A flicker of hope ignited in Hiroki's heart as he felt the subtle improvement in his health. The system was real, and it held the potential to rewrite his tragic narrative.
The first simulation, though brief and ending in his demise, was a stark reminder of his vulnerability. The events within the simulation were not mere illusions but a glimpse into a possible future, a path he was determined to avoid.
"System," he whispered, focusing his thoughts on the glowing interface. "How can I improve my status?"
[Status improvements are directly tied to your actions and experiences within the simulation. The stronger and more accomplished you become in the simulation, the greater the rewards you'll receive in reality.]
[Remember, each simulation costs 100 Ryo. You currently have 150 Ryo remaining.]
Hiroki absorbed this information. The simulation was not a passive experience; it demanded his active participation, his growth. With renewed resolve, he closed his eyes.
"Another simulation," he mentally commanded.
[Simulation Start]
[Age 7, Year 1]
[Month 1] Your sudden recovery piqued the doctors' curiosity, leading to a barrage of questions. [Health + 1, Chakra + 1]
[Month 2] Your rapid progress led to an early discharge from the hospital.
[Month 3] You embarked on a basic exercise regime, successfully completing a 20-minute session. [+ 1 Health capacity]
[Month 4] Your health took a sudden downturn, and you were readmitted to the hospital.
[Month 6] You succumbed to the unknown illness.
[Simulation End]
Total reward:
1 health capacity
1 health and 1 chakra
[Hiroki - Status Update]
Health: 9/21
Chakra reserve: 2/2
"Dead again," Hiroki muttered, a chill creeping down his spine. Was this his inescapable fate? To perish before even reaching adolescence? A dark thought crossed his mind. Perhaps a swift death was preferable to a life constantly shadowed by the threat of this mysterious illness.
"I need to know what this illness is," he resolved. Was it a consequence of his transmigration, his soul's incompatibility with this new world? Or was there a more sinister explanation?
"System," he inquired, "Was I poisoned by my own clan?"
[Congratulations! Host received talent: Auto Deduction lvl 1]
A surge of realization washed over Hiroki. His suspicions were confirmed. "So, it was poison. Perhaps my lack of talent made me a liability to them."
He examined his newfound talent.
[Auto Deduction lvl 1: You can deduce information more easily than normal people]
A small victory, but a victory nonetheless. Armed with this new ability and a growing sense of urgency, Hiroki formulated his next move. He was out of Ryo, unable to run another simulation. He needed to get out of this hospital, return to his apartment in the Hyuga Clan district, and find a way to earn money.
The road ahead was fraught with uncertainty, but Hiroki was no longer the helpless boy he once was. He had a system, a talent, and a burning desire to survive. He would uncover the truth behind his poisoning, defy his predetermined fate, and rise above the ashes of his past life. The game had just begun.