Chapter 35: What’s your first name again?
Isaac, still fully invested under the identity of Mordred, finally completed one last series of movements, his body literally dripping with sweat. His torso was covered in salty streaks, his hair plastered against his face, and every fiber of his muscles seemed to burn intensely after the relentless effort of this solitary day’s training.
As he slowly caught his breath, the door to the courtyard opened softly, revealing Akane calmly striding towards him. Their eyes met immediately, and Isaac instantly felt his heart quicken slightly.
- So," she asked, her voice soft but tinged with a certain authority, "how did your training go?
Isaac raised his head slightly, giving her a tired but sincere smile:
- Exhausting... but your movements are incredible. I’m beginning to understand better how to use my body. Thank you, Akane.
She detailed him at length, her green eyes shining with clearly visible interest. She seemed genuinely pleased, intrigued by this stubborn young human who, despite all his injuries, continued to train relentlessly.
- Don’t thank me too quickly," she retorted calmly, but a slight gentleness was evident in her cold gaze. The hardest part is yet to come. Never forget that.
He nodded slowly, accepting her remark without question.
- I’ll do whatever it takes to survive. Whatever it takes.
She slowly sketched an enigmatic, almost tender smile, then murmured softly:
- I’m beginning to be convinced, Mordred. Perhaps you really are different...