Recovery and Rewards

Chapter 11: Recovery and Rewards

Inside the carriage, Hikari's voice echoed as she berated Shin, her concern masked by her stern tone.

"You were reckless, Shin! You could've died out there!" she scolded, crossing her arms.

Shin could only nod meekly, a forced smile on his face.

Kakashi, sitting quietly beside them, chimed in occasionally with smug comments. "She's right. If you're going to show off, at least don't end up coughing blood after."

Hikari shot Kakashi a glare. "And you! You didn't even help him when he was in trouble!"

"Sensei told me not to move," Kakashi replied nonchalantly, shrugging.

Sakumo, observing the banter from his seat, couldn't help but smile. He saw the camaraderie between his students and was glad for their bond. Shin, despite his exhaustion and the mild scolding, felt a sense of warmth.

Shin's POV

Ignoring Hikari's lecture, Shin focused his thoughts inward, his attention on the glowing system panel only he could see.

Mission Completed: Kill 1 Chunin - Rewards: 2000 Rukh

Mission Completed: First Blood - Rewards: 5000 Rukh

Adding in the miscellaneous missions completed over the past few days, Shin's total Rukh had skyrocketed to 11,200 Rukh.

Finally, Shin thought, excitement bubbling in his chest. I can draw another Djinn ability.

He debated the possibilities, his mind racing. Would it be Amon to enhance his offense, Focalor for versatility, or Baal for raw power? Each option held incredible potential.

After a few more hours, Team 4 arrived in the Land of Hot Water, successfully completing their mission. The daimyo's wife extended an invitation for them to stay at her mansion as a gesture of gratitude, but Sakumo declined, opting for a quieter place to regroup.

The team found an inn in the heart of the town and settled in. After a brief rest, Sakumo suggested they visit one of the town's famous hot springs that evening.

Shin was alone in his room, the anticipation of his new draw taking precedence over his exhaustion.

"Alright, let's see what I get," he murmured to himself, summoning the system interface.

The roulette began spinning, glowing brightly as the possibilities flashed before his eyes. After a few seconds, it slowed to a halt.

Shin's heart skipped a beat as the name of the Djinn appeared.

Phenex – The Djinn of Kindness

Before him materialized the Djinn ornament: a delicate earring shaped like wings, glowing with a soft, rosy-pink light.

"Phenex…" Shin whispered, touching the ornament lightly.

The moment he chanted the Djinn's name, warmth enveloped him. A magnificent pink phoenix materialized behind him, its aura radiant and soothing. Shin felt its healing energy coursing through his body, mending every wound and erasing his fatigue.

He exhaled in relief, basking in the comforting glow. "This… this might not be what I expected, but it's exactly what I need."

Shin couldn't stop smiling as he marveled at the ability. It wasn't the offensive power he had hoped for, but Phenex's healing capabilities would be invaluable in both battle and recovery.

Now… how am I going to explain this to everyone? Shin thought, scratching the back of his head.

That evening, the team visited the hot spring. Kakashi and Sakumo soaked in the warm water, visibly relaxed, while Shin leaned back, letting his muscles unwind.

"This is heaven," Kakashi muttered, closing his eyes.

Sakumo chuckled. "Well-earned after the day we've had."

Meanwhile, Hikari sat alone on the girls' side of the hot spring, glaring at the dividing wall.

"I hate this," she grumbled.

Though physically separated, Shin could almost feel her frustration from the other side. He smirked, amused at the thought of her pacing angrily while muttering to herself.

This feels like a small slice of peace, Shin thought, gazing at the starry sky above. But I know it won't last forever. I need to get stronger, faster, and smarter. Phenex is just the beginning.

As the night wore on, the warm waters washed away the tension of the day, but Shin's mind remained focused on the challenges ahead.