I tore my eyes away from the forest as I witnessed Bellator's evolution reaching its pinnacle. The dazzling silver egg-like structure encased him, casting a mesmerizing glow. And then, the crack appeared. And out emerged a sight to behold. A magnificent giant silver lion, standing proudly with a mane that shimmered with hues of blue, green, red, and purple leaves. His eyes, brimming with knowledge and power, exuded an aura of majesty and strength. A crown of twisted horns intertwined with lush, green plants adorned his head, symbolizing his close bond with nature and the wild. With each elegant movement, he demanded respect, emanating the essence of a true ruler of the wilderness. "I greet you, my liege," he proclaimed in his deep, resonant voice. "How may I be of service to you?" I hummed happily. You are to rule the first floor. I told him. But first you need a title. Greetings, Bellator, King of the Verdant Throne. As I named the floor, my mana swept throughout it. Fight. Survive. Thrive. Because if you don't, someone else will. As I said these words, several creatures glowed with silver light.

Choose an evolution:

Umbra Sanguinem Leo:

The Sanguis Leo has evolved into a deadly and stealthy predator with its pale gray and crimson fur blending seamlessly with its surroundings. Its razor-sharp claws glisten with a lethal venom that can inflict excruciating agony on its unsuspecting prey. This evolution has granted the Sanguis Leo increased speed and agility, allowing it to silently stalk its victims before striking with precision and brutality.

Sanguinem Scutum Leo:

As this creature evolves into a more formidable form, its already impressive defensive capabilities are heightened even further. Its thick fur becomes nearly impenetrable, providing exceptional protection against physical attacks. The claws that were once only used for offense now serve as defensive weapons, capable of deflecting and blocking incoming strikes with ease. In addition to its increased durability, this evolution of Sanguis Leo also gains enhanced strength and endurance, allowing it to withstand even the most punishing blows. Its natural agility and speed are not sacrificed in this transformation, making it a well-rounded and versatile combatant on the battlefield.

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Regina Sanguinis:

In this evolution, the sanguis leo stands taller and more imposing, its pale gray and crimson fur shimmering with an otherworldly glow. Its razor-sharp claws have evolved to be even deadlier, their edges honed to perfection to inflict excruciating agony on any unfortunate enough to cross its path. With enhanced strength and intelligence, the sanguis leo now exudes an aura of supremacy, commanding respect and fear from all who witness its majestic presence on the battlefield. Its roars now command the loyalty of its pride, driving them to fight with unmatched ferocity and unwavering loyalty.

The first evolution was that of the sanguis leo, the blood lions. Three were capable of evolving. The first was one of the stealthier ones. I delved into her mind. She wanted to be able to strike harder and faster. I chose the first evolution for her. The next was a young male. I chose Sangineum Scutum Leo for him. The last was the most powerful of them. She was a strong female, and had claimed leadership of the pride. The last evolution, Regina Sanguinis, or the Queen of Blood, was available only to her. I selected it, of course. Next I turned to the evolution for the verdant deer. Only one was available.

Virens Imperium:

This evolved form possesses regal qualities, such as a larger crown of ivory antlers adorned with precious gemstones and intricate carvings. Its coat of green and blue shimmers with an aura of nature, symbolizing its connection to the Wyld. The delicate plants intertwined in its fur blooms with vibrant colors, symbolizing prosperity and growth under its leadership. The Verdant Sovereign exudes a commanding presence.

The one who would evolve was a young buck, one who had fought many creatures and won. And finally I turned to the dawn lions. Their evolutions were much like the blood lions, though two could evolve into shield lions, and the rogue-like evolution instead focused on speed and teleportation instead of stealth. I finally finished choosing evolutions, and instead watched.

The newly evolved creatures wasted no time in showcasing their enhanced abilities. The Umbra Sanguinem Leo moved swiftly and silently through the shadows, testing its new found skills by stalking a verdant deer, striking down its prey with deadly precision. The Sanguinem Scutum Leo stood firm against any attacks, its strong defenses repelling even the most powerful blows. And the Regina Sanguinis led her pride with a regal air, her presence commanding respect and obedience from all who beheld her.

The Virens Imperium, with its majestic antlers and vibrant fur, oversaw the verdant deer with wisdom and grace, guiding them towards a prosperous future filled with growth and abundance. And the dawn lions, with their diverse evolutions, each found their place in the hierarchy.