Nathan's alarm buzzed incessantly, pulling him from a dreamless sleep. He groaned, silencing the noise and staring at the ceiling. Yesterday had been... confusing, to say the least. Between cryptic messages from the system and Emily's sudden concern, Nathan felt like he was caught in some kind of bizarre game.
As he got ready for school, he noticed subtle changes in his reflection. His normally messy brown hair seemed neater, almost styled, without him doing anything. His skin had an unusual glow, like he'd just walked out of a professional photo shoot.
"What the...?" he muttered, leaning closer to the mirror.
Before he could inspect further, his phone chimed.
[System Notification]
"Congratulations, User. Appearance upgrade initiated. Effect: Increased charisma. Bonds form more easily."
Nathan stared at the screen, disbelief plastered across his face. "I don't need a makeover," he grumbled, tossing the phone onto his bed. But even as he said it, he felt a strange confidence bubbling within him.
At school, Nathan's morning was anything but normal.
As he walked through the crowded halls, heads turned. Whispers followed in his wake.
"Is that Nathan?"
"No way. He looks... different."
"Kind of hot, actually."
Nathan frowned. He'd spent years as a background character in the school's social hierarchy, so the sudden attention felt jarring.
Emily was the first to confront him. "Okay, spill," she said, cornering him near his locker. "What's going on with you?"
Nathan blinked. "What do you mean?"
"You look... different. Like, really different. Did you start using some kind of expensive skincare routine? And your hair—"
"I guess I just had a good night's sleep," Nathan interrupted, trying to deflect.
Emily narrowed her eyes. "Uh-huh. Sure. And that explains why half the girls in school are staring at you like you're a snack?"
Nathan chuckled nervously, glancing around. Sure enough, several girls were sneaking glances his way, whispering to each other.
[System Notification]
"Mission Progress: 15%. Reward: Positive perception boost granted."
He resisted the urge to groan. This system was relentless.
During lunch, Nathan found himself the center of attention—something he'd never experienced before. His usual table, which was typically empty save for Emily, was now surrounded by classmates who normally ignored him.
"So, Nathan," said Jessica, one of the school's social butterflies. "Are you coming to the party at Mark's place this weekend?"
Nathan blinked. "Party?"
Jessica giggled, twirling a strand of her blonde hair. "Yeah. You should totally come. It'll be fun."
Nathan hesitated, glancing at Emily, who was sitting stiffly beside him. She shot him a look that clearly said, What is happening right now?
"I'll think about it," Nathan said finally.
Jessica beamed. "Great! Hope to see you there."
As she walked away, Emily leaned closer. "Okay, seriously, what's going on? Since when do girls like Jessica talk to you? No offense."
Nathan shrugged, trying to appear nonchalant. "Maybe I'm just having a lucky day."
Emily wasn't buying it, but before she could press further, the bell rang, signaling the end of lunch.
After school, Nathan decided to take a detour through the park again. The day's events had left his mind spinning, and he needed a moment to think.
The blue screen appeared almost immediately.
[System Notification]
"Mission Progress: 20%. Reward unlocked: 'Charm' ability."
Before Nathan could react, a rush of warmth spread through him. It wasn't unpleasant—in fact, it felt... empowering.
"What was that?" he muttered.
[System Explanation]
"Charm ability activated. Effect: Enhances interpersonal interactions, making the User more persuasive and likable."
Nathan's eyes widened. "You're telling me I can... charm people now?"
The screen flickered.
"Correct. Utilize this ability wisely to form stronger bonds and gain influence."
He was about to argue when a voice called out.
"Nathan?"
He turned to see Sarah, one of the school's most popular girls, approaching him. She was the kind of person who existed on a completely different social plane—cheer captain, straight-A student, and effortlessly gorgeous.
Nathan blinked. "Uh, hey, Sarah."
She smiled, tucking a strand of hair behind her ear. "I just wanted to say... you seem different lately. In a good way."
Nathan felt the effects of his new ability kicking in. He didn't know how he knew—it was just a feeling, like an invisible nudge urging him to respond confidently.
"Thanks," he said smoothly. "I guess I'm just... finding my stride."
Sarah laughed, a soft, melodic sound. "Well, whatever you're doing, it's working. Are you coming to Mark's party? I'd love to see you there."
Nathan hesitated. Normally, an invitation like this would've sent him into a nervous spiral, but now he felt calm, collected. "I'll be there."
Sarah smiled again. "Great. See you then."
As she walked away, Nathan stared after her, his mind racing.
[System Notification]
"Mission Progress: 25%. Reward pending."
For the first time, Nathan felt a flicker of excitement. Maybe this system wasn't such a bad thing after all.