Unforseen Changes.

Ethan rose from his bed, slid on his slippers, and exited his room, noting as he walked that his system screen had taken on a sleek silver hue with new blue script overlaying it. He brushed it off as a system update, more intrigued than concerned. Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, he was met by five familiar faces—some visibly confused but mostly relieved and happy.

"Hi, guys… oof!" Two of the girls flung themselves into him, catching him off-guard with their enthusiasm. His recently increased strength couldn't quite counterbalance their momentum, and he stumbled backward, landing on the floor with the two of them on top.

"I'm alright, no need to worry," he said with a gentle smile, patting each of their heads to reassure them.