Chapter 79 The Day of Departure

The five days leading up to the Survey Corps' expedition passed swiftly. Soon, the day to head beyond the walls arrived.

A vast procession unfolded before the eyes of humanity: over a thousand soldiers, more than 200 carriages, and upwards of 2,000 horses. The formation of the Survey Corps exuded an imposing and inspiring presence.

For those living within the confines of Wall Rose, the fear and humiliation inflicted by the Titans were constants. These emotions turned into unyielding support for the Survey Corps. Early that morning, crowds lined the streets, their cheers reverberating through the air.

"Go, Survey Corps! Humanity's hope rests on your shoulders!"

"Captain Erwin, bring us good news!"

"That's my son! He's serving humanity! Make us proud, son!"

The bustling streets were alive with fervent voices.

Ryo sat astride his horse, positioned alongside Captain Levi and the others in their small unit near the center of the formation. Their duty was to guard Captain Erwin, a crucial role even inside the walls.

While this was technically a safe zone, danger was omnipresent. Inside the walls, invisible enemies posed an even greater threat than Titans. Unlike the mindless Titans, these adversaries wielded intelligence and cunning, making them far more unpredictable and perilous.

The royal family, ever fearful of the Survey Corps breaking free of their control, harbored strong opposition to the Corps' existence. Their spies were an ever-present threat.

As the convoy moved, the cheers of the crowd deeply impacted the younger recruits. Many of them had never experienced such a display of support, especially those who had previously served in the Garrison or Military Police. Unlike the Survey Corps, these divisions were often the subject of scorn rather than admiration.

Mikasa, riding nearby, felt a swell of conflicting emotions. Years ago, she had stood among the crowd with Eren, watching the Survey Corps depart. Back then, they were filled with hope and admiration for those who ventured beyond the walls.

Now, it was her turn to venture into the unknown. The thought of seeing the world beyond the walls stirred a mix of anticipation and apprehension.

"If there's freedom beyond the walls, I'll bring back that truth to Eren," she resolved silently. "But if it's a hellish landscape of despair, I'll do everything to dissuade him from leaving the safety of the walls."

Ryo, on the other hand, seemed preoccupied. While the world beyond the walls intrigued him, his thoughts were focused elsewhere.

---

"System, show me my current stats," Ryo commanded inwardly.

In preparation for the battle ahead, Ryo reviewed his attributes, which had improved significantly over time.

Current Stats:

- Strength: 89

- Stamina: 92

- Constitution: 88

- Agility: 83

- Spirit: 79

He had accumulated 45 experience points and reached Level 8. Another 95 points were needed to advance to the next rank.

Curiosity struck, and Ryo checked the stats of those around him. To his surprise, Captain Levi's data was hidden, displayed as purple question marks.

Even Mikasa's stats, though impressive with all categories above 80, paled in comparison to the captain's. The rest of Levi's squad also boasted formidable stats, most surpassing 75.

"Why can't I see Levi's attributes?" Ryo questioned the system.

"The opponent's total stats exceed the host's, rendering them inaccessible," the system replied.

Ryo frowned. "How can his strength surpass mine? With my current stats, I should be among the strongest."

"While your stats are remarkable, combat experience is a unique attribute granted at higher levels. The captain's experience far surpasses yours, granting him the edge."

Understanding dawned on Ryo. Levi's strength wasn't just physical—it was honed by countless battles, a depth of skill that no raw stats could rival.

Still, this revelation only fueled Ryo's determination.

As the gates of the city loomed ahead, Ryo tightened his grip on his reins. The fifty-second expedition beyond the walls awaited, and with it, a chance to prove his mettle against the Titans.

He glanced at Mikasa and then at the crowd behind them. The cheers faded into the background as his resolve solidified. Whatever lay beyond the walls, he would face it head-on, not just for himself, but for the humanity counting on them.