19 - Adventure: Jon's Year in Aeloria

Adventure: Jon's Year in Aeloria

Jon's days in Aeloria have always pulsed with excitement, a contagious blend of adrenaline and fun. He and Gwen upheld their tradition as a sacred ritual, exploring the woods and wild forests near Riverwood in search of thrills and prey. Time faded in the blink of an eye, and a year slipped away from Jon like a fleeting dream. He could hardly believe the speed at which the days had passed. There was no room left in his mind to remember that Aeloria had once been just a favorite game; now, it was as if this world had been the cradle of his existence all along. Every tree, every familiar trail, every shared laugh with Gwen felt like a natural extension of his life.

On this morning, something was different from the rest. Even before the usual sounds from the kitchen, Jon was awake, immersed in his status assessment while awaiting his mother's call. Riverwood seemed vibrant and noisy, its energy echoing throughout the village.

**[GAME MENU]**

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**Name:** Jon Woodmoon

**Level:** 12

**EXP:** 1750/5000

**Tils:** 3356

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**[STATISTICS]**

- **HP (Health Points):** 250

- **MP (Mana Points):** 230

- **Strength:** 30+20

- **Agility:** 35+20

- **Constitution:** 29+20

- **Intelligence:** 27+4

- **Luck:** 15+20

- **Points:** 15

**[EQUIPMENT]**

**[Luminar, the Sword of Serenity: RANK SS]**

**EXP:** 37/1000

**Level:** 4

**[STATISTICS]**

- **Strength:** +20

- **Agility:** +20

- **Constitution:** +20

- **Intelligence:** +4

- **Luck:** +20

**Description:** Luminar is a sword that appears modest at first glance, with a straight and simple blade adorned with silver runes along its length. Its handle is wrapped in weathered brown leather, and the crescent-shaped guard exhibits a subtle golden glow.

**History:** Luminar, the Sword of Serenity, belonged to a chosen one who brought peace to Aeloria, a land of conflicts. Wielded by a hero in desperation, it united nations in lasting peace.

**[ABILITIES]**

- **Active:** None

**[Enchantments]**

**1.** Owner's Adaptation: The sword fits the user perfectly.

**2.** Energy Absorption: Absorbs energy from victims to increase bonus attributes with unlimited capacity.

**[ABILITIES]**

- **Active:** None

- **Passive:**

- **Elven Race:** Amplifies mana manipulation ability.

- **Human Race:** 50% increase in EXP gain due to inherent adaptability.

- **Riverwood Moonstone:** 50% increase in EXP and abilities for hunter classes.

- **Intermediate Archer:** Level 5

- **Intermediate Warrior:** Level 0

- **Novice Swordsman:** Level 7

**[QUESTS]**

- **None**

In the past year, Jon had only added two more levels to his progression, but he discovered that as he advanced his archer and warrior classes, his attributes would increase when transitioning to the next stages. From apprentice to intermediate, the journey was slower, far less dizzying than the first three weeks in Aeloria, always reminding him of how he almost died.

His focus over the last year had been rigorous training in his classes and the Basic Fencing skill. Thanks to some unique bonuses he possessed, his progress seemed less discouraging than expected, compared to Gwen, who had reached level 14. However, she still remained in the level 3 Intermediate Archer class, despite her tireless efforts to also become a warrior; she had failed miserably.

"Are you excited, son?" As they shared breakfast, Helena couldn't contain her curiosity. She and Eric were clearly more enthusiastic than Jon about the upcoming event in Riverwood. "Yeah, Mom, a bit," Jon replied.

It had been a while since Jon had learned about the event that was about to take place in the village. Annually, the event brought together the family of the Duke of Valdoria, and, as tradition held, this year's celebration would occur in Riverwood. It was a lavish festivity, one of those that made it seem like nobility cared about common folk, although no one was truly fooled by this façade.

In any case, it was a valuable opportunity for local businesses. Additionally, during the event, a competition would occur among the village's youth. The top two scorers would earn a special scholarship to enter the Imperial Academy even before turning 15. More than that, if they succeeded in the future, they could directly serve the nobility, ensuring a promising path ahead.

"Come on, Jon, we can't be the only ones arriving late!" Helena exclaimed, urging Jon to hurry down as the Duke's arrival in Riverwood was about to be announced. "I'm coming, Mom!" Jon replied, although his excitement was directed more toward the competition than the festivity itself.

The village was vibrant, and it was evident that the vendors had profited greatly. In the central square, a powerful voice, amplified by some special magical ability, echoed, encompassing the entire extensive village. "Citizens of Riverwood, welcome Duke Edric Stoneheart, Duchess Elara Nightshade, and the heir of House Stoneheart, Roderic Stoneheart."

Edric, a man of average stature, possessed impeccable features and a stern expression, his blue eyes and black hair giving him an air of coldness. At his side, Elara embodied beauty and grace, with porcelain skin, sky-blue eyes, and long black hair. While such characteristics might have dazzled Jon a year ago, he had grown accustomed to the extraordinary beauty that permeated that whole world. As for Roderic, a young boy of about 11, he already displayed a muscular physique for his age. With short black hair and dark blue eyes, he bore all the adornments worthy of nobility that drained others of their wealth.

Jon felt Gwen's excitement beside him, her eyes gleaming with enthusiasm. However, even immersed in the festive atmosphere, his mind was focused on the idea of escaping the crowd and returning to his training. He knew he had no choice but to participate, as the scholarship for admission to the academy was the opportunity he had longed for. With his skill and dedication, Jon was confident he would secure at least second place, or even first. But deep down, he contemplated giving up that spot to Gwen. After all, he was familiar with her complaints when she lost, something Jon preferred to avoid.