章 7: The System

"Haaah" Xu Qianghua sighed as he stored the other items in the system space.

He preferred the system space over the storage ring for two reasons: he couldn't use the spiritual qi to activate the ring, and it was safer in the system.

Xu Qianghua decided to use the space ring as a show for others since he didn't want to reveal the existence of the system. Then, as if remembering something, he asked the system, 'Hey system, why haven't you signed in yet?'

The system he had was a sign-in system. When it merged with his soul, the spiritual being that came along with me from the original universe had to change or risk being erased due to a lack of power. She chose to transform into a system based on Xu Qianghua's memories, hoping he would be a good person.

Initially, the spiritual being could convert anything into whatever she wanted, but with limitations. After becoming a system, these limitations were removed, but a new one appeared: she had to help the host and could only use her power once daily, turning things into random items depending on the energy used.

At first, the spiritual being was angry and didn't speak to Xu Qianghua, so he had no idea she was inside his soul. But after the game merged, she had to reveal herself to avoid being destroyed or enslaved.

She introduced herself as a system Xu Qianghua got after he transmigrated, which he believed because he was an avid reader. As they spent more time together, she revealed her true self and explained her origin.

Xu Qianghua was surprised at first but then relieved. When asked why, he said, 'I was worried you were part of a plan by the top 100 to control this world through me.'

This initially infuriated the system, but she calmed down and forgave Xu Qianghua, understanding his perspective as she would do the same. This brought them closer and shaped their current relationship.

[Right, before signing in, host, you need to read my new instructions. You'll be happy with the changes] the system said, bringing a transparent screen in front of Xu Qianghua.

Xu Qianghua saw new functions added to the system. [When we went through the space-time storm, I absorbed a lot of power, which allowed me to evolve and add these new functions] the system explained.

[I had to choose a direction for my powers. The first option was a check-in system where you roam around the world and check in in different new and exotic places like those in novels from your original world and this world.]

[The second option was to abandon the sign-in function, mostly except for weekly sign-ins, and focus on a system store and an achievement function to expand and upgrade your family.]

[I chose the second option because it would be better] the system continued.

'That's great, at least there's a change from the past where I mostly got useless items from the draws' Xu Qianghua said, eyes brightening.

[Although I agree with your statement, host, that's hurtful,] the system responded, acting sad.

'I'm sorry about that, but it's true' Xu Qianghua said, trying to sound justified.

'Anyways, what are the new additions?'

[The main role of this new system is to give customized rewards every time you upgrade your family level,] the system explained.

[I absorbed a lot of energy from the time-space storm, which I can use to help you. Since you chose to become a family-style player, this type of system will be more useful. The weekly sign-ins will provide personal prizes to help you advance quickly.]

'I like this new update,' Xu Qianghua thought, nodding happily.

'But system, do you have a newbie gift or something?' he asked, half expecting to be rejected like in his last life.

[Yes, this time I can give you a newbie gift, and it will be perfect for you and the two ladies you have.]

'Whoa, the system isn't stingy anymore. Surprising' Xu Qianghua said, not believing what he heard.

[Host, you have to believe me. It's not that I want to be stingy. The spiritual energy present made it impossible to create even a top-grade spirit stone. Expecting high-grade items was impossible] the system countered.

"I understand and can imagine the difficulty" Xu Qianghua sighed, recalling his past life.

"It was tough for adventure players due to the lack of spiritual qi. The world was still a lower world and only upgraded a few years before I came back in time."

"So, can I open the newbie gift yet?" Xu Qianghua asked, excited to see what the system had prepared.

[Not yet, because the items can't generate until the game becomes available,] the system replied, shutting down Xu Qianghua's hopes.

"Is there no other way?" Xu Qianghua asked, unwilling to accept the reality.

[Nope, you have to wait until the game comes online. But host, I think it's worth the wait, as these items will help you greatly when the game starts] the system put her foot down.

"Okay, fine, but I hope it's as good as you say it is" Xu Qianghua said, giving up when he realized she wouldn't reveal what was in the newbie gift.

He started thinking about what else he had to do today. He opened his terminal to browse the news, looking for any new topics that might catch his attention.

Then, he heard a knock on the door.

Knock Knock

Xu Qianghua was surprised. He had told the maids not to knock on the door until he came out on his own, but someone had knocked.

"Who is it?" he asked, curious.

"It's me," came the reply, a female voice he recognized as Sister Meiying's.

Xu Qianghua put down his terminal and got up to open the door.