Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

After the snow mountain training concluded, Instructor Keith addressed the training corps. His sharp gaze swept across the group, and his tone was laced with harsh approval.

"Very good, you cowards actually managed to find a leader, proving your brains aren't completely broken!"

The results of the training were clear: 256 recruits started, and only four were eliminated—a record low 1.8% elimination rate. This was the best performance in the history of the training corps, despite the added difficulty of an avalanche that had blocked the way.

The primary reason for their success? A strong leader who had stepped forward when others faltered. Keith's eyes rested momentarily on Ryo, whose actions had led the recruits to overcome their fears and challenges.

"But don't think you'll always have the luxury of relying on others," Keith declared coldly. "From now on, things will get much harder."

The crowd's murmurs quieted as Keith's expression grew serious.

"During the Survey Corps' last expedition, they suffered heavy losses. A shortage of personnel means they need reinforcements—and fast."

Keith began to explain the situation, outlining that the Survey Corps required support from the Garrison Corps, the Military Police Corps, and the Training Corps. Out of the training recruits, two individuals would be selected to serve as combatants, one for three months and the other for six months.

The room erupted in shock. The recruits hadn't even completed half their training, and now they were being sent into battle?

Fear swept through the group like a chilling wind.

But amidst the sea of anxious faces, two stood out: Eren and Ryo.

Eren's eyes burned with determination, his hatred for the Titans fueling his resolve. Meanwhile, Ryo remained calm and collected, calculating the opportunity to gain experience by fighting Titans directly.

Keith noticed their expressions and couldn't suppress a small smirk. Both were eager, but for very different reasons. However, Keith quickly dismissed Eren as a candidate. While his determination was admirable, his skills weren't yet refined enough to ensure survival. Besides, Keith felt a responsibility to protect him, knowing the connection between Eren's family and himself.

Keith's voice boomed over the crowd.

"A bunch of cowards! You're already scared before I've even announced the names. Pathetic!"

The recruits tensed, their fear intensifying.

"The two selected will be those with the best performance and leadership abilities," Keith continued. "Their names are—"

Before Keith could finish, all eyes turned toward Ryo and Mikasa. The two were the undisputed top trainees, with strength and skills far beyond their peers.

Ryo's expression revealed quiet satisfaction, while Mikasa's was tinged with worry. Her thoughts weren't for herself but for Eren. She feared what might happen to him without her constant presence to protect him.

Armin noticed her concern and leaned closer. "It'll be okay, Mikasa. I'll watch over Eren while you're away."

Mikasa nodded hesitantly, her trust in Armin slightly easing her mind.

Nearby, Krista's worry was evident as well. Her voice trembled as she looked up at Ryo. "Please, don't go…"

She clutched his sleeve tightly, her tearful eyes pleading with him.

"Krista…" Ryo's tone softened as he placed a hand on her head. "I'll be fine. You don't need to worry about me."

"But the mortality rate—" Her voice broke.

"I'll come back," he reassured her firmly. "I promise."

As Keith finally called out the names, the recruits held their breath.

"The two chosen are Ryo Carter and Mikasa Ackerman!"

The room fell silent, and all eyes turned to the pair. Ryo's calm acceptance and Mikasa's quiet resolve stood in stark contrast to the unease spreading among the rest of the recruits.

Keith closed his notebook with a snap. "You two have been selected. Make sure you're ready for what lies ahead. The Survey Corps doesn't tolerate weakness or hesitation."

Ryo nodded, his mind already focused on the challenges to come. Mikasa glanced back toward Eren and Armin, her heart heavy but resolute.

Krista stood frozen, her worry unabated despite Ryo's reassurances. She clenched her fists, silently vowing to support him however she could, even if it was from afar.

The stage was set, and the battlefield awaited.