"Good, no one gave up. Very good!" The instructor's voice boomed with approval. "I am proud of your choice. In this case, everyone must cheer up and practice hard!"
The balance training for three-dimensional maneuvering had officially begun.
The training involved a massive balance frame where participants were hoisted into the air via a winch. The challenge required trainees to control their body's balance entirely on their own. Those who couldn't manage were promptly eliminated.
This exercise was a foundational step—if they couldn't maintain balance here, they'd have no hope of handling the dynamic movements required for three-dimensional maneuvering during live combat against Titans. Out on the battlefield, every soldier needed to find balance in high-speed motion, often while dodging deadly attacks or preparing counterstrikes.
The key to mastering this was overcoming fear, relaxing under pressure, and learning to control one's body instinctively.
A Natural Talent
Ryo Carter adjusted the straps of his gear and stepped up to the challenge. Balance came easily to him. While the equipment was cumbersome and far from perfect, his instincts allowed him to stay steady.
However, the uncomfortable harness dug into his body. "If only I could fly freely without this flawed equipment," Ryo mused to himself. The thought of soaring through the air unassisted was tantalizing but unrealistic for now.
Ryo completed the balance training with ease. However, others weren't so lucky. Trainees struggled to steady themselves, repeatedly crashing to the ground.
Eren's Struggles
Among the struggling students was Eren Yeager. He continuously lost his balance and fell, drawing laughter and mockery from his peers.
"Hah! He talks about killing Titans but can't even stand straight. Maybe he's the one who's going to get expelled!" one student sneered.
Eren clenched his fists in frustration, his face flushed with humiliation. His determination burned, but his faulty belt prevented him from stabilizing.
Ryo observed silently, choosing not to intervene. While Eren's fiery resolve was admirable, Ryo believed struggles like these were crucial for growth. Besides, Ryo harbored lingering resentment toward Eren for reasons tied to the future.
A Blossoming Connection
Ryo shifted his attention elsewhere, a gentle smile forming on his lips. He approached Krista Lenz, who stood nearby with her ever-present companion, Ymir.
"Krista!" Ryo called out.
Krista flinched slightly, startled by his sudden approach. Ymir stepped protectively between them, glaring daggers at Ryo. However, seeing no malice in his intent, she reluctantly stepped aside, muttering something under her breath as she walked away.
"Ryo, is there something you need?" Krista asked, her tone light and curious.
Ryo smiled warmly. "Not much. I was wondering if you'd like to take a walk with me."
Krista blinked in surprise. "Oh, sure! I'd love to!" She clasped her hands behind her back, looking up at him with bright, expectant eyes.
Without a word, Ryo revealed a small bouquet of delicate yellow flowers from behind his back, as if by magic. He handed them to Krista with a flourish.
"These are for you," he said.
Krista's face lit up with delight. She took the flowers and inhaled deeply, the sweet fragrance filling her senses. "They smell amazing! What are they called?"
"Osmanthus," Ryo replied, his voice soft. "Their scent is calming, and the flowers can even be used to make tea. I found them growing in the hills near the camp."
Krista beamed at him, clutching the flowers to her chest. "Thank you, Ryo. These are beautiful."
For a moment, the harsh realities of their world faded, replaced by the gentle warmth of a budding friendship.