Chapter 125 The Commendation Ceremony

The crowd erupted into thunderous cheers.

Mikasa's presence on stage had drawn even more excitement. Her pure, delicate appearance contrasted sharply with her formidable combat skills, making the audience's admiration skyrocket.

"As expected of the Survey Corps! Even their female soldiers are this strong!"

"If third place took down five titans, how many did first place manage?"

As speculation spread, the announcer continued.

"Now, we welcome the soldier who placed second in this operation—Oluo Bozart! He successfully defeated six titans, bringing his total to 45!"

Oluo stepped onto the stage with a proud grin, basking in the cheers. His demeanor showed he was no stranger to this kind of recognition.

"Haha, this guy again. That's the third time, right?" Eld smirked, nudging Genta beside him.

Genta nodded. "Yeah, the third time. He's got some serious luck."

Nearby, Ryo chuckled as he overheard them. Was there a hint of jealousy in Genta's tone?

"Well, I think Ryo will surpass him soon. He's more than just a rookie—he's practically a monster."

Eld patted Genta's shoulder in agreement. "Yeah, scarier than a monster, actually."

Ryo sighed. "Hey, hey, is that any way for seniors to talk about a junior? Calling me a monster—come on!"

It wasn't like he had called himself that. If anyone deserved that title, it was Levi or Erwin. One had insane combat abilities, and the other was a master strategist. Compared to them, he was just taking advantage of the system.

---

"Now, we solemnly invite Ryo Carter, the soldier who ranked first in titan subjugations during this operation!"

Ryo froze for a second. Who had reported his name like that? He had always been Ryo, not "Lin Quan." He sighed but stepped forward as all eyes turned to him.

"This was his first time participating in an expedition beyond the walls, yet he set a new record—defeating 22 titans in a single operation! He now ranks second on the Survey Corps' all-time titan defeat list. Let's give our loudest applause to this guardian of humanity!"

President Darius had fully shifted into the role of a host, delivering an exaggerated introduction that made Ryo question if the man was secretly his fan.

Ryo waved and smiled. "Uh… hi, everyone."

The cheers surged even louder. His youth, impressive kill count, and natural charisma had turned him into an instant celebrity.

"Lord Ryo!"

Suddenly, a wave of fangirls in the crowd screamed his name, their admiration pouring out with no restraint.

Ryo's eyelid twitched. Was this a commendation ceremony or an idol concert?

Darius chuckled and patted Ryo's shoulder. "This is your bonus. Keep it safe, and keep up the great work for humanity."

He handed over a heavy bag of coins—220 gold coins in total. A significant sum, but to Ryo, it felt lighter than air.

---

After the ceremony, the Survey Corps left the Royal City the same day.

They could have stayed longer—Erwin had planned to meet with key politicians to secure more funding. However, the Military Police weren't keen on their presence. Using the excuse that the Survey Corps might "disturb public order," they promptly forced them out.

"Tch. Those guys hold grudges," Oluo grumbled. "I didn't even get to spend my money before getting kicked out."

"Heh, this place is better left behind anyway," Hange scoffed. "Only the Military Police would want to stay here. These fools think the walls will protect them forever."

She had no patience for the Royal City's residents, who lived in ignorance of the real threat beyond the walls. If walls alone were enough, then the people behind Wall Maria wouldn't have been devoured.

---

"Mikasa, let's return to the training corps tomorrow."

Now that the operation was over, they had permission to leave. The two of them originally belonged to the training corps, so they would be heading back there.

"Alright." Mikasa nodded, though a hint of hesitation flickered in her eyes.

She was looking forward to seeing Eren again, but at the same time… she had enjoyed this time outside the walls. And the person beside her—Ryo—gave her a deep sense of security. It was a feeling she had grown attached to.

That night, they camped outside since they couldn't reach base before dark.

Erwin, seated by lamplight, was reviewing documents when a soldier handed him a letter.

"Captain Erwin, this just arrived from the post station."

Erwin glanced at the envelope, noting the emblem of two crossed swords. It was from the training corps.

"Alright, got it. You're dismissed."

As the soldier left, Erwin opened the letter, his expression unreadable in the dim light.