Level writes first
A pale blue panel unfolds at the edge of your vision, humming like a struck glass. Its lines are crisp and patient, and they never blink.
“Welcome, traveler. Your registration is nearly complete. Name: pending. Race: pending. Starting kingdom: pending.” The panel tilts, as if it is studying your face. “Please do not panic. Panic is a common first response, and it is listed in the tutorial as a non-essential action.”
Branches creak overhead. To the south, a horn sounds twice, then falls silent.
“Three kingdoms are within walking distance. Each has its own laws, its own sky, and its own opinion of strangers. Choose the one where you were born, or the one that makes you nervous. Both are valid starting conditions.”
A second panel opens beside the first, showing a crude map with five crowns sketched in the margins and two of them circled in red.
“Your first real choice is simple. Do you walk toward the bell, or follow the horn?”
