“You suspect someone wronged you. The evidence suggests it is a powerful individual or group, and yet, against common sense, you seek them out, charging head-on. Most enlightened races would give up on such a notion, act more prudently, and seek safety first.”

Nori shrugged. “What can I say? Humans don’t give up. We don’t shy away from our problems.”

“Yeah, we prefer to face our problems head-on. And punch them in the face,” Bulco said.

“I’m starting to realize that.”

An awkward silence followed.

Lana shifted uneasily. “What did you mean earlier when you said humans have weird Paths?”

“Most sentient life forms have common Paths that are based on two attributes out of the total six: Technicians, Soldiers, Machinators, and such. But your Paths rely on more.”

“Your sensory enhancement implant let you see this much about us?” Nori frowned.

“Indeed, Miss.”

“I still don’t get what the big deal is, I’m sure there are plenty others who have advanced Paths.”

“That is true. Paths that rely on three attributes are considered uncommon but are still fairly widely spread: Pilots, Gladiators, Scientists, and the like. But three of you have rare Paths that rely on four attributes, significantly increasing your score’s potential. And as for your companion, Nathan, I’ve never met anyone whose path relied on all six. If the rest of the humans all have such advanced Paths, I think your race’s actions will soon send ripples across the galaxy.”

“I guess it's good to be human.” Nori shrugged. “While we’re on the subject, can you expand a little bit about Paths? For example - what's the difference between secondary and primary attributes?”

“It is quite simple. A Path’s score is determined by the sum of its attributes. Secondary attributes count as half of the primary ones.”

The tall woman furrowed her brow. “Wait, isn’t having more attributes in your Path a handicap then? An individual with a Path that has a single attribute would invest in that attribute every level up instead of spreading it around.”

Alzigo shook his head. “That is an astute, yet misguided assumption. Paths that rely on a single attribute are very limited. A Lifter with a huge Strength can do nothing but lift heavy loads. He might be great at it, but he’ll have no chance in a fight against a Soldier half his level who invested in Strength and Agility.

“I think I see what you’re getting at,” Nori said slowly. “The soldier could dodge the lifter’s blows and retaliate with weapons only available to him.”