If Ray didn't know better, he would have sworn this was revenge for arriving late to the match.
Yet no matter how miserable it was, the results were undeniable. His progress was terrifyingly fast. What once felt impossible slowly became instinctive. This was pain wrapped in growth, suffering coated in reward. Pain and joy, woven together.
The news of class zero spread through the academy like wildfire. Overnight, the five students became well-known figures. Naturally, they revealed nothing about their lessons, and after a few days, curiosity faded, and life returned to its usual rhythm.
But class zero was different.
Alfred taught them personally, restructuring their curriculum entirely. Theory was deeper. Combat training was harsher. Resources were poured in without restraint. Nourishing meals, top-grade facilities, exclusive instruction. Everything President Fenris promised was delivered, without compromise.
Ten days later, Ray finally gained companions in his suffering.
