Rowan quickly returned the salute. "No need for such formalities, Senior. It's just a small gesture."
Old Mo smiled warmly, then turned to Lynch. "I concede this match. Not just because of my physical limitations, but because this young man has demonstrated abilities beyond what I expected. Especially at a critical moment, he chose to stay and help control the unstable energy rather than seek safety for himself. That courage and sense of responsibility are truly admirable."
Lynch nodded and stepped into the center of the arena, his voice carrying over the crowd. "For the third match, Old Mo concedes. Rowan wins."
The audience erupted into applause and cheers once again. This match had not only showcased a high-level energy duel but had also displayed rare medical expertise, leaving everyone utterly impressed.
At the sidelines, Hulk, Bella, and the Mechanic approached Rowan to offer their congratulations.
"You've truly surprised us, young man," Hulk said heartily, slapping Rowan's shoulder with such force that Rowan nearly stumbled. "Not only are you skilled in combat, your medical technique is also extraordinary. Earth warriors live up to their reputation."
Bella nodded elegantly. "Your understanding and control of energy are indeed impressive. Especially the 'Elemental Symbiosis' technique. Even among advanced civilizations, that level of skill is exceptional."
The Mechanic's expression remained neutral, but his tone carried approval. "Data analysis indicates that your energy control precision is 99.7 percent. Even among cosmic-level warriors, that is an outstanding figure."
Old Mo chuckled. "What's even rarer is that he doesn't just possess skill; he has heart. In a critical moment, he chose to stay and control the energy rather than save himself. That courage and sense of responsibility are more valuable than any technique."
Rowan felt embarrassed under the flood of praise and quickly waved his hands. "You seniors flatter me too much. Any progress I've made owes a great deal to Coach Lynch's guidance over the past two weeks."
Lynch smiled faintly. "You four are all promising talents. I merely provided guidance. True growth comes from your own effort and innate abilities."
Just then, Roland approached. "Looks like the fourth match can be skipped. My opponent has already praised Rowan. I don't stand a chance."
The Mechanic, Roland's scheduled opponent, shook his head. "No, the match must still take place. Everyone deserves the chance to show their abilities. Moreover, from a data perspective, your strengths lie in precise strikes and tactical application, which complement my fighting style. This duel may turn out more exciting than expected."
Roland smiled. "Very well, let's begin."
Thus, the fourth match commenced. While it lacked the unexpected thrills of the previous bouts, the duel between Roland and the Mechanic was equally spectacular, showcasing the distinct charm of Earth martial arts versus mechanical enhancements.
After all four matches concluded, Lynch announced the final results: the Earth Warriors team won three matches and drew one, achieving a decisive victory.
"Today's exhibition matches are concluded," Lynch announced loudly. "Thank you to all the spectators for your enthusiastic support. This event has once again proven that martial arts know no boundaries. Every civilization in the universe, regardless of development level, possesses unique wisdom and value. It is this diversity and exchange that drives the continuous advancement of martial arts."
The audience's applause persisted for several minutes. What began as a routine exhibition had transformed into a memorable martial arts spectacle, leaving everyone enriched and inspired.
After the matches, Lynch and his four veteran allies, along with Rowan and his teammates, gathered in the Star Martial Pavilion's lounge for a small celebration. The atmosphere was relaxed and joyful, with everyone sharing insights and experiences.
"Truly," Hulk raised his drink in salute to the four, "today's matches have made me see the charm of Earth martial arts anew. Each of you has displayed a unique combat style and understanding of energy, something even many elite civilizations cannot achieve."
Bella nodded. "Particularly Hong's 'Four Ounces Moves a Thousand Pounds' technique and Rowan's 'Elemental Symbiosis.' The precision in energy control and guidance stands in stark contrast to the often flashy, wide-swinging styles we are used to. Yet it is equally effective, and in some situations, even more efficient."
Old Mo rubbed his left shoulder, feeling nostalgic. "And Rowan's medical skill! Decades-old injuries improved significantly in just a few minutes. Earth's theory of meridians truly holds unique merit."
The Mechanic remained expressionless but spoke with approval. "Data analysis shows that Earth martial arts excel in integration and adaptability. They not only emphasize external power output but focus on the flow of internal energy and the coordination of the entire body. This philosophy differs greatly from mainstream cosmic martial doctrines yet proves equally effective."
Lynch looked at his students with a proud smile. "This is exactly what I've always emphasized: returning to the basics. True martial arts do not lie in flashy techniques or raw power but in a deep understanding and flexible application of fundamental principles. Earth martial arts may not surpass some advanced civilizations technically, but the concepts and principles within them are timeless."
Rowan and his teammates listened to the praise from elite warriors with pride and anticipation. This exhibition had not only enhanced their abilities but also clarified the path they needed to follow in their martial journey.
"What are your plans next?" Lynch asked. "The next stage of the challenge is approaching, and you must prepare thoroughly."
Rowan glanced at his three companions before replying, "We plan to stay in the Imperial City for a few more days to fully utilize the Central Archives, studying specific techniques and theories. Afterwards, we'll return to the Virtual Universe Company to make final preparations for the next stage of the challenge."
Lynch nodded. "A wise choice. The Central Archives houses vast and invaluable resources that will greatly aid your growth." He paused and added, "If you need anything, you can always come to the Star Martial Pavilion for assistance. Official training may be over, but my friends and I are happy to provide support wherever possible."
"Thank you, Coach Lynch," Roland said sincerely. "These past two weeks of training have been invaluable. Whatever difficulties we face in the future, we will remember your guidance."
Half a month passed almost unnoticed.
Within the Virtual Universe, countless points of light shimmered like stars, forming a vast digital cosmos. At its depths stood a magnificent complex bathed in soft blue light, the headquarters of the Virtual Universe Company.
Morning sunlight streamed through enormous floor-to-ceiling windows into the lounge. Rowan sat quietly on a sofa, eyes closed, focusing his mind. His tall, upright frame exuded strength, and his refined features carried a hint of determination. Sunlight glimmered off his dark hair.
"Rowan, are you nervous?" Hong's voice sounded behind him, tinged with concern.
Rowan opened his eyes and looked at one of Earth's three legendary warriors. Hong, as composed as ever, wore a simple black training suit, yet his deep eyes revealed the seriousness with which he regarded the upcoming match.
"Not entirely. I'd be lying if I said I'm not nervous," Rowan admitted, standing and stretching. "But more than anything, I'm excited. This half-month of training has deepened my understanding of the Fire Principle."
At that moment, Thor's distinctive, boisterous laugh echoed from the doorway. "Hahaha! I told you, Earth's genius warriors don't know how to back down!"
Thor strode into the lounge, his muscular frame glowing in the sunlight. His golden hair stood up like steel needles, and his confident smile radiated energy. Roland followed closely behind.
"You're right," Roland said, patting Rowan on the shoulder. "Over these two weeks, we've seen your progress. Especially yesterday's simulated duel, your 'Blazing Lotus Bloom' technique was breathtaking."
Rowan smiled faintly. "I owe it to your guidance. Especially you, Big Brother Hong. If you hadn't pointed out my weakness in controlling psychic weapons, I wouldn't have achieved such a breakthrough so quickly."
Hong shook his head. "We are a team. Helping each other is natural. But today's opponent is no ordinary fighter. Princess Aria Silvermoon of the Silver Blue Empire is renowned across the cosmos. She excels in the Wind Principle and swordsmanship."
The four exchanged serious glances. Over the past two weeks, they had studied the Silver Blue Empire's young sword saint carefully. Princess Aria Silvermoon, the youngest sword saint of the empire, was a prodigy of the royal family. Her swordsmanship, said to flow like silver moonlight across the sky, was both elegant and lethal.
"She is formidable," Thor said, his expression serious. "Intelligence reports indicate her mastery of the Wind Principle is at an advanced level, and her technique is passed down from the royal family's secret 'Silver Moon Sword Codex.'"
Roland added, "More importantly, she has rarely shown her full power in previous matches. We still lack a clear understanding of her true strength."
Rowan nodded. The stronger the opponent, the more it ignited his fighting spirit. Over these two weeks, he had not only made great strides in the Fire Principle but had also mastered the control of his psychic weapon, the Starlight Rift Blade.
"Let's go. Time to head to the preparation area," Hong said, checking the time. "We have one hour before the match begins. Let's familiarize ourselves with the arena."
The four walked together down the wide corridor toward the preparation zone. Massive holographic screens lined the walls, displaying classic battles from previous Virtual Universe Challenge tournaments. Every intense duel and breathtaking moment showcased the unparalleled power of cosmic geniuses.
"Watching these battles always gets my blood pumping," Thor said, pointing to a warrior unleashing a thunder-based technique. "See his 'Roaring Thunder Dragon'? It's pure artistry!"
Rowan observed carefully, absorbing insights. Suddenly, a familiar figure appeared on the screen: a woman in silver armor wielding a slender longsword, dueling a fire-principle warrior.
"That's Aria Silvermoon?" Roland asked, pointing.
Hong nodded. "Yes. This is her performance during the preliminaries. Observe her swordsmanship. Each move flows like clouds and water, graceful yet lethal."
Before he could finish, the princess's blade struck. The sword seemed to cut through the void itself, infused with the fierce power of the Wind Principle, instantly defeating her opponent. The attack was fluid and elegant, yet deadly.
"Such speed!" Thor exclaimed. "That's probably a tenth of the speed of light."
Rowan silently analyzed her style, mentally simulating strategies. Her swordsmanship was exquisite, especially in how she integrated the Wind Principle into her strikes. However, fire naturally opposes wind. If he could leverage the Fire Principle wisely, victory was not impossible.
At the end of the corridor lay the preparation area, filled with all the competitors for today's matches. Though in the virtual universe, every participant appeared identical to reality, and their abilities were perfectly synchronized.
Entering, Rowan felt the powerful aura of countless prodigies from across the stars. Some were surrounded by crackling lightning, some exuded ripples of spatial distortion, while others radiated intense metallic energy.
"Earth's competitors," a cold voice said.
All turned to see a tall silver-haired woman approaching. She wore silver-white light armor, a gracefully shaped longsword at her waist, and deep blue eyes like a starry abyss. Her aura radiated nobility and danger.
"Princess Aria Silvermoon," Hong said first, his tone respectful.
The princess stopped before Rowan, scrutinizing the Earth-born opponent. Her gaze was as sharp as a blade, seeming to pierce through him.
"You must be Rowan," she said coolly, though curiosity lingered in her tone. "I've heard you excel in the Fire Principle."
Rowan met her gaze steadily. "I wouldn't claim mastery, only some understanding. Your Highness, your swordsmanship is famous across the cosmos. It is a great honor to duel you today."
A faint smile touched her lips. "Interesting opponent. I look forward to our fight." She turned gracefully, her silver hair tracing an elegant arc through the air.