Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

As soon as the news was announced, everyone's attention was immediately drawn to it.

Instructor Keith emphasized in class that anyone failing this course would be eliminated, and the primary standard for failure was not reaching the camp. Simply arriving at the destination was the bare minimum requirement, and failing to meet it meant disqualification. It was a stark reminder of how grueling this training would be.

The trainees were visibly shocked but quickly began their preparations in silence. No one wanted to be left behind at this critical stage.

By now, they had endured the toughest part of the recruit period. With just over a year left, stability meant survival. Passing the course would secure their futures, whether in the Garrison or the Military Police. Both paths promised steady jobs, freedom from hunger, and the possibility of a peaceful life within the walls—perhaps even a chance to settle down and marry.

Failure, however, meant losing everything.

The atmosphere in the camp grew tense as trainees worked hard to prepare for the challenge, including Krista, who was determined not to be eliminated.

Ryo, on the other hand, remained calm. He had quietly purchased cold-weather gear from the system: clothing designed to withstand freezing temperatures, along with two thermoses for hot water during the journey. This was no ordinary trek—it would span several days, with nights spent in the wilderness.

He prepared everything meticulously, ensuring both he and Krista would be ready. After their last encounter with the lake, where they had no spare clothing, the system's newly unlocked clothing store became invaluable. Although the items weren't free and cost him precious resources, Ryo considered it worth the investment.

For himself and Krista, he purchased matching white down jackets—light yet exceptionally warm, designed to protect against the harshest cold without hindering movement. This reduced their need for bulky supplies, allowing them to focus on carrying essentials like food.

To sustain himself, Ryo stocked up on compressed biscuits—practical but notoriously unpalatable. For Krista, however, he splurged on beef jerky, knowing she deserved better. The expense was painful; he had to sacrifice two months' worth of rations and even exchange some experience points for additional funds.

"This training is bankrupting me," Ryo muttered, half-joking to himself. "If this happens a few more times, I might not even have pants left!"

When Krista tried on the down jacket, her face lit up with delight. "Wow, this is so beautiful!"

"Do you like it?" Ryo asked, a warm smile spreading across his face. Seeing her happiness made all the effort worthwhile.

"I love it!" Krista exclaimed, holding the jacket close and sniffing its fabric with a blissful expression. She seemed completely captivated.

"If you like it so much, why don't you try it on?" Ryo encouraged her, eager to see her wearing the jacket.

Blushing slightly, Krista nodded. "Alright, wait for me here. I'll go change and be back soon!"

Ryo chuckled and teased, "Why not just change here? No one else is around."

Krista's cheeks turned a deeper shade of red. "Ryo, no peeking!" she stammered shyly.

Ryo raised an eyebrow, amused by her reaction. Was she actually serious?

However, he quickly shook his head. The current temperature, dipping below ten degrees, made it unwise for her to change clothes outside. Catching a cold during training would be disastrous.

"I'm kidding," Ryo reassured her. "Go back to the dormitory to change. You'll be warmer there."

Krista nodded, her blush deepening as she walked away with the jacket.

Her heart felt warm and full. Ryo not only prepared such beautiful clothes for her but also thought about her well-being every step of the way. She had wanted to thank him in some way, perhaps even give him something in return, but her embarrassment held her back. And yet, he had refused anything in return.

It was decided. **She would follow Ryo for the rest of her life.**