In a majestic hall, two figures sat in an atmosphere of quiet grandeur. One was a young boy, barely eight years old, while the other exuded a sense of power and wisdom that made it clear—he was a king or a sage. Anyone who laid eyes on him would instinctively feel his overwhelming presence.

"Father," the young boy spoke, curiosity evident in his voice, "what were the elders talking about? They mentioned changes in nature, and even Mother seemed concerned… but I don't feel anything. Why?"

The man looked at his son, a gentle smile playing on his lips. "You are still young," he said. "Only those who possess eight rings or are close to that level can sense the call of nature that the elders mentioned. The stronger you are, the clearer the message nature sends."

The boy's eyes gleamed with intrigue. "Then, Father, since you are the strongest among humans, what did you hear from nature's message?"

The man's expression darkened slightly, his voice deep and thoughtful. "Something is coming—something that will reshape the very structure of the Seedling World." He paused, glancing at his son. "It may very well be the beginning of a new era."

After a moment of silence, he added, "The time of your birth has been filled with great upheavals. I do not know whether that is good or bad for you."

The boy, sensing his father's seriousness, hesitated before asking, "But wouldn't Father always be there to protect me if something happens?"

A deep, hearty laugh echoed through the hall. "Haha… that goes without saying!" But his expression turned contemplative again. "Still… a new era…" He tapped his fingers lightly on the armrest of his grand chair, yet no sound emerged.

Within moments, a six-foot-tall, middle-aged man materialized before them, bowing slightly. "Your Majesty…"

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The king's gaze sharpened. "Elder, I have been pondering this phenomenon, but I cannot pinpoint its true meaning. Inform me immediately if any significant events are occurring or are about to take place—I need to deduce possible connections."

The elder furrowed his brows, deep in thought. After a long moment, he responded:

"My Lord, there are three major events unfolding that could impact us:

1. The tensions between the Azur Water Continent and the Blue Flame Continent are escalating. While the higher-ups from both sides remain uninvolved, conflicts between their factions grow more intense by the day.

2. There has been an unusual silence from both Great Forests. Beast invasions have declined drastically, and the air around the High Hills has changed.

The king nodded slightly. "Do not concern yourself with these two matters. The beasts are merely preparing for the changes to come."

The elder agreed but continued, "The third matter concerns our neighboring continent, the Great Wind Continent. They are about to select their future ruler—a decision that may have far-reaching consequences."

The king frowned. "No… none of these are directly related to what I am sensing. Is there anything else?"

The elder hesitated. "There are a few upcoming events, but they may not be significant enough—"

"Speak." The king's command was firm.

The elder complied. "In three years, the 'Hell Road' will open again—a path that appears once every hundred years."

The king nodded, signaling for him to continue.

"Additionally, Azur Water Kingdom's Champion Battle of the Younger Generation is scheduled for next year. Following that, the Five Continents Epic Battle will take place the year after."

Before he could say more, the king suddenly interrupted. "Young cultivators' competitions…? A new era… and a battle among the younger generation…" His gaze sharpened as if connecting unseen threads.

"What is the exact date of this competition?" he asked.

The elder was taken aback. "Does Your Majesty intend to attend? If so, it will become a sensational event for the entire human race!"

"Yes." The king's voice carried an undeniable weight. "The time calls for my presence. Arrange everything. Inform Zephiron Alucard in advance."

Then, turning toward his son, he spoke with a knowing smile. "Benet, from now on, try to make as many friends as possible. Do not needlessly make enemies. The future is unpredictable, and no one knows who will rise to power in this new era. It is wiser to stand beside the future rulers rather than against them."

The young boy grinned. "Father, I understand. But don't worry—Benet is already grown up and knows what to do."

Hearing his son's confident words, the king chuckled. "Yes, you are indeed growing up. That is why I have decided— you will participate in the upcoming event. Not to win, but to gain experience and forge bonds with the next generation."

Benet's eyes widened slightly before excitement took hold. "Yes, Father! I won't let you down!"

The majestic hall fell into silence once more, but beyond its walls, the winds of change had already begun to stir.