The evolutionary time varies from person to person. The black cocoons in the hall burst one after another, and one by one, people came back to their senses from their confusion and felt the changes in their bodies.
The boost from Evolution Cube is one-time only. These normal characters, who don't have character panels, aren't used to the obvious boosts from leveling up like players. They improve their strength through gradual, cumulative training, like a slow and steady stream. They usually only get a one-time boost when they break through a rank.
Therefore, most people present were very satisfied with the effects of the Evolution Cube, especially the Calamity Grade superhumans. The stronger their original body, the better the effect of using the Evolution Cube. Some Calamity Grade superhumans who were limited by their potential and could not make any progress for many years benefited greatly.
"What a novel experience." Pamela marveled at the changes within her body. As a bio- Engineer, her perception was even more profound. "This is pure evolution at the genetic level, not an environment-induced genetic mutation. It optimizes the original racial characteristics, amplifies the inherent advantages of the genes, and makes the strengths even stronger. It's like some kind of genetic catalyst. It would be terrifying if there were no side effects. It's almost perfect."
"I don't know what the source of this power is, it's like a god... The cells seem to be under some kind of radiation, could the essence of Evolution Energy be a special kind of radiation energy?" Pamela's professional habits kicked in, and she couldn't wait to dive into the laboratory to study it.
At this moment, the reception robot standing by stepped forward and said in a crisp voice, "Congratulations everyone! To celebrate your evolution, the Black Star Army will be hosting a banquet tomorrow. The Legion Commander and all the officers will be in attendance. You are all welcome to join us."
Each of the races that had completed their evolution received invitations from the other reception robots. The captain of the Flower Spirit Race suppressed his excitement after evolving and nodded, "Okay, we'll attend."
"Invitations have been sent to everyone, with the time and location noted on them. I will remind you all then. Also, please remember to wear formal attire tomorrow."
"Knew."
Everyone nodded.
With their mission accomplished, everyone present was in high spirits. Almost all the elites from the civilizations present accepted the invitation and stayed to attend the banquet.
The dinner is tomorrow, and everyone gradually returned to their accommodations.
After a day of rest, on the second day, these elites took off their interstellar armor and combat suits, changed into formal attire from their respective civilizations, and headed to the banquet hall.
Meanwhile, in the legion commander's room, Han Xiao changed his clothes and looked at himself in the mirror.
The man in the mirror was tall and imposing, with a string of compressed ball necklaces around his neck and a thick, black cloak with white trim draped over his shoulders. The cloak was embroidered with the emblem of the Black Star Army on the back, and its lining was deep red, made of the fur of some rare wild animal. The cloak's collar had three silver magnetic buttons arranged in an inverted triangle, and the hem reached all the way to his calves, able to be closed like a curtain to cover his body. He wore a double-breasted black suit embroidered with ornate patterns, and matching trousers.
"I've always wondered who designed this suit. Is they trying to kill me?" Han Xiao couldn't help but complain.
"I designed it according to your usual preferences."
"It seems the algorithm for big data collection needs to be updated," Han Xiao muttered to himself.
After washing his face, Han Xiao pushed open the door. A group of high-ranking officers from the legion were standing outside, all dressed in formal attire, waiting for him to set off together.
Han Xiao's gaze swept across the room, taking in everyone's decorations.
The largest group was dressed in the Black Star Army's high-ranking uniforms; Melos, Reynold, and many of the guards officers were all dressed like that. Lagi wore a white mage's robe, exuding the air of a master of arcane magic, looking quite respectable. Tomar was also brought along by Lagi, wearing a set of dark blue mage robes, looking rather dignified. Hadavy wore a casual outfit that resembled a suit, his muscles almost bursting out of the clothes, giving him a very War Realm style.
Sylvia removed her armor and donned a purple evening gown, her hair in a ponytail, wearing earrings, and delicate makeup. She looked much more mature; as an officer who frequently dealt with outsiders, she was adept at such occasions. Aurora also wore a white dress, but unlike Sylvia's mature appearance, she appeared rather charming. Hila wore a custom-made red captain's uniform for her guards, somewhat tight-fitting, outlining her stunningly curvaceous figure. She disliked wearing dresses, and her demeanor remained as cold and capable as ever.
Fording, on the other hand, wore a gorgeous blue robe, somewhat like his touring outfits, and sported an incredibly friendly smile.
Han Xiao looked at everyone with interest. "You all look good."
"It's been a while since I wore this, it feels a bit awkward." Fording tugged at his collar, somewhat helplessly.
Because Han Xiao doesn't usually participate in similar events, they rarely see each other dressed formally.
Hila frowned and said, "You know I'm not interested in these kinds of occasions. I'd rather exercise than attend banquets."
"You can't just focus on exercising all the time; you need to relax sometimes too." Han Xiao waved his hand with a smile. "I've been dealing with the Arcane Church lately, my nerves are on edge. I finally resolved the issue, so let's relax today and not think about exercising."
"I don't like talking to strangers." Hila shook her head.
"Hmm... These people are all elites from their respective races, all formidable figures. Once you get to know them, you might be able to spar with them in the future."
"That's not bad." Hila's eyes flickered.
Han Xiao and his group chatted as they arrived at the banquet hall, which was already bustling with people and incredibly lively.
The banquet hall was a dedicated banquet hall, decorated in a magnificent style. No banquet is complete without food, and countless delicacies were served in a continuous stream. Colorful dishes were placed on long tables and suspended mechanical trays. The variety of food was extensive, catering to the tastes of different races.
Elites from various races attended in their finest attire, a dazzling display of diverse clothing styles from different civilizations, showcasing the rich diversity of interstellar society.
Han Xiao led his entourage into the venue, immediately attracting everyone's attention.
"Ahem, on behalf of the Black Star Army, I welcome you all to this banquet..."
Clearing his throat, Han Xiao smiled and began to speak. As the organizer of the banquet, he naturally had to say a few polite words to signal the official start of the dinner, something he was quite adept at.
After the pleasantries were said, the atmosphere at the banquet became much more lively, and many people took the initiative to come up and chat with Han Xiao, showing great enthusiasm.
Most people stayed because they wanted to have close contact with Han Xiao; they usually didn't have any way to get in touch with Beyond Grade A.
Soon, a group of people surrounded Han Xiao. He smiled and chatted patiently with the guests while observing them.
In just a short while, he saw many "old acquaintances" from his previous life, all of whom were well-known figures he had encountered in various regions during his adventures in the Shattered Star Ring.
Some were very cheerful and talkative, some wore hooded cloaks as if trying to hide themselves, and some talked to themselves in a neurotic manner—each with a distinct style. Although these famous figures were no longer worthy of his attention, in the eyes of the players, they were still undoubtedly important figures, each with their own unique personality.
Han Xiao Quan the people who came up to chat with him. On the contrary, these elites were flattered and surprised that Beyond Grade A was so approachable.
For Han Xiao, collecting the contact information of these famous figures was equivalent to collecting nodes for side quests. In addition, these elites wielded considerable power in their respective civilizations, making this a very substantial source of networking opportunities.
As they were chatting happily, Han Xiao heard someone call him from behind, their voice shy.
"Your Excellency Black Star, I am Pamela of the Flower Spirit Race, a bio- Engineer."
Han Xiao turned around, smiled, and asked, "Is there something you need?"
"I... I'm an admirer of yours. I'd like to get to know you. Could you please give me your communicator number?" Pamela's eyes were filled with excitement. She had been watching from the sidelines for a while, and seeing that Han Xiao was welcoming to all, she mustered up her courage and stepped forward to start a conversation, hoping to exchange contact information as well.
Sensing Pamela's impure motives in her eyes, Han Xiao chuckled to himself.
Did someone of the opposite sex hit on me?
That's rare.
Okay, give me your contact information.
Han Xiao didn't refuse; a Engineer was quite worthwhile to befriend.
Although these elites are unlikely to switch jobs, you might encounter some special situations in the future where you could ask them for help.
"Thank you!" After exchanging contact information, Pamela was overjoyed, as if she had received an autograph from her idol. She clutched the communicator tightly to her chest, as if it were a priceless treasure.
Not far away, Sylvia glanced over in their direction almost imperceptibly and let out a soft snort, "Hmph, lovesick fool."
As the banquet continued for a while, the guests became increasingly immersed in the atmosphere and more at ease.
Groups of guests exchanged contact information with Han Xiao and left satisfied. Han Xiao finally had a break and breathed a sigh of relief. He picked up a glass of gradient blue sparkling alcoholic beverage from the floating tray that flew in front of him, drank most of it in one gulp, and moistened his throat.
The cool yet spicy liquor slid down his throat, leaving a sweet aftertaste. Han Xiao felt invigorated and let out a satisfied sigh.
He went to a corner, slowly sipped his wine, and glanced around the room.
After so many years of hard work, the Black Star Army has achieved its current prosperity, and Han Xiao couldn't help but feel a surge of emotion.
"What are you reminiscing about?" Hila walked over, carrying a glass of fiery red liquor.
"How did you know I was feeling sentimental?" Han Xiao raised an eyebrow.
"Having known you for so long, don't I know you? I can tell what you were thinking just by looking at your eyes," Hila said calmly.
"Speaking of which, I suddenly remember, more than twenty years ago on Planet Aquamarine, when I had just... cough, when I had just lost my memory, the first friend I made was you. We were the first people I ever knew."
"Yes, so many years have passed in the blink of an eye." Hila followed Han Xiao's gaze, looking at the banquet scene, and slowly said, "Back then, I was struggling in despair, and I never imagined that one day I would step into the universe and have such a future. Now, recalling my experiences on Planet Aquamarine feels like a past life."
"I endured it for half a year in the underground base back then. Luckily, you would leave the base every now and then, otherwise I'm afraid I would never have escaped."
"It's good that you know." Hila's lips curled slightly, and she felt inexplicably happy thinking about their shared memories.
Han Xiao laughed, then his smile faded as he shook his head. "After everything that happened, you felt indebted to me, so you chose to fight for me. But your abilities are more than that. You have the potential to reach Beyond Grade A, and one day you will gain that power. When that time comes, will you still fight alongside me?"
Hila hesitated for a long time, then shook her head and said, "I don't know."
"An honest answer, huh? Promises are the most unreliable things. Who can predict the future?" Han Xiao shrugged, raising his glass. "At least you're still standing by my side. To our friendship, cheers!"
"That's an old-fashioned thing to say."
"Come on, we're already over forty... although by our lifespan, we're still kids."
You're the little brat.
Hila looked somewhat disgusted, but a smile played on her lips as she raised her glass and clinked it against Han Xiao's.
"Cheers."
bite.
They brought their glasses to their lips and each took a sip of wine.
Han Xiao clicked his tongue, about to say something, when a guest approached, seemingly wanting to strike up a conversation, but with a hesitant look on his face.
Seeing someone approach, the two stopped talking, and Han Xiao took the initiative to ask, "Is there something you need?"
"Lord Black Star, I am Cecilin, a member of the Gular Civilization. I have something I would like to discuss with you privately."
The Gular Civilization? Han Xiao searched for information on the quantum network.
This is a galaxy-level civilization in another star cluster that appears to have been in a state of internal strife for a long time, with severe factional conflicts that have escalated to the point of military division.
This Cecilin is a Calamity Grade elite of the ruling party of the Gular Civilization. He is not only one of the strongest Protector of the civilization, but also a military commander with high rank and power.
"What do you want to talk to me about in private?" Han Xiao raised an eyebrow. "Can't we talk about it here?"
Cecilin shook his head. "It's not appropriate to say this in public."
"Then you should at least tell me why you're here."
Cecilin paused, then said in a deep voice, "This is a request. Please believe me, I am doing this in sincerity."
Han Xiao stroked his chin, sensing the approaching mission.
A task that comes to me willingly, it wouldn't hurt to listen... Han Xiao thought to himself.
Thinking this, Han Xiao handed the wine glass to Hila, turned and walked towards the side door of the banquet hall, where there were private rooms specifically for discussing business in the corridor.
"Then come with me."