Chapter 13: Tasting Power
The forest had revealed its secrets, but it was only the beginning. The faint traces of devil energy remained in the air, lingering like a challenge. My senses, sharpened by Mana Sense and guided by Raphael, detected them clearly.
> "Observation: residual energy confirms presence of low-level devils. Suggest utilization for skill analysis."
I stepped forward, a calculated predator in the shadows. The creatures were weak individually, but their magical essence was invaluable. Activating my Beelzebuth, Lord of Gluttony skill, I allowed them to enter my body—not as mindless consumption, but for careful analysis. Each intake was controlled, the devils' energy scanned, absorbed, and cataloged within me.
> "Analysis: DNA-like magical signature detected. Structural composition of power mapped. Potential for hybrid evolution identified."
As I processed the devils' essence, my grimoire pulsed faintly, reacting to the influx. Skills and physical potential began to resonate, tiny evolutionary sparks igniting within my very being. I could feel subtle shifts in my physiology, an internal map of possible growth being drafted by Raphael's constant guidance.
> "Recommendation: gradual assimilation. Monitor adaptive response."
I focused, allowing the devils' essence to integrate with my body slowly. Each bit of energy became a lesson, a blueprint for improvement. Reflexes sharpened. Muscle density increased. Bone structure subtly adapted. My senses expanded beyond normal human limits, and a faint, dangerous hunger for growth stirred within me.
Raphael's voice, usually calm and logical, carried a hint of fascination.
> "Observation: adaptive response positive. Evolutionary potential significant. Long-term strategy: humanoid hybridization viable."
The process was slow and deliberate. I could already sense the outline of the future me: still human in shape, but physically enhanced, far more attractive, and terrifyingly strong. This was the mid-story evolution—the point where ordinary no longer applied.
> "Conclusion: assimilation successful. Physical adaptation in progress. Future hybrid evolution confirmed."
When I emerged from the forest, the devils gone and their energy absorbed, I was subtly different. Stronger. Faster. Smarter. My reflection in a puddle showed sharper features, a gaze that commanded attention. The power within me was growing, ready to shape the next stage of this story.
And this was only the beginning.
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End of Chapter 13