Chapter 8: A New Routine
The sun peeked through the curtains, casting stripes of light across the room as Jae-min rose with the dawn. Today was another day he chose to miss school. He had grown accustomed to the familiar pang of guilt that accompanied skipping classes, but it was overshadowed by a stronger feeling: the burning desire to transform himself. He had a goal, and every moment spent in the gym brought him closer to it.
As he slipped out of bed, he glanced at the mirror and examined his reflection. The progress was undeniable. His muscles were more defined, and his clothes fit differently. He felt lighter, both physically and mentally.
"Revival System Activation: Daily Reflection."
"Current EXP: 0"
He had set a target for himself—not just to lose weight but to reshape his identity entirely. Today's focus was not just on strength training; he had decided to incorporate fasting into his routine, believing that it would help him burn fat more effectively and mentally prepare him for the challenges ahead.
After a quick shower, he donned his workout gear, feeling a rush of energy coursing through him. He headed straight to his makeshift gym, the space now feeling more like a sanctuary than a burden.
"Current Stats:"
Strength: 70Agility: 61Charm: 32Looks: 43Weight: 100 kg
"Quest Activation: Fasting for Transformation - Objective: Fast for 24 hours."
"Current EXP: 0"
He began his day with a rigorous warm-up, ensuring that every muscle was primed for the punishment to come. The jump rope was his first tool, and as he swung it vigorously, he found himself lost in thought. Memories of his old life as Tae-sik surged to the surface—fighting in underground rings, dodging blows, and enduring the pain that came with every battle.
Master Hwang's voice echoed in his mind: "Pain is temporary; strength is forever." Each jump felt like a tribute to that mantra, each skip a step closer to becoming someone new.
Jae-min transitioned to circuit training, combining bodyweight exercises with weights, each set pushing him closer to his limits. He felt the burn in his muscles, the familiar ache that reminded him he was alive and fighting for something more significant than himself. He embraced the discomfort, knowing it was part of the transformation.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 10% Completed."
"Current EXP: 10"
As he trained, he recalled the moments he had spent with his mentor, the grueling workouts that left him breathless. Master Hwang had always emphasized endurance, pushing Jae-min to run laps until his legs felt like lead. He channeled that memory now, running on the treadmill, each step a testament to his commitment.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 30% Completed."
"Current EXP: 30"
"Stats Updated!"
Strength: 72Agility: 62Charm: 32Looks: 43Weight: 99 kg
As the hours passed, Jae-min took short breaks to hydrate, aware that staying hydrated was essential during his fast. He reminded himself that he was on a mission; hunger pangs were mere whispers compared to the roar of determination within him.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 50% Completed."
"Current EXP: 40"
After several hours of training, he felt the fatigue setting in, but he pushed through. He moved onto strength training, lifting heavier weights than ever before. His muscles strained, but he welcomed the challenge. He was becoming a warrior, sculpting his body to match the spirit of Tae-sik.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 70% Completed."
"Current EXP: 50"
In the early evening, as Jae-min sat on the floor, breathing heavily, he realized he had missed another day of school. But rather than feeling guilty, he felt empowered. Every skipped lesson meant that he was one step closer to achieving his dream, to standing up to Eun-ji, Min-ho, and the other bullies who had tormented him.
He envisioned a future where he wouldn't just take their taunts; he would confront them, strong and confident. The image of himself standing tall, muscles defined and aura radiant, filled him with hope.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 90% Completed."
"Current EXP: 60"
As he prepared for the final workout of the day, he contemplated the journey ahead. The fasting was nearly over, and he knew that breaking the fast with a healthy meal would be a reward for his hard work. The thought of it motivated him to push even harder.
With renewed vigor, he attacked his last set of exercises with intensity, feeling the sweat pouring down his face. Every drop symbolized his dedication, each moment spent in that gym a reminder of who he was destined to become.
"Quest Progress: Fasting for Transformation - 100% Completed."
"Current EXP: 70"
"Level Up: Congratulations! You have reached Level 6!"
"Stats Updated!"
Strength: 74Agility: 63Charm: 33Looks: 43Weight: 98 kg
As night fell and he completed his workout, Jae-min felt a wave of satisfaction wash over him. He had successfully fasted for 24 hours and pushed his body beyond its limits.
"Revival System: Congratulations! You have completed the Fasting for Transformation quest."
"Reward: Stat Boost (Strength +2, Agility +2), 1,000 EXP."
"Current Stats:"
Strength: 76Agility: 65Charm: 33Looks: 43Weight: 98 kg
Jae-min had no doubt that tomorrow would bring new challenges and the chance to inspire others like him. With a grin on his face, he realized he was not just changing his body; he was redefining his life.
The path of transformation was a long and winding road, but with each step, he grew stronger, bolder, and more determined. Jae-min was ready to embrace whatever came next.