The city of Wall Rose slept under a thick blanket of snow, the streets quiet but for the faint echoes of distant patrols. Elias Kruger moved silently through the alleys, his cloak pulled tight against the cold. Vince Carter followed closely, eyes scanning for patrols and possible threats.
Tonight, the mission was not just about protecting civilians or expanding influence—it was personal. A contact from the underworld had warned of a new figure entering Wall Rose: Kenny Ackerman, Elias's father's cousin and a man whose name carried whispered fear in both the criminal underworld and military ranks.
Elias's heart beat faster—not from fear, but from calculation. He knew Kenny's reputation: ruthless, efficient, and deadly. And now, he would meet him face to face.
Predator's Hunger activated.
[Calories Consumed: 950 → Strength +0.5, Reflex +0.4]
Status Window
Name: Elias Kruger
Age: 12 (Reincarnated)
Lineage: Ackerman (Father cousin to Kenny Ackerman)
Health: 100%
Stamina: 85%
Strength: High
Reflexes: Very High
Skill Set:
Swordsmanship: Advanced +0.35
Negotiation: Expert +0.15
Tactical Acumen: Advanced +0.25
Nobility Influence: Moderate +0.1
Stealth: Expert
Resource Management: Intermediate
Special Traits:
Predator's Hunger: Gains strength and reflex by consuming food; system upgrades available through missions
Ackerman Lineage: Multiplies physical abilities by 10 when protecting family; tactical bursts in combat
Double Life: Garrison cadet by day, shadow operator by night
First Encounter
The meeting point was an abandoned warehouse near the outskirts of the district. Snow swirled around the building, muffling their footsteps. Elias entered first, sword sheathed but ready. Vince followed, ledger tucked under arm, ready to assist with timing, strategy, or distraction.
A single candle flickered in the warehouse, casting long shadows. And then he appeared: Kenny Ackerman. His eyes were sharp, calculating, and cold.
"You're… younger than I expected," Kenny said, voice smooth but dangerous. "I heard rumors. Ackerman blood in the cadet ranks. I wondered if it was true."
Elias's expression remained calm. "And now you see it for yourself. I'm Elias Kruger. I've heard of your reputation."
Kenny smiled faintly. "You've heard? You already know. Interesting. You must be… special."
Tactical Observation
Vince whispered, barely audible, "He's testing you. Watch his movements. He won't strike first unless necessary."
Elias nodded. His past life knowledge and Predator's Hunger system pulsed, alerting him to every subtle motion Kenny made. Their duel was not yet physical; it was a dance of observation, mental calculation, and testing limits.
[System Mission Assigned: Mission 006 – Evaluate Ackerman Cousin & Survive Encounter]
[Reward Pending: Tactical Acumen +0.2, Swordsmanship +0.2, Nobility Influence +0.1]
Family Motivation
Elias's thoughts drifted briefly to Lila, Finn, and Otto. Protecting them wasn't just a duty—it was the anchor of his soul. The Ackerman lineage surged faintly, reminding him of the power he could wield when family was threatened.
Vince leaned close. "Remember, we handle this like any mission: calm, strategic, minimal risk."
Elias nodded, exhaling slowly. "Understood. Let's proceed."
The Duel
Kenny moved first—a subtle, almost imperceptible strike aimed to test reflexes. Elias reacted instinctively, sword flashing to block, movement amplified by Ackerman power.
Time slowed. Ackerman Tactical Burst ×5
Each strike and parry flowed with calculated precision. Vince monitored civilians outside, ensuring no collateral damage. Kenny was strong, but Elias had advantages: knowledge of past events, Predator's Hunger enhancements, and the tactical synergy with Vince.
"Impressive," Kenny said, circling. "You're not reckless… and you survive because you calculate every move. Most young Ackermans never do."
Sibling POV – Lila
From their hidden vantage point, Lila watched silently. "Big brother… he's so strong…"
Finn gripped her hand. "He's always amazing. But… is he really just a cadet?"
Otto frowned, observing silently. "He's… different. Calm, precise, but dangerous. I think he's hiding something. But I trust him."
Even from a distance, their admiration was fierce. They sensed his power, his responsibility, and the lengths he would go to protect them.
Strategy and Teamwork
Kenny attempted to flank Elias, but Vince intervened with precise timing. Using a thrown object to distract Kenny, Vince created an opening for Elias to maneuver.
Predator's Hunger activated: Calories consumed 1000 → Strength +0.55, Reflex +0.45
Elias moved like a phantom, combining stealth, combat skill, and strategic awareness. Kenny's strikes were fast and deadly, but Elias anticipated, countered, and evaded with minimal exposure.
[System Update: Mission Progress – 50%]
Major Threat Escalation
Suddenly, a loud roar echoed outside. Two Titans approached the district, drawn by the warehouse's activity. Civilians screamed as the military attempted to engage them.
Elias's heart pounded. Protecting his siblings, neutralizing Kenny if necessary, and handling the Titans—all simultaneously—was a test unlike any before.
Vince's calm voice cut through. "Civilians are routed. Focus on the warehouse and Kenny. Titans will follow the path we create."
Ackerman Power Activated: Family Trigger ×10
Time slowed dramatically. Elias moved with precision, striking and parrying Kenny's attacks while simultaneously predicting Titan movements, leading them away from civilians. Vince executed his tactical guidance flawlessly, ensuring both safety and efficiency.
[System Update: Mission Progress – 90%]
Resolution
Finally, Kenny stepped back, breathing lightly, a rare smile crossing his face. "You're… remarkable. Ackerman blood, yes… but far beyond mere instinct. I see potential. Keep your siblings safe, and perhaps we'll meet again."
Elias lowered his sword, breathing heavily. "I intend to. But remember this—if anyone threatens them or my city, I will not hesitate."
Kenny's smile faded. "Understood. Be careful, young one. The world beyond the Walls is far harsher than you realize."
Aftermath and Reflection
Back at the hideout, Elias and Vince cataloged every detail. Status window refreshed:
Name: Elias Kruger
Health: 100%
Stamina: 80% (exhausted from duel & Titan diversion)
Strength: Very High
Reflexes: Peak
Skill Set Updates:
Swordsmanship: Advanced +0.55
Negotiation: Expert +0.15
Tactical Acumen: Advanced +0.45
Nobility Influence: Moderate +0.2
Stealth: Expert
Resource Management: Intermediate
Mission Rewards:
Tactical Acumen +0.2
Swordsmanship +0.2
Nobility Influence +0.1
The siblings slept peacefully that night, unaware of the intensity their brother faced. Yet the admiration and trust in Elias deepened, even without full understanding. Lila, Finn, and Otto would wake, feeling the invisible shield their big brother cast over them.
Elias exhaled, leaning back. "One encounter with Kenny… survived. But this is only the beginning. There are greater challenges ahead. Titans, nobles, Military Police, and the world beyond the Walls…"
Vince nodded silently. "Then we prepare. Together."
Elias smiled faintly, thinking of his siblings. "Together, yes. For them, for the Walls, and for the shadows we must control.