Chapter 13 A Titan?

A distance of one thousand meters can be covered quickly, especially when using a three-dimensional maneuvering device. For experienced users, it often takes just a few minutes to reach the finish line. However, since this was training for recruits, proficiency levels varied. The instructors prioritized safety, making the goal simply to reach the finish line without mishaps.

As the training began, Ryo deliberately hung back, positioning himself just behind Krista. His sharp eyes monitored her movements, ready to intervene if anything went wrong.

"This device is amazing but incredibly troublesome," Ryo thought, feeling the weight of the equipment strapped to him.

The three-dimensional maneuvering device was undoubtedly a genius invention, allowing humans to fight Titans. Yet, its limitations were glaring to someone like Ryo. The sheer weight of the gas tanks, blades, and mechanisms made moving on foot exhausting, let alone flying through the air.

Ryo couldn't help but imagine an alternative: moving with agility and speed, unburdened by heavy gear, like the martial arts techniques he had once admired.

"System," he called out in his mind, "are there any skills that allow for high-speed movement or even flight without this bulky equipment?"

"Such abilities can be trained," the system replied coldly. "However, the host must reach the rank of a fully-fledged soldier before unlocking advanced combat skills."

Ryo sighed but didn't let the setback bother him. He had recently discovered that experience points weren't limited to completing missions. Training consistently earned him experience as well. With every passing day, he grew stronger, steadily climbing toward his goal of becoming a top-tier soldier.

As his thoughts wandered, a sudden cry pulled him back to reality.

"Ahh! Be careful!"

Ryo's eyes snapped forward just in time to see Krista losing control of her gear. She plummeted through the air like a bird with broken wings. Without hesitation, Ryo launched himself toward her.

Swoosh!

He caught her mid-air, cradling her securely in his arms.

"Krista, are you hurt?" His voice was filled with concern as he examined her for injuries.

"I… I'm okay," Krista stammered, though her face was pale and her hands trembled slightly.

But before she could say more, her wide eyes filled with terror. "Ryo… there's a Titan!"

A low, guttural roar echoed through the jungle. Ryo turned, his heart pounding. A Titan, enormous and menacing, loomed behind them, its eyes locked on the two of them like a predator sizing up its prey.