Chrysalis Chapter 1798 - New Templar

Each Templar doesn't receive the same Class; rather, they are presented with unique variants tailored to their individual strengths and interests. It's impossible not to be intrigued when they begin discussing their given options, especially after Jern speaks up. I'm compelled to inquire about everyone's choices.

While some of the available Classes are somewhat unexpected, most seem fitting for the individuals to whom they are offered.

Bertram is presented with several possibilities, but the most prestigious and highest-rarity selections are those that align with his role as a Templar and his inherent ability to be a jack-of-all-trades, having amassed extensive experience in countless miscellaneous tasks.

Templar of the Toolshed

Templar Gadgeteer

Templar Engineer of the Moment

Among the choices given to him, Bertram leans most towards one of these three. Each offers enhancements to his diverse Skills, enabling him to create something from seemingly nothing. I leave him to ponder and evaluate his options while I turn my attention back to Jern, to examine the remaining selections for him.

Templar of Unshaking Faith

Templar of the Righteous Hammer

Honoured Templar of the Great One

Jern appears undecided about which path to take, and I find myself unable to offer any guidance. However, I quietly hope he steers clear of the third option. With the Prophet having made an appearance, I certainly don't need any further System prompts to encourage that particular line of thought.

Alis seems utterly delighted with her offered Classes, though I can't say I share her enthusiasm. They all seem rather... volatile?

Unflinching Flame Templar

Righteous Flame Templar

Templar of the Everflame

As long as she's content, I suppose it's acceptable. The intense fire I perceive burning in her eyes makes me uneasy, but surely nothing too catastrophic will result? For a fleeting moment, I consider introducing her to Propellant, given their seemingly shared passion for all things fiery. However, I quickly reconsider. From what I can gauge, neither of them requires any additional encouragement.

Of course, a mental connection would resolve my dilemma, allowing me to delve into their thoughts. Yet, this would be undeniably obvious and extraordinarily intrusive. Regardless of their current feelings towards me, I doubt they would react favorably to me effectively reading their minds. That approach is out of the question. I could likely utilize the Vestibule to skim their surface thoughts and acquire a reasonably accurate understanding of their conversation, but that also feels rather invasive.

Ultimately, I am compelled to let my curiosity go unanswered and remain in ignorance. They are entitled to their secrets, blast it all. Even if I'm practically consumed by my desire to know.

[You must be pleased you don't have to worry about getting spiritually attacked anymore, Great One,] Jern remarks after he has finalized his choice.

I'm slightly bewildered by his statement.

[What do you mean? Didn't I only experience attacks, like... twice?]

He regards me with a curious look, then nods as if a realization has dawned upon him.

[I suppose you were asleep for the majority of them, weren't you. Yes, we endured some challenging shifts during that time. Unpleasant entities kept infiltrating the Nave. We managed to handle it, though.]

[I was under attack while I was evolving?]

[Oh, indeed. Quite extensively. There would have been upwards of a dozen attacks, in total.]

No one bothered to inform me? Unbelievable! Although... upon reflection, the Templars were likely the only ones truly aware of the ongoing situation, and I haven't visited or communicated with them since my awakening. The responsibility for this oversight rests quite squarely on my own, gleaming carapace.

[Well... was everything alright? Are you all okay?] I inquire hesitantly.

Evidently, they are in good health. All the Templars are standing before me, perfectly fine, so I can confidently assume no significant harm befell them during my slumber.

Jern confirms this with one of his characteristically indifferent shrugs.

[It was difficult for a period, but we ultimately prevailed. A substantial portion of our Levels was attained through that... spiritual combat.]

Hold on a moment, if Jern describes it as difficult...

[Alis, how severe were the attacks on the Nave?]

Still inwardly grinning in a disconcerting manner, akin to a moth fixated on a flame, Alis turns pale and begins to tremble at my question.

Jern offers a sympathetic pat to her back, then proceeds to give her shoulders a reassuring squeeze as the unfortunate, visibly traumatized young woman shudders, her gaze fixed distantly.

Good heavens! It was that dire?! Now I feel utterly dreadful. Doubly so for having neglected them for such an extended period.

[After all you have endured, I believe you six are deserving of a respite,] I declare to them all. [Take some time to rest, recuperate your bodies (and minds), familiarize yourselves with your new Classes before resuming your duties in a few weeks. How does that sound?]

Bertram appears somewhat discomfited.

[I'm not certain it would be appropriate-]

I lean in close to his face.

[I. Insist.]

He blinks.

[Well, in that case, perhaps a brief period would indeed be beneficial.]