Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

Five hours passed, and it was already afternoon.

Footprints scattered across the snowy mountain marked the slow and steady ascent of Ryo and Krista. Despite their unhurried pace, the physical effort generated enough heat to keep them warm. Ryo, wrapped in his well-prepared down jacket, was already sweating slightly, while Krista had shed her hat, revealing her static-charged hair.

Her startled yelp as the static shocked her hand made Ryo chuckle. "That was cute," he teased, his eyes softening at her reaction.

Finding a sheltered spot, Ryo laid out the waterproof canvas he'd brought and unpacked the food he'd meticulously prepared. "Here, take a break and eat something. We've been walking for hours."

Krista took the offered beef jerky but paused, noticing the unappealing compressed biscuits in Ryo's hands. "Ryo, why is your food different from mine?"

Ryo waved dismissively. "This stuff tastes terrible. Just enjoy the jerky; didn't you say it's your favorite?"

Krista frowned, catching on to his self-sacrificing nature. "You're giving me the best food again, aren't you?" Her voice softened, and her determination sparked. "I want to try those biscuits too."

"No need," Ryo replied, shaking his head with a smile. "Trust me, you're not missing anything."

But Krista was resolute. Flashing him her gentlest smile, she said, "I've had enough jerky for now. Let me have a taste of what you're having."

Ryo raised an eyebrow, seeing through her intent. "You're unbelievable," he muttered, shaking his head in mock exasperation. He handed her a portion of the biscuits. "Fine, here. But don't say I didn't warn you."

Krista bit into the biscuit and forced a smile, though her scrunched-up face betrayed the truth. "It's... okay," she managed, causing Ryo to burst into laughter.

After sharing the meal—Krista insisting on splitting the beef jerky with him—they resumed their climb. Along the way, they began encountering stragglers from the main group. These were the ones who had fallen behind, their morale waning with every step.

Krista's compassion quickly kicked in. "Everyone, stay together! We can make it if we support each other!" she called out, her voice carrying an infectious hope.

Ryo sighed but didn't protest, having anticipated her reaction. Krista's heart wouldn't let her abandon anyone, no matter the difficulty. She handed out food and water, offering encouragement to those who were struggling. Though most of the others had their supplies, her words lifted their spirits.

As the group grew, so did their confidence. Ryo's steady leadership and Krista's uplifting presence revitalized the stragglers, transforming the once-scattered individuals into a cohesive team. By nightfall, they had gathered over a hundred followers.

When they reached a suitable resting point, Ryo announced, "We'll camp here for the night. Rest up, and we'll continue tomorrow. At this pace, we'll reach the finish line by afternoon."

Krista blinked in surprise. "But the instructors said it would take at least two to three days!"

Ryo chuckled, shaking his head. "We're walking 'slowly,' remember?"

Krista tilted her head, unconvinced. "How can we be early if we're slow?"

"Because we're united," Ryo explained. "Usually, people get scattered along the way, and those who fall behind drag the overall progress. But thanks to you, everyone's sticking together. That unity keeps the pace steady, and no one is left behind."

Krista's cheeks flushed at his compliment, but she beamed nonetheless. With Ryo's guidance and her unwavering optimism, the group's journey continued, determined to reach their goal together.