Hope's shoulders relaxed slightly, though her cheeks remained flushed. "So… what does that mean for me? If I'm a candidate but not a full Magical Girl?"
System: It means you can borrow Magical Girl power in emergencies, just like you did today. But prolonged use without a full contract could destabilize your soul. Think of it as a temporary key that lets you unlock a door you're not yet meant to enter.
Hope's brow furrowed. "That sounds dangerous."
System: It is. That's why the payment is necessary. The affection exchange balances the borrowed energy and prevents long-term damage.
Hope was silent for a moment, her blue eyes fixed on the floating pink screen. Then she turned to Andrey. "And you've done this with your team? Multiple times?"
Andrey met her gaze steadily. "Yes."
"And they're okay with it?"
"It took time. But yes. We've built trust."
