Life Review Ch. 00-01

"I already gave Cassidy a rundown, so I'll give you the same. Since this is a world of magic, I have to modify your brains and bodies to acclimate to this world. When you focus your mind inwards, you'll be able to see an interface much like a game menu from your world,"

Shawn focused and brought up his menu. He saw a 3D representation of himself slowly turning in a window, then a large blank text box next to it. Nothing of note stood out except for symbols that correlated with some sort of value, simple enough, "So I take it this world has different governing laws than ours?"

"Correct. Niverra has laws functioning exactly like your Earth does, but others that are unique or different. For example, the law of conservation of matter, matter cannot be created or destroyed. This would be considered a universal truth, taken into account of what you have discovered as a species.

Niverra functions under the same assumption. Magic is another term for harnessing the natural forces of the world and manipulating them. Your Earth uses technology, Niverra uses a mix of both. The menu I've installed in your mind allows you to adapt in the same way. A word of warning: the inhabitants of Niverra don't see menus, so you need to keep that to yourself along with the rest of this. The wrong person hears about it and you have a repeat of the witch trials, you understand?"

"Act like we belong, got it," Shawn nodded.

"Have you chosen a vocation yet?" Cassidy asked, "I'm an acolyte. So I'm going to be balls deep in all this new magic stuff."

Shawn rolled his eyes, "Whatever suits me. I don't have a preference."

"Brawler it is," Death said.

Shawn saw a tab on his menu appear that was titled 'Vocations & Job classes'. Selecting the tab, he saw three vocations in arranged in a triangle. Brawler, Acolyte, and Hunter. Shawn figured out how this was going to work.

"I take it there is a rank system involved?" Shawn mused.

"Yup, but DFS won't spill the details. He said we have to figure it out on our own." Cassidy pouted.

"Just to clarify, this isn't a menu where it gives you information on everything you see. You don't get to see every option laid out in front of you. It is only for information processing. You'll have an advantage on most people because maps, languages, and the like are included so they will be archived in your mind. I'm just helping to structure your thoughts, nothing more."

"I think that just about covers it," Shawn had many more questions, but it seems he would have to find answers on his own. Such is life.

"You ready to go?" Death asked.

"Yup. Bring it on!" Cassidy grinned, punching her fist into her open palm.

It was then that Shawn noticed the swirling vortex in the darkness. He felt the soft tugging sensation that told him this was his ride. Cassidy skipped ahead and vanished. Shawn stood before the portal and stopped. He looked back at the void and smiled.

"Thank you," Shawn said earnestly. "I know Cassidy can be a pain, but you made her really happy."

"Hey man, this is Life's gig. I'm just the messenger," Death seemed bashful.

"Still. Thanks."

"I like you, Shawn. You're a pretty even guy despite everything that's happened. I've seen plenty of people snap when confronted with stuff like this. I have a feeling you'll be just fine," Death seemed genuine.

"Well, I wouldn't be useful to Cassidy if I went nuts now could I?" Shawn chuckled.

"Very true," Death seemed lost in thought, then smiled. How Shawn knew that, he didn't try to fathom. "You're going to be dealing with a lot trying to rein in your friend. So I'm going to help you out. There is a way you can contact me if you need advice. I can't interact directly with you, but I can try and narrow the paths down. The other is a little apology gift for dragging you into this."

Shawn felt a ping in his mind and his menu was pulled out in front of his eyes. His 'Vocations & Job Classes' tab opened up and he saw 'Acolyte' and 'Brawler' highlighted in gold and a third title, 'Monk' also in gold tied to the other two by faint lines. His body felt lighter than it had before, and his mind seemed to open before him and thirst to know more.

"Each Vocation and Job Class you learn, and then master, will have linger effects on your body. The Acolyte vocation opens your mind to knowledge. The Brawler vocation sharpens your reflexes and strengthens your body. The Monk vocation brings those two concepts a step further and brings spirituality into the balance. This isn't the same as being religious. Spirituality is about yourself and the Oneness,"

Shawn nodded thoughtfully, "Thank you for your generous gift. I'm sure it will be useful in the start of our journey. Would you be able to tell us where a good place to start is? I know you can't give us answers, but you can keep us from wondering around aimlessly for days."

Death laughed, "Yes. You will be dropped off at a lay line of the planet. From that point, travel north by north west. Keep your eyes out as you go."

"I'll keep that in mind," Shawn turned to step through the portal.

"One last thing," Death called after him. He stopped. "Try and enjoy yourself. If you think of this as a chore, you'll find yourself growing bitter towards the girl. Try to make this about you as much as it is about her."

Shawn nodded to himself, mulling over what Death had said. He was right. He had a unique opportunity, and he wasn't going to waste it. He waved his hand over his shoulder and stepped through the vortex.