching the group below. He mentally noted to speak with him upon his return to the ground. For now, his focus was on surveying the area. He executed a few spirals in the air, gaining several hundred feet in altitude, and began flying circles around the small village. From his vantage point, he could see miles of thick, dark forest stretching out in every direction. The world below was abundant in natural resources.

His attention was drawn to a speck of smoke on the horizon, likely emanating from another village. It could be monster-related, but the distance made it difficult to confirm. General Valthorn knew monsters were often brought over with planet acquisitions like this one. He kept a vigilant eye on the landscape, ready to assess and respond to any signs of danger.

During the 15 minutes General Valthorn spent airborne, he found little to warrant immediate concern. His keen eyes caught brief glimpses of large animals in the distance, their sizes suggesting higher levels, but they showed no interest in the small town below. As he circled back to the village of New Hope, he observed that his troops had efficiently spread out, taking up strategic positions on the walls.

The local population, evidently exhausted, had collapsed where they stood, with some already deep in slumber. They had been on constant vigil for days, their fatigue allowing them to fall asleep so quickly amidst the chaos. General Valthorn noted with approval that some other villagers tended to the weary, making them as comfortable as possible. The tight-knit nature of the community was evident, a positive sign that they would look out for one another.

Upon landing near the teleport crystal, General Valthorn approached Bruce for an update. "I couldn't see any immediate threats," he reported. "Most animals around here are rather large and high-level, as suggested. We will need to be cautious. Where is Lord Hagerson?" His tone was calm yet alert, ready to take the next necessary steps to ensure the village's safety.

Bruce responded to General Valthorn's inquiry, "Oh, Sinclair had to move on. He said to let those who don't want to stay here return to Wolf's Run. They can rest there or work. Anyone who wishes to fight here is welcome to stay, but they must obtain your approval. Otherwise, they'll have to return and handle the lower levels near home."

He sighed slightly before continuing, "I figured he had moved on. OK, who's in charge of this group?"

Chris, who had been listening to the conversation, stepped forward at that moment. "That would be me, uh, Sir? Uh, what are you…" He began, somewhat uncertainly.

Before he could finish, Chris's mother, Nora, intervened with a sharp slap to the back of his head. "That's how you start a conversation with those who stepped in and saved us? Boy, I raised you better than that," she chided, her tone a mix of frustration and maternal reprimand.

Bruce managed to suppress a chuckle at the family dynamic unfolding before him. "They are our friends and members of our city," he gently reminded them.

General Valthorn, making a sound that strangely resembled laughter, responded, "I am not offended. While abrupt, his question seems more out of shock than offense. My species is called Gryphkin. Well met, young sir." He chose not to take offense, seeing it as a learning opportunity. Just because I look like a monster doesn't mean I have to act like one.

Chris, slightly embarrassed, quickly said, "Yes, of course. No offense meant. Your whole group looks astounding, and we are grateful for the assistance. When we joined Sinclair, he mentioned Beastkin, but I had no real idea what that was. Sorry for my ignorance."

Bruce, understanding the situation, replied, "We all learn sometimes. So, what did my son say about joining up?" His tone was casual, easing the tension and steering the conversation back to the matter.

General Valthorn gave Chris a pointed look, ensuring the young man understood the importance of formal titles. "Lord Hagerson and his son, the Wolf Lord Sinclair, are very generous, but there is much work to be completed," he stated, emphasizing the respect due to their leaders.

Chris, swallowing slightly and taking note of the correction, responded to Bruce. "Lord Hagerson, there are 78 people in this village. About half of them are some relation, as we were at a family gathering when the system hit, and it kept us together. We have very few real fighters, but those we do have were ex-military personnel. When I talked to Wolf Lord Sinclair, he told us that we could join and keep our autonomy but were expected to contribute and answer the call to arms when it sounded."

Bruce nodded as Chris spoke, finding the information to be in alignment with his expectations. "That sounds like him. I agree with him. You are expected to govern as you see fit. The only time we would step in is in the case of a request or suspected negligent behavior. Considering most of these people are your family, I don't think that will be a problem," he said.

General Valthorn spoke, "I can leave the troops I brought to help work with your people and get those who want to fight into a good position. Then, we can assist in thinning out the local wildlife."

"That would be much appreciated. We don't have much right now, but you and your team are welcome to what we have." The weight that was removed from Chris and his family by those words was immense.

Bruce responded, "Thank you. That is most kind. I will return to the town and continue with my work there. We have room for any of your people who need to come over, Chris. Just let me know when you get things settled here. We also have a Market access Crystal so that you can buy supplies and sundries for your place." It looked like they did not have access to one here yet. Most likely from not being able to hunt as effectively yet.

General Valthorn, deciding to leave Bruce and Chris to their farewells, stepped over to one of the wolfkins waiting nearby. He issued his instructions with a commanding presence. "Take up camp here for now. I will send more troops over to fortify your position. Once you're set up, start scouting the immediate area and map out the surrounding zones, including the wildlife and their levels. I saw some smoke in that direction," he said, pointing towards the general area of concern, "be careful investigating there in case it's a monster base."

The WolfKin soldier responded with a firm nod, "Yes, Sir. We will take care of things here." He saluted crisply before turning around to disseminate the information to his unit.

General Valthorn then addressed Bruce, "Lord Hagerson, I will return with you, and we can get back to work. I can only assume this is not the last time we need people ready for such actions." his thoughts on Sinclair and the young Wolf Lord's propensity for finding trouble.

Bruce replied with a knowing look, "I know my son. You are not wrong in that estimation." Silently acknowledging the challenges ahead.

As Bruce and General Valthorn made their way toward the teleportation circle, Chris and his family stood by, waving goodbye. The family's gestures were filled with gratitude, a silent promise to remember the timely aid they had received. They were determined to uphold the name of Wolf's Run, forever thankful for the rescue that had come just in the nick of time. The scene was a quiet testament to the bonds forged in times of need and the lasting impact of acts of kindness and bravery.

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