Jessica left the house late that evening, her smile lingering as she waved goodbye. The family stood at the door, returning her wave, their silhouettes framed by the warm glow spilling from their new home.
"Goodbye, everyone! Thank you for everything. See you soon!" Jessica called as she climbed into her car, her voice ringing out cheerfully.
"Bye, Jessica!" Lily's voice was the loudest, her excitement unmistakable. To her, Jessica wasn't just a guest or a family friend—she was something like the older sister Lily had always wanted.
As Jessica's car disappeared down the winding driveway, Ethan turned to face his family. He felt a quiet pride settle over him, a satisfaction deeper than anything he could remember.
"I'm going in first!" Lily announced, her energy as boundless as ever. "I can't wait to sleep on that amazing bed!" She darted into the house, her laughter echoing behind her.
"Me too!" Jacob followed close on her heels, his own enthusiasm just as palpable. The enormity of their changed circumstances hadn't fully sunk in, but for now, he wasn't going to question it. He was content to let himself enjoy it.
"Don't forget," Elise called after them, her tone light but firm, "I expect you both to wake up on time tomorrow. No excuses about oversleeping!"
Aaron, standing quietly behind Ethan, watched the scene unfold with a faint smile. "Aren't you coming in, son?" he asked, his voice gentle.
"In a while, Dad," Ethan replied. He turned back to the driveway, his gaze lingering on the serene landscape of Crescent Ridge. "I still can't believe all of this. I just need a moment to let it sink in."
Aaron chuckled softly. "Mind if I join you?"
Ethan smiled, gesturing to the spot beside him. "It's been a while since we've spent time together, just the two of us. Right, Dad?"
Aaron leaned against the doorframe, his smile turning wistful. "It has," he admitted. "We used to do this all the time. Then your brother and sister came along, and, well… things got a bit busier."
Ethan laughed lightly, but his mind drifted to the memories of their earlier years. Life hadn't always been easy, but it hadn't always been this hard, either. His father's job at a respectable corporation had once provided them with a comfortable life. Not luxurious, but enough.
Then came the incident—an accusation of fraud from a superior who wielded both influence and power. Ethan had only been a child, but he remembered the weight of it; Aaron losing his job, the lawsuit that followed, and the unjust settlement that left their family in financial ruin.
The details had been too complex for Ethan to understand back then, but the fallout was impossible to forget.
Sensing Ethan's thoughts, Aaron nudged him lightly. "Why are you looking at me like that?" he teased. "Do I look that pitiful?"
Ethan couldn't help but smile. "Thank you, Dad," he said softly, his voice laced with emotion.
Aaron frowned slightly, confused but curious. "Thank me? For what? If anything, I should be thanking you. This house… this life…" He gestured around them, his tone filled with wonder. "This isn't something I could've achieved, no matter how hard I worked. So thank you, son."
Ethan shook his head firmly. "No. You deserve this. After everything you've been through—after the way people treated you—this is the least I can do for you. You never gave up on us, no matter how hard life hit you."
Aaron's eyes grew misty, though he quickly blinked it away. "That's what fathers do," he said simply, his voice steady but filled with pride. "No matter how tough things get, you kids are the reason I keep going."
Ethan could see the faint glimmer of tears in his father's eyes, and it only deepened his admiration.
Aaron looked up at the stars, the vast expanse of the night sky twinkling like scattered diamonds. "Ethan," he said after a moment, his voice quieter now.
Ethan turned toward him, waiting.
"I know things aren't as simple as you've made them seem," Aaron said, his tone careful, probing but not accusatory. "Am I right?"
Ethan hesitated, caught off guard by his father's insight. He shouldn't have been surprised—Aaron was a man of experience with a sharp mind that had weathered life's challenges.
"Yeah," Ethan admitted eventually, his voice low. "But you don't need to worry, Dad. I stumbled upon an opportunity that's… hard to explain."
He paused, then added with a wry smile, "And no, it's not gambling or loan sharks, before you ask."
Aaron chuckled, the sound warm and reassuring. "I wasn't worried about that. I trust you, Ethan. Always have." He paused, his gaze steady as he continued. "But whatever this secret of yours is, if it's too big, don't keep it all to yourself. Especially from me. You can always count on me to help… or, at the very least, to listen."
Ethan's chest tightened with emotion, and he couldn't stop himself from stepping forward and wrapping his father in a hug. "Thank you, Dad," he murmured. "For everything."
Aaron patted his back gently. "No, son. Thank you."
They pulled apart after a moment, the cool night air brushing against their faces. Aaron smiled, his usual humor returning. "You know, it's getting windy out here. Not great for old bones like mine."
Ethan laughed. "Old bones? You're still young, Dad. Besides, didn't you just say you've got years of productivity left?"
Aaron grinned, rubbing his nose sheepishly. "Well, your great-great-grandfather was a renowned warrior, or so the family legend goes. Maybe I've got some of that in me."
Ethan raised an eyebrow, his curiosity piqued. "Wait, a warrior? Are you serious, or is this one of your stories?"
Aaron laughed. "Honestly, I'm not sure. My grandpa used to tell me tales about him when I was a boy. Something about battles and honor. But I never asked enough questions, and now it's too late."
Ethan chuckled. "That's a pity. It'd be pretty cool to have a famous warrior as an ancestor."
They laughed together, the easy camaraderie lifting the weight of the moment. After a few more shared memories, Aaron finally headed inside, leaving Ethan alone with his thoughts.
Ethan took a moment before following and gently closed the door behind him. He paused momentarily, leaning against it, soaking in the sounds of his family getting comfortable in their new, lavish home.
The cheerful chatter of his siblings echoed faintly from their rooms, like the happy notes of a song carried by the breeze. From the living room, his parents' quiet voices blended with the soft hum of their new life.
The house, vast and grand, seemed alive with warmth; its every corner embraced the family with a sense of belonging. Everything felt… right.
Ethan leaned against the window, his gaze drifting over the sprawling estate.
For the first time in years, he allowed himself a moment of calm. "I feel more at peace now," he murmured, the words surprising even himself.
But peace, Ethan knew, didn't come by chance. It came with preparation. He had already arranged for Charles to oversee their security—bodyguards stationed discreetly around the property, chauffeurs who doubled as protectors, and a meticulous system of safeguards that left no room for error.
The perimeter of their home was as secure as a fortress, and Ethan felt a quiet satisfaction as he spotted the vigilant figures patrolling outside.
"Charles has outdone himself," Ethan muttered, his tone tinged with amusement.
Of course, efficiency came with a price. Charles had bundled the arrangements with investments, insurance plans, and more financial tools from Novan Bank.
With his limitless resources, Ethan hadn't batted an eye, agreeing to every suggestion for his family's benefit. It would take time to explain everything to them. For now, though, it was enough that they were safe and provided for.
The weight of past worries lingered at the edges of Ethan's mind, a ghost of the sleepless nights he had endured. How often had he lain awake, staring at the cracked ceiling of their old home, wondering if his parents could bear another day or if his siblings would ever have the chances they deserved?
Those days were behind them now. Here they were, in a home that could only have existed in their dreams. The quiet hum of security—the guards at their gates, the safety of their walls—was a comfort he hadn't realized he craved. For the first time, his family could live without the shadow of uncertainty.
Yet relief carried its own weight, one that settled heavily on Ethan's shoulders. With the system's help, he had grasped this new life, but he understood it wasn't a gift without strings.
Every opportunity came with a challenge, every advantage with a test. The missions had pulled him out of his comfort zone, forcing him to grow in ways he'd never imagined.
'I used to keep to myself,' Ethan thought, a wry smile playing on his lips. Now, he found himself navigating impossible situations, meeting strangers, forging plans, and handling conflicts that demanded courage he hadn't known he possessed. The missions didn't just test him—they transformed him.
He thought of the attributes the system had enhanced—Strength, Speed, Endurance—all practical tools for battles he hadn't fully faced yet. Was it preparing him for something far greater?
Corrupt leaders, underground syndicates, mafias? The possibilities loomed, each one a daunting puzzle.
His mind flickered back to the thugs, Mark and Zidan, whose defeat had been more than a physical triumph. He was certain they were part of something larger. "That's going to be a headache," Ethan muttered, shaking his head.
The soft sounds of his family's voices floated up to him, grounding him. For now, this was enough. He turned from the window and climbed the stairs to his bedroom. The familiar chime of a system notification echoed in his mind, breaking the stillness.
Sitting on the edge of his bed, Ethan's heart quickened with anticipation. As he opened the Missions Panel, a small smile tugged at his lips.
=====
Missions Panel
[Mission Complete: Improve Your Status]
Objective: Use the resources the system provides to improve your life and the lives of those around you.
Reward:
1. 1,000 EXP
2. 5 Ascension Points
=====
Ethan let out a soft chuckle. The feeling of achievement was unmistakable. He had moved up a level in life, quite literally. But it wasn't just about the points or the rewards—it was more about the journey. The distance they had all traveled together.
He thought about his father, Aaron, who had to work overtime at a job that barely paid the bills. His mother, Elise, always prioritized the family, sacrificing her own needs for theirs. His siblings, Jacob and Lily, were brimming with potential but were held back by their situation.
They had faced tough times. Callous times. But those days were behind them now.
Ethan's fingers paused above the system interface, drawn to a new set of notifications that had just popped up.
=====
Congratulations! You have leveled up!
Current Level: 2 → 3
EXP: 3500 / 4000
Ascension Points: 0 → 5
Free Attribute Points: 0 → 10
Attributes Increased:
Strength: +1
Speed: +1
Endurance: +1
Intelligence: +1
Charisma: +1
=====
Ethan stood and stretched, feeling a newfound strength coursing through his body. As his gaze landed on the set of dumbbells Jessica had thoughtfully added to his room, he couldn't help but smile. She seemed to know he'd need them.
Picking up one of the 20-kilogram weights felt surprisingly easier than before. Ethan's grip was firm and confident as he lifted it almost effortlessly, a tangible testament to his growing strength.
'I'm actually getting stronger,' Ethan realized with pride. 'Faster. More capable.'
With anticipation, he opened the Status Panel to see how much progress he had made.
=====
[Status Panel]
Name: Ethan Cole
Level: 3
EXP: 3500 / 4000
Ascension Points: 5
Wealth: Unlimited
Attributes:
Strength: 11
Speed: 11
Endurance: 12
Intelligence: 17
Charisma: 7
Free Attribute Points: 10
Skills:
1. Krav Maga [Basic]
2. Close Quarters Combat [Basic]
3. Tactical Firearms [Basic]
4. Heightened Senses
=====
Ethan sat back, lost in thought, as he recalled the intense encounter with Zidan and Mark, two formidable thugs. The confrontation had been a narrow escape, highlighting how crucial his physical abilities were. He knew he couldn't be caught off guard again.
"Time to plan this out," Ethan said, reflecting on his recent experiences. He was determined not to repeat past mistakes.
First on his list was Strength. Zidan's overwhelming force had been a wake-up call. Although Ethan had managed to stand his ground, he realized he needed to be stronger. So, he decided to add +3 to his Strength, increasing it to 14.
This boost in strength would be vital for future confrontations, allowing Ethan to hit harder and easily lift heavier objects.
Speed was next. After the harrowing chase with Zidan and Mark, Ethan knew how essential speed and agility were. He allocated +3 points to Speed, improving it to 14.
Instantly, Ethan felt more agile and quick. His body seemed more responsive, capable of faster movements and reactions.
Lastly, he focused on Endurance, adding +2 points to reach 14. The recent fight had drained him, his breaths short and labored as he struggled to keep pace.
Enhancing his endurance would enable him to last longer in combat, outpace his opponents, and sustain his energy during extended physical activity.
Finally, he turned to Charisma. He did not know that this attribute made him better-looking. He thought it had something to do with the aura after people looked at him.
After all, his interactions with influential people like David Turner and Jessica showed him that social skills were just as necessary as physical prowess.
By adding +2 to his Charisma, raising it to 9, he could better inspire loyalty, earn respect, and handle the complex social situations that came with his new wealth and power.
As he assigned the points, Ethan felt a wave of energy. It wasn't just a physical change—his mind became sharper, his thoughts clearer, and his confidence unbreakable. He was transforming into the person he needed to be.
But there was more to it. Ethan realized that having physical and social strength was only part of what he needed. It would take more than raw power to survive in the evolving world around him.
His recent encounters with Zidan and Mark were a clear signal. If they were just the beginning, who else might be out there? What other threats were waiting?
Ethan understood he had to stay one step ahead. Complacency was not an option.
"There's more coming," he thought, his mind racing. "Those two thugs were just the beginning. If I'm going to protect my family—and myself—I must be ready for anything."
Opening the Shop Panel, Ethan scrolled through the available options. He believed his Level 3 status had unlocked a few new items, but he knew he needed to focus on the essentials. He didn't have enough points to waste on unnecessary upgrades.
=====
[Shop Panel]
Available Items:
1. Lower Grade Strength Potion (1 Ascension Point)
Permanently increases Strength by +2.
2. Lower Grade Speed Potion (1 Ascension Point)
Permanently increases Speed by +2.
3. Lower Grade Charisma Potion (1 Ascension Point)
Permanently increases Charisma by +2.
4. Lower Grade Intelligence Potion (1 Ascension Point)
Permanently increases Intelligence by +2.
5. Night Vision Enhancer (1 Ascension Point)
Allows you to see clearly in the dark without additional equipment. Provides low-light and night vision capabilities.
6. Reflex Amplifier (1 Ascension Points)
Permanently improves reflex speed, reaction times, and hand-eye coordination, allowing quicker movements in combat and daily activities.
[Locked Items – Level 5 Required]
=====
"Level 5 to unlock new items, huh?" Ethan mumbled to himself as he looked over the options.
He wasn't too bothered that he couldn't access new items yet. The current selection had plenty of enhancements, and he didn't even have enough points to buy everything he wanted.
As Ethan explored the available items, he thought about the best mix for his needs.
The Heightened Senses Serum he had tried before was beneficial for keeping him sharp and aware of his environment. However, he realized he needed more to improve his endurance and reflexes.
'I need to be in top shape, both physically and mentally, if I'm going to handle whatever comes my way,' he considered.
Making up his mind quickly, Ethan chose the upgrades that would give him the advantage he needed for the challenges ahead and his increasing responsibilities.
=====
[Lower Grade Strength Potion Purchased. Strength +2.]
[Lower Grade Speed Potion Purchased. Speed +2.]
[Lower Grade Charisma Potion Purchased. Charisma +2.]
[Lower Grade Intelligence Potion Purchased. Intelligence +2.]
[Reflex Amplifier Purchased.]
=====
Ethan was buzzing with excitement. He thought to himself, "How do I compare to others now? Am I on the level of a professional athlete yet?" The thought excited him.
=====
[Status Panel]
Name: Ethan Cole
Level: 3
EXP: 3500 / 4000
Ascension Points: 0
Wealth: Unlimited
Attributes:
Strength: 16
Speed: 16
Endurance: 14
Intelligence: 19
Charisma: 11
Free Attribute Points: 0
Skills:
1. Krav Maga [Basic]
2. Close Quarters Combat [Basic]
3. Tactical Firearms [Basic]
4. Heightened SensesAmplified Reflex
=====
Every increase in his stats and new skill he acquired made him stronger and more skilled, alert, and prepared for whatever challenges the world might throw at him.
"And how would I fare against real fighters? Like MMA professionals?" He couldn't help but chuckle at the thought.
Ethan knew he wasn't ready to enter such an arena yet. But he also knew that with a few more improvements, the idea of competing with some of the best wasn't just a dream—it was a possibility that was getting closer.
He would continue to rely on his growing skills in Krav Maga and Close Quarters Combat. These skills had already helped him in a recent scuffle, and he was confident they would be useful if needed.
Lying on his bed, Ethan sighed contentedly. His thoughts then shifted to the bigger picture—his project, NovaTech. He was laying a solid foundation, but there was still much to do.
Ethan knew he needed the right team, connections, and strategy to take NovaTech to new heights. He had a clear vision, and with his newfound abilities, he was more capable than ever of making it a reality.
But for tonight, he allowed himself to rest. As he relaxed, a small smile played on his lips. The world could wait until tomorrow. By then, he'd be stronger, smarter, and more prepared than ever.