Chapter 8

As William opened his eyes, the throbbing headache still lingered. "Wait... what happened after I passed out? How did I get out of that place? Have I become the host?" he thought, trying to make sense of everything.

Suddenly, a familiar voice echoed in his head. "Good morning. Looks like you're awake," the voice said, a hint of amusement evident.

William jolted upright, his eyes darting around the room. "Who's there?" he muttered.

"I'm in your head, you fool," the voice replied, exasperated.

Recognition dawned on William. It was the same voice from the dark space. "So... have I become the host?" William asked cautiously.

"Yes," the voice confirmed. "I'm sure you've felt the changes in your body."

William hesitated for a moment, then nodded. "Yeah, it feels like energy is coursing through my veins... like I could crush mountains with my hands."

The voice chuckled. "Crush mountains? Ambitious, aren't we?"

Ignoring the sarcasm, William asked, "So, what exactly can this system do?"

The voice began to explain. "The system is a Shadow System, designed to transcend humanity. To turn you into a shadow being, a vessel for the Shadow Lord."

William blinked in disbelief. "Transcend humanity? So I'm no longer human? And I'm a... slave?"

"You could put it that way," the voice said, nonchalantly.

William's eyes widened. "What?! You didn't think to mention that before I accepted the system?!"

"It doesn't matter," the voice replied, brushing off his panic. "You still look human, so what's the problem?"

William's hand instinctively touched his face, panic creeping in. "No change? Wait, don't tell me I've grown horns or something! Who's going to date me if I look like a monster?!"

The voice sighed in exasperation. "No horns. Calm down. Look in the mirror."

William hurried to the mirror, his heart pounding. When he finally saw his reflection, he froze. Instead of looking grotesque, he had become even more striking. His once-yellow eyes were now a deep, jet-black that seemed to pierce into the soul. His formerly blonde hair had turned a sleek, abyss-like black, adding a cold, mysterious edge to his appearance.

"Whoa..." William whispered, running his hands through his new hair. "I look... kinda cool."

Before he could admire himself further, the system interrupted. "Someone's approaching."

"Enhanced senses too?" William thought excitedly.

Just then, the door to his room creaked open, and Mr. Beth stepped inside, carrying something wrapped in cloth and a small box. His eyes landed on William, and he did a double take.

"Whoa, who are you?" Mr. Beth asked playfully. "You look like a whole new person!"

William chuckled. "Decided to go for a new look, you know? Since I'm starting a new life."

Mr. Beth laughed and shook his head. "Well, it suits you. Have you packed your luggage?"

William nodded.

Mr. Beth sat on the bed and gestured for William to sit beside him. When William complied, Mr. Beth handed him the small box. "Open it," he said.

William opened the box, revealing a glass vial containing a glowing blue liquid. His eyes widened in recognition. "A Soul Potion..."

It was a rare and expensive drink, one that could enhance abilities and boost growth. William looked up at Mr. Beth, his gratitude evident. "Thank you... this must've cost you a fortune."

Mr. Beth shrugged. "It's nothing. You'll need it more than I will."

He then handed William the second object, which was wrapped in cloth. William carefully unwrapped it to reveal a sword. The blade was silver with a black, worn hilt that showed clear signs of battle. Though old, it still radiated strength and history.

"This sword..." Mr. Beth said, his voice tinged with nostalgia. "I used this when I was at the academy. It's been through many battles, slain many beasts. Now, it's yours."

William hesitated, holding the weapon. "I can't take this, Mr. Beth. It's too important to you."

Mr. Beth shook his head. "You're more important, William."

Moved by the gesture, William stood up and bowed deeply. "Thank you... for everything."

Mr. Beth smiled warmly, but then his expression turned serious. Closing the door, he sat back down and gave William a look that meant business. "Now, for the last gift. The most important one."

William leaned in, curious.

"You know you'll be living at the academy, right?" Mr. Beth began.

William nodded.

Mr. Beth continued, "That means a bunch of hot-headed teenagers with raging hormones are going to be stuck together, right?"

William blinked in confusion, then realization hit him. "Ah..."

Mr. Beth nodded knowingly. "Exactly. Which is why I'm giving you this." He reached into his pocket and handed William a small box.

William opened it, his face flushing red as he stared at its contents. A box of... protection. "Seriously?" he thought.

"Trust me," Mr. Beth said, patting his shoulder. "You'll thank me later."

Mr. Beth leaned in and whispered, "Don't let Mrs. Beth know I gave you this. She'd have my head."

William nodded quickly, still trying to keep his composure. "Uh... thanks. I'll be sure to use it wisely."

"Good. Now, go freshen up. You stink," Mr. Beth said with a grin as he left the room.

As William placed his gifts into his bag, he paused, looking at the small box. "I'll definitely need this. A handsome boy like me will be pursued by many belles at the academy. Can't let them down."

The system groaned in William's head. "And you think that's the most important item?"

William grinned. "You don't get it. This is vital!"

"Mortals..." the system sighed.

Chuckling to himself, William headed for the shower. Tomorrow was the start of a new chapter.