Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

The strength of a group always surpasses that of individuals.

In a group, members naturally support one another, helping to overcome challenges and boosting morale.

The disorganization earlier wasn't because people lacked the will to work together, but because the stronger ones at the front hadn't thought to organize or lead. They focused on their own speed and left the others behind.

As time passed, the gap widened, leaving stragglers scattered throughout the snowy mountains. With broken formations and dwindling morale, the situation became worse, and their performance plummeted.

But Ryo's appearance changed everything. He became their pillar of support, setting a steady pace everyone could follow. It wasn't too fast to exhaust them but just consistent enough to give hope and maintain morale.

Despite the difficulties of climbing snowy mountains, his guidance made the journey manageable. With this newfound unity, Ryo was confident they could arrive by the next afternoon, something the instructors likely hadn't anticipated.

Krista, looking thoughtful, finally understood his reasoning. "Ah, I get it! So this is what they mean by 'haste makes waste,' right?"

Ryo chuckled. "Smart girl."

He noticed sweat glistening on Krista's forehead from her efforts to help others. Taking out a handkerchief, he gently wiped her brow. "You must be thirsty. Want some water?"

Krista's cheeks turned red as she fidgeted uncomfortably. "I… uh, I drank a lot of water earlier. Now I really need to… you know…"

Ryo raised an eyebrow and grinned. "Oh, so that's why you've been standing like that, crossing your legs."

"Stop teasing me!" Krista exclaimed, her face flushed with embarrassment. She quickly moved to cover his mouth.

"Alright, alright, I'll stop," he said, stifling a laugh. "But, seriously, do you need help finding a spot? We're in the middle of the wilderness, after all. It's not like there's a restroom nearby."

Krista hesitated, her face growing redder. "I don't want to go alone… but this is so embarrassing."

"Don't worry, I'll find a safe spot for you. Nothing's going to happen while I'm around," Ryo said reassuringly, patting her head.

Leading the way, Ryo scouted out an area sheltered from the wind, ensuring it was secure. "Alright, this is a good spot. I'll stay nearby and keep watch, so you don't have to worry about anything."

Krista hesitated but eventually nodded. "Okay… thank you."

As she stepped behind the cover, Ryo turned his back to give her privacy. While he waited, he thought about how much water he'd drunk himself and decided it was a good time to relieve his own needs.

Finding a spot close enough to keep an eye on Krista but far enough to give her space, he quickly took care of business. The cold wind against his skin made the experience less than pleasant, but he shook it off, chuckling at the absurdity of the situation.

When Krista still hadn't returned after some time, Ryo called out, "Krista, are you okay? You've been in there for a while."

A soft, embarrassed voice replied, "Um… Ryo… I forgot to bring paper…"

Ryo blinked, then laughed softly. "Hold on, I'll get you some."

Grabbing a small packet of tissues from his bag, he walked closer, handing it over without looking her way. "Here. All set now?"

"…Thank you," Krista mumbled, her voice barely audible.

Ryo smiled to himself, leaning against a nearby tree to wait. Despite the awkwardness, he couldn't help but admire Krista's courage and determination, even in moments like these.

A/N: Updating Stability will be back to normal from tomorrow onwards I'm really sorry the inconvenience