Chapter 67 The Ranking Battles (2)



I arrived at the grand ranking battle arena, its vastness taking my breath away. The stage before me stretched out, a colossal expanse measuring an impressive 30 meters in width and 50 meters in length. It was a battleground where the students could unleash their skills and engage in combat to their heart's content.

The magnitude of the arena struck me once again, as I realized that there were seven other equally immense stages scattered throughout the auditorium, amplifying the sense of awe and anticipation.

Standing in front of me was Gene Clayton, a young man with a shock of clue-haired locks and an average physique. In his right hand, he tightly gripped a sword, while a single-handed shield adorned his other. His stance conveyed a readiness for battle, a glimmer of determination shining in his eyes.

As per the regulations, the academy had meticulously organized the battles, ensuring that challengers provided their lists of opponents to be challenged at least two hours prior to the fights. This systematic approach ensured fair matchups and gave time for the challenged individual to prepare.

For this particular battle, I had made a strategic choice—the spear. I recognized its advantages in this situation, the extended reach granting me an edge over my opponent. With the spear in hand, I could keep Gene at a distance, striking from afar while minimizing the risk of his swift swordplay.

We stood, eyeing each other across the stage, tension building in the air. The staff in charge of judging the battles raised their voices, commanding the attention of all within the arena.

"Rank-508, Eren Pendragon, versus rank-258, Gene Clayton. Begin!"

The battle ignited in a flurry of motion. Gene and I moved with agility and purpose.

His sword and my spear collided as the clash of weapons echoed through the arena.

Gene was slightly pushed back showing my superior strength.

I danced around the stage, leveraging the advantage of my spear's reach, striking with calculated precision and maintaining a safe distance.

Gene, armed with his sword and shield, attempted to close the gap, his shield serving as a stalwart defense.

He defended my stabs and slashes with his sturdy shield refusing to take any damage.

But he was unable to injure me either due to hiding behind the shield, he didn't even get a chance to counter attack me.

At first glance, he seemed to have the upper hand as none of my attacks were able to deal any kind of damage to him.

My eyes noticed his mistake.

Seizing the opportunity presented by Gene's waning energy, I launched a swift and relentless assault.

Exploiting his momentary hesitation, my spear struck with precision and speed.

I avoided fatal areas and only went for leg and shoulder as my win was pretty much confirmed at this point.

With each precise thrust and feint, I whittled away at his stamina and resolve.

A resounding clash echoed through the arena as my spear found its mark once again. Gene's sword was knocked from his grasp, leaving him momentarily defenseless.

The match came to a standstill as the surroundings went silent.

"....I...Concede..."

Gene said as he closed his eyes with frustration. He had tried his best but it was bad luck that he was chosen by me.

Even if not for the exile, I was already strong enough to be in the Kshatriya class of the Freljord academy. He had little hopes of victory in the first place.

"Match ends. Victor, Eren Pendragon."

The staff announced as he heard Gene's confession.

I lowered my sword in response and extended my hand to Gene.

"It was a good match."

I said as Gene shook hands with me.

That was the least I could do.

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Bonus Chapter ~ (For reaching 200 power stones per week)