Problems with layers, again

[New User]

Here's the image I'm having trouble with.

http://rapidshare.com/files/342492305/ADragon2.psd.html

It's a Photoshop file with 4 layers.

One of the problem is, it has one black layer. And I want it transparent.

So, I removed the black layer, then merged the other 3 together. Then I created another black layer, just to see how it turned out. And here's the real problem: The ripples/sparkles that is surrounding the dragon have lost their "glow". The images has changed.

Can somebody please tell me what's causing this is and tell me how to fix it.

Here's two pictures to show you what I mean. (First one is how I want it, second one is how it turns out when I merge the layers)

Spoiler

 

[Whitesock]

Sometimes when you merge layers with different layer modes than normal (especially things like dodge, addition), if there is any transparency at all beneath them they will not look the same. The fix? Hid the layer and then go to edit->copy visable. Then paste. After that right click the layer you want to merge and click alpha to selection. After that invert your selection and delete it. Then merge your layer onto the backround. Repeat this with every layer from the top down and you should be good.