Chapter 41 Preparations (1)



Once again, I found myself on the training grounds, my body collapsed on the floor, drenched in sweat and exhaustion. The intensity of Professor Joshua's training had pushed me to my limits.

Each grueling session felt like a battle for survival, from climbing the towering mountain behind the academy with weights strapped to my body, to the relentless swings of my sword and thrusts of my spear, it was enough to make me think that I could I die.

But I couldn't afford to rest for long. Time was running out.

Gazing up at the vast ceiling above, gasping for breath, I muttered to myself, "I have three days..."

The ranking battles loomed on the horizon, scheduled to take place at the end of the week. With today marking the fourth day, I had a mere three days left to prepare for it.

As I contemplated the upcoming battles, the rules were fresh in my mind from yesterday's class. Professor Joshua had meticulously explained each aspect, ensuring we were well-informed. The rules governing the ranking battles were intricate, designed to maintain fairness and uphold the integrity of the competition.

Not that I was unaware of it as I knew about them from my previous life.

The ranking battles proceeded like this.

Despite their current ranking, all participants were allowed to challenge three opponents. However, victory against someone ranked higher was the key to ascending the ranks, while battling someone significantly lower posed the risk of a decrease in position. These dynamics added an extra layer of strategy and calculation to the battles.

To safeguard against abuse and protect lower-ranked students from harassment, individuals had the right to reject challenges from those above them. This rule aimed to create a more equitable environment, where talent and skill determined one's standing. However, one could not refuse a challenge from someone ranked lower, as it was an opportunity to demonstrate superiority.

Lost in thought, Professor Joshua's mind drifted to a scene from the past—the haunting image of Eren wracked by nightmares, his trembling body drenched in sweat. The professor pondered the depths of fear that could plague a mere fourteen-year-old, searching for answers that eluded him.

"He is a diligent kid," a sudden voice broke the silence beside Professor Joshua. Turning toward the sound, he found a black cat perched in the spot where the voice originated. Despite the gravity of their conversation, the feline possessed an undeniable charm.

"He certainly is, but-" Professor Joshua replied, as if already familiar with the cat's identity.

"But his natural talent is lacking", the feline finished his words.

Professor Joshua went silent and didn't answer anything in refusal.

The cat nodded knowingly, its golden eyes gleaming with mischief. "Indeed, but despite his limitations, he displays tremendous effort... Would you like me to lend him a hand?"

"Will you-"

Before Professor Joshua could respond, the cat interrupted with a mischievous laugh. "Why would I? Hahaha..."

The professor fixed his gaze on the enigmatic feline, his expression a blend of curiosity and suspicion.

"Okay~Okay~ Lets make a bet then if you win, I will help him."

"What kind of a bet."

A sly smile danced across the cat's face as it outlined the terms of their wager, its voice brimming with playful anticipation.

While Eren was swinging the sword in earnest, he was unaware of the wager made on him.

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