NOVEL NEXT Chapter 35: Chapter 32
All Eren wanted was someone to help him train. He didn't care if it hurt—he knew that to grow stronger, sacrifices had to be made.
When Ryo Akira offered to spar, Eren didn't hesitate. Despite Mikasa's visible reluctance, Eren gave a firm nod.
"In that case, I'll leave it to Ryo!"
Ryo smiled, brushing off the moment. "Don't slack off, though. I won't go easy on you." He checked his watch and excused himself. "Time for lunch. Afterward, I'm taking her out for a walk."
The "her" he referred to was none other than his angel, a gentle and quiet presence in his life. For over a month, they'd been consumed by rigorous training, and Ryo couldn't wait to share some peace with her again.
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As time passed, the kingdom began recovering from the terror of the Titan invasion. The loss of nearly 200,000 people during the initial attack had left a scar on humanity's psyche. The fear of food shortages loomed large, driving many into despair.
The Titans' presence beyond the walls was a constant threat. Wandering endlessly, they turned the lands outside into a deathtrap. Crossing the wall meant leaving behind life itself.
However, three years had passed since Wall Maria fell. Despite periodic attacks on Wall Rose, it had held firm. For now, humanity clung to this fragile stability, but complacency was dangerous.
This realization spurred a shift in public opinion. The Survey Corps, once dismissed as reckless and wasteful, now symbolized hope. Their missions beyond the walls were no longer seen as futile. Instead, people understood the need to uncover the secrets of the Titans to stand a chance in this war.
The Survey Corps' mission was clear: reclaim Wall Maria. This would not only restore lost territory but also strengthen humanity's dwindling population and resources, vital for survival.
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When the Survey Corps prepared for their next expedition, the streets were packed with well-wishers. Cheers erupted as the soldiers marched.
The 104th Cadet Corps was assigned to maintain order and assist with the preparation. Among the recruits, Jean Kirstein grumbled as he struggled to hold back the surging crowd.
"Ugh, can't these people just stay still? They're making it impossible to control anything!"
Nearby, Marco Bott gave Jean a patient smile. "You can't blame them. The Survey Corps are heroes to these people. Did you hear about the 51st expedition? They took down over 200 Titans and captured a 4-meter Titan alive."
Jean scoffed, unimpressed. "Yeah, sure. And how many of them died? Fifty percent of their recruits don't even survive their first mission. I'll stick to my goal—the Military Police."
Marco sighed, knowing he couldn't change Jean's mind. Unlike Jean, Marco admired the bravery of the Survey Corps. It wasn't just about survival but about facing impossible odds for the greater good.
Amid the bustling crowd, Marco's gaze shifted across the street, landing on a familiar face.
Eren Yeager stood with Mikasa and Armin, watching the Survey Corps march. Determination radiated from Eren, who had made his goal clear from day one: to join the Survey Corps and fight for humanity's survival.
Eren wasn't the only one, though. Standing nearby, Ryo Akira watched silently, his sharp eyes taking in the scene. While others hesitated or dreamed of safety, Ryo's purpose was firm. He wouldn't just fight the Titans—he intended to change the game entirely.