The next morning, I woke with a renewed sense of purpose. Despite the previous day's frustration, I felt a steely resolve settling within me. Today, I would conquer the challenge, penalty or not.
I made my way to the courtyard, the targets already set up. The system greeted me as usual, but this time I could sense a hint of encouragement behind its sarcasm.
"Back for more, are we? You must really enjoy punishment," it said.
"I'm not here for your commentary. Let's just get this done," I replied, rolling my shoulders and preparing myself.
"Oh, someone's grumpy this morning. Alright, let's see if you can actually hit something today," the system teased.
I focused, letting the world around me fade away. My only goal was the targets, darting through the air. I conjured an energy pulse and launched it, hitting the first target dead center. The second followed, then the third. Each successful hit bolstered my confidence.
By the time I reached the eighteenth target, I could feel my energy waning but I pushed through the fatigue, my mind sharp and clear. The nineteenth target went down, leaving only one left.
"Here we go, final target," the system said, unusually quiet.
I took a deep breath, eyes locked on the last target. It moved erratically, but I waited for the right moment. With a swift motion, I released the pulse. It flew through the air, hitting the target perfectly. The orb burst into a shower of sparks.
"Yes!" I shouted, pumping my fist in triumph.
"Well, color me impressed," the system said. "No penalties today. Don't let it go to your head."
I collapsed onto the ground, breathing heavily. "Finally."
"Don't get too comfortable," the system warned. "There's always another challenge. You know, wouldn't want you to get bored."
I nodded, knowing it was right. But for now, I allowed myself a moment of victory. As I lay there, I noticed something—a faint glow emanating from my hands. It was different from the usual energy pulses, more refined and controlled.
"System, what is this?" I asked, holding up my hands.
"Well, well, look who's evolving," the system said. "This is a form of energy manipulation that combines precision and power. Rare and, dare I say, impressive."
I stared at my hands, a mix of awe and excitement coursing through me. "What does it mean?"
"It means you're not as hopeless as I thought," the system replied. "You're mastering energy in ways few can. Keep this up, and who knows what you might achieve."
For the first time since my reincarnation, I felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe I wasn't a failure after all. Maybe I was something more—something new.
That evening, I decided to test my newfound ability. The glow in my hands felt warm, almost comforting. I focused on a nearby rock, willing the energy to take shape. A thin beam shot out, slicing the rock cleanly in half.
"Wow," I whispered, a smile spreading across my face.
"Yeah, yeah, it's cool," the system said. "Don't get too full of yourself. This is just the beginning. Imagine what you could do with proper training."
I nodded, determination burning in my chest. "I will. I'm going to keep training and get stronger. No matter what it takes."
As the sun set, casting long shadows across the courtyard, I felt a sense of purpose unlike anything I'd ever known. The path ahead was still uncertain, but for the first time, I felt ready to face it head-on.
"Goodnight, system," I said, heading back to my room.
"Goodnight, Aric. Rest well. Tomorrow's another day to make you cry," the system replied cheekily.
With that, I closed my eyes, dreams of power and potential filling my mind. I was ready for whatever came next.