Gradually, the two energy fields began to intertwine more harmoniously. The blue electric currents weaved together with the golden points of light, forming a striking energy field with a mesmerizing pattern of alternating blue and gold.
"Good, keep it steady," Thor encouraged. "I can feel the light energy enhancing the conductivity and stability of the lightning."
Hong sensed the change as well. "The electromagnetic field accelerates the movement of the light particles, boosting their attack power."
They continued to fine-tune the fusion, adjusting the flows and intensities until a stable merged energy field emerged. This field was no longer a mere overlay of two energies. It had evolved into a completely new form, embodying both the speed and brilliance of light as well as the power and volatility of electricity, yet surpassing the capabilities of either alone.
"I think we can try materializing this fusion," Thor suggested. "Let's form a tangible attack."
Hong nodded in agreement. Together, they channeled the merged energy toward the target zone in the center of the training room. A rotating sphere formed in midair, its surface woven with streaks of blue and gold, radiating intense energy waves.
"Light-Thunder Fusion: Judgement Bolt!"
The two shouted the provisional name of the skill almost simultaneously, as if sharing a single thought. The energy sphere shot forward, striking the reinforced target squarely.
The explosion was deafening, shaking the entire training room. The target was obliterated, and the surrounding reinforcement mechanisms suffered serious damage as well.
The energy monitoring system immediately maxed out, triggering the emergency barrier that absorbed most of the residual energy.
"This is unbelievable!" Thor exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement as he surveyed the completely destroyed target zone. "I've never seen a fusion skill with such raw power!"
Hong, equally impressed, approached the remains to examine the destruction. "The energy penetration exceeded expectations. Molecular-level structure was disrupted."
This discovery was astonishing. Ordinary energy attacks only damaged surfaces, but this fusion attack could penetrate deep into matter, breaking targets down at the molecular level. Any defense against such an assault would face an unprecedented challenge.
"This is a major breakthrough!" Thor said, patting Hong's shoulder with excitement. "Imagine using this in real combat. Our opponents would be completely unprepared!"
Hong nodded, eyes thoughtful. "It still needs refinement. Control must be precise, and the energy ratio optimized."
Thor grinned. "Exactly. This is only the beginning. We can continue to refine this skill during our training, making it stronger and more practical."
At that moment, the training room door opened, and Rowan and Rohan stepped inside. They froze in astonishment at the sight of the completely destroyed target zone.
"Looks like your training has paid off," Rowan said, a hint of admiration in his eyes. "Is this a newly developed fusion skill?"
Thor's excitement shone. "Yes! Hong and I discovered that light energy and lightning energy can perfectly merge into a completely new energy form. We just tested its power this is the result you see here."
Rohan stepped closer, examining the destroyed target. "This is incredible. The damage isn't just superficial; the internal structure collapsed completely. Conventional energy attacks can't do this."
Rowan nodded thoughtfully. "Energy fusion is a profound field. Very few fighters can achieve true fusion of different principle energies. Achieving this in such a short time is rare."
Hong briefly explained their discovery and the experiment process, including the catalytic effects and molecular-level penetration.
"These findings don't just enhance your individual combat abilities; they're a major boon for the team as well," Rowan said. "If all four of us can master fusion between our respective principle energies, our collective strength would skyrocket."
Rohan's curiosity peaked. "Then can my mastery of the metal principle fuse with your fire principle, Rowan?"
"In theory, yes," Rowan replied. "Different principle energies can have complementary or resonant relationships. The key is finding the correct method of fusion. That's the focus of our afternoon training."
The four shared their training experiences and discoveries, inspiring each other. Thor and Hong's successful experiment offered invaluable guidance for the team.
"The fourth round is about to start," Rowan reminded them. "If each of us masters a fusion skill, it could be our trump card, decisive in critical moments."
On the day of the fourth round, the atmosphere at Virtual Universe Corp was tense and electric. After the first three rounds of fierce competition, only the top geniuses from every cosmic nation had advanced. Crowds of spectators filled the viewing areas, eager for the next thrilling battles.
Rowan, Rohan, Thor, and Hong walked down the corridor leading to the VIP viewing section. The hall was spacious and bright, lined with holographic screens showcasing highlights from previous tournaments. Each of them wore custom-made spectator attire, the emblem of the Black Dragon Empire embroidered on their chests, a special honor from the king.
"Finally, the fourth round," Rohan said excitedly. He wore a silver-gray fitted jacket with black trousers, exuding a sharp, heroic air. "Too bad we aren't scheduled for the first day."
Rowan nodded, wearing a deep blue robe that enhanced his calm presence. "It gives us a chance to observe other competitors. The rules are stricter now each match is thirty minutes instead of an hour. If no winner is decided within the time limit, the system judges based on overall performance."
"That means we can't probe slowly like before," Thor analyzed, his sleeveless black battle suit revealing his defined arms. "We have to go all out in a short time."
Hong, quiet as ever, simply nodded in agreement. Today he wore a plain white tunic, exuding a serene elegance that contrasted with the bustling environment.
They reached the VIP viewing area, with wide, comfortable seats and a perfect vantage point of the arena. Representing the Black Dragon Empire and having reached the fourth round earned them these prime seats.
"Look, the first match of the day," Rohan said, pointing to two competitors on the teleportation platform. "On the left, Mosia from Windbell Star, a wind principle prodigy; on the right "
"Lansted Delvin," Rowan finished, "from the Jacaranda Empire. Specializes in ice principles. In the third round, he defeated his opponent with a single move, 'Thousand-Mile Freeze,' and has reached the late stages of the beginner level for his principle."
Thor whistled. "Sounds impressive. But how does he compare to my Thunder Domain?"
Rowan smiled faintly. "Each has its strengths. Ice principle focuses on 'freezing,' immobilizing large areas instantly. Your lightning principle emphasizes 'explosion,' with far greater destructive power."
The match began with both competitors moving at once. Mosia floated like a gust of wind, unpredictable and swift, while Lansted built layered ice barriers, condensing moisture in the air into frost under his precise control.
Rohan observed intently, occasionally asking Rowan for insight into principle applications.
"Mosia wields the wind principle cleverly," Rowan explained. "He doesn't simply create strong gusts. He manipulates air density and temperature precisely, interfering with Lansted's ice principle output."
"Ah, I see," Rohan exclaimed. "Lansted's frost formation speed slowed noticeably."
Mosia ultimately won. By continuously disrupting the wind currents around Lansted, he restricted the ice principle's effectiveness and struck a decisive blow with 'Thousand-Blade Wind Slash.'
"What an impressive battle," Rowan commented. "Mosia's understanding of wind is deep. He controls not just speed but also elemental distribution in the environment. A highly advanced application."
During the midday break, the four enjoyed a refined lunch in the VIP lounge. The room was lavish yet tasteful, with screens replaying morning matches.
"Which competitor stood out to you this morning?" Thor asked, taking a bite of steak.
Rohan thought for a moment. "The third match, Thunder Three. His lightning principle usage is unique not just raw power, but precise control."
"I noticed that too," Rowan agreed. "Thunder Three's lightning has a subtle balance powerful yet precisely targeted. But for a combat-focused person, I'd still watch out for the fourth match: Kalen Sol."
Thor nodded. "The one using gravity? Terrifying. His spatial control borders on the abnormal."
"Gravity is a subset of spatial principles," Rowan clarified. "Not as potent as full spatial mastery, but allows refined control within a limited area. Kalen Sol has clearly perfected it."
Hong spoke up, rare for him: "Teakwood."
The other three immediately understood. Teakwood was the victor of the final morning match, a female from the Mechanical Empire, adept in metal principles, capable of transforming her body into different metals with incredible adaptability.
"She's formidable," Rowan confirmed. "Her metal transformation has virtually no weaknesses. Physical or energy attacks, she adapts immediately. But apparently, even stronger competitors are scheduled this afternoon."
"Oh? Who?" Rohan asked, curious.
Rowan's expression darkened. "A competitor named Wu Lie from the Crimson Flame Star System. He has mastered both earth and wood principles."
"Dual principles?" Thor's eyes widened. "Impossible. Most people spend their entire lives mastering only one principle. Very few can wield two simultaneously."
Rowan nodded. "Exactly. That's what makes him so remarkable. Dual-principle practitioners are rare, but they exist. Those who reach such mastery at a young age are practically legendary."
"Is Wu Lie competing today?" Rohan asked, anticipation in his eyes.
"The second match this afternoon," Rowan replied. "His opponent is Allen, a water-principle master from the Stillwater System. This will be fascinating wood and water principles are compatible, while earth and water counter each other."
After lunch, the four returned to their seats to watch the afternoon matches. The first was a battle between light and darkness principles, drawing excitement from the crowd.
Yet all four were focused on the upcoming second match. When the first battle ended, the system announced: "Fourth round, second match: Wu Lie from Crimson Flame Star System versus Allen from Stillwater System. Match begins in three minutes. Competitors, please prepare."
"Finally," Rohan said, leaning forward slightly, eager with anticipation.
Through the teleportation device, both competitors appeared at the center of the arena. Allen was a tall, slender youth with bright blue hair and eyes, clad in the streamlined battle attire typical of Stillwater System, exuding a calm, serene aura like flowing water.
Wu Lie's arrival drew gasps from the audience. Unlike most competitors, he had a towering, muscular frame over two meters tall, perfectly sculpted like a warrior carved from stone. His dark brown skin, thick black hair tied back, and a scar running from his left eye to jawline added a rugged intensity. The most striking feature was his eyes: the left a rich earth tone, the right a vibrant green, signaling his dual-principle mastery.
"His presence alone is extraordinary," Thor whispered. "That aura isn't something you gain from ordinary training."
Hong nodded solemnly, rare gravity in his expression.
"A dual-principle master is truly exceptional," Rowan observed. "His earth and wood principles seem to coexist in harmony, which requires profound understanding and absolute control over both."