NOVEL WEB Chapter 35: Evolution, Again?
The gentle hum of the forest surrounded them as they rested. The recent transformation into a Mystic Larva had filled him with new energy, and though his body still needed time to adjust, the surge of power flowing through him made him feel more confident. He looked over at the bee larva, who had remained unusually quiet after his evolution.
Her small form, which had been so resilient and determined, now seemed tense. He could sense something was on her mind, something more than the battle they had just survived.
What’s wrong? he asked through their telepathic link, which had grown stronger during their shared experiences.
She shifted slightly, her antennae twitching as if debating whether to respond. After a few moments, she finally answered, her thoughts tinged with uncertainty.
I... I’ve reached my limit too.
The realization hit him like a wave. Of course—she had fought just as hard as he had, leveled up alongside him, and now she, too, had reached the point where evolution was possible. He had been so focused on his own transformation that he hadn’t considered she was ready as well.
You can evolve? he asked, trying to keep the excitement from flooding their link too much.
She nodded slowly, her small body trembling slightly as she shifted in place. Yes... but I don’t know what I should choose. I’ve never thought about it. I’ve only ever fought to survive, never what comes after...
He nudged her gently with his mandibles, trying to convey warmth and support. You’ve fought hard. You’ve earned this. You should evolve into what feels right for you.
The bee larva hesitated, her thoughts swirling with doubt. He could feel the conflict within her, the uncertainty of taking such a significant step. For a moment, she didn’t move, simply resting in the safety of the leaf they shared.
What if I choose wrong? she asked, her tone soft, almost afraid.
He shook his head. There is no wrong choice. Whatever you evolve into will be the right path for you. He paused, then added with sincerity, You’ve always followed your instincts. They’ve kept you alive this long, haven’t they? Trust them now.
Her eyes met his, and for a moment, there was silence between them. Then, slowly, the tension in her body seemed to ease, her antennae relaxing as she nodded.
Thank you, she said, her gratitude filling their telepathic link. I’ll try to choose wisely.
He moved back a little, giving her space as she focused inward, her small form glowing faintly as the process of evolution began. A soft, golden light began to envelop her, the air around them shimmering as the transformation took hold.
[Evolution Activated]
The glow around her intensified, pulsing with energy, and he watched in awe as her body started to change. Her form stretched and shifted, becoming more streamlined, more graceful, but still retaining the strength and resilience that had defined her. The segments of her body seemed to smooth out, the colors darkening to a rich, deep amber with golden highlights. Her legs became more defined, and faint patterns began to appear along her back, marking her transformation into something more than just a simple larva.
The evolution took a few moments, but to him, it felt like time had slowed. He could feel the power radiating from her as her form settled into its new shape, the glow finally dimming to reveal her completed transformation.
[Appraisal Activated]
Name: Unknown
Species: Guardian Bee Larva
Level: 1/20
Rank: E
HP: 30/30
MP: 18/18
Stamina: 20/20
Echo Skills: [Bite Lv: 8] [Sting Lv: 4] [Movement Lv: 7] [Honey Production Lv: 1] [Telepathy Lv: 5]
Resonance Skills: [Appraisal Lv: 8] [Communal Instinct Lv: 5] [Guardian's Aura Lv: 1]
Resistance Skills: [Poison Resistance Lv: 7] [Pollen Allergy Resistance Lv: 1]
Titles: [Earth-007 Reincarnator] [Protector]
Status Effects: None
Her new form was impressive, but what caught his attention most was the new resonance skill she had gained: Guardian’s Aura.
[Guardian's Aura]
Resonance Skill: Allows the user to project a protective field around allies, reducing incoming damage and enhancing physical resistance for a short period of time. The strength of the aura increases with proximity to the user.
Current Effect: Reduces damage by 10% within a small radius. Can be improved with use.
He blinked in surprise. Not only had she evolved into a more powerful form, but her new skill also aligned perfectly with her natural instincts. She had always been protective, always throwing herself into danger to save him, and now that instinct had manifested into a powerful ability.
Guardian Bee Larva... he thought, impressed by how fitting her new form was. Her sleek, amber-colored body was both elegant and strong, and the golden highlights along her back gave her a regal appearance. She was no longer just a simple bee larva—she was something more, something with purpose.
The bee larva turned toward him, her eyes meeting his with a newfound confidence. She seemed stronger now, more sure of herself. He could feel it radiating from her, not just physically, but emotionally as well. Her evolution had given her the strength and clarity she had been searching for.
How do you feel? he asked, curious about her experience.
She shifted slightly, testing her new legs and stretching her body before responding. Stronger... but also... She paused, her antennae twitching as if searching for the right words. More focused. Like I know what I’m meant to do now.
He nodded, understanding exactly what she meant. Evolution wasn’t just about gaining strength or new abilities—it was about finding your path, about becoming what you were meant to be. He had chosen the Mystic Larva because it aligned with his need for versatility and control, and she had chosen the Guardian Bee Larva because it aligned with her protective nature.
You chose well, he told her, his thoughts filled with admiration.
She buzzed softly, her antennae twitching in acknowledgment. Thank you... for helping me decide.