The sun had barely risen. Leo and Chen Wei stood in the courtyard, bodies honed and minds razor-sharp after two days of extreme training.
Lily's dad stepped forward, eyes sharp as ever.
"Today, you fuse twenty martial arts principles into a single body. Only then will you understand the peak of your power."
Leo's Lion and Phoenix flared brilliantly. Chen Wei's Chinese Water Dragon swirled like a storm around him. Both could feel the culmination of three days' worth of pain, sweat, and spirit synchronization.
"Focus," Lily's dad commanded. "Your body, your mind, your spirit beasts — become one."
Hours passed. Movements blurred into fluid perfection. Punches, kicks, stances — everything executed with 20 fused principles guiding every strike. Spirit beasts roared, danced, and coiled around them, amplifying their power.
Finally, Leo's aura shone golden, with Lion and Phoenix perfectly balanced. Chen Wei glimmered with the tranquil yet destructive energy of his Dragon. The fusion was complete.
🍴 Evening: Meal & Reflection (Tweaked)
The trio returned home, exhausted but alive. Dinner was quiet at first.
Yuna leaned closer to Lily, tugging her sleeve gently, lowering her voice:
"Lily… I know you have spirit beast power, but… with the baby inside… you shouldn't push yourself in the tournament. Leo doesn't know yet."
Lily placed a hand softly on her stomach, her aura glowing faintly. She nodded slightly, acknowledging Yuna's concern.
"I know… but it's okay. My Phoenix told me it will protect this child inside me."
Leo remained unaware, eating quietly, lost in his own thoughts.
Chen Wei nodded, water swirling around him softly.
"Alright… let's do this."
Narration:
"Day Three had forged their bodies, fused their spirits, and awakened a new level of power. With preparation complete, the tournament awaited — but only Yuna and Lily knew of the new life quietly protected by Phoenix. Leo remained blissfully unaware, his focus on the coming battles."