A Chance to Test the Results!

"Over the past few days, I’ve been studying various theories of energy application at the Central Archive," Hong said thoughtfully. "One point has gradually become clear—over the short term, it’s difficult for pure energy enhancement to achieve a qualitative leap. Even Luo Wen and Thor’s insights in special environments were built upon long-term accumulation."

"Then what do you think we should do?" Luo Feng asked. He had always respected Hong’s opinions. Of the four, Hong had the most meticulous mind and often offered unique insights.

Hong looked at the four of them before speaking slowly. "I think that rather than blindly pursuing higher energy levels, we should return to basics and focus on fundamental combat techniques and physical conditioning."

"Return to basics?" Thor looked somewhat puzzled. "You mean giving up energy cultivation and practicing basic combat techniques instead?"

Hong shook his head. "Not giving it up, but reexamining and integrating it. The four of us all come from Earth and received training in Earth martial arts. After thousands of years of development, Earth martial arts have formed a unique and complete system. While they may not compare to the cultivation methods of advanced civilizations on the level of pure energy, they have their own strengths in technique and physical development."

Luo Wen pondered this. "You mean we should combine our newfound understanding of energy with the essence of Earth martial arts, creating our own unique combat styles?"

"Exactly." Hong nodded. "There are countless powerhouses in the universe, but those who truly reach the pinnacle are often the ones who can merge the strengths of different systems and create unique ways of fighting. Our problem now isn’t a lack of strength, but how to use the strength we already possess more effectively."

Luo Feng’s eyes lit up. "That reminds me of my master’s teachings. He often said that true martial arts weren’t about the number of moves one knew, but about precise control and application of every bit of strength in the body. Even the simplest punch could unleash astonishing power if one could perfectly concentrate the strength of the entire body into a fist."

"That’s right," Hong continued. "I discovered in the archives that the unique combat styles eventually developed by many Cosmic-Level powerhouses could often be traced back to the traditional martial arts of their original civilizations. These seemingly primitive techniques still held value in high-level energy applications."

"So what exactly should we do?" Thor asked. He had always preferred straightforward plans.

Hong considered it for a moment, then made a suggestion. "I propose that we find a professional Martial Arts Hall for systematic sparring and training. Through fighting and learning from one another, we can identify the strengths and weaknesses in our respective combat styles, then improve them in a targeted manner."

"That’s a good idea," Luo Wen agreed. "Testing and improving ourselves through real combat is indeed more effective than cultivating behind closed doors. But finding a Martial Arts Hall in the Imperial City suited to our level won’t be easy."

Just then, Luo Feng suddenly thought of something. "Wait. On my way to the Imperial City, I heard about a newly opened Martial Arts Hall called Star Martial Hall. It specializes in providing intensive training for Challenge Tournament participants. Apparently, the Hall Master is a retired Cosmic-Level warrior who once served as a combat instructor in the Imperial Army."

"That sounds perfect for us." Thor became interested. "We can go take a look. If the rumors are true, it’ll be an excellent place to improve our combat techniques."

The four quickly came to an agreement and decided to visit Star Martial Hall that afternoon. After lunch, they took the villa’s private vehicle to the Martial Arts Hall in the eastern district of the Imperial City.

Star Martial Hall stood in a relatively quiet area. Its architectural style was simple and antiquated, forming a stark contrast with the high-tech Imperial City buildings around it. The entire Martial Arts Hall was not particularly large, but its design was exquisite. At the entrance stood an ancient stone stele engraved with the three bold characters, Star Martial Hall. The vigorous script carried the air of someone weathered by countless battles.

When the four entered through the gates, they found the interior unexpectedly spacious. At its center was a massive training ground, surrounded by various specialized training areas. It was afternoon, and more than a dozen Martial Artists were already engaged in different forms of training and sparring.

"Welcome to Star Martial Hall." A steady voice came from the side. The four turned and saw a middle-aged man walking toward them. He was broad and powerfully built without being bulky. Every movement carried the sharp efficiency of someone hardened by battle, and his eyes were keen yet calm. One look was enough to tell that he was an experienced warrior.

"I’m Lin Qi, the person in charge of this Martial Arts Hall," the man introduced himself, his gaze assessing the four of them. "You don’t look like ordinary cultivators. Virtual Universe Company challengers?"

Luo Wen nodded. "Yes. The four of us formed a team to participate in the Virtual Universe Company’s Challenge Tournament. We’re preparing for the next stage and heard that this place offers targeted training, so we came to visit."

A glint of interest flashed through Lin Qi’s eyes. "Challenge Tournament participants? Interesting. Which star system are you from?"

"Earth," Luo Feng replied. "The Solar System."

Lin Qi was visibly surprised by the answer. "Earth? That planet which was only recently incorporated into the cosmic civilization system? Impressive. It’s rare to see challengers from such a young civilization form a team and enter the tournament."

"We hope to prove that even those from a low-level civilization planet can accomplish something on the cosmic stage," Luo Wen said calmly, his tone filled with resolute confidence.

Lin Qi carefully examined the four of them, then gave a slight nod. "Good. I like your attitude. But before I accept you, I need to understand your specific strength and combat styles. Only then can I create a suitable training plan."

"Of course," Thor said readily. "We can demonstrate anytime."

Lin Qi led the four to a separate training ground. The space here was larger, and both the floor and walls were made from special materials. It was clearly designed to withstand high-intensity energy impacts.

"This training ground is equipped with the most advanced energy isolation system and safety measures," Lin Qi explained. "You can demonstrate your abilities here without holding back. There’s no need to worry about causing damage or injuries."

Next, the four took turns demonstrating their combat abilities for Lin Qi.

The entire demonstration lasted nearly an hour. Lin Qi remained silent throughout, carefully observing each person’s movements and methods of energy application. Once all four had finished, he finally spoke.

"Very good. Your foundations are quite solid, especially in energy control and basic combat techniques. But I can also see several problems."

"What problems?" Luo Feng asked curiously.

Lin Qi looked at Luo Wen. "Your understanding of the Law of Fire has indeed reached a fairly high level, but its practical application in combat is still awkward. Many refined theories have not been converted into effective attacks."

He then turned to Thor. "Your lightning control is extremely precise, but you rely too heavily on a single form of energy. You lack diversity and adaptability."

Next was Luo Feng. "Your foundational martial arts are solid, but in high-energy environments, your traditional system of techniques has not fully adapted, resulting in low energy efficiency."

Finally, he looked at Hong. "Your analytical ability and tactical thinking are strong, but your reaction speed in actual combat is a little slow. You often can’t convert your analysis into action in time."

After hearing Lin Qi’s assessment, all four showed expressions of surprise and admiration. With only a brief observation, Lin Qi had accurately identified each of their problems. His insight was truly extraordinary.

"Your observations are extremely accurate," Hong said sincerely. "That is exactly why we came here seeking help. We hope to overcome these shortcomings and raise our combat abilities to another level."

Lin Qi nodded in satisfaction. "Knowing your own shortcomings is the first step toward progress. Good. I’ve decided to accept you as special students of Star Martial Hall. However, my training methods may differ from what you’ve experienced before. They’ll be stricter and more direct. Are you ready?"

"We accept completely," Luo Wen answered on behalf of the four. "We came here to embrace challenges and grow."

"Very good." Lin Qi smiled slightly. "Then starting tomorrow, you’ll undergo two weeks of special training. During these two weeks, I’ll design dedicated training plans for each of your individual issues. At the same time, the four of you will need to conduct systematic sparring exercises, learning from one another and making up for each other’s weaknesses."

Lin Qi then introduced the Martial Arts Hall’s rules and training schedule. Star Martial Hall opened at six in the morning and closed at ten at night. Official students were required to follow a strict routine and training plan. Unexcused absences and lateness were not allowed.

"Oh, and one more thing," Lin Qi added. "I noticed that all four of you are from Earth and have trained in Earth martial arts. That is a good foundation, but it may also become a limitation. Earth martial arts have their own unique subtleties, but they are not flawless. On the cosmic battlefield, you need to learn to absorb the combat wisdom of other civilizations and develop combat styles that are more comprehensive and adaptable."

Luo Feng reflected on this. "Coach Lin is right. We’ve always taken pride in being Earth Martial Artists, but that shouldn’t become a reason for us to reject other forms of wisdom."

"Exactly." Lin Qi nodded approvingly. "True powerhouses are never bound by a single tradition or school. They take the strengths of all schools, integrate them fully, and ultimately forge a path of their own."

The four all deeply agreed. On the vast stage of the universe, only constant learning and evolution would allow them to survive fierce competition.

Before they left, Lin Qi gave them a detailed training plan and some foundational theoretical materials so they could prepare in advance.

"Report here at six tomorrow morning, on time," Lin Qi instructed. "Don’t be late. I don’t like people who waste time."

The four bid Lin Qi farewell and returned to the villa by vehicle. Along the way, they excitedly discussed the upcoming training plan and their individual expectations.

"I have a feeling," Luo Feng said with a smile, "these two weeks of training will be extremely grueling, but they’ll also be extremely valuable."

Thor stretched lazily. "Finally, I’ll get a chance to have a proper fight. I’ve been studying theory this whole time. My hands have been itching for a fight for ages."

"Don’t get too excited," Hong reminded him calmly. "Coach Lin doesn’t seem like an easygoing person. I’m guessing his training won’t be as simple as we imagine."

Luo Wen nodded. "No matter what, this is a great opportunity for us to improve. Let’s give it everything we have and leave no regrets."

After returning to the villa, the four immediately began studying the materials Lin Qi had provided in preparation for the next day’s training. The contents were far more profound than they had expected. They included not only foundational combat theories, but also detailed analyses of energy flow, physical function, and even the effects of psychological state on combat.

"These materials…" Luo Feng said in surprise as he flipped through the data tablet in his hand. "They’re more in-depth and detailed than even the Virtual Universe Company’s basic courses. Coach Lin truly is no ordinary person."

Hong nodded as well. "Judging from the depth and breadth of these materials, Coach Lin’s understanding of combat far exceeds our imagination. He may really be an experienced Cosmic-Level warrior."

The four studied until late into the night before reluctantly setting the materials aside and returning to their rooms to rest. They all realized that the next two weeks would be a time full of challenges, but also full of opportunities.

At five the next morning, all four were already awake. After a simple breakfast, they arrived at Star Martial Hall half an hour early. To their surprise, Lin Qi was already waiting at the training ground, looking as though he had been training for some time.

"On time. Very good." Lin Qi checked the time and nodded in satisfaction. "Ready to begin today’s training?"

The four answered energetically, "Ready!"

The following morning, Luo Wen and the other three were conducting their daily meditation in the villa garden when they received a communication request from Lin Qi.

"Everyone, are you ready to accept a new challenge?" There was a trace of barely perceptible excitement in Lin Qi’s voice. "I contacted four old comrades. They were all outstanding warriors who once served in the Imperial Army and have since retired. They heard about your situation and are very interested in sparring with Martial Artists from Earth."

The four exchanged glances, their eyes gleaming with eagerness. After two weeks of professional training, they desperately needed a chance to test the results.

"Of course," Luo Wen replied on behalf of the four. "We’re very much looking forward to such an opportunity. When does it begin?"

"Two o’clock this afternoon, at Star Martial Hall’s main training ground," Lin Qi answered. "Prepare thoroughly. These old friends of mine won’t hold back."

After the communication ended, the four immediately began preparing for the afternoon’s sparring session. They adjusted their equipment, checked their energy resonators, and briefly reviewed the techniques and tactics they had learned over the past two weeks.

"Judging from Coach Lin’s tone, these ‘old comrades’ won’t be simple," Hong analyzed. "They may all be Cosmic-Level warriors, perhaps even stronger."

Thor loosened up, faint arcs of electricity flickering over his body. "Perfect. I’ve wanted to know what level we can reach in real combat."