The morning sun peeked over the hills, casting long shadows across the training ground Khal had claimed for himself—a small clearing just beyond the village’s edge.

  Khal wiped the sleep from his eyes and stretched, muscles still sore from yesterday’s relentless attempts at agility and combat basics. The fox sat nearby, watching with that patient, almost judgmental gaze only animals seem capable of.

  System Notification:

  [Daily Training Log] Yesterday: +15 Agility XP, +10 Combat Basics XP, Stamina -20%.

  [Suggestion] Focus on endurance and recovery today to avoid burnout.

  Khal groaned. “No rest for the weak, huh?”

  The system’s text blinked:

  [Encouragement] You’re stronger than you think. Keep pushing.

  He sighed but nodded, dragging his wooden practice sword into a ready stance. The first few swings were shaky, his wrists aching, but he forced himself to focus.

  System Feedback:

  Stolen from its rightful place, this narrative is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.

  [Swing Power: 40%] Improvement detected but still below average.

  [Tip] Use your hips for power, not just your arms.

  Khal tried again, rotating his torso awkwardly. He missed the imaginary target by a good foot.

  The fox trotted over and nudged his hand with a wet nose.

  “Yeah, yeah, I get it. I need practice,” Khal muttered.

  Hours passed with repeated swings, footwork drills, and balance exercises. The sun climbed higher, sweat pouring down his brow, and every muscle protested.

  By midday, exhaustion gnawed at him, and the voice in his head grew louder.

  “You’re too weak for this. You’ll never be a warrior.”

  Khal’s hands trembled, and for a moment, he considered quitting.

  System Prompt:

  [Mental Check] Signs of fatigue and discouragement detected.

  [Motivational Message] “Every master was once a beginner. Your ‘Heart of Becoming’ trait is growing stronger with each effort.”

  Khal swallowed hard, staring at the worn wooden sword.

  “Alright. One more set,” he whispered.

  This time, something clicked. His movements were smoother, more deliberate. The swings landed closer to where he intended. He balanced on one foot longer during footwork drills.

  System Update:

  [Progress] Combat Basics XP +20%. Agility XP +10%.

  [Milestone] “First Real Control” — 60% complete.

  A smile broke through the exhaustion.

  The fox barked happily, circling Khal like a coach thrilled to see a breakthrough.

  Khal laughed, breath ragged but triumphant.

  “Maybe I’m not completely hopeless after all.”