Godly Beggar

Jiang Han's morning started with the usual rush of the school day. The sounds of students chattering, teachers shuffling papers, and the distant ringing of the assembly bell all merged into a familiar rhythm. But today felt different.

The system's revelations from the night before lingered in his mind. His reincarnation wasn't just a reset—it was a second chance to address the potential he'd squandered in his past life.

"Unfinished potential," he muttered to himself, gripping the straps of his bag. "This time, I'll make it count."

As he entered the classroom, Jiang Han's thoughts were interrupted by Wang Jia Qi's enthusiastic wave.

"Hey, Jiang Han! Over here!" she called, her voice cutting through the hum of conversation.

Jiang Han smiled faintly and walked over, sliding into his seat.

"What's got you so cheery this morning?" he asked.

"There's a new challenge going around," Jia Qi said, her eyes gleaming with excitement.

Jiang Han raised an eyebrow. "What kind of challenge?"

"Some group from another school is hosting a series of intellectual games," she explained. "They're calling it the 'Mind Trials'. Anyone can enter, but the competition is fierce."

"Sounds interesting," Jiang Han replied, his curiosity piqued.

"It's more than interesting," Jia Qi said, leaning closer. "The winners get exclusive mentorship opportunities with top universities. Plus, bragging rights for life."

As soon as the announcement reached the students, a buzz of excitement swept through the school. Everyone was talking about the Mind Trials, speculating on who would enter and what the competition would entail.

Jiang Han wasn't one to back down from a challenge, but he also knew he needed to be strategic. The stakes were high, and failure wasn't an option.

The familiar chime of the Begging System interrupted his thoughts.

[System Alert! Major Mission Triggered.]

Mission: Compete in the Mind Trials and finish in the top three.]

Failure to comply will result in the forfeiture of two system rewards for the next week.]

Reward: Critical Thinking Skill (Advanced Level).]

"Top three?" Jiang Han muttered, feeling the weight of the mission. "No pressure, right?"

He glanced at Jia Qi, who was still chattering excitedly about the competition.

"Are you thinking of entering?" Jiang Han asked casually.

"Me?" Jia Qi laughed. "I'd probably get eliminated in the first round. But you, on the other hand…"

"I'm considering it," Jiang Han admitted.

"You should," Jia Qi said, her tone earnest. "If anyone can do it, it's you."

Later that day, Jiang Han found himself in the school library, scanning through potential teammates. The Mind Trials required a team of three, and Jiang Han knew he needed the best minds he could find.

Hui Qi was an obvious choice—her precision and focus made her an invaluable asset. Derek Lim, with his unconventional thinking, was another strong contender.

As Jiang Han approached their desks, he felt the familiar sense of anticipation that came with a new mission.

"Hey, Hui Qi, Derek," Jiang Han began. "I'm putting together a team for the Mind Trials. Are you in?"

Hui Qi looked up from her notes, her brow furrowing slightly. "The Mind Trials? That's a serious commitment."

"I know," Jiang Han said. "But I think we've got what it takes."

Derek leaned back in his chair, a grin spreading across his face. "Sounds fun. Count me in."

Hui Qi hesitated for a moment before nodding. "Alright. Let's do it."

The Mind Trials were held at Seladang Institute, a prestigious academy known for its competitive atmosphere. The event drew students from across Malayuna, each team eager to prove their mettle.

Jiang Han, Hui Qi, and Derek entered the grand auditorium, their eyes scanning the sea of competitors.

"This is more intense than I expected," Derek whispered, his voice laced with awe.

Jiang Han nodded. "Stay focused. This is just the beginning."

The first trial was a logic-based puzzle round. Teams were given an hour to solve a series of complex riddles, each more challenging than the last.

Hui Qi took the lead, her analytical mind breaking down each problem with precision. Derek's creativity added a fresh perspective, while Jiang Han's system-enhanced skills allowed him to connect the dots effortlessly.

By the end of the round, their team had completed every puzzle with time to spare.

As the results were announced, Jiang Han's team secured a spot in the top five. The crowd erupted into applause, but Jiang Han's attention was drawn to another team near the front.

Lee Wei Ren stood among them, his expression calm but triumphant.

"Of course, he's here," Jiang Han muttered, a mix of annoyance and determination flaring within him.

Wei Ren caught Jiang Han's gaze and offered a small, knowing smile.

"He's going to be a problem," Hui Qi said quietly, following Jiang Han's line of sight.

"Let him be," Jiang Han replied. "We'll deal with him when the time comes."

The second trial was held in an enormous outdoor maze, with each team tasked with finding and solving hidden clues scattered throughout. The challenge wasn't just about speed—it required sharp observation and quick thinking.

As they navigated the maze, Jiang Han's team encountered obstacles that tested their teamwork. One clue was hidden behind a series of cryptic symbols, while another required a delicate balance of logic and intuition.

Hui Qi's sharp eyes caught subtle details, while Derek's bold ideas helped them overcome unexpected twists. Jiang Han's newfound Observation Skill allowed him to spot patterns that others missed, giving their team a crucial edge.

At one point, they crossed paths with Wei Ren's team. The Prodigy smirked, his confidence unwavering.

"Still keeping up, Jiang Han?" Wei Ren called out, his tone mocking.

"Don't worry about us," Jiang Han shot back. "Focus on not getting lost."

The exchange drew laughter from Derek, but Hui Qi remained focused. "We're falling behind. Let's move."

By the time they reached the finish line, Jiang Han's team was among the first to complete the trial, securing their place in the top three.

As the day ended, Jiang Han found himself reflecting on the competition. Each trial had pushed them to their limits, but it was clear that the final round would be the true test.

"You're doing well," the system chimed unexpectedly, its tone almost… encouraging.

"Is that supposed to be a compliment?" Jiang Han muttered.

[Observation: Host has demonstrated significant growth. Prepare for increased challenges.]

Jiang Han smiled faintly. "Bring it on."