Inside the rushing carriage, an elderly man sat with three young cultivators, his expression calm yet authoritative. He glanced at their confused faces before smiling knowingly.

"I know this is new for you, but our continent is home to special realms—places that do not physically exist here, but whose entrances are hidden across our lands. Some of these realms were created by powerful cultivators of space or time elements in ancient times. However, finding a peak cultivator of these elements today is nearly impossible. Especially time cultivators. Not only is the time element extremely rare, but mastering it is even harder due to unique limitations."

His voice lowered slightly.

"As for the strongest cultivator in our Five Continents, he resides in the Invincible Heaven Continent. However, he has yet to reach the peak of the cultivation world. If he does, because of his special elements, he will become the most dominant force in existence."

The three youths listened intently as the elder continued.

"Beyond the twelve major cities, our continent is divided into three prefectures, each controlled by a powerful organization. These groups extend their influence beyond this continent, reaching all five continents, though their power is weaker in Invincible Heaven. These organizations are:

1. Pill and Alchemist Association – The leading authority on alchemy, pills, and elixirs.

2. Trade Union – A combination of Star Alliance, Deep Trades, and Commerce of Merchants, controlling the vast majority of trade and commerce.

3. Legends Forge – An elite faction specializing in forging weapons. Some even claim they possess the ability to remold Seed Weapons, making a useless one useful again. However, this is only possible for One-Ringed cultivators, and the price is so high that even large sects hesitate before attempting it."

The elder chuckled as he saw their stunned expressions.

"Legends Forge is also the top organization for Weapon Masters. You'll learn more about them in the future. But for now, let's focus on your journey."

He leaned forward slightly.

"When we arrive at Water Dragon Academy, you will first go through an assessment. Your results will determine your position, privileges, and allowance within the academy. You'll be allowed to study until the age of 25 or until you reach Level 40, at which point you can choose to leave."

As the elder continued his explanation, the carriage sped forward toward its destination.

Meanwhile, back in the fallen leaves city, Arya was deep in training. Two days had passed since he obtained his second Seed Stone, and he was growing more comfortable with his body and powers.

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During a spar with his father, Bryan, Arya discovered something surprising—his first Seed Skill had evolved. Previously, Bryan, a Level 36 cultivator, could completely ignore its effects. But now, he felt a brief moment of resistance when struck by it. It was only for a second, but against Level 30 and below cultivators, that one second could mean life or death.

Moreover, his Seed Weapon was growing stronger. Unlike most cultivators who relied solely on their Seed Skills, Arya's weapon possessed actual power, making him dangerous even without abilities. Even Bryan had to be careful when facing his attacks. Though Bryan's vast experience and combat skills allowed him to dodge easily, he admitted that Arya's weapon was far beyond an ordinary One-Ringed weapon.

After his training session, Arya left the forest and returned to the village, where he met Kane.

"You're already Level 22?" Arya asked, surprised.

Kane smirked. "Yeah, the Dragon Pool's energy helped push me forward. But from now on, leveling up will get harder."

Arya nodded. "That's normal. The higher our level, the harder it becomes to advance."

Kane leaned in slightly. "Have you decided which academy to apply for? We have to give our answer to the chief and elders tomorrow."

Arya thought about it. His father had mentioned three low-level academies nearby:

1. Pine Academy – Located in Fallen Woods City, this academy specialized in wood elements but accepted all cultivators. It was the strongest force in its city.

2. Neon Academy – Situated in Onex City, named after a powerful beast, this was the strongest of the three academies.

3. Finlet Academy – Based in Fisco City, it had the smallest student population but the highest requirements. They only accepted the most talented students.

Despite being a low-level academy, Finlet Academy's standards were nearly equal to a mid-level academy. While it lacked numbers, its resources and teaching quality were superior, as teachers could focus more on each student.

After considering his options, Arya replied, "I want to apply to Finlet Academy."

Kane grinned. "Then I'll apply with you."

Later that evening, the two informed Bryan of their decision. Afterward, Arya decided to explore the outskirts of the village, a place he rarely visited.

As Arya and Kane walked through the village entrance, they observed the people around them. Unlike within the village, most were commoners who lacked the ability to cultivate elemental energy. However, even normal humans could reach Level 9, giving them physical strength three times that of people from Arya's past life on Earth.

Because Arya and Kane wore higher-quality clothing, a few people glanced at them, but none dared to approach. In this world, even young cultivators were dangerous. No one wanted to provoke someone from a cultivator family without reason.

After spending time exploring, they found a small food shop and decided to eat. The shop was almost empty, except for another group of three young men, likely 18 to 19 years old, sitting at a nearby table.

A female attendant approached.

"What would you like to eat?" she asked.

"Anything as long as it's tested good," Arya replied. "Choose two of your shop's best dishes for me."

Kane ordered as well, and the attendant left to prepare their meals.

As they waited, Arya overheard the three young men talking.

"That fight was insane!" one of them exclaimed. "I couldn't believe how fast they were moving! When their fists clashed, the ground itself shook!"

Another sighed. "I couldn't see the whole fight. My father made me leave before it ended. Do you know who they were?"

Arya's eyes narrowed. Strong cultivators fighting in this area?

For someone's attacks to make the earth tremble, they had to be at least Level 40 or higher. Even his father, a Level 36 cultivator, couldn't shake the ground with raw power alone—unless he possessed the Earth Element, or if two Weapon Masters were clashing.

Who were these powerful fighters? And what were they doing here?

A faint smile formed on Arya's lips.

This world is getting more interesting.