On stage, two figures stood back to back, moving slowly to the rhythm of the music. Nezha's fingertips ignited with a faint flame, tracing graceful arcs in the air, while Ao Bing manipulated delicate streams of water, wrapping them around the flames like silver ribbons.
As the tempo of the music increased, their movements became more synchronized. Fire and water intertwined in the air, creating stunning patterns—sometimes resembling a Dragon and Phoenix entwined, other times embodying the harmony of Yin and Yang, and at moments appearing like scattered stars falling to the earth.
The most breathtaking moment came at the climax of their performance when the flames and water streams merged perfectly, forming a three-dimensional Heart-Shaped figure that hovered between them, radiating a dreamlike glow.
Thunderous applause erupted as the audience was deeply moved by this unprecedented performance. The judges unanimously awarded full marks, praising it as "a perfect fusion beyond imagination."
"We did it!" Nezha exclaimed as he embraced Ao Bing. "Our powers truly can combine perfectly!"
Ao Bing breathed heavily, clearly having expended considerable energy. "Yes, this proves that water and fire are not destined to be adversaries but can complement and coexist with each other."
The final challenge was the Heart Lock Challenge, the most mysterious and crucial part of the event. Each couple was given a special lock and a Password Book, needing to interpret each other's feelings to find the correct password to unlock it. It was said that only couples who truly understood each other could succeed.
"This lock... is not simple," Ao Bing remarked as he examined the Bronze Ancient Lock closely, which was engraved with peculiar runes. "It has ancient spiritual energy resonating from it."
Nezha flipped through the Password Book, which contained various riddles and hints. "These questions are strange; they don’t ask for direct answers but require us to think from each other's perspective."
The two settled down, earnestly interpreting each riddle. The questions delved deep into their souls, testing not only their understanding of one another but also their emotional resonance—"If your partner could only keep one memory, what would it be?" "What kind of companionship is needed during your partner's darkest moments?" "If you could grant one wish for your partner, what would it be?"...
Each question required profound contemplation before they could provide sincere answers from their hearts. Interestingly, when their answers resonated with each other’s feelings, the runes on the lock would glow softly.
"The last question," Ao Bing whispered, "'If you were to sacrifice something for your partner's happiness, what would you give up?'"
The two exchanged a smile, and in their hearts, they arrived at the same answer—"Everything."
With this answer, all the runes on the lock lit up, emitting a dazzling golden light. Then, with a soft "click," the lock opened in response.
As the competition concluded and results were tallied, Nezha and Ao Bing secured first place with an overwhelming advantage, earning the "Eternal Love" award.
On the podium, the host presented them with a gold badge: "Congratulations on winning the 'Eternal Love' award! According to tradition, you may make a shared wish tonight at the full moon by the Center Lake Shore. As long as it is a sincere wish, it will surely come true."
"That's wonderful!" Nezha exclaimed, gripping Ao Bing's hand excitedly. "We can wish for you to stay in the human realm forever, or for me to go to the Dragon Palace!"
However, Ao Bing appeared much calmer. "Things may not be that simple. The fulfillment of wishes often comes with conditions and limitations; we need to think carefully."
After the award ceremony, Aunt Taiyi mysteriously appeared before them. "Congratulations, boys! I knew you could win!"
"Taiyi Senior," Ao Bing said respectfully as he bowed, "can this 'Eternal Love' award really grant wishes?"
Aunt Taiyi smiled without answering directly and handed them a delicate Jade Box. "Tonight at Zi Shi, take this to Center Lake Shore. Remember, the wish must be one that both of you sincerely desire and must not violate the rules of heaven. There is only one opportunity; make sure to seize it."
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