ZKaida

Lin Chen’s life was a constant struggle. Born into poverty, he worked tirelessly to survive, only to be betrayed by the one person he trusted most and fired from his dead-end job. As the rain poured down and his world shattered, Lin’s last hope seemed to fade away.

But fate had other plans.

When Lin thought he had hit rock bottom, a mysterious system appeared before him—offering him a chance to rewrite his destiny. Tasked with completing missions to earn coins and increase his luck, Lin must navigate through a world that’s always been against him. With each victory, he’ll unlock new powers and rise from the ashes.

But nothing comes without a price. Every choice he makes brings him closer to the truth about his mysterious past—and the dark forces that have been pulling the strings all along.

This is a journey of revenge, growth, and redemption. A loser is about to become the world’s greatest comeback story.

The Comeback System: A Loser’s Rise

The sun had dipped beneath the skyline, casting the city in a pool of molten gold. Lin Chen stood in front of the grand entrance to Le Lys Noir, one of the most exclusive fine-dining establishments in the entire province. The last time he'd even walked past this building, he'd been a salaryman with no future. Tonight, he was a mystery with power behind his every step.

🔹 System Alert: Hidden Mission Unlocked "Velvet Thread: Dine with the Nightingale" Objective: Share an intimate dinner with Li Chu. Do not expose system-related anomalies. Outcome will affect trust and future collaboration routes. Bonus Condition: Leave a lasting impression. Reward: 1,000 Gold + [Locked Item]

💡 Suggested Skill Modules for Activation: ✔ High Society Etiquette (Temp LV.1) ✔ Psychological Duelist (Temp LV.1) ✔ Wine & Culinary Knowledge (Temp LV.1)

Lin Chen took a deep breath and mentally activated the skill modules. His posture straightened. His breathing slowed. His gaze shifted from reactive to commanding.

A hostess greeted him, eyes scanning his figure. She said nothing—only bowed and led him through a winding corridor into a private dining suite draped in black and silver velvet.

She wore an asymmetrical midnight-blue gown, elegant and sharp as a blade. She glanced up from a glass of 1962 Lafite, and her smile curled like a crescent moon.

"You're exactly on time. Impressive."

"I've learned the world waits for no one," Lin Chen replied, taking his seat across from her.

The table was set for two, yet every detail screamed power play: custom crystal ware, vintage silver cutlery, and a single candle flickering between them like a ticking bomb.

The waiter appeared with a tray. "Tonight's chef has prepared a curated tasting menu."

The dishes began to arrive. Each course was a test: oysters dressed in gold leaf, wagyu sashimi with truffle pearls, caviar atop liquid nitrogen foam.

Lin Chen didn't blink. Every gesture, every bite, every compliment was calculated. High Society Etiquette LV.1 was in full control.

"Here and there," Lin Chen replied. "I've found the world is the best teacher."

"A man with your skills must have a pedigree."

"Let's say I come from humble beginnings but expensive lessons."

She smiled faintly. "You're either very prepared or very lucky."

🔹 System Ping: Psychological Duel in Progress. ⚡ Opponent's Intent: Extract background, test authenticity. 🔀 Suggested Counter: Socratic Echo — Answer with layered ambiguity.

"Is there a difference between preparation and luck?" Lin Chen asked, leaning back. "Perhaps the real game is making your opponent believe in either."

She tapped a nail against her glass, pleased. "You enjoy this dance."

"Only when the music is this good."

The rest of the evening played out like a mental chess match. Li Chu subtly referenced off-market hedge flows, shadow capital corridors, and regional alliances. Lin Chen mirrored her rhythm while keeping key details veiled. He dropped just enough breadcrumbs to seem valuable, but not enough to be mapped.

✔ Bonus Objective Reached: Leave a Lasting Impression 🚀 Trust Level with Li Chu increased 💰 Reward: +1,000 Gold 📅 New Mission Thread Unlocked: [The Nightingale's Web]

As dessert arrived, Li Chu raised her glass. "I still don't know who you are, Lin Chen."

He clinked his glass against hers, smiling.

Chapter 7: Hidden Quest — Dinner with Li Chu