Echoes Beyond Death

One week had passed since my fight with Rukia, and she still hadn't left me alone. Every day, she followed me around, nagging about how she couldn't believe she'd lose to someone "lazy."

Today was no exception. As we entered the classroom, she threw an annoyed look my way. "You know, just because you beat me once doesn't mean you're better."

"Oh, I thought that's exactly what it meant," I replied with a smirk. Her cheeks flushed, but she turned her head, pretending to ignore me.

We sat down, and as usual, she took the seat right beside me. I stretched my arms and casually slid my classwork toward her. "Mind finishing this up?"

Rukia's eyes went wide, her mouth dropping open. "are you serious? You're unbelievable!"

I chucked. "You're the one who's sitting next to me every day. Must mean something."

Her face went bright red, but she grabbed the paper anyway, muttering, "I'm only doing this because I need extra practice."

"Of course, of course. All for the practice," I replied, grinning as she huffed and looked away, diligently filling out my work.

With my head resting on the table, I slipped into my mind space, letting my Ethereal Interface activate. Immediately, a notification popped up:

[System Quest: Defeat Gold D. Roger in 10 days.]

Rewards: New Skill + 10x Accelerated Growth

I felt a rush of excitement. Roger was a legendary figure, and the chance to fight him, even in a mental projection, was a challenge I couldn't resist. A grin formed on my face as I summoned his image.

In my mind space, Gold D. Roger stood before me, his fierce gaze and infamous grin intimidating even in a vision. His stance was imposing, a symbol of strength and resilience.

Without hesitation, he charged, his powerful swing cutting through the air with incredible force. I barely managed to dodge, but his follow-up strike hit me square in the chest, sending me sprawling to the ground. The pain was sharp, real.

"Is that all you've got?" he taunted, his grin widening.

I gritted my teeth and stood again, steeling myself. This time, I focused, reading his movements. His next attack was fast, but I managed to sidestep, swinging back at him. Our blades clashed, and the sheer force of his strike jolted me back. But then, his sword swept around again, catching me off guard, and with one swift strike, he cut me down. I fell, my mind slipping into darkness. 

A moment later, I reset. Back at square one, standing in front of him.

I lunged, knowing what was coming this time, but his counter was even faster. In moments, I was back on the ground. The second reset wasn't any easier.

Back in the classroom, Rukia nudged my shoulder. "You're actually sleeping, aren't you?"

I blinked my eyes open, flashing her lazy grin. "Think what you want."

She rolled her eyes but handed back the finished work, cheeks still a bit pink. "Don't think I'm doing this again."

"Sure thing, Rukia." I leaned back, feeling the thrill of my fight with Roger lingering in my veins. I had nine days to beat him, and with each 'death,' I knew I was getting stronger. The challenge had just begun.

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Hey guys I hope you like this chapter and please leave some feedback and also give me powerstones bye until next time :D