Eren completed the hundredth push-up with a grunt, his muscles burning but his resolve unbroken. The guards who had gathered to watch his punishment had long since dispersed, leaving him alone in the training grounds as afternoon faded to evening. His athletic experience from his previous life had served him well—he'd maintained proper form throughout, refusing to let his arms buckle even as fatigue threatened to overwhelm him.
"Finished, Veilwalker?" Commander Maria had asked when he stood, sweat gleaming on his brow.
"As ordered," Eren replied, keeping his voice neutral despite the fire in his muscles.
The commander had nodded curtly before turning away. "Rest. Tomorrow will be harder."
