ch 9: enroll in j high (1/4)

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Lin had just left the underground fighting arena, where Daniel had been steadily improving with each match. Lin's guidance had been instrumental in Daniel's growth, and the two had developed a bond of camaraderie, even if it was still tinged with Lin's own self-interest.

As Lin walked back to the motel, a familiar chime rang in his ears.

**DING!**

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**Quest Completed: Help Daniel Park**

**Reward:** System Update

**Penalty:** system ability resets

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Lin paused, feeling the familiar sensation of the system updating itself. This time, however, it felt different—more substantial.

The system's voice, usually monotone and robotic, now had a more refined tone. It was smoother, almost as if it had developed its own personality.

"System update complete," the voice announced. "The system has undergone significant upgrades. User interface has been enhanced, and additional functions have been unlocked."

Lin smirked. "Show me the changes."

The system complied, presenting him with a new interface that was more interactive and intuitive. The upgrades seemed to allow for more strategic planning and even offered hints on potential quests.

"What's the new quest?" Lin asked, already knowing there would be one.

The system responded, "The next quest has been unlocked: **The Journey Begins**."

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**Quest: The Journey Begins**

**Objective:** Enroll in j high.

**Reward:** ???

**Penalty:** ???

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Lin wasn't surprised by the objective. He had expected something along these lines. The system didn't reveal the rewards or penalties, which meant this quest was likely more critical than the previous ones.

As Lin continued to walk, he reflected on his time with Daniel. Although his initial interest in Daniel had been purely for the sake of completing his quest, Lin couldn't deny that he had started to see something of himself in the boy. Daniel's determination, his struggle to rise above his circumstances, reminded Lin of his own past life and the hardships he had faced.

Lin made his way to Daniel's house. He had been there before, often visiting to check on Daniel's progress or simply to eat a meal. Daniel's mother, Mrs. Park, had taken a liking to Lin, treating him like a member of the family.

When Lin knocked on the door, Mrs. Park greeted him with a warm smile.

"Lin, it's so good to see you again!" she exclaimed, ushering him inside. "You're just in time for dinner. Come, sit."

Lin followed her into the small but cozy dining area, where Daniel was already seated. The table was set with a modest meal, but the atmosphere was filled with warmth. Lin took his usual seat, and Mrs. Park served him a generous portion of the food.

As they ate, Mrs. Park kept up a lively conversation, asking Lin about his day and how he was doing. Lin answered her questions politely, though his mind was focused on the task at hand. After a while, Mrs. Park noticed Lin's thoughtful expression.

"Is something on your mind, Lin?" she asked gently.

Lin set down his chopsticks and looked at her seriously. "Mrs. Park, I wanted to talk to you about something important. It's about Daniel."

Mrs. Park's expression turned concerned. "What is it? Is something wrong with Daniel?"

"No, nothing like that," Lin reassured her. "In fact, it's quite the opposite. Daniel's been improving a lot lately, and I think it's time he takes the next step."

Mrs. Park glanced at Daniel, who was looking down at his plate, unsure of where this conversation was headed.

"What do you mean, Lin?" she asked.

Lin leaned forward, his tone serious but respectful. "Daniel has a lot of potential, but he's limited by the opportunities here in the village. If he's going to achieve more, he needs better education and training. I believe the best place for that is Seoul."

Mrs. Park's eyes widened in surprise. "Seoul? But… we don't have the means to move there. I can't afford to send Daniel to Seoul."

Lin shook his head. "I'm not asking you to move. I'm offering to take Daniel with me to Seoul. I'll take care of his education and living expenses. He'll stay with me, and I'll make sure he gets the opportunities he deserves."

Daniel looked up, stunned by Lin's offer. "Lin… you're serious?"

"Of course I am," Lin replied. "You've worked hard, Daniel. You've shown that you're willing to put in the effort, and I believe you can go far. But you need to be in an environment where you can grow, and Seoul is the place for that."

Mrs. Park was silent for a moment, processing Lin's words. She knew how much Daniel had struggled, how much he had wanted more out of life. But the idea of him leaving the village, of being so far away, was daunting.

"Lin," she said finally, her voice trembling slightly, "are you sure about this? I don't want Daniel to be a burden on you."

"He won't be a burden," Lin assured her. "This is something I want to do. Daniel has potential, and it would be a waste not to nurture it."

Mrs. Park looked at Daniel, who nodded, his eyes filled with determination. She took a deep breath, then nodded as well.

"Alright, Lin," she said softly. "If you're willing to help Daniel, then I'll trust you. But please, take good care of him."

"I will," Lin promised.

The rest of the dinner passed in a more relaxed atmosphere, with Mrs. Park occasionally glancing at Daniel with a mix of pride and concern. Daniel himself was quiet, processing the sudden turn his life was about to take.

Later that morning, as they were leaving, Mrs. Park hugged Daniel tightly, tears in her eyes. "You be good, Daniel. Study hard and make the most of this opportunity."

"I will, Mom," Daniel replied, hugging her back. "I promise."

Lin watched the emotional exchange, feeling a pang of something unfamiliar. It wasn't quite empathy, but it was close. He pushed the feeling aside as they left the house and headed toward the motel where Lin was staying.

"Thank you, Lin," Daniel said quietly as they walked.

Lin glanced at him. "Don't thank me yet. The hard part is just beginning. You're going to need to work even harder from now on."

"I'm ready," Daniel replied with determination.

Lin smirked. The journey was indeed just beginning.

**chapter ends here**