Chapter 14: I Grew 5 Centimeters Taller
Over the next year, Krillin dedicated himself fully to intense training. Donning a tenfold gravity suit within the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, which already had ten times Earth's gravity, he faced a combined gravity of 20 times normal. He clenched his fists eagerly, ready to push his limits.
"Krillin, you've already mastered the meditation technique. There's nothing more I can teach you," Mr. Popo said in his usual calm tone.
Krillin nodded. "You don't need to wait for me, Mr. Popo. You can go back to assist Kami."
"Alright, but if you need anything, just ring the small bell at the entrance, and I'll come immediately."
"Got it. No problem."
In the vast and empty training grounds of the chamber, Krillin appeared minuscule. Yet within him surged an energy capable of immense destruction.
He put on the tenfold gravity suit. Instantly, the 20x gravity pressed down on him. Sweat beaded on his forehead as he stood frozen, barely able to move. He attempted a step forward, but his center of gravity shifted dangerously, and he nearly stumbled.
Adjusting his posture, Krillin moved step by step, each motion simple yet painstakingly difficult.
Two Days Later
Krillin had managed to adjust enough to walk slowly under the 20x gravity. His movements were clumsy and awkward, reminiscent of Charlie Chaplin's comedic gait.
Half a Month Later
By now, Krillin had fully adapted to the intense gravity. His power level continued to grow steadily by 500 points daily, thanks to his light-speed training mode. After 17 days, his power level had reached 13,900.
Breathing heavily, Krillin removed the gravity suit. The past weeks had been grueling, but the rewards were undeniable. Under light-speed training, his power grew by 500 points per day, with an additional 200 points gained from the gravitational stress.
One Year Later
A year passed in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber. Krillin, now much faster and more skilled, was moving at high speed during his training. His left hand unleashed a Kamehameha, while his right wielded a Destructo Disc. The two attacks clashed in a test of control and energy manipulation, akin to mastering ambidextrous combat.
Using both techniques simultaneously required exceptional command over energy. The two forces tangled and dissipated as Krillin depleted his reserves.
The Destructo Disc, Krillin's signature move, had become sharper and more refined through constant practice. This high-speed, razor-thin energy disc could cleave enemies in half, embodying the pinnacle of his skill.
After a year of rigorous training, Krillin's aura had grown immeasurably deep, and his gaze was sharp and intense. If one word could describe him now, it would be terrifying.
Current Stats:
Time: Age 756Name: KrillinAge: 21 (1 year elapsed in the chamber)Race: HumanDimension: Level 1 (Equivalent to Korin's level)Power Level: 250,000 (Next Limit: 1.5 million)Potential: 1.25 millionTraining Speed: Light-speedRemaining Energy: 0
Krillin had reached his power limit by the seventh month, spending 500,000 energy points to break through his limits again. His new potential cap had risen to 1.5 million. However, with his remaining 540,000 energy points, Krillin knew he needed to conserve energy before finding new sources.
"It's time for a break after this year of grueling training," Krillin thought. His gravity suit was tattered, covered with scorch marks from energy blasts. His clothing had been reduced to shreds, exposing his muscular, well-built physique.
Taking a capsule from his stash, Krillin retrieved a fresh set of clothes. However, as he tried them on, they felt snug.
"Something feels off… are my clothes shrinking?" he muttered.
"Don't overthink it," the system chimed in. "You grew 5 centimeters taller this year—2 centimeters after your first breakthrough and 3 centimeters after your second. It's a gradual process."
Excited, Krillin exclaimed, "The system really takes care of me! I knew I'd grow taller eventually, but it's still a pleasant surprise."
The system cut in sarcastically: "Earth's 'strongest' human at 155 cm was embarrassing enough. At least now you're 160 cm—finally respectable enough to show your face."
Krillin chuckled. Even at 160, the world feels like a different place. Feeling on top of the world, he decided to take a well-earned nap.
Returning to the Lookout
Opening the golden doors, Krillin found Mr. Popo waiting for him.
"Mr. Popo, it's been a while!" Krillin said cheerfully.
"For you, perhaps. For me, it's only been a day," Mr. Popo replied with a smile.
Kami's jaw dropped when he saw Krillin. Even with his energy suppressed, Krillin's resting power level was a staggering 5,000.
"How… how is this possible?" Kami stammered.
Krillin scratched his head, grinning. "No matter where I go, my strength always makes an impression."
He bowed respectfully. "Thank you, Kami and Mr. Popo, for your guidance. I've reached a new level of understanding in martial arts."
"It's time for me to go home," Krillin said.
Kami seemed startled by the mention of "home," his expression turning melancholic. "Home… where is my home?" he murmured, lost in thought.
Krillin hesitated, knowing Kami was a Namekian. Should I tell him now? he wondered. No, not yet. When the time is right, I'll take him to Namek to reunite with his people.
Krillin said goodbye, speeding off toward Earth.
At Korin Tower
"Krillin!" Korin called out, spotting him from afar.
Krillin landed near the tower. "It's been a while, Korin."
"Your aura is overwhelming now. Here, take this," Korin said, summoning a dense, cloud-like Black Flying Nimbus.
"What's this?" Krillin asked, intrigued.
"It's a Black Nimbus. Use it for traveling—it'll save you some energy," Korin explained.
Grateful, Krillin thanked Korin and took an extra-large piece of the cloud—enough for his future wife, daughter, and possibly a son.
Korin winced at the missing chunk but consoled himself with the thought of Krillin bringing him more fish.
Krillin waved goodbye and sped off, ready for his next adventure.
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