B1C11: Training

Caleb marvelled at the transformation that had occurred within him. The repulsive stench and the sticky substance that had emerged from his body were remnants of the impurities that had resided within him. The opening of his inner space had expelled these impurities, purifying his body and leaving him feeling revitalised.

After thoroughly cleansing himself, Caleb couldn't help but notice the remarkable changes in his appearance. His once scarred skin had become fairer and smoother, free from the marks that had served as reminders of his past struggles. Although he had never been particularly concerned with his looks, he couldn't deny the newfound confidence that surged within him.

Eager to test the limits of his newfound powers, Caleb quickly got dressed making his way to the training ground. As he walked through the camp, several children who had known him as the always tardy stretching maniac couldn't believe their eyes. His transformation was nothing short of astonishing, and rumours of his remarkable changes spread through the camp like wildfire. The other residents couldn't help but wonder what other marvels awaited those who attained higher ranks within the cultivation system.

Arriving at the training ground, Caleb's eyes fell upon a collection of round black objects placed in the centre. Each ball was labelled with its weight, ranging from 15 kg to 60 kg. Excitement surged through Caleb as he approached the first ball, marked with a weight of 15 kg. He extended his right hand and effortlessly lifted it, the weight feeling almost negligible in his grasp.

Curiosity compelled Caleb to push his limits further. He proceeded to lift the 20 kg ball, then the 25 kg, 30 kg, 40 kg, and 50 kg balls, finding that each one felt as light as the last. Only when he reached the 60 kg ball did he feel a slight strain, yet he still managed to lift it with relative ease using both hands.

Filled with a renewed sense of strength, Caleb turned his attention to the section of the training ground that housed an array of weighted weapons. His gaze settled upon the numerous spears lined up neatly in the racks. Spears were a staple weapon used in training within the camp, and Caleb's eyes locked onto a formidable 65 kg spear tucked away in a corner. It boasted an 8-metre length with a 1-metre diamond-shaped steel spearhead.

Grasping the heavy spear in his hands, Caleb began to perform the spear art he had developed by combining the six Stances he had learned. With each swing, he realised that his body was now absorbing a different type of energy. It dawned on him that, even as a cultivator in the Mortal Rank, he was already capable of absorbing the potent world energy that permeated his surroundings.

The realisation sent a surge of exhilaration through Caleb's veins. The advantage of achieving Unity in the Mortal Rank became even more apparent. His body, infused with faith energy and now receptive to the world energy, seemed to possess an infinite reservoir of power. His once clumsy stances and spear art transformed into a fluid and deadly dance, displaying a deadly beauty that captivated anyone who witnessed it.

Gradually, a crowd began to gather around Caleb, drawn by his focused and awe-inspiring display of skill. Among them were many girls, their attention captured by his golden pupils and mesmerising performance. Yet, Caleb remained oblivious to the growing audience, fully immersed in his training.

As the crowd slowly dispersed, realising that Caleb showed no intention of stopping, they, too, felt a renewed motivation to work on their own cultivation. They had witnessed something extraordinary and were inspired to push themselves further. With that realisation, they dispersed, leaving Caleb to his practice.

Hours passed in what felt like an instant to Caleb. As he brought his spear practice to a close, he couldn't help but notice the gnawing sensation of hunger in his stomach. He realised he had missed both lunch and dinner due to his intense training. Resolving to rectify this oversight, he returned the spear to its designated place before making his way to his house.

In the ranked houses, dinner was delivered directly to the residents' houses, sparing them the trip to the camp cafeteria. Caleb swiftly consumed his meal, appreciating the nourishment that replenished his energy. Once he had resolved his hunger, he turned his attention back to the cultivation room, eager to continue his exploration of the crystal ball and the untapped potential it held.