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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.

In a case, if a lower-ranked student emerged victorious against a higher-ranked opponent. The winner would claim the rank of the higher-rank student, while the defeated student would experience a one rank demotion, their pride taking a blow. Such upsets were both thrilling and unpredictable, keeping the battles charged with excitement.

In the event that a high-ranking student failed to show up for a challenged match, their rank would be immediately swapped with the challenger, regardless of the disparity between them. This rule served as a reminder that one's dedication and commitment could make or break their standing. Even the mightiest could fall in the face of absence and negligence.

As the ranking matches encompassed all classes, an additional rule dictated that individuals could only challenge opponents within a range of 250 ranks higher or lower than themselves. This limitation aimed to ensure that matches were competitive and prevented extreme mismatches in skill and experience.

Furthermore, to prevent an overwhelming number of matches and preserve the physical and mental well-being of the participants, each student was limited to a maximum of six battles. This restriction meant that they could only be challenged three times per ranking battle, in addition to their three opportunities to initiate challenges. While not mandatory, refusing to use all three chances came with consequences—a stagnant rank and a missed opportunity for further progress.

My personal goal for these ranking battles was crystal clear—I aimed to secure a position within the top 100. To achieve this, I had meticulously selected three mages who possessed vulnerabilities in close-range combat, an area where I excelled.

It may seem cowardly of me to do so, but it was very crucial for me to be placed among top 100 in the ranking battles, for my plans of stopping the Fire dragon, Ugram to succeed. 

With my gaze fixed on the training grounds, a flurry of emotions surged within me—determination, anticipation, and a touch of apprehension. Every muscle in my body ached, yet I refused to yield. 

"Let's end with one thousand more swings."

I thought increasing the grip over the sword in my hand.I think you should take a look at

***

Standing atop the training grounds, draped in a flowing black robe, Professor Joshua observed Eren with a stoic expression. His gaze held no trace of emotion as he silently watched over his grueling training.

Eren swung his sword with determination, each strike fueling his resolve to become stronger. But eventually, exhaustion took its toll, and he collapsed onto the ground, his chest heaving with exertion. Gasping for air, he fought to catch his breath. But it was not long after that his gaze became fixated on the plain roof and a look of determination appeared on his face.

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.

---***---