Re: OOC:
That's correct. Think of it this way: Is your character always aware of their experience, how much each battle gives them, how much they earn by disarming a trap, avoiding a battle, etc...? I have a more fluid system of leveling, which hopefully allows for a decent pace of character growth. You have overcome a combat encounter, avoided conflict with a potential deadly situation, and survived a natural hazard/trap. For first level, not too bad. The battle ahead will be sure to challenge you further.