And then—
He reached the peak of Spirit Rank in body cultivation.
A sharp pulse ran through his chest as his body completed the last refining cycle.
The energy inside him settled like calm, heavy stone.
Tian Lei slowly opened his eyes.
His entire body felt warm and solid—like a steel frame wrapped in living flesh.
But he was exhausted.
He exhaled softly and let the technique fade.
"That's enough… for now."
He stretched his arms, feeling the soreness deep inside.
The pain was still there—dull, heavy—but it was the pain of growth, not injury.
"My body needs rest before I push toward Heaven Rank," he muttered.
He sat back against the wall of the chamber, breathing slowly, letting his muscles relax after a month of nonstop pressure.
For the first time in weeks, he allowed himself to simply rest.
He closed his eyes, letting the calm fill him.
"I've reached the peak of Spirit Rank… that's good progress."
His heartbeat slowed.
His breathing steadied.
