The night before his departure to the Germany U-20 training camp,Mateo sat alone in his room, the city lights of Munich twinkling beyond the window.
His heart was calm,but deep inside, a fire crackled — restless, eager.
He summoned the System.
"Show me my current quests," he commanded.
The familiar glowing interface appeared before him, listing his next challenges:
[Active Quests]
Quest: Establish yourself as a starter in the Germany U-20 squad.Reward: Attribute Boost + Special Skill Unlock.
Quest: Lead Germany to victory in the U-20 World Cup.Reward: Hidden Title + Legendary Skill Box.
Quest: Achieve 5 goals or assists during the tournament.Reward: Golden Trait Unlock.
Quest: Gain international recognition as a Top 3 Player of the Tournament.Reward: Unique Title + Hidden Passive Ability.
But then another line flashed:
[Special Quest - In Progress]
Quest: Rebuild your name as a rising international star after national controversy.(Status: 57% Complete)Reward: Massive Reputation Boost + Secret Title Unlock.
Mateo stiffened slightly when he saw it.
The pain of Argentina.The cold betrayal.The unjust criticisms.
All of it.
Still lingering —still unfinished.
"I won't run from it," Mateo thought, clenching his fists."I will finish what they tried to destroy."
Not with words.Not with excuses.
On the field.
With sweat.With sacrifice.With undeniable greatness.
He closed the interface slowly, feeling the enormous weight — and power — of those quests settle onto his shoulders.
And instead of fear...he felt clarity.
He rose from the bed, walked to his closet, and pulled out his Germany training jacket.
He stared at the black, red, and gold crest stitched onto the chest.
Tomorrow, he would not just wear this symbol.He would forge it into his identity.
Inside his mind, the System spoke again, its voice filled with a solemn approval:
[New Mindset Registered: "Champion's Resolve."]
Increases Focus and Training Efficiency by 15%.
Enhances Resistance to Pressure Situations.
Accelerates Special Quest Progress by +5%.
Mateo smiled fiercely.
No matter who doubted him.No matter who tried to stop him.
He would rise.
He would lead Germany to victory.
And he would become the international star he was destined to be — on his own terms.