Armin then tried to drink more of the mystical pond water, but after the first few sips, he felt no additional benefit.
'Well, I'm not really expecting that it'll stack the effects…' Vale muttered.
It was as if the water had recognized that it had already aided him once, and no more would be granted until he proved himself worthy again.
He exhaled deeply and rose from his kneeling position...
After wiping the drops of water on his lips, he finally felt ready to continue.
With another step, he confirmed that the spiritual pressure remained, but it had dulled to a manageable level. Just like the reports, the water had not made him stronger but simply stabilized his soul enough to endure the Spiritual Pressure.
With steady steps, he continued across the stairs leading to the third floor…
"Just a few more steps…"
His legs pushed forward through the invisible weight or spiritual pressure that threatened to crush his body.
