Chapter 26 Ryo Teaching Krista

"How is it? Is it fast?"

Ryo smiled and lowered his fist. Naturally, he wouldn't actually hit her; the temples are a vulnerable spot, and a serious injury could have dire consequences. If Krista ended up hurt or worse, who would he have to cry to?

"Hmm, it's really fast! How did you do that?"

Krista's curiosity was piqued. Ymir had always been thorough during their training sessions, explaining every move and precaution and helping her improve. Ryo's approach seemed different, more intuitive yet precise, and Krista wanted to understand it better.

"It starts with explosive power," Ryo explained patiently. "Generally, a punch like that requires a subtle preparation step. As I inhale and tighten my core, I've already begun the charge. It's quick, almost imperceptible. Then you watch for micro-movements in your opponent's body—muscles tensing, joints shifting. These tiny tells can reveal their next move before they act."

He demonstrated again, slower this time, breaking down the steps so Krista could see them clearly.

"Wow! It looks easy when you do it, but..." Krista tried it herself, mimicking his movements. Her punches, however, felt off, as if she couldn't generate the same fluid motion.

"Don't rush," Ryo reassured her. "Your body is different, and it's okay to adjust the technique to suit you. It's about finding what works for you, not copying me exactly."

"But Mikasa can do it!" Krista pouted, her eyes betraying a mix of frustration and determination.

Ryo chuckled awkwardly. "Mikasa's an exception, Krista. She's... well, stronger than most of us. It's great to aim high, but if you need a more realistic reference, think of Sasha."

Krista looked skeptical but nodded slowly. Sasha, who had been standing nearby, suddenly piped up, "Wait, are you saying I'm weak?"

Ryo smirked but didn't miss a beat. "Not at all. I mean Krista can aim to match your strength because it's impressive in its own right. Right, Sasha?"

Sasha blinked, clearly flattered by the unintended compliment. "Oh, of course! Don't worry, Krista, I'll help you become as strong as me!"

As Sasha walked off, Krista whispered, "You tricked her, didn't you?"

Ryo just smiled and gestured for Krista to continue her training. They worked on improving her reaction time, strength, and focus. At times, Ryo even sparred lightly with her, pushing her just enough to help her learn but not enough to cause any harm. By the end of their session, Krista was tired but had a newfound determination.

When Ryo handed her back to Ymir for further practice, his attention shifted. A commotion on the other side of the training ground drew his gaze—it seemed Mikasa and Annie were about to face off.

"Mikasa, don't interfere! This is between me and Annie!" Eren, sporting several bruises and swelling, tried to dissuade Mikasa from stepping in.

Annie smirked faintly, her tone calm but confident. "Hmph, strength alone can't beat skill. Do you want to test that theory?"

Mikasa didn't even glance at Eren. Her voice was low, but the steel in her tone was unmistakable. "Annie, you've had your fun with Eren. Now, let's see how your skill holds up against my strength."

A subtle shift in Annie's expression revealed her interest. Mikasa was no ordinary opponent, and the air around them grew tense as everyone stopped what they were doing to watch. Even Ryo felt his pulse quicken; this was a battle he didn't want to miss.