Alice evolution

After a month of relentless monster hunting, Alice and Leon had both grown considerably stronger. Leon watched Alice as she practiced a series of swift, precise strikes with her newly acquired sword. A proud smile touched his lips. "Sel, show me Alice's status," he requested.

"Impressive," Leon murmured. He then checked his own status. "And mine, as well."

Leon nodded, pleased with their progress. But his gaze lingered on Alice's status. A crucial message flashed on the system panel:

[Host, Alice has reached the minimum level for evolution. To maximize her chances of success, a supporting artifact is recommended.]

"Perfect," Leon breathed. "Sel, purchase both the evolution item and the recommended artifact. Immediately." He didn't hesitate. He'd been saving his System Coins for this moment.

[Host has purchased a mid-level artifact: 'Fortress of Souls.' 400 SC deducted.]

[Host has purchased an evolution stone: 'High Human.' 300 SC deducted.]

[Remaining SC: 1340]

"Store them in my inventory for now," Leon instructed. He approached Alice, who had just finished her practice. "Alice, let's head back to the inn. I have a surprise for you."

Alice looked at him, a question in her emerald eyes. "A surprise? What is it?"

Leon grinned mysteriously. "You'll see. But it's best discussed in private."

Intrigued, Alice agreed. An hour later, they were back in their room. Leon closed the door and turned to Alice, his expression turning serious. He sat her down on the bed and began to explain. "Alice, you know I'm a dragon, and my lifespan is… well, it's practically limitless. But you're human. Your time with me is… limited."

A shadow of sadness crossed Alice's face, but she nodded, understanding.

"But," Leon continued, taking her hand in his, "I've found a way to change that. A way to extend your life, to make you… more."

Alice's eyes widened with hope.

"I can evolve you into a higher race, a High Human. Your lifespan will be greatly extended. You'll be stronger, more resilient. But the process is… dangerous. Your body needs to be strong enough to handle it. That's why we've been training, hunting monsters. You're ready now, but… I need your consent."

Tears welled up in Alice's eyes. "You mean… you're not going to leave me because I'm human?" she whispered, her voice choked with emotion.

Leon pulled her into a tight embrace. "Never," he vowed, his voice thick with emotion. "I would never leave you. I'd die before I let that happen."

Alice clung to him, her tears now flowing freely. "Yes," she finally whispered, her voice filled with love and trust. "Yes, I want to evolve."

Leon held her close for a long moment, then gently released her. "Alright," he said, wiping away her tears. He cast a powerful magic barrier around the room, ensuring their privacy and safety. "First," he said, retrieving the 'Fortress of Souls' bracelet from his inventory, "wear this. It will protect you during the process."

Alice took the bracelet, examining it curiously.

"It's an artifact," Leon explained. "It will enhance your resilience and help you adapt to your new form." He fastened the bracelet around her wrist.

Then, he pulled out the glowing white stone—the 'High Human' evolution stone. "When you're ready," he instructed, "squeeze this stone. It will break, and the transformation will begin. It will take some time, so I'll maintain the barrier and watch over you."

Alice took the stone, her hand trembling slightly. She looked at Leon, her eyes filled with a mix of fear and excitement.

"Do your best, my love," Leon whispered, kissing her forehead.

Taking a deep breath, Alice squeezed the stone. It shattered, and a blinding white light engulfed her. She began to float in the air, her body radiating an intense energy.

Leon watched, his heart pounding in his chest. He maintained the barrier, his focus unwavering. After an hour, he began to worry. Alice was still glowing, but nothing seemed to be happening.

[Host, the evolution process is underway. It is a complex transformation and requires time.]

Reassured by the sel, Leon waited patiently. Another hour passed, and then, a change. Alice's glowing form began to shimmer and distort. Her body seemed to be… breaking apart.

Leon gasped, his heart leaping into his throat.

[Host, this is the body reconstruction phase. It is a necessary part of the evolution. The process is nearing completion.]

Relief washed over Leon. He watched, his eyes glued to Alice, as her old form dissolved, and a new, radiant figure emerged. After five more minutes, the light subsided, and Alice, in her new form, gently floated back down to the ground. She opened her eyes, which now seemed to glow with an inner light, and looked at Leon. A gentle smile graced her lips. "I did it, my love," she whispered, her voice filled with wonder and joy.