Chapter 3: The Road Back

Jason woke up before dawn, his body still buzzing from the events of the previous night. He lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, his mind racing.

The Ultimate Striker System was real. It wasn't some weird dream or a concussion-induced hallucination. He had completed a mission, gained stat boosts, and upgraded his Striker's Instinct.

He clenched his fists.

This changes everything.

For years, he had struggled to break past the academy level, always a step behind those who had raw talent or better connections. But now, he had something else—something no one else did.

A tool that could turn him into a deadly striker.

Jason sat up and pulled up the system's interface in his mind.

[Player Status]

Name: Jason Carter

Age: 18

Position: Striker

Striker Rating: 65 (Amateur Level)

Attributes:

Finishing: B- → B (+2 from system)

Acceleration: C+ → B- (+2 from system)

Positioning: B

Decision-Making: D → D+ (+1 from system)

Physicality: C-

Tactical Awareness: D+ → C- (+1 from system)

Skills:

Striker's Instinct (Level 2): Enhances reaction speed in goal-scoring situations. Slightly improves decision-making under pressure.

Jason exhaled. His stats had already improved, but he had a long way to go before reaching the level of a professional.

He swung his legs off the bed, grabbed his training gear, and headed out before Eric even stirred.

It was time to get to work.

The academy's training ground was empty when Jason arrived. A faint mist hung over the grass, and the distant sound of birds filled the air. The club's main squad wouldn't be training for a few hours, so he had the field to himself.

He set up a few cones, grabbed a bag of balls, and started his drills.

Shooting.

Dribbling.

Positioning.

Each movement felt sharper than before. His shots had more precision, his acceleration had improved, and most importantly—his instincts had changed.

He wasn't second-guessing anymore. His body reacted without hesitation.

Jason set up five balls outside the box and took five quick shots.

Boom. Boom. Boom.

All five hit the back of the net, three in the corners. A week ago, that would've been impossible.

The system worked.

But there was still one massive problem.

Even if he improved, he had no club.

No professional contract. No team to play for.

How the hell do I get back in?

Jason was deep in thought when a familiar voice called out.

"Didn't think I'd see you here this early."

Jason turned to see Coach Reynolds approaching. The assistant coach had a clipboard under his arm and a curious expression on his face.

"I thought you'd be drowning in self-pity after yesterday," Reynolds continued. "But here you are, training like you've got a match tomorrow."

Jason shrugged. "No point sulking."

Reynolds nodded, impressed. "So, what's the plan? You're not part of the academy squad anymore."

Jason exhaled. "I don't know yet. I just know I'm not quitting."

The coach studied him for a moment. Then, he smirked.

"There's a local trial match happening this weekend," Reynolds said. "Scouts from lower-league clubs will be there. Might be your best shot."

Jason's eyes lit up.

"Think I'll get a chance to play?"

Reynolds chuckled. "Not officially. But… if you show up, I doubt anyone will stop you from proving yourself."

Jason's heart pounded.

An opportunity.

A way back.

He wasn't going to waste it.