Six months later, Sai stood at the center of the training field, his stance firm, his breathing controlled. The frail, struggling boy from half a year ago was gone. His body had hardened, muscles toned through relentless effort, his endurance pushed to its limits. His training had been unrelenting—every morning was a battle against exhaustion, every evening a test of willpower.

  His instructor, no longer skeptical, observed with a slight nod as Sai performed his training routines with precision. His pushups were now fluid, each movement executed with practiced control. His squats, once wobbly and weak, were now powerful and stable. The resistance bands and arcane weights he once struggled with had become a part of his daily routine.

  But it wasn’t just his body that had changed. His connection to mana had deepened. What was once an intangible presence now flowed within him, responding to his will. Fire danced at his fingertips, wind followed his gestures, and the earth trembled ever so slightly beneath his feet when he called upon it.

  He had learned more than just sensing mana—he could manipulate it. Through countless failures, he had discovered how to shape energy, bending it to his needs. His magic was still rough, unrefined, but no longer nonexistent. He had moved past the stage of being a mere beginner.

  Sai closed his eyes, taking a deep breath. He reached out, feeling the threads of mana around him, drawing them toward his core. The air around him shimmered as heat coalesced into his palm, forming a small but steady flame. His control had improved—the fire no longer flickered wildly but burned with intent.

  Not stopping there, Sai shifted his focus. He pushed mana downward, into the earth beneath his feet. A subtle tremor spread outward, causing dust to rise slightly. It wasn’t much, but it was proof of his growth.

  The instructor gave a rare smile. “You’re getting there. Keep pushing yourself.”

  Sai exhaled, letting the mana dissipate. He was far from reaching his peak, but for the first time, he felt like he was carving his own path.

  Later that evening, as he sat on the castle rooftop, looking up at the stars, he opened his status screen.

  [Name: Sai]

  [Race: Human]

  [Power Level: Unawakened]

  [Abilities: Mana Manipulation, Enhanced Endurance, Minor Elemental Control]

  [Level: 9]

  [Strength: 70]

  [Agility: 65]

  [Intelligence: 58]

  [Endurance: 90]

  [Charisma: 12]

  [Perception: 40]

  [Skills:]

  Intermediate Combat

  Mana Control (Intermediate)

  Elemental Affinity (Minor)

  Body Tempering (Enhanced)

  [Equipped Items:]

  Training Bracelets (4) - Arcane-engraved weights that restrict mana flow and increase physical strain during training, enhancing endurance and mana control.

  Sai clenched his fists, feeling the power surging through him. His body had grown stronger, faster, and more in control. But the battle was far from over. There was still much to learn, many more limits to push, and countless trials ahead. Yet, in this moment, Sai felt a sense of pride. He had come a long way, but he knew the journey was just beginning.

  The following day, after a quick breakfast and a set of chores, Sai made his way to the training grounds. He was eager to test his limits once again. The man, waiting for him as usual, glanced at him with a knowing look.

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  Sai nodded, determined to show how far he had come. The man instructed him to remove the training bracelets. As the weight lifted from his body, Sai felt a lightness he hadn’t known in months. He took a deep breath, feeling the air rush into his lungs, and assumed his fighting stance.

  "Show me what you’ve learned," the man said, stepping back to give Sai space.

  Without hesitation, Sai surged forward, his speed now nearly impossible to track with the naked eye. But the man, with his superior reflexes and experience, effortlessly dodged each of Sai’s attacks. Every strike Sai launched was sidestepped with ease, leaving him feeling momentarily frustrated.

  But then, Sai remembered his lessons: patience, control, and observation. He took a deep breath, calming his mind. His eyes narrowed as he focused, waiting for the perfect moment. He feinted a punch, creating an opening in his stance. The man, as expected, dodged to the side.

  With a surge of speed, Sai changed direction mid-step, anticipating the man’s movement. He feinted again, but this time, instead of a punch, he launched a perfectly timed kick. It grazed the man, a victory in itself. His heart raced with exhilaration, the thrill of progress sparking within him.

  Exhausted, Sai collapsed to the ground, his body spent from the hour-long spar. But there was no defeat in his eyes. His resolve was unbroken. The man stood over him, arms crossed, an approving smirk playing on his lips.

  "You’ve come a long way, Sai," the man said, his voice low but filled with respect. "But don’t get too comfortable. The real tests are ahead."

  Before Sai could question further, a calming presence filled the air, shifting the atmosphere around him. Without warning, a tall figure materialized in front of him. The man’s silver eyes reflected the light itself, exuding an aura of power and composure, yet devoid of malice. Sai, sensing no threat, stood calmly, curiosity building within him.

  The man spoke, his voice steady and commanding. "You’ve come a long way, Sai. But much more awaits you. The path ahead is one of great challenges, and you must be prepared."

  A moment later, a graceful figure appeared vampire maid, moving with fluidity and purpose. Her presence radiated calm as she summoned a shimmering barrier, enveloping Sai in a protective shield, the energy humming softly around them.

  Sylvister, the man before Sai, nodded in acknowledgment.

  Selene bowed slightly, her voice calm. "It was my duty, Master Sylvister."

  Sai observed them both, recognizing their strength and the sense of purpose they carried. Their presence inspired him further, reinforcing his determination.

  Turning to Sai, Sylvister spoke again. "Your progress has been impressive. Your physical abilities and adaptability are commendable. But now, it’s time to prepare you for the next step. The awakening ceremony is a crucial moment, one that will mark the beginning of your true transformation."

  Sylvister’s eyes softened slightly, a glimmer of approval in them. "Good. The ceremony will test your readiness, but it will also reveal the path you must take to unlock your full potential. There will be trials, but you must face them with confidence. Do not fear what lies ahead."

  Selene led Sai through the halls, the air growing more focused as they approached the chamber where the ceremony would take place. They reached a grand, ornate room where four ancient dragon elders stood, waiting. Their presence was awe-inspiring, each one exuding wisdom and immense power.

  Sylvister entered first, his voice filled with respect as he addressed the elders. "The time has come to prepare Sai for the awakening ceremony."

  The four elders, each dressed in majestic robes that shimmered with ancient power, nodded in unison. The first elder, a regal dragon with deep golden eyes, spoke. "We are ready. The ceremony will begin soon."

  Sai, standing before the elders, felt no fear. His mind was clear, his body ready. Sylvister, standing behind the elders, nodded approvingly. "We will guide you through this process, Sai. Trust in us, and trust in yourself."

  The preparations for the ceremony were now complete. The air around them hummed with energy, and the room seemed to vibrate with the sheer weight of what was about to unfold. The elders prepared the sacred runes, their hands glowing with ancient power.

  As the ceremony began to take shape, Sai stood at the center, fully focused, ready to face whatever challenges awaited him. The journey to unlocking his true potential.