Marvel: The other side of the double-passing door is Devouring the Stars

Chapter 312 An opportunity to test the results!

"These past few days I've been studying various theories of energy utilization at the Central Archives," Hong said thoughtfully. "One thing is gradually becoming clear—in the short term, it's difficult to achieve a qualitative leap in pure energy enhancement. Even Rowan and Thor's insights under special circumstances were built on a foundation of long-term accumulation."

"Then what do you think we should do?" Luo Feng asked. He always respected Hong's views, as the latter was the most meticulous thinker among the four and often put forward unique opinions.

Hong glanced at the four of them, then slowly said, "I believe that instead of blindly pursuing higher energy levels, we should return to basics and focus on improving fundamental combat skills and physical fitness."

"Back to basics?" Thor asked, somewhat puzzled. "You mean, abandon energy cultivation and instead practice fundamental combat skills?"

Hong shook his head: "It's not about giving up, but about re-examining and integrating. All four of us come from Earth and have received training in Earth martial arts. Earth martial arts, after thousands of years of development, have formed a unique and complete system. Although it may not be as advanced as the cultivation methods of some higher civilizations on a pure energy level, it has its own unique advantages in skill application and physical development."

Rowan seemed thoughtful: "You mean, we should combine our newly acquired understanding of energy with the essence of Earth's martial arts to form our own unique fighting style?"

“Exactly,” Hong nodded in confirmation. “There are countless powerful beings in the universe, but those who truly reach the pinnacle are often those who can integrate the advantages of different systems to create a unique fighting style. Our problem now is not a lack of power, but how to use the power we have more effectively.”

Luo Feng's eyes lit up: "This reminds me of my master's teachings. He often said that true martial arts are not about the number of moves, but about the precise control and application of every bit of power in the body. Even the simplest punch, if you can perfectly concentrate all the power in your body into your fist, can unleash astonishing power."

“That’s right,” Hong continued, “I discovered in the archives that the unique fighting styles ultimately developed by many cosmic-level powerhouses can often be traced back to the traditional martial arts of their initial civilizations. These seemingly primitive techniques still have value in high-level energy manipulation.”

"So, specifically, what should we do?" Thor asked, always preferring straightforward plans.

Hong pondered for a moment, then offered a suggestion: "I suggest we find a professional martial arts school for systematic sparring and training. Through mutual competition and learning, we can identify the strengths and weaknesses of each other's fighting styles and then make targeted improvements."

“That’s a good idea,” Rowan agreed. “Testing and improving through actual combat is indeed more effective than training in isolation. But finding a martial arts school suitable for our level in the capital isn’t easy.”

Just then, Luo Feng suddenly remembered something: "Wait, on my way to the capital, I heard about a newly opened martial arts school called 'Star Martial Pavilion,' which specializes in providing training services for participants in the challenge tournament. It's said the owner is a retired cosmic-level warrior who used to be a combat instructor in the Imperial Army."

“That sounds perfect for us,” Thor said, intrigued. “We can go check it out. If it’s true, it’ll be a great place to improve our combat skills.”

The four quickly reached an agreement and decided to visit the "Star Martial Arts Pavilion" that afternoon. After lunch, they took a private car provided by the villa to the martial arts school located in the eastern district of the capital.

"Xingwu Pavilion" is located in a relatively quiet area. Its architectural style is simple and ancient, which contrasts sharply with the high-tech buildings of the capital city around it. The entire martial arts hall is not large, but its design is ingenious. At the entrance, an ancient stone tablet is engraved with the three large characters "Xingwu Pavilion". The characters are vigorous and powerful, exuding an aura of long-standing battle experience.

The four entered through the gate and found the interior space to be unexpectedly spacious. In the center was a huge training ground, surrounded by various specialized training areas. It was afternoon, and there were already more than a dozen martial artists engaged in various forms of training and sparring.

"Welcome to Star Martial Pavilion," a steady voice came from the side. The four turned their heads and saw a middle-aged man walking over. He was tall and strong but not bulky, and his every move revealed the competence of someone who had been through many battles. His eyes were sharp and calm, and it was clear at a glance that he was an experienced warrior.

“I am Lynch, the manager of this martial arts school,” the man introduced himself, his gaze scrutinizing the four. “You don’t look like ordinary practitioners. Challengers from the Virtual Universe Company?”

Rowan nodded: "Yes, the four of us have formed a team to participate in the Virtual Universe Company's challenge. We're currently preparing for the next stage, and we heard that this place can provide targeted training, so we came to visit."

A flicker of interest crossed Lynch's eyes: "The challengers are interesting. Which galaxy are you from?"

“Earth,” Luo Feng replied, “the solar system.”

Hearing this answer, Lin Qi was visibly surprised: "Earth? That planet that was only recently incorporated into the cosmic civilization system? That's rare; it's uncommon to see challengers from such a young civilization forming a team to participate."

“We hope to prove that even those from less advanced planets can make a difference on the cosmic stage,” Rowan said calmly, his tone filled with unwavering confidence.

Lin Qi carefully examined the four of them, then nodded slightly: "Good, I like your attitude. However, before accepting you, I need to understand your specific strengths and fighting styles. Only then can I develop a suitable training plan."

“Of course,” Thor readily agreed, “we can demonstrate anytime.”

Lynch led the four to a separate training ground, which was larger and had special materials used for the floor and walls, clearly designed to withstand high-intensity energy impacts.

“This training ground is equipped with a state-of-the-art energy isolation system and safety measures,” Lynch explained. “You can showcase your abilities here without worrying about causing damage or injury.”

Next, the four of them took turns demonstrating their combat abilities to Lynch.

The entire demonstration lasted nearly an hour, during which Lynch remained silent, carefully observing each person's movements and energy usage. After all four had finished their demonstrations, he finally spoke:

“Very good, your foundation is quite solid, especially in energy control and basic combat skills. But I also see some issues.”

"What's the problem?" Luo Feng asked curiously.

Lynch looked at Rowan: "Your understanding of the Laws of Fire is indeed quite advanced, but its practical application still seems somewhat immature. Many ingenious theories haven't been translated into effective attacks."

Then he turned to Thor: "Your control over lightning is incredibly precise, but it relies too heavily on a single energy form, lacking diversity and adaptability."

Next, Luo Feng said, "Your basic martial arts are solid, but in high-energy environments, the traditional techniques haven't fully adapted, resulting in low energy utilization efficiency." Finally, he looked at Hong: "Your analytical skills and tactical thinking are strong, but your reaction speed in actual combat is a bit slow, often failing to translate analysis into action in a timely manner."

After hearing Lin Qi's assessment, all four showed expressions of surprise and admiration. With just a brief observation, Lin Qi had accurately pinpointed their individual problems; his insight was truly extraordinary.

“Your observations are very accurate,” Hong said sincerely. “That’s precisely why we’ve come seeking your help. We hope to overcome these shortcomings and further enhance our combat capabilities.”

Lin Qi nodded with satisfaction: "Having self-awareness is the first step towards progress. Alright, I've decided to accept you as special students of the Star Martial Pavilion. However, my training methods may differ from your previous experiences; they will be more rigorous and direct. Are you ready?"

“We fully accept,” Rowan replied on behalf of the four. “We are here to embrace challenges and grow.”

“Very good,” Lin Qi smiled slightly. “Then, starting tomorrow, you will undergo two weeks of special training. During these two weeks, I will design specific training programs tailored to each of your individual weaknesses. At the same time, the four of you will also need to engage in systematic sparring practice, learning from each other and complementing each other’s strengths.”

Then, Lin Qi introduced the martial arts school's rules and regulations and training schedule to the four of them. Xingwu Pavilion opens at 6:00 AM and closes at 10:00 PM every day. Formal students are required to adhere to a strict schedule and training plan, and are not allowed to be absent or late without a valid reason.

“By the way,” Lynch added, “I noticed that all four of you are from Earth and have received training in Earth martial arts. This is a good foundation, but it could also be a limitation. While Earth martial arts have their unique and exquisite aspects, they are not without flaws. On the cosmic battlefield, you need to learn to absorb the combat wisdom of other civilizations to develop a more comprehensive and adaptable fighting style.”

Luo Feng said thoughtfully, "Coach Lin is right. We've always been proud of being Earth's martial artists, but that shouldn't be a reason for us to reject other forms of wisdom."

“Exactly,” Lin Qi nodded approvingly. “True strength never confines one tradition or school of thought, but rather draws on the strengths of many, integrates them, and ultimately forges its own path.”

All four agreed wholeheartedly. On the vast stage of the universe, only by constantly learning and evolving can one survive in fierce competition.

Before leaving, Lin Qi gave the four of them a detailed training plan and some basic theoretical materials so that they could prepare in advance.

"Be here at six o'clock sharp tomorrow morning," Lynch instructed. "Don't be late; I don't like people who waste time."

The four said goodbye to Lynch and drove back to the villa. On the way, they excitedly discussed their upcoming training plans and their respective expectations.

"I have a feeling," Luo Feng said with a smile, "that these two weeks of training will be very tough, but also very valuable."

Thor stretched: "Finally, a chance to have a proper fight. I've been studying the theory all this time, and I'm itching for a match."

“Don’t get too excited,” Hong calmly cautioned. “Coach Lin doesn’t seem like an easy person to talk to. I suspect his training won’t be as simple as we imagine.”

Rowan nodded: "In any case, this is a great opportunity for us to improve ourselves. Let's give it our all and leave no regrets."

Back at the villa, the four immediately began studying the materials Lin Qi had provided, preparing for tomorrow's training. The materials were far more profound than they had imagined, containing not only basic combat theory but also detailed analyses of the impact of energy flow, physical function, and even psychological state on combat.

"These materials," Luo Feng said in surprise, flipping through the data panel in his hand, "are even more in-depth and detailed than the basic tutorials from Virtual Universe Company. Coach Lin is indeed extraordinary."

Hong nodded: "Judging from the depth and breadth of this information, Coach Lin's understanding of combat far exceeds our expectations. He might truly be a seasoned, cosmic-level warrior."

The four of them studied until late at night before reluctantly putting down the materials 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.

The next morning at five o'clock, the four of them got up and had a quick breakfast before arriving at the Star Martial Pavilion half an hour early. To their surprise, Lin Qi was already waiting at the training ground, and it looked like he had been training for some time.

"On time, very good," Lynch checked the time and nodded in satisfaction. "Ready to begin today's training?"

The four responded energetically, "Ready!"

The following morning, Rowan and his three companions were meditating in the villa's garden when they received a communication request from Lynch.

"Gentlemen, are you ready for a new challenge?" Lynch's voice held a barely perceptible hint of excitement. "I've contacted four old comrades-in-arms, all outstanding soldiers who served in the Imperial Army and are now retired. They've heard about your situation and are very interested in sparring with martial artists from Earth."

The four exchanged glances, their eyes gleaming with eager anticipation. After two weeks of professional training, they desperately needed an opportunity to test their results.

“Of course,” Rowan responded on behalf of the four, “we are very much looking forward to this opportunity. When will it begin?”

"Two o'clock this afternoon, at the main training ground of the Star Martial Pavilion," Lin Qi replied. "We're well-prepared; my old friends won't hold back."

After the communication ended, the four immediately began preparing for their afternoon 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' are probably no ordinary people," Hong analyzed. "They might all be cosmic-level warriors, or even stronger."

Thor stretched his limbs, his body crackling with faint electricity: "Perfect timing. I've always wanted to know what level we can reach in actual combat."

(End of this chapter)