The elder observed Arya's respectful demeanor and nodded before speaking.

"All your information has been recorded. If you pass the requirements, you will advance to the second test, which is the final round."

Name: AryaAge: Almost 9 years oldCultivation Level: 22Element: Fire

When the elder heard Arya's element, he paid closer attention. Fire was not inherently special, but in the Asur Water Kingdom, it was uncommon. However, he said nothing and continued with the assessment.

"Show me your seed rings."

Arya immediately summoned his two small rings, half-black and half-white in color. The elder's interest waned slightly upon seeing they were both of common rank.

"You pass. Having reached Level 22 at almost nine years old is commendable, but I doubt you will pass the next round and join our academy. As you know, Finlet Academy does not accept just anyone—only the best can enter."

After stating this, the elder motioned for Kane to step forward. Arya did not take offense at the elder's words. With two common-ranked seeds and a normal element, he understood he was considered a bottom-ranker among cultivators.

As Arya stepped back and Kane moved forward, he suddenly asked Arya, "Why is your second seed of common rank? Couldn't you buy an uncommon-ranked seed?"

"No, I liked this common seed's skills, so I picked it. I saved my money to buy an uncommon seed for my third seed."

Kane wanted to continue the conversation, but the elder was waiting, so he introduced himself as Arya had.

Name: KaneAge: 9 years and 2 months oldCultivation Level: 22Element: Wind

"Show me your seed rings," the elder instructed, expecting the same results as before. However, when Kane displayed one common and one uncommon-ranked seed, the elder smiled.

"Good. Level 22 at only nine years old, with a strong pair of seed rings as well."

For the second round, the elder announced, "You will have to take two punches from that man. If you remain standing for ten seconds afterward, you will pass and be eligible to join Finlet Academy."

Kane and Arya looked at the man guarding the entrance and internally sighed in relief. The man was at the late stage of the Two-Seed Ring Master realm, meaning he was likely around Level 26. Taking two punches from him would not be too difficult.

This test clearly favored those with a Seed Stone like Kane. Having even one uncommon-ranked seed not only granted stronger skills but also improved the quality of elemental energy and physical attributes. Even with only a single level difference, someone with two common-ranked seeds would struggle to withstand two full-power punches from someone of a higher level with an uncommon seed.

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The entrance guard stepped forward, bowed to the elder, then faced them. "Are you ready?"

As he spoke, he summoned his seed rings. One was half-black and half-white, while the other was pink. The powerful aura emanating from him confirmed his cultivation at Level 25. Arya compared his aura to the previous cultivator he had encountered—the one with the beast illusion—and found this man's presence lacking in comparison.

Kane went first. Though the guard did not use any seed skills, his basic attacks were powerful enough to exert pressure. However, Kane endured two punches without falling.

The elder nodded in approval. "You pass. Next."

Arya stepped forward, ready for his turn. For him, receiving physical attacks from a Seed Master was easier due to his exceptional physical attributes, which were comparable to seasoned Weapon Masters below Level 30.

The guard launched his first punch. Arya blocked it with ease, even forcing the man to stumble back slightly. The elder's gaze sharpened in surprise.

"I am also a Weapon Master," Arya explained. "So my physique is quite strong."

The guard, though understanding, felt humiliated. Being repelled by a Level 22 cultivator with common seeds was unacceptable. Determined to regain his pride, he prepared his second punch with full power.

Despite his best effort, Arya stopped the attack without difficulty.

The elder observed this and commented, "You are quite talented in the field of Weapon Mastery, but our Finlet Academy does not specialize in that. Regardless, both of you have passed the test and are eligible to join. You may return to your positions."

The guard, still glaring at Arya in frustration, was dismissed. The elder then turned back to Arya and Kane.

"As you both know, our academy accepts only a limited number of students. Only one of you can be admitted. I will leave the decision to you. As a suggestion, talented Seed Masters have far greater opportunities for growth here, while Weapon Masters may not receive the necessary resources to cultivate properly."

It was clear the elder was advising Kane to join while subtly discouraging Arya.

"As compensation," the elder continued, "if you give your spot to Kane, I will personally give you ten pink coins. It is not a common offer, but I am willing to pay for your loss."

Arya internally smirked. 'This elder is too obvious, isn't he?'

He then looked at Kane. "It's decided then—you will join the academy."

"What about you?" Kane asked.

"I can still apply to other academies. Finlet Academy is just one of many low-level academies."

"You're right. With your talent, you will definitely get into another academy. But I really don't want to stay in the academy alone."

"It's only for a few years. Once you are strong enough, we will meet again. For now, focus on cultivation and becoming stronger so you can support our village."

Kane and Arya conveyed their decision to the elder, who seemed pleased. "A good decision," he said, summoning ten pink-colored coins from thin air, revealing his possession of a spatial storage artifact.

As Kane was led inside the academy, he looked back at Arya, uncertain when they would meet again. To his surprise, Arya was already walking away in the distance. Sighing, Kane thought, 'We will meet again, my friend.'

Meanwhile, Arya was deep in thought as he walked away.

'I can't return to the village, and joining another academy might not be the best option either. Without proper guidance, self-cultivation will be too slow. Mid and high-level academies, as well as a few low-level ones, might have the necessary resources for Weapon Masters—but all of them are beyond my reach right now.'

He considered earning money to cultivate independently. 'With enough wealth, anything can be purchased. Some unique items may be beyond money's reach, but with the right resources, they can still be obtained.'