Mental Training through Meditation

Krillin leapt into the air, flying back toward the Lookout. His speed was now double what it had been before. Martial arts breakthroughs aren't simply additive; they often result in an exponential increase in strength, like 1+1>2.

As Krillin flew, he pondered the best use of his energy reserves, determined to maximize efficiency. He still had 2,800 Senzu Beans, equating to 1.4 million energy points. The system had also revealed that supersonic training yielded 100 power level points daily, while light-speed training granted 500 points per day alongside significant improvements in comprehension ability.

But even with those boosts, the math wasn't promising. Even if he trained nonstop in light-speed mode for five years (approximately 1,800 days), his power level would only reach about 912,500. That might make him strong enough to dominate a small star system, but against Frieza? It wouldn't even make a dent.

"This energy hunt can't stop," Krillin thought, his anxiety mounting. "At least Korin can provide me with 100 Senzu Beans per year. The key now is finding new sources of energy. Saving alone won't cut it."

In no time, Krillin arrived back at the Lookout. He'd been gone for only about two hours, so Kami didn't think much of it. However, when Kami laid eyes on Krillin, his jaw dropped.

In just two hours, Krillin's dimensional level had risen by one—a feat Kami found almost impossible to believe. Kami reflected on his own arduous journey to becoming Earth's Guardian, a process filled with trials and tribulations, including splitting himself into two entities.

"How strange… to ascend to a celestial level in mere hours," Kami muttered, his thoughts filled with disbelief.

Krillin noticed Kami's expression and thought, Does Kami suspect something?

"Of course, he does!" the system chimed in sarcastically. "He's not blind. Anyone with a higher dimensional level can see it!"

Krillin chuckled awkwardly and scratched his head, deciding to keep the truth to himself. Revealing his secret might invite unnecessary trouble—a case of 'an innocent man gets punished for possessing treasure.' While Kami wasn't a threat, Krillin couldn't be sure that some cosmic big shot wasn't already watching him.

"Kami," Krillin said with a grin, "I'd like to learn the meditation training technique!"

Kami nodded calmly. "Of course. Mr. Popo can teach you. Much of what I've learned in martial arts comes from him."

"Thank you, Mr. Popo. I appreciate your guidance."

"It's no trouble at all. Sharing martial arts knowledge to benefit others is always worthwhile."

"Mr. Popo, would it be possible for me to train in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber?" Krillin asked.

Mr. Popo glanced at Kami for approval.

Kami nodded without hesitation.

"Follow me, then," Mr. Popo said.

Into the Hyperbolic Time Chamber

Krillin followed Mr. Popo through the winding pathways of the Lookout. The complex was larger than it seemed, with crisscrossing corridors and steep inclines reminiscent of mountain roads. After a few minutes, they arrived at a golden door.

"This is it," Mr. Popo said, pushing the door open.

Krillin stepped inside, his eyes scanning the chamber. The interior was mostly an endless expanse of white, broken only by a small living area with basic facilities for eating and sleeping. The air was stifling, the heat oppressive—exactly the kind of harsh environment Krillin needed to push himself.

"Now, let's begin with meditation training," Mr. Popo said.

"System, activate light-speed training for one year. Deduct energy from the Senzu Bean reserve as needed."

Ding! Acknowledged.

Mr. Popo began his instruction:

"First, you must sense your mental energy. Close your eyes and focus on your brain. Imagine a flow of energy gathering in the core of your mind. If you feel a swelling sensation at the center of your brain, you've completed the first step.

"Next, envision your mind perceiving objects in front of you—not with your eyes, but through the energy radiating from your brain. Strong desire and concentration are key. When you sense a boiling, swelling, or pressurized feeling that can move and shift, that is your mental energy."

Krillin listened carefully, his interest piqued. He sat cross-legged and closed his eyes, trying to follow Mr. Popo's guidance.

He could feel a faint flicker of inspiration in his mind but couldn't quite grasp it. After several attempts, he smiled sheepishly. "This is harder than I thought."

"Take your time," Mr. Popo said with a smile. "It took Goku a full week to learn this, and even that was considered remarkable."

Krillin wasn't discouraged. He knew he had an advantage—light-speed training had significantly enhanced his comprehension abilities. Still, he couldn't resist scratching his bald head in frustration.

Five Days Later

Krillin sat motionless for an entire day, his mind racing. He could sense the mental energy slipping through his grasp—always just out of reach.

What am I missing? he wondered. Then it hit him: The mental network isn't something to control. It's something to expand, compress, and move.

Excited, Krillin closed his eyes again, this time imagining the mental network spreading across his brain. Slowly, it began to expand, enveloping his entire mind. A boiling sensation surged through his head.

"Haha!" Krillin opened his eyes with a triumphant laugh. I've done it! My mental energy training is a success. Time to strengthen and simulate battles in my mind. I'm a genius!

Mr. Popo was startled. "Goku took seven days to master this technique, and that was already impressive. Yet Krillin managed it in just five days. Of all the martial artists Earth has produced, none compare to Krillin in natural talent."

Unaware of Mr. Popo's thoughts, Krillin would have smugly agreed if he'd known. When it comes to talent and comprehension, I fear no one.

Indeed, Krillin's place as Earth's strongest human was well-earned, thanks to his sharp mind, creativity in developing techniques like the Destructo Disk, and relentless dedication.

Now that he'd mastered meditation, it was time to train harder than ever.

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