"These past few days, I've been studying various theories on energy application in the Central Archives," Hong said thoughtfully. "One conclusion has become increasingly clear. In the short term, it is extremely difficult to achieve a true breakthrough through sheer energy growth alone. Even the insights Rowan and Thor gained in that special environment were built on long-term accumulation."
"What do you think we should do, then?" Luo Feng asked. He had always respected Hong's judgment. Among the four of them, Hong's thinking was the most meticulous, and he often offered uniquely sharp perspectives.
Hong glanced at the group before speaking slowly. "Instead of blindly chasing higher energy levels, we should return to fundamentals. Refine our combat techniques and strengthen our physical foundations."
"Return to fundamentals?" Thor frowned slightly. "You mean abandoning energy cultivation and focusing only on basic combat skills?"
Hong shook his head. "Not abandoning it. Re-evaluating and integrating it. All four of us come from Earth, and we've all trained in Earth's martial arts. Over thousands of years, those systems have developed into something complete and distinctive. While they may not match advanced civilizations in raw energy manipulation, they excel in technique and physical development."
Rowan nodded, deep in thought. "So you're suggesting we merge our new understanding of energy with the essence of Earth's martial arts, and create a combat style of our own?"
"Exactly," Hong replied. "There are countless powerful beings in the universe, but those who truly reach the peak are the ones who combine different systems and forge something unique. Our problem right now is not a lack of power, but how efficiently we use it."
Luo Feng's eyes lit up. "That reminds me of something my master used to say. True martial arts aren't about having countless techniques, but about precise control of every ounce of strength in your body. Even a simple punch can be devastating if all your power is perfectly concentrated."
"That's right," Hong continued. "From what I've seen in the Archives, many top-tier warriors eventually develop styles rooted in the martial traditions of their home worlds. Those seemingly primitive techniques still hold value, even at higher levels of energy use."
"So what's the plan?" Thor asked directly.
Hong thought for a moment before answering. "We should find a professional training hall and engage in structured sparring. Through real combat and mutual exchange, we can identify our weaknesses and refine our strengths."
"That makes sense," Rowan agreed. "Practical combat is far more effective than isolated training. But finding a place in the capital that matches our level won't be easy."
At that moment, Luo Feng suddenly snapped his fingers. "Wait. On my way here, I heard about a newly opened training hall called Star Martial Pavilion. It's designed specifically for participants in the Virtual Universe Company's challenge tournament. The owner is said to be a retired cosmic-level warrior who once served as a combat instructor in the Imperial Army."
"That sounds perfect," Thor said, clearly interested. "Let's check it out."
The four quickly reached a decision. That afternoon, after lunch, they took a transport from the villa toward the eastern district of the capital.
Star Martial Pavilion stood in a relatively quiet area. Its architecture was simple and restrained, almost ancient in style, forming a stark contrast with the surrounding futuristic structures. A weathered stone tablet at the entrance bore the name of the pavilion, its bold characters exuding a sense of enduring strength.
Inside, the space opened into a vast training hall. Dozens of fighters were already engaged in various forms of practice and sparring.
"Welcome to Star Martial Pavilion."
A steady voice came from the side. The four turned to see a middle-aged man approaching. He was broad-shouldered without being bulky, his movements precise and efficient. His sharp yet calm gaze revealed the experience of a seasoned warrior.
"I'm Lin Qi, the head instructor here," he introduced himself, studying them closely. "You don't look like ordinary cultivators. Participants in the Virtual Universe Company's tournament?"
Rowan nodded. "Yes. The four of us are a team preparing for the next stage. We heard this place offers specialized training."
Lin Qi's eyes flickered with interest. "Which star system are you from?"
"Earth. The Solar System," Luo Feng replied.
A hint of surprise crossed Lin Qi's face. "Earth? A newly integrated civilization. It's rare to see challengers from such a young world competing as a team."
"We intend to prove that origin doesn't define potential," Rowan said calmly.
Lin Qi studied them for a moment, then nodded. "I like your attitude. But before I accept you, I need to assess your abilities."
"No problem," Thor said eagerly. "We're ready anytime."
In a specialized training arena, designed to withstand high-intensity energy output, the four demonstrated their abilities one by one.
Nearly an hour passed before Lin Qi finally spoke.
"Your foundations are solid, especially in energy control and basic combat techniques. But each of you has clear weaknesses."
He looked at Rowan first. "Your understanding of the Fire Law is impressive, but your practical application is still immature. Your refined theories are not fully translated into effective attacks."
Then Thor. "Your lightning control is precise, but overly reliant on a single form. You lack adaptability."
Next, Luo Feng. "Your martial foundation is strong, but traditional techniques do not fully adapt to high-energy combat, resulting in inefficiency."
Finally, Hong. "Your analytical ability is excellent, but your reaction speed in combat lags behind your thinking."
The four exchanged glances, both surprised and impressed. Lin Qi had identified their flaws with remarkable accuracy.
"You're absolutely right," Hong said sincerely. "That's exactly why we're here."
Lin Qi nodded. "Good. Self-awareness is the first step toward improvement. I'll accept you as special trainees."
He paused briefly. "But my methods are strict. Far more direct than what you're used to. Are you ready?"
"We are," Rowan answered firmly.
Training began the next day at dawn.
For two weeks, the four immersed themselves in rigorous drills, sparring sessions, and theoretical refinement. Lin Qi's methods pushed them beyond their limits, forcing them to confront and correct their weaknesses.
By the end of the second week, each of them had undergone a noticeable transformation.
Early the following morning, as they meditated in the villa garden, a communication request came through.
"Are you ready for a new challenge?" Lin Qi's voice carried a subtle hint of excitement. "I've invited four old comrades. Former Imperial soldiers. They're interested in sparring with you."
The four exchanged glances, their eyes lighting up.
After two weeks of intense training, they had been waiting for this moment.
"A chance to test ourselves," Rowan said with a faint smile. "We'll be there."
"This afternoon, two o'clock. Main training hall," Lin Qi replied. "Be prepared. They won't go easy on you."
After the call ended, the four immediately began preparing.
They checked their equipment, adjusted their energy resonators, and reviewed everything they had learned.
"Judging from Coach Lin's tone," Hong said, "these 'old comrades' won't be simple opponents. Likely cosmic-level warriors. Possibly stronger."
Thor rolled his shoulders, faint arcs of electricity flickering across his body. "Perfect. I've been itching to see how far we've come in real combat."
Rowan stood quietly, his gaze steady.
This was more than just a sparring match.
It was a true test of everything they had gained.