Chapter 17: Chapter 18: ODM Gear Test
The sun shone brightly in the sky as the cadets gathered in the training area.
Today was an important day.
They would be tested on their ability to use the Omnidirectional Mobility Gear (ODM Gear)—the equipment that would determine whether they were worthy of becoming soldiers.
Instructor Keith Shadis stood before them with a sharp gaze.
"LISTEN UP, YOU MAGGOTS!!!"
Adam whispered to Mikasa, "Why is he always yelling? Is he allergic to speaking quietly?"
Mikasa glanced at him, holding back a laugh.
Keith continued, "THIS TEST WILL DETERMINE WHETHER YOU CONTINUE TRAINING OR GO BACK TO YOUR MOTHER'S ARMS!!!"
The cadets swallowed nervously.
Except for Adam, who simply thought, I don't have a mother in this world, so I'm safe.
As Adam stepped into line, someone gently tugged at his sleeve.
When he turned, he saw Christa, smiling warmly.
"Adam…"
"Hm? What is it, Christa?"
Christa hesitated slightly before speaking.
"Are you sure you can handle this equipment well?"
Adam gave a relaxed smile. "Of course. I learn quickly."
Chrrista lowered her gaze for a moment before looking up with a determined expression.
"Then, good luck! I know you'll do well."
Adam raised an eyebrow. "Wow, I get exclusive support from Krista?"
Christa blushed slightly. "Not just you! I'm supporting all my friends too!"
Adam chuckled. "But I'm the first one you came to, right?"
Christa turned even redder. "I-I… um…"
Before she could respond, Ymir suddenly appeared behind her with a smirk.
"Hey, Adam. Don't tease Christa too much, or she might melt."
Adam simply laughed, while Christa turned to Ymir with a flustered expression.
"Ymir! Don't say things like that!"
Adam raised his hands playfully. "Alright, alright. I'll focus on the test now."
Christa was still a little embarrassed, but she smiled softly and nodded.
Nearby, Eren and Armin also looked ready for the test.
Eren clenched his fists. "I have to pass! I must become stronger to wipe out all the Titans!"
Adam glanced at him. "Relax, Eren. Just focus on your balance. Don't fall and embarrass yourself."
Eren turned to him sharply. "I won't fall!"
On the other hand, Armin looked a bit nervous.
Adam patted his shoulder. "Hey, Armin. You got this."
Armin gave a nervous smile. "I hope so… This equipment is hard to control."
Adam nodded confidently. "I believe in you."
Armin seemed a little more at ease after hearing those words.
The Test Begins!
One by one, the cadets started using their ODM Gear.
Some succeeded immediately, while others flipped upside down and swung uncontrollably.
When Adam's turn came, he calmly strapped the equipment around his waist.
The others watched him with anticipation.
"Alright," Adam muttered, taking a deep breath.
Time to prove my skills!
He pulled the trigger—
WHOOSH!
His ODM cables shot out perfectly, and his body lifted smoothly into the air!
Adam swung effortlessly, balancing himself as if he had been using the equipment for years.
Several cadets watched in awe.
"He mastered it instantly?!"
"That's insane! Like a veteran!"
Christa smiled happily. "I knew he could do it."
On the other side, Keith Shadis observed with sharp eyes.
This boy… interesting.
Adam finished his maneuver with a perfect landing.
He smiled in satisfaction.
"Well, not bad for a first try."
Mikasa approached him. "Good job."
Eren, though slightly jealous, gave a small smile. "You're really talented, Adam."
Armin let out a sigh of relief. "I'm glad you passed."
Adam glanced at Christa, who was still smiling.
When their eyes met, Christa blushed slightly and quickly looked away.
Adam just smiled softly.