Chapter 319: Training the Troops

321: Training Drills

After listening to Zhangsun You's words, Chen Ming had a general understanding of his training plan. It seemed that focusing on refining the body would be the main direction for the next level of cultivation.

Cultivation primarily involved two aspects: dantian and meridians for qi, and bones and muscles for the physical body. At the fifth layer of the Dao Comprehension Stage, the meridians were fully opened, and the amount of qi one could hold increased significantly. Now, it was time to begin training the physical body.

"After three months, if you still haven't reached the eighth layer of the Dao Comprehension Stage, then you will be expelled from the sect," Zhangsun You said slowly. "I understand," Chen Ming replied, unfazed.

Chen Ming then went to the Scripture Pavilion. He walked up to the second floor and found a shelf containing various techniques. These techniques were simple Daoist methods for strengthening the body. He browsed through them briefly, picking out the simplest and most direct ones.

"Okay, it seems I don't need to use the System's techniques for now. These ordinary techniques are enough," Chen Ming thought to himself.

He selected a technique called the Iron Sand Palm and began practicing it. This technique involved constantly striking piles of iron sand to strengthen the hands.

Chen Ming practiced diligently every day, his hands becoming raw and calloused. However, he persevered, driven by his desire to improve.

"Master, you're practicing so hard," Ling Xian said, bringing him a towel.

"Of course. How can I improve without hard work?" Chen Ming replied, wiping his hands.

After a month of training, Chen Ming's hands were incredibly strong. He could now easily smash stones with his bare hands. He felt a surge of confidence and decided to test his progress further.

He went to the training grounds and challenged a disciple from the tenth layer of the Dao Comprehension Stage to a spar. The disciple was initially hesitant, as Chen Ming was only at the fifth layer. However, Chen Ming insisted, and the spar began.

The disciple attacked with a fierce sword strike, but Chen Ming blocked it easily with his strengthened hands. He then unleashed a series of rapid palm strikes, overwhelming the disciple and forcing him to concede.

Chen Ming's victory caused a stir among the other disciples. They were surprised by his rapid progress and newfound strength.

"Master, you're amazing!" Ling Xian exclaimed, his eyes shining with admiration.

Chen Ming smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. His hard work was paying off.

He continued his training, refining his Iron Sand Palm and practicing other body-strengthening techniques. He also spent time meditating to solidify his understanding of the Dao.

Three months passed quickly. Chen Ming had not only reached the eighth layer of the Dao Comprehension Stage but had also significantly strengthened his physical body.

Zhangsun You was impressed by Chen Ming's progress. "You have exceeded my expectations," he said. "Now, you are ready for the next stage of your training."