Chapter 4:
The system finished its introduction and floated expectantly in front of Yun Xin, radiating an air of smugness. Though it lacked eyes or a face—being a glowing orb of light—it somehow conveyed a sense of self-satisfaction, as if waiting for her praise.
"So, Host, you were randomly selected as the lucky winner to right the wrongs of a cannon fodder life. Aren't you happy?"
Yun Xin blinked at the overly cheerful voice, unsure how to react. The system hesitated for a moment before continuing.
"Hmm. You don't seem happy."
"Why do you think that?" Yun Xin asked, her curiosity piqued.
"Well, based on my analysis of human behavior and interactions, humans usually display a physical expression—an upward curve of the lips, called a smile—when they experience happiness," the system said in a tone that somehow managed to sound both clinical and bemused.
"Humans express emotions differently," Yun Xin replied nonchalantly, folding her arms. "Some of us don't feel the need to smile for everything."
The system hovered closer, unfazed. "Fair enough. But let's move on. You were randomly chosen for this rebirth. Isn't that exciting?"
Yun Xin tilted her head, trying to process the surreal situation. "You say it was random, but out of all the millions—probably billions—of people with tragic endings and bad fates, why me? What made me special enough to be chosen?"
The system hesitated briefly, its glow dimming slightly before answering.
"Well, Host, everyone has their own fate. It's true that your selection was random, but there's a twist. Your fate was tampered with, which—while not rare—isn't exactly common either. Beyond that, I can't say much."
There was a smugness in the system's voice, as though it knew something Yun Xin didn't.
Yun Xin narrowed her eyes, still trying to piece together the larger picture. "So now what? I'm back, but what's the catch? Do I have to complete tasks, earn luck, or unlock some golden fingers like those protagonists in novels?"
The system chuckled, a tinkling sound that echoed softly in the small room.
"Oh no, I'm not one of those low-grade systems that need a host to survive. Like I said, you were lucky—no strings attached. Your rebirth is simply an opportunity. It's a chance for people with great resentment and altered fates to try again. You're free to do whatever you want: repeat your life, seek revenge, or live peacefully. This may be the last time you see me, as I'm only here to deliver an offer."
The system's tone shifted, losing its playful edge. It now sounded solemn, as if delivering a decree.
"An offer?" Yun Xin asked, leaning forward slightly.
"Yes, Host. With your rebirth, you are entitled to choose one of three golden fingers. Consider it an added benefit—a complementary service, if you will. Choose wisely, as this decision will shape your second chance. Your options are:
1. **Great Strength**: Gain the power to defeat even the strongest men alive.
2. **Healing Abilities**: The ability to heal yourself and others, both physically and emotionally.
3. **Spatial Ability**: The power to store anything you want in a private space, though you cannot enter it yourself.
So, Host, what will you choose?"
The system's voice carried a weight of seriousness now, emphasizing the importance of her decision.
Yun Xin didn't hesitate. Her choice had been clear the moment she heard the options.
"I choose the healing abilities." Her voice was steady, filled with determination.
The orb floated closer, as if studying her. "Are you sure, Host? Once chosen, you cannot change your decision."
"I'm sure," Yun Xin replied firmly. This wasn't a whimsical decision. Healing would be the most versatile and useful power for her plans—for both survival and the revenge she intended to exact.
"Very well. The choice has been made," the system declared. "This will be the last time you see me, Host, so I wish you good luck. May you find what you seek in this life."
Yun Xin couldn't help but feel a twinge of gratitude, despite the strange and abrupt nature of the situation. "Thank you," she said sincerely.
"Good luck, Host," the system repeated, its light beginning to dim. Then, with a final burst of brightness, it vanished entirely.
As the system disappeared, a blinding light enveloped Yun Xin. Starting from the crown of her head, the glow traveled down her body to the soles of her feet. Warmth surged through her at first, a soothing sensation that felt almost like an embrace. Then the warmth turned to heat—an intense, searing fire that made her gasp.
The burning sensation overwhelmed her senses, and she could no longer resist the pull of unconsciousness.