The Tenth Awakening

Due to Arya's unique birthright, being imbued with both the life-giving Water and destructive Fire elements, his body is far stronger than most. His physical strength and defensive capabilities are remarkable. Even in his Seed Master form, he can hold his ground against a level 10 Weapon Master. This natural defense is why his injuries aren't as severe.

When the initial fusion attempt failed, Arya decided to suppress his Fire element, focusing all his energy on his Water element. To his surprise, the fusion worked. However, the joy was short-lived. As soon as he lifted the weapon to inspect it, an unexpected surge of energy caused it to explode in his hands, and Arya immediately lost consciousness.

After an unknown period of time, Arya woke up in the wild, his body battered and covered in dirt. He groaned in pain, realizing that he had been unconscious for at least a full day. Looking around, he saw the early morning sun peeking through the trees. He stumbled toward a nearby lake, cleaned himself up, and set off for home.

When Arya arrived, his mother greeted him with concern, "Arya, where have you been? We've been worried sick about you."

He smiled sheepishly, brushing off the question. "Ah, I practiced too much and passed out. I didn't even realize when I fell asleep."

His mother sighed. "I told you not to overdo it. Come, let me fix you something to eat."

As Arya ate, his mind was racing. He was excited that he had finally succeeded in fusing the two elements, but the immense control required was terrifying. He knew it would be a challenge, but this power could make all the difference in the upcoming competition.

For the next six days, Arya refrained from practicing the fusion, choosing instead to focus on his physical and mental preparation. On the seventh day, the day of the competition, everyone gathered at the chief's office.

The chief addressed the group, "Today marks the start of the 4 Village's Younger Generation Competition. I wish you all the best of luck. I'll be accompanying you, along with two elders, as this year's competition holds great significance."

He continued, explaining the rules. "Each village will send seven participants. The competition will consist of seven rounds, and once the top seven contestants remain, you will face off in a lottery system. While you're free to damage your opponents, remember that it can't be permanent, and killing someone will result in disqualification for both you and your entire village."

The chief went on to explain the rewards. "The rewards this year are more abundant than ever. The top 20 participants will receive coins, ranging from 20 white coins for rank 20 to 65 white coins for rank 12. After that, the top 10 will receive additional pink coins, and the top 1 will earn 115 white coins and 10 pink coins. This total is equal to my yearly income, so do your best to perform well!"

But that wasn't all. The top 20 to 11 would also receive space bags, the size of which would increase depending on their ranking. The top 3 would receive medium-sized bags, capable of storing living beings—a highly coveted prize.

"The third major reward," the chief continued, "is available only to the top 7 participants. You'll be granted the chance to bathe in the Five Elemental Dragon Pond, which is rumored to have miraculous effects on cultivation. This pond contains the five elements, and it's said that cultivating within it can rapidly increase your cultivation level. However, this benefit only applies to cultivators below level 30. It's an opportunity many would kill for, but you, as villagers, are the ones who have access to it."

Arya felt his excitement grow as the chief revealed the final reward. "The top 3 winners will also be given the opportunity to apply to the Water Dragon Academy—a rare chance indeed, as an elder from the academy will attend the competition to ensure fairness. This is a turning point for our village, so the stakes are high."

Arya's heart raced. This wasn't just about winning anymore—it was about seizing the opportunity to change his future, and his village's future. He knew this competition would test him in ways he had never imagined, but he was ready.