The theoretical framework for the Space-Time technique, which Dan had contemplated with profound depth over the past weeks, relied on a principle that was fundamentally elegant—at least in theory. However, its practical application was dauntingly difficult, layered with complexity, and inherently perilous.
The core principle was this: since space and time are inextricably linked within a unified fabric known as Space-Time, they can never truly be separated. Therefore, if Dan utilized the spatial network to move from one coordinate to another, he was, by biological and physical necessity, simultaneously warping time between those two points.
To illustrate this with a simple analogy: imagine he wished to travel from his current location to a destination that would normally require a thirty-minute journey at standard speeds. If he applied this new Space-Time art correctly, he would "fold" the spatial lattice—shortening the physical distance and connecting the two points directly. Simultaneously, he would fold the temporal dimension between them. The result? He would arrive instantaneously at a location that should have taken half an hour to reach. It is a leap through space and time combined, occurring in a single heartbeat.
Every time Dan employed this advanced method for rapid transit, he would be manipulating two synchronized aspects:
The Spatial Lattice: Folding it to negate physical distance.
Time Itself: Warping it to bridge two different moments.
Both actions occur concurrently, achieving the ultimate goal of a jump far swifter than any conventional movement, regardless of one's physical speed. This is not merely moving fast; it is a true displacement through the fabric of the universe.
Through his exhaustive theoretical analysis, Dan concluded that this complex art must be categorized into distinct levels of progressive difficulty. He could not master it in one sweeping motion; it required a disciplined, step-by-step evolution.
The First Level (The Foundation):
This involves mastering the technique to transport only inanimate objects and tools. Shifting them through Space-Time from one point to another is relatively simpler and far less dangerous, as it does not involve a living biological system. If a calculation error occurs, the object is merely destroyed—a negligible loss. He would begin here, refining his understanding of the basic mechanics.
The Second Level (Personal Displacement):
This is significantly more arduous. Dan must learn to transport his own physical vessel between two points. This is fraught with danger, demanding absolute, surgical precision. A minor miscalculation could result in his body being torn asunder or his atoms being scattered—instantaneous death. Consequently, he must be extremely cautious, ensuring he spends ample time perfecting the first level before attempting this.
Furthermore, a critical constraint exists at this stage: both the point of origin and the destination must fall within the range of his Spatial Network perception. Within this range, his ability to observe the lattice with high resolution and influence it effectively is maximized. Without the network's guidance, his grasp of Space-Time remains powerful but lacks the necessary "anchor" for safe transit. For now, he would be limited to a range of hundreds to thousands of kilometers—immensely useful, yet still a boundary to be eventually surpassed.
The Third Level (Group Transit):
The ability to transport others alongside himself. This requires a much finer degree of control and doubled precision, as he must extend his protection over multiple bodies, ensuring the integrity of everyone involved during the fold. This would be an invaluable asset, especially for a swift evacuation of the family during an emergency.
Dan also theorized regarding even higher echelons:
Level Four: Global transit without the need for a pre-perceived network range—absolute freedom of movement across the world.
Level Five: Interplanetary transit, bridging the vast gulfs between worlds in the vacuum of space in an instant.
Level Six (Theoretical): This level involves a power so profound it borders on the legendary. (A power possessed by one of the greatest final antagonists in the three legendary sagas: Naruto, One Piece, and Bleach. A hint: it is a signature ability of an apex villain. Those who can solve the riddle may know its true terrifying nature.)
However, Dan pushed these higher levels aside for the moment. He refused to "bite off more than he could chew." Mastery of the basics was paramount; haste invited catastrophe. Patience and methodology were the only paths to sustainable success.
This entire technique would be anchored in the most advanced principles of Fuinjutsu. Yet, there was another prospect that filled him with visible excitement: the evolution of his current combat art, the Gravity Fist.
He intended to integrate his new understanding of Space-Time to upgrade this strike to an entirely different tier of lethality. The current Gravity Fist relies on manipulating density to concentrate gravity at the point of impact. But what if he merged it with a Space-Time fold? What if he warped the very fabric of reality toward the point of impact to ensure an "unavoidable hit"? What if the fist itself distorted the space-time continuum upon contact?
The result would be devastating beyond measure—multiples of its current potency. A strike that does not just hit the target with 100% certainty but strikes at the very fabric of existence they occupy. He already possessed the preliminary blueprints for this evolution; it only required testing and refinement. It would become a weapon capable of obliterating nearly anything.
In truth, this deepening mastery over space and time was opening doors to cosmic possibilities. It was no longer just about physical strength; it was about genuine universal power. If he could master these domains, Dan was certain he would liberate himself from all current limitations—speed, distance, energy, and even the march of time itself.
His total power would reach a stage where he could exert direct influence over the planets themselves—distorting orbits, altering planetary gravity, and perhaps even their destruction. A level of power akin to the highest members of the Otsutsuki Clan.
This was his ambition. His ultimate trajectory.
In his laboratory, he looked over his handwritten notes—dozens of pages covered in equations, diagrams, and strategic plans. All of them revolved around one word: Space-Time.
He smiled with cold confidence. The road was long, difficult, and riddled with shadows. But it was finally clear.
He knew exactly where he was going. He knew exactly what had to be done.
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