While maintaining the outward flow of the battle, Li Hao's focus deepened internally, as within his body, a second layer of power stirred silently, his hidden Golden Dragon martial soul resonating faintly beneath the surface, its lightning energy moving through his meridians in controlled pulses, carefully concealed from both Zhao Kun and the watching elders.
The sprite's voice echoed softly in his mind.
"Not yet… but soon."
Li Hao did not respond outwardly, but his control tightened as he allowed only a trace of that energy to merge with his current techniques, enhancing his speed and reaction without revealing the true source of the change.
To the outside world, it appeared as if he was simply pushing his limits.
But in reality—
He was preparing.
Zhao Kun, sensing the slight increase in pressure, frowned.
"You're still holding back?" he said.
Li Hao's expression did not change.
But his next movement became faster.
Sharper.
More precise.
The battle continued—
But the turning point was approaching.