When I initially create my character, am I obliged to use ALL of my initial skill points, or can I keep some 'unassigned' and use them later such as when you bring other aspects fully online (ex. combat, manufacture, etc)
I advise you to put your points into what you ultimately want to do, and NOT focus on the currently-implemented features. You will never have this many points again, so trying to change focus later will be a problem.
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"May the Grace of Ara go with you, and His Vengeance be wrought upon your enemies."