John walked across the campus square, feeling lighter than ever. Every sound, every detail seemed sharper—his new 'Perfect Memory' skill was already working. He could recall every book he'd ever read, every mistake he'd made in his previous life.
As he and his roommates approached the cafeteria, the atmosphere changed. Brian, the notorious upperclassman bully, leaned against the doorway, arms folded, eyes full of disdain.
"Well, look who's here. The loser brigade," Brian sneered, locking his gaze on John. "Did you finally save enough for a proper lunch, Miller?"
Mike and Chris instantly shrank back, but John didn't waver. He met Brian's stare with calm confidence.
Without a word, John walked right up to the cashier, ordering the most expensive meal on the menu. He paid in cash, the thick bills attracting the attention of everyone nearby.
Brian frowned. "Where did you get that money? Did you steal it?"
John smiled. "No, just made some good decisions lately. Maybe you should try it sometime."
Brian's face turned red. He moved closer, trying to intimidate John. "Getting cocky now? Don't forget your place!"
But John's memory flashed. In his previous life, Brian had humiliated him in front of everyone. This time, he was ready.
Suddenly, the system chimed again:
[Special Event Triggered: Defend Your Dignity. Reward: Strength +50, Campus Reputation +10]
John turned, his voice steady and clear. "Brian, your little games are getting old. If you really want to impress everyone, how about a contest? Right here, right now. Loser treats everyone in the cafeteria."
The crowd buzzed with excitement. Brian, caught off guard, didn't want to back down. "Fine. What's the contest?"
John's lips curled into a smirk. "Trivia. I'll answer any question you ask. Then I'll ask you one."
Brian laughed, thinking it would be easy. He asked John a series of tough questions—math, history, sports. With his Perfect Memory, John answered each one flawlessly, not missing a beat.
Finally, John asked, "Who was the first president of our university?"
Brian froze. He stammered, clearly not knowing the answer. The crowd erupted in laughter.
John nodded to the cashier. "Everyone's lunch is on Brian today."
The cafeteria filled with cheers and applause. Brian could only glare, humiliated.
John sat down with his meal, Mike and Chris gaping at him in awe.
"John… you're like a different person," Chris whispered.
John grinned, the golden system panel flickering in his mind.
This was just the beginning of his legendary rise.