216: Chapter 216 Holiday, Breaking Limits Again

Chapter 216: Holiday, Breaking Through the Limit Again

A winter morning.

The light in the room seemed frozen by the cold night air, dim and dark, carrying a thick sense of tranquility.

Fang Cheng slowly woke up from his bed.

His consciousness gradually cleared inside the warm blanket, as if returning to reality through a hazy dream.

Then he rubbed his sleepy eyes, raised his wrist, and subconsciously checked the time.

In the darkness, a faint circle of fluorescent light glowed; it was the sports watch Zhou Xiumei had given him.

On the watch face, time, date, and weather information were arranged in order.

February 11th, the fifth day of the first lunar month, Tuesday, 5:49 AM, cloudy, air quality index 37, excellent.

Line after line of information appeared before his eyes, like a status panel quietly conveying the conditions outside.

This watch was stylish and sleek in design, yet packed with versatile features.

Not only did it have basic features like information display, satellite positioning, alarm, and timer, but it could also accurately calculate workout distance and speed.

On top of that, it was durable, waterproof, and drop-resistant; a single charge could keep it running smoothly for half a month.

Whether in daily life or during outdoor sports, it was like a reliable companion.

Fang Cheng fondly stroked the blue crystal glass of the watch face, unable to help picturing that thoughtful figure in his mind.

Perhaps seeing that he had a habit of morning exercise, Zhou Xiumei had carefully selected this most suitable gift for him.

After daydreaming in bed for a moment, Fang Cheng threw off the soft, fluffy duvet, got out of bed, and put on his slippers.

The surrounding area was spacious, with the outlines of various furniture faintly discernible in the dim light.

The air held a faint chill, as the heating inside was not turned on.

However, Fang Cheng's body had long grown accustomed to it; instead, he felt uncomfortable in overly warm environments.

Walking up to the floor-to-ceiling window, he grasped the curtains with both hands and gently pulled; with a soft swish, the curtains slid open to both sides.

In an instant, the outdoor scenery came into view like a slowly unfolding landscape painting.

It was still dark, and the entire world had not yet fully awakened from its slumber.

In the distance, the mountains loomed in the dim light, looking like giant beasts lying in wait across the land.

Their outlines were softly traced by the mist, merging inextricably with the night, exuding a touch of mystery.

The lake below was as calm as a mirror, resembling a massive piece of dark jade quietly embedded between heaven and earth.

A thin mist rose and swirled over the lake, subtly veiling the water.

It was as though a veil as thin as a cicada's wing had been draped over it, inviting reverie in its shy bashfulness.

This was a resort hotel located in Wanghu Town, Xiguan District.

Surrounding it was Yulong Lake, a famed scenic tourist attraction in Xia Nation.

During the Spring Festival period, besides staying at home, Fang Cheng spent his time visiting relatives and friends.

Of course, in Dongdu City, he actually didn't have many relatives or friends.

Mainly, he paid a New Year visit to his youngest aunt's house, and after Ma Donghe visited his home to pay New Year greetings, he went to Ma Donghe's home to return the courtesy.

On normal days, he mostly pushed his grandfather's wheelchair outside to take a walk and soak up the sun near Jiuchang Street.

Yesterday was the fourth day of the first lunar month, and the family had agreed to go on a family trip together to relax.

This Yuehu Hotel had an excellent location, nestled by mountains and waters, with exceptionally tranquil surroundings.

It wasn't far from Xishan, and it was also quite close to Renan Hospital, reachable in just over ten minutes by taxi.

The main reason his uncle chose to vacation here was to consider where grandfather could recover from illness and spend his retirement in Dongdu, scouting real estate locations in advance.

Although grandfather couldn't stand the loneliness and insisted on returning to their rural hometown to live,

all his children and grandchildren worked in the city, so doing so would make it impossible to take care of him properly.

More importantly, even after a successful stomach cancer surgery, it wasn't a guarantee of safety; there was still a risk of postoperative recurrence.

According to the doctor, surgery only removed visible tumor lesions, while microscopic metastases were hard to detect with current diagnostic methods.

Only through appropriate adjuvant chemotherapy could residual cancer cells be completely eradicated, controlling tumor growth and spread while lowering the risk of recurrence and metastasis.

Therefore, during the first year after surgery, a monthly hospital visit for intravenous drug therapy was mandatory.

In the second year, it could be reduced to once a quarter; by the third year, if checkups showed no issues, the treatment would end and full recovery would be declared.

So, grandfather's wish was clearly unrealistic; it was best for him to remain in Dongdu to avoid exhausting himself traveling back and forth.

As for renting a house on Jiuchang Street,

the environment there was somewhat dirty and chaotic, making it unsuitable for retirement.

Besides, Fang Cheng's home wasn't spacious enough.

During the Spring Festival, he had been sleeping on a floor mattress in the living room with his uncle so that grandfather could sleep in his bedroom.

After coming here to travel, seeing how good the hotel's environment and service were, his uncle even considered renting a room long-term.

However, his mother promptly talked him out of it.

After all, a standard room at the hotel cost at least 2,000 yuan per night; even with a 20% discount, it would amount to over 500,000 yuan in expenses per year.

No matter how much money one had, it couldn't withstand such squandering.

Fang Cheng agreed with this point as well.

It would be far better to find a suitable nearby house to rent or buy outright in cash for a once-and-for-all solution.

Though many thoughts crossed his mind, Fang Cheng's state of mind remained peaceful and leisurely.

At this moment, all was silent; gazing at the looming mountains and misty water, he felt as if he were residing by the lakeside, sleeping alongside nature.

Speaking of which, the environment here was indeed quiet and pleasant, far away from the busy traffic and bustling noise of the city.

After a day of sightseeing and resting, his mind and body were greatly relaxed.

Perhaps grandfather could peacefully enjoy his retirement here, living a rare pastoral life right near the city.

Feeling this tranquility, Fang Cheng slowly stretched his arms and warmed up his muscles and bones.

He hadn't exercised normally for many days, feeling like he had nowhere to exert his strength, his body itching for action.

"Time to go out for some morning exercise,"

Fang Cheng muttered quietly to himself, unable to suppress an urge welling up inside.

A strong desire to thoroughly push his Physical Body to its limits and sweat it out in such picturesque surroundings.

Acting on the thought, Fang Cheng quickly washed up, took out the light sportswear he had prepared from the wardrobe, and deftly changed into it.

Raising his wrist, he looked at the sports watch Zhou Xiumei gave him.

On the luminous screen, the time displayed was 6:03.

The corners of his mouth turned up slightly. With everything ready, he stepped out of his room with steady strides.

The hallway lights were dim, bathed in silence.

The doors of the two adjacent rooms remained tightly shut, without a sound coming from inside.

Grandfather, uncle, and his mother were probably still fast asleep, so he lightened his footsteps and walked quickly toward the elevator hall.

He hardly encountered any staff members along the way; the whole hotel seemed still immersed in the darkness before dawn.

Stepping out of the revolving glass door, a wave of crisp, cool air rushed against his face.

Taking a deep breath, the cool sensation refreshed his heart and soul.

It was as if a pair of gentle hands softly swept away the lingering laziness and weariness in his body.

Instantly energized, Fang Cheng looked with bright eyes toward Yulong Lake not far away, half-hidden in the morning fog.

Today's morning workout plan officially began!

First, he jogged along the empty lakeside for a distance, then arrived before a stretch of low, rolling hills.

Yesterday while out sightseeing and passing by this place, he had discovered a small park hidden in the woods.

Inside were some simple fitness facilities, including Pull-up bars, parallel bars, and rowing machines, so he had taken special note of it.

Continuing along the winding path, the stone slab road beneath his feet was slightly slippery.

That was because the water droplets condensed from night fog had not yet fully evaporated.

The flowers and plants beside the road looked somewhat withered, but many cold-resistant evergreens stood firm, their leaves adorned with bits of frost.

Before long, he smoothly reached the training ground from his memory.

Fang Cheng's gaze slowly swept over the surroundings.

Within his field of vision, apart from the dark outlines of facilities and pavilions, no other human figure could be seen.

Lush trees and faint mist surrounded this small park.

Occasional chirps of insects and birds further underscored the silence of the area.

Then, Fang Cheng shifted his eyes to the neatly arranged fitness equipment.

In the dim environment, the smooth, well-worn Pull-up bar glinted with a cold light, as if quietly waiting for a challenger.

Feeling a subtle surge of passion, Fang Cheng took off his outer clothes and hung them on the Pull-up bar.

Then he walked to the fallen-leaf-covered ground and began practicing Shadow Boxing, performing a routine of Tai Chi.

Move after move, his form unfolded; seemingly slow, it actually harbored a power combining strength and grace.

As he shifted his steps, the leaves beneath his feet rustled softly, fluttering gently into the air driven by the wind of his fists.

The mist surrounding him drifted over in wisps, brushing against his skin with an extraordinarily crisp cool sensation.

With every breath, it seeped into his lungs, making him instantly feel refreshed and mentally clear.

His body and mind relaxed further in this intensely soothing movement.

Finishing the full routine was equivalent to completing a thorough warm-up.

Fang Cheng then walked to the nearby Pull-up bar, grabbed the bar with both hands, jumped slightly, and began physical training.

Having not exercised for days, his body felt like a rusty machine, making creaking sounds as he executed the moves.

However, with every standard repetition completed, he could distinctly feel his muscles going from tight to stretched, enjoying the exhilarating release of power.

Soon, his rusty muscles and joints felt as if lubricated with oil, becoming smooth and effortless.

He finished a set of about 100 single-arm Pull-ups.

Next, Fang Cheng continued with single-leg Squats, six-finger Push-ups, single-arm Hanging Leg Raises, single-arm Handstand Push-ups, and the Iron Bridge.

His figure continually shifted postures in the forest clearing, executing every movement meticulously, steadily, and powerfully.

Today's intended training load wasn't heavy, nor did he intentionally seek high intensity; it was primarily meant for recovery.

Unknowingly, the eastern sky grew pale, and the morning light quietly made its first appearance.

Golden rays of light, like agile threads, pierced through the misty surface of the lake, reflecting shimmering ripples as if fine gold was scattered over the water.

Then, passing through layers of leaves like natural screens, they filtered down onto the forest clearing in golden patches of sunlight.

His muscular figure rose and leapt continuously amidst the interplay of light and shadow,

like a master dancer demonstrating breathtaking technique.

Gradually, fine beads of sweat began to bead on Fang Cheng's forehead, glistening crystal-clear in the morning sun.

Just then, faint footsteps began to echo around the area.

Early morning exercisers began running past along nearby paths one after another.

Some wore sportswear and ran with light steps, while others wore headphones, immersed in their own rhythm, adding a touch of human presence to the quiet morning.

But Fang Cheng wasn't disturbed by this and didn't stop his movements.

At this moment, he was completely immersed in his workout, fully enjoying the thrill of pouring sweat, his mind seeming to merge with the winter morning landscape and silent surroundings.

His body was also quietly undergoing changes, becoming increasingly coordinated and light.

As if blending with the Spiritual Qi between heaven and earth, he drew upon nature's power, advancing toward a stronger version of himself.

At the same time, a majestic surge of power hidden within his body began to activate and awaken.

As his blood circulation accelerated, it surged like rivers throughout his entire body, reverberating through all his limbs and bones.

Suddenly, this force contracted violently from the outside in, as if a hydraulic press were compressing his entire body to the extreme.

A wave of intense pain instantly swept through his entire body.

Fang Cheng couldn't help but stop his Push-ups, nearly collapsing to the ground due to muscle spasms.

The pain came fast and left just as quickly.

Following a series of crackling sounds from his joints, the boiling blood throughout his body soon restored its calm.

Kneeling on both knees, Fang Cheng let out a sigh of relief.

"What was that..."

His delightfully smooth training state interrupted, Fang Cheng couldn't help but knit his brows in confusion.

Suddenly, a flash of light gleamed before his eyes.

On the pale blue status panel, a prompt message prominently appeared.

[Congratulations! Through your unremitting efforts, your Agility attribute has successfully broken through the 40-point limit.]

Supporting himself with both hands on the ground, Fang Cheng stood up from his kneeling posture.

His eyes were filled with surprise and wonder; he hadn't expected a routine recovery morning workout to yield such an unexpected harvest.

One should know that before the New Year, his Agility attribute progress bar was only at 93%.

Having neglected training for several consecutive days, he had assumed he'd need at least a week of regular workouts to successfully break through and cross the daunting 40-point barrier.

Thinking of this, Fang Cheng immediately cast his gaze on the attribute interface to check the specific growth progress of each attribute.

Strength 33%, Agility 1%, Physique 50%, Spirit 42%.

After this morning workout, all four basic attribute values of his body had actually grown significantly.

Looking around at the serene scenery, Fang Cheng pondered silently.

Perhaps he benefited from the exceptionally blessed environment here; the high concentration of negative ions in the air acted like a natural vitality engine, nourishing health while greatly boosting workout efficiency.

However, the more crucial factor was likely that he had once again touched upon that transcendent Realm where mind and body merge with the mountains and waters—the harmony of nature and humanity.

Fang Cheng focused his mind, quietly feeling the changes.

The slightly heavy and sluggish feeling from before seemed to have completely vanished.

His entire body's muscles and bones felt perfectly integrated without a trace of redundancy, reaching an ultimate state of fluid coordination.

He then raised his arm, took a look, and lowered his head to inspect the muscles all over his body.

The lines of his biceps grew even more pronounced, looking as if carved by chisel and axe, with every muscle fiber packed tightly, harboring visible explosive power.

His chest and abdominal muscles shifted from bulky blocks into lean, sculpted contours like rolling hills; though lacking exaggerated bulges, they gained a cheetah-like Agility and nimbleness.

His thigh muscles shed their stone-pillar clumsiness, becoming tight and sleek like forged steel springs, packed with astonishing power and ready to launch at any moment.

Feeling this virtually brand-new body, Fang Cheng's eyes flickered slightly as he suddenly recalled a crucial question.

Before, when delivering punches, he had attempted to produce a sonic boom with his fists.

Due to insufficient physical strength, it could only exist in his imagination.

Now, his Physique, Strength, and Agility had all broken through the 40-point limit.

In that case, could he truly reach speeds exceeding the speed of sound?