[ Host, worry not. I am with you; I can help you with common knowledge ] " the system reassured Ethan.
After some time, they reached the riverbank. The captain ordered two knights to gather firewood while the others took time to recuperate.
"Sir Ethan, are you planning to stay in an inn once we reach swan town ? I have a suggestion," Iris said, a faint blush creeping up her cheeks, though it was barely noticeable.
"Yes, is there a place you recommend?" Ethan replied with a smile, subtly asking the system for suggestions.
"Yes, Sir Ethan, you could apply for the entrance exam to the Royal Academy of Aeloria. There, you can study various disciplines like magic, swordsmanship, martial arts, beast taming, summoning magic, special magic, and much more. After passing the entrance exam, the academy will take care of your meals and living expenses. I believe it's the best option for you if you wish to learn more about our kingdom," Iris suggested.
[Host, it's the best choice. As Iris said, you should consider staying at the academy and studying magic.]
'What about leveling up?' Ethan inquired.
[Host, there are many ways to level up, like quests (which will unlock at level 5), monster hunting, beast taming, and more.]
While chatting with Iris, Ethan decided to check his status.
---
[Unknown Invisible System]
< Ethan Maxwell >
Age: 15
Race: Human
Level: 3
EXP: 0/3000
Job: ???
Health: 600/600
Mana: ???
Strength: 45
Stamina: 45
Agility: 45
Intelligence: 55
Skills:
Fire Magic (Basic)
Earth Magic (Basic)
Lightning Magic (Basic)
Water Magic (Basic)
Light Magic (Basic)
Special Magic (Basic)
Dark Magic (Basic)
Appraisal (Lv 1)
Night Vision
Sky Path
Swordsmanship (Basic)
Ultimate Strike
Three Consecutive Strikes
---
Ethan took a moment to examine his status, then walked toward the river to check his reflection.
As he gazed at his reflection in the water, he noticed his appearance. A young boy with red-green hair, a handsome face, sword-like eyebrows, and brown eyes stared back at him. He appeared more mature than his 15 years, with a sense of strength emanating from his gaze.
While lost in thought, the system reminded him, "Host, you should hunt some fish for dinner to share with the group."
Ethan nodded, then summoned his sword, channeling his lightning magic. He focused on the river and shouted:
"Lightning Magic!"
A burst of electricity shot into the water, and the river crackled with energy. Moments later, 20 common fish floated to the surface, fried and ready for collection.
[You have killed 20 common fish. 100 EXP gained.]
Ethan smiled, feeling accomplished. "Dinner's served," he muttered to himself as he gathered the fish.
---
As the knights gathered around the campfire, Ethan couldn't help but feel a growing sense of purpose. The academy, the new skills he was learning, and the people he was meeting—all of it was leading to something greater. The path ahead was still uncertain, but for the first time since waking up in Asura Forest, he felt a bit more in control of his fate.
---