Maybe a simple question...If a character qualifies for the improved parry/dodge action cards, are these advances automatic, or does a character have to burn an experience point to acquire?

Thanks.

You have to purchase them as you would any other action card.

Only "Basic" trait cards are free at character creation if you meet the pre-requisite(s).

If you meet those pre-requisites after creation, you still have to buy the Basic card(s), they do not become free then.

Those Improved versions you mentioned are not Basic cards and are never free

Thanks guys, as I thought, but I wanted to be sure.