Asylum

As Alex's system cooldown finally concluded, he decided to take on a challenging mission in the game "Elders Ring." Known for its difficulty, players often faced alien threats and high mortality rates. However, with Alex's upgraded dexterity and mental capabilities from the customization system, he approached the game with confidence. The reward—a save and load system and magical abilities—enticed him.

In just a week, Alex not only navigated the game but mastered it without a single death. The enhanced abilities granted by the customization system allowed him to conquer challenges that would have seemed insurmountable before.

Meanwhile, Elena, who remained in Sudan after her date with Alex, found herself thinking about him more and more. Limited in her interactions with the outside world, anime and television had become her window to understanding emotions. She realized she was falling in love with Alex.

As Alex delved into politics and the establishment of new governments in Sudan and Somalia, Elena's feelings for him deepened. She longed for his company, but the distance between them seemed insurmountable.

On a romantic date with Ilana, Alex started forming feelings for her, sensing something amiss in her demeanor. Concerned, he probed, and Ilana revealed the impending return to Russia the following day.

As the evening wore on and the city lights illuminated their path, Alex noticed a change in Elena's demeanor. Concerned, he gently broached the subject.

Alex: Elena, you seem a bit off. Is everything okay?

Elena hesitated, her eyes revealing a mixture of sadness and anxiety.

Elena: Alex, I... I need to go back to Russia. It's my duty.

Alex furrowed his brow, realizing the weight of her words. He took her hands in his, a gesture of comfort.

Alex: Elena, you're not obligated to go back if it makes you unhappy. You have a choice.

Elena: But... my family, my duty to Russia. It's complicated.

Alex: (softly) I understand it's not easy, but you deserve to be happy. You don't have to sacrifice your happiness for anyone else.

Elena's eyes welled with tears, her inner turmoil evident.

Elena: Alex, you've been so kind to me. I never expected this, and I... I don't want to leave.

Alex, feeling a surge of emotions, offered a reassuring smile.

Alex: Then stay. You're welcome here in Sudan, in Guardia, wherever you feel at home. Your happiness matters.

Elena: (teary-eyed) But what about the consequences? I'm supposed to follow orders.

Alex: Sometimes, we need to break free from the expectations others place on us. Your happiness is worth the risk.

Elena's gaze met Alex's, a mix of gratitude and uncertainty.

Elena: You'd really do that for me?

Alex: Absolutely. You're not alone, Elena. We'll figure this out together.

As the city lights shimmered around them, the weight of Elena's predicament began to lift. In that moment, a genuine connection formed between them – one that transcended boundaries and obligations. The night, once filled with uncertainty, now held the promise of newfound possibilities.