After spending the remainder of the day conversing with Master Li and Master Zhang, Chase secured a place to rest.
During the night, Chase patiently awaited the moment when both Master Li and Master Zhang would fall asleep.
"This is the perfect opportunity to explore the evolution," Chase thought with curiosity, opening the system and selecting the option to evolve.
-Host, are you certain you wish to evolve now? Yes/No-
"Yes," Chase exclaimed aloud, excitement coursing through him as he eagerly anticipated the changes that the evolution would bring. The concept of evolution had always been shrouded in mystery for him.
Abruptly, a searing sensation engulfed Chase's body from within. "What's happening?" he gasped, his breath quickening as the internal heat intensified. As the heat surged, he began to sweat profusely, rising from his spot and hastily removing his clothes. The sensation was akin to an inferno raging within him. Just as he was about to cry out in agony, he clamped his teeth together so hard that they threatened to break. His forehead veins bulged as his eyes reddened, a wave of regret passing through his mind for choosing this painful evolution. However, he dismissed the thought, focusing solely on enduring the torment and emerging stronger.
Chase's skin began to crack and fissure, revealing the flesh beneath. Even his vampire bloodline struggled to alleviate the pain, but the fire-like sensation proved overpowering. With shock evident in his gaze, he watched as the cracked skin sloughed off, only to be immediately replaced by a new, radiant, and more robust skin.
After enduring an excruciating half-hour of agony, Chase's entire epidermis had transformed, leaving him with a brighter, stronger complexion. His hair had grown a few inches, reaching down to his shoulders, and had taken on a metallic black hue.
Surveying his revitalized form, Chase clenched his fists and flexed his muscles, his astonishment evident. "I feel so much more powerful," he uttered in disbelief.
-The host evolve to a Vampire Knight Bachelor, The host has been rewarded with evolution: Upgrade Infusion, Energy Pulse, Aura, Blood Ensnarement-
Chase meticulously examined the rewards offered by the system.
Infusion: The host can channel war power into their body, enhancing physical attributes and reflexes.
Energy Pulse: The host can emit waves of war power that disrupt the energy balance of adversaries, weakening their abilities and rendering them vulnerable.
Aura: Depending on the user's aura, they can execute attacks and defenses akin to magic.
Blood Ensnarement: The host can solidify their blood into tendrils that immobilize and restrain opponents, curtailing their movement and making them susceptible.
"All these new abilities are incredibly intriguing. I'll have to explore them later, but for now, I should recuperate from the intense pain I've just experienced," Chase proclaimed aloud, a smile gracing his features.
As the morning sun painted the training grounds with golden hues, Chase stood before Master Li Wei and Master Zhang Lei. The day's training would focus on building resilience and strength, crucial foundations for mastering Serene Flowing Energy Arts and Furious Storm Energy Fist.
Meeting Chase's determined gaze, Master Li Wei noted the marked difference from the previous day. 'His presence feels more potent,' he thought while appraising Chase's glowing skin and lengthened hair. Dismissing these changes, he began, "Before delving deeper into the arts, we will fortify both your body and spirit. Learning to wield your limitations will make you stronger."
Master Zhang Lei's fiery intensity permeated the air. "Indeed, Chase. We will start with physical trials that challenge your determination and refine your body."
Guiding Chase to a collection of large boulders, Master Zhang Lei announced, "You will move these stones, Chase. Sense their weight; it mirrors your limitations. Conquer them, and you conquer your doubts."
"I can accomplish this," Chase thought resolutely. With a deep breath, he approached the nearest boulder. Anchoring his feet, he tapped into his inner strength, searching for an optimal grip because of his missing arm. The masters observed patiently as Chase found his hold and, with a powerful effort, lifted the boulder, showcasing his unyielding determination. Moving from stone to stone, each lift infused him with a growing resolve.
Next, Master Li Wei directed Chase to a rushing river nearby. "Step into the water," he instructed. "Feel its flow against your body. It reflects life's challenges. Maintain balance amid its currents."
Stepping into the river, Chase experienced the force of the water pushing against him, threatening to unbalance him. As he stumbled, he used his missing arm to steady himself, landing in the river.
"Get up and try again, repeatedly, until you succeed," Master Li encouraged calmly. Chase quickly regained his footing, each fall teaching him to adjust his stance. Drawing on the teachings of Serene Flowing Energy Arts, he gradually learned to control the river's force, turning it into an ally as his movements flowed like a tranquil stream.
The masters led Chase to a clearing where bonfires blazed. "Here, you shall confront the fury of fire," Master Zhang Lei declared. "Harness the fury it represents."
Approaching the fire, Chase's heart raced. He recalled the principles of Furious Storm Energy Fist and tapped into his emotions, channeling his desire for revenge against Benson. His inner fury transformed the orange flames into a colossal black inferno.
Observing this, Master Zhang Lei pondered, 'His fury is remarkably strong. I wonder what could have ignited such intensity. Even Kaelen, never manifested a fire this immense.'
Facing the blazing fire head-on, Chase embraced its heat and intensity. His determination transformed fear into strength.
The masters then guided Chase to the base of a steep mountain. "Your task is to ascend to the summit," Master Li Wei instructed. "Every step signifies your determination."
With unwavering resolve, Chase began his ascent. Each step posed a challenge, his calves aching and protesting against the strain. 'This pain is excruciating, but I must press on,' Chase thought. The steep incline demanded more from his muscles and his willpower. Recalling the principles of Serene Flowing Energy Arts, he adapted his rhythm and movement to the terrain, much like water flowing seamlessly.
The ultimate trial awaited in the form of a circle of blazing torches. "Leap through these flames," Master Zhang Lei challenged. "Overcome your fear and emerge unscathed."
Summoning his inner strength, Chase launched himself through the torches, feeling their heat graze his skin. Drawing from his inner fury, he shielded himself from the fear of the flames. Emerging unscathed on the other side, he recognized the growth in his spirit.
As the day unfolded, Chase's body bore the marks of sweat and exertion. The masters conveyed their satisfaction through their expressions. "You have taken the initial steps," Master Li Wei said, "first mastering yourself before mastering the arts."
Master Zhang Lei's pride blazed in his gaze. "You have embraced your limitations, forging them into tools of strength."
Chase's chest heaved as he caught his breath, the trials etched upon him. Yet, beneath the physical fatigue, he felt a profound sense of achievement.
Exiting the training grounds that day, Chase acknowledged that the path ahead would be arduous. Nevertheless, he carried with him an unyielding spirit honed through these trials, ready to face the challenges that lay ahead.