Seven months passed since I defeated Roger in my mind space, and every day since had been a relentless grind.
I trained. I studied. I pushed my body and mind to their limits—and then shattered those limits with sheer determination. With my Ethereal Interface's 100x training effect, my perfect sword mastery, and the accelerated growth of my body, progress came faster than anyone in the Soul Society could have imagined. What would take others decades to achieve, I had done in mere months.
But I kept my strength hidden. A wolf in sheep's clothing.
Each morning began with the same ritual. As dawn broke, I was already at the training grounds, swinging my blade until my muscles screamed for mercy—or they would have, had my enhanced body not adapted so quickly. Every strike, every movement was refined to perfection, thanks to Takemikazuchi's guidance and my own growing understanding of it's power.
In the evenings, I explored the Soul Society. Wandering through the Rukongai's countless districts, I listened to the stories of the souls who called this place home. Some districts were peaceful, others lawless, but each offered insight into the world I now inhabited. I memorized the streets, the people, the subtle power dynamics at play. Knowledge was a weapon, and I intended to wield it as skillfully as my blade.
Rukia, of course, was a constant thorn in my side. Despite her relentless nagging about training, she had a way of softening even the dullest days. It was amusing how she still didn't realize I trained harder than anyone—she just never saw it.
The day of the Shinigami Academy graduation arrived, and the air was thick with anticipation. Students milled about, some nervous, others excited. Me? I just wanted to get it over with.
The main courtyard was packed, students lined up in neat rows as instructors called out names and congratulated us on our achievements. A low murmur spread through the crowd as the twelve division captains arrived, each a figure of power and authority.
Captain-Commander Genryūsai Shigekuni Yamamoto stood at the center, his presence radiating an overwhelming weight. His fiery eyes scanned the graduating class, making even the boldest students falter under his gaze. Behind him stood familiar faces. Shunsui Kyōraku, with his laid-back demeanor and straw hat; Jūshirō Ukitake, exuding calm and wisdom; and Soi Fon, whose sharp eyes seemed to pierce through everyone.
Even Captain Kenpachi Zaraki was here, his wild grin and unkempt aura sending chills down the spines of those near him.
"This is the future of the Gotei 13?" Yamamoto's voice was deep and commanding. "Let's us see if they are worthy."
One by one, the captains began observing and approaching students. Each captain had their own way of recruiting; some spoke quietly with potential candidates, while others merely pointed and said, "You're with me."
I stood near the back, intentionally avoiding attention. My goal wasn't to draw unnecessary eyes—not yet.
Rukia, standing beside me, was visibly nervous. "Which division do you think you'll end up in?" she asked, her voice wavering slightly.
"I don't really care," I replied, shrugging.
She glared at me. "How can you not care? This is the most important day of our lives!"
"Maybe for you," I teased, smirking. "I'm just here for the free robes."
Her face turned red, and she sputtered angrily, but before she could retort, a shadow fell over us.
It was Captain Kyōraku. His easy going smile was almost disarming, but the sharpness in his gaze betrayed the power he held. He looked me up and down, then chuckled.
"You've got an interesting aura, kid," he said. "Whats your name?"
"Does it matter?" I replied, feigning disinterest.
Kyōraku's smile widened. "Oh, I like you. Keep that attitude—it'll make things fun." He tipped his hat and moved on, but I could feel his curiosity lingering like an itch I couldn't scratch.
Rukia stared at me, wide-eyed. "Do you ever take anything seriously?"
"Not really," I said, yawning for effect.
As the ceremony continued, I couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement beneath my calm exterior. The captains weren't just here to observe—they were sizing us up, evaluating who was worth their time and effort.
I wasn't ready to show my hand, but the thought of eventually stepping into their world—of proving I could surpass them all—made my blood sing with anticipation.
For now, I would remain in the shadows, unnoticed and underestimated.
But not for long.
...
Hey just hope you like this chapter if you do give me power stones. And please leave feedback if you have any. don't be afraid to comment. With that have a good day, evening, or night. BYE :D