Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

Ryo nodded slightly. This outcome was entirely within his expectations.

Being assigned to Levi's squad was something Ryo had anticipated long before. If the Survey Corps hadn't made this decision previously, then his record-breaking performance during the morning test had certainly sealed the deal.

The Survey Corps would not risk placing him elsewhere. After witnessing his strength firsthand, they likely understood that few could manage someone as capable as Ryo. The only one who could effectively oversee him was undoubtedly Captain Levi himself.

The purpose of Levi's squad was to act as a piercing spear, tackling missions that no one else could complete. The squad's members were chosen from the strongest soldiers, and Ryo, alongside Mikasa, met these criteria perfectly.

Mikasa appeared a bit surprised. Though she had heard about Levi's reputation, the idea of being assigned to his squad hadn't crossed her mind. She knew Levi's name well, thanks to someone who was deeply knowledgeable about the Survey Corps. Among the names she heard most frequently were Commander Erwin and Captain Levi.

She had been told of Levi's legendary skill and the exploits of his squad, which had defeated countless Titans. However, the thought of joining such an elite group seemed far-fetched—until now.

"Alright, everyone, assignments have been announced. If there are no questions, you're dismissed!" Hanji declared cheerfully before leaving the stage.

Ryo turned to head toward Levi's squad, with Mikasa following closely behind.

"Ryo, you don't seem surprised by this at all," Mikasa remarked, her tone curious.

"Well, I guessed it would happen," Ryo replied calmly. "Nothing surprising about it."

Even as they conversed, Ryo's mind wandered to the Survey Corps' current mission. Commander Erwin's earlier words made their priorities clear: gather resources and study Titans while avoiding unnecessary losses. Combat would only occur if absolutely necessary.

Ryo knew more about the Titans than most. They were not mindless creatures born out of nowhere. Instead, Titans were transformed Eldians, exiled to this island as punishment. Injected with Titan spinal fluid, these individuals became the monstrous figures roaming beyond the walls.

This explained why, despite decades of battles and countless Titans killed, their numbers had never significantly decreased. New Titans were continually being created and dumped onto the island.

While most soldiers of the Survey Corps believed Titans were a finite enemy that could eventually be eradicated, Ryo understood otherwise. The larger truth about the world beyond the walls remained hidden, and disclosing it would only create chaos. For now, he decided it was better to stay silent and observe.

As Ryo contemplated, he and Mikasa arrived at Levi's squad headquarters.

"Hey, fresh recruits are here!" one of the squad members, Oluo, called out with a smirk. "Welcome to toilet-cleaning duty!"

"Oluo, don't bully the newcomers," Petra interjected, stepping forward. "The Captain said we should welcome new comrades properly."

Petra's warm smile immediately put Mikasa at ease. She extended her hand to them.

"Hello, I'm Petra Ral, a member of Levi's squad. It's great to meet you both. We'll be fighting side by side from now on, so let's get along!"

If Krista radiated an angelic kindness, Petra exuded the comforting presence of a caring older sister. Her firm yet gentle demeanor made her an ideal teammate, someone who clearly valued camaraderie above all else.

Ryo shook her hand, nodding slightly in acknowledgment. Despite the teasing and lighthearted banter, he felt a strong sense of determination among Levi's squad. These were soldiers who had earned their place through blood, sweat, and sheer willpower.

He glanced at Mikasa, who returned his look with a faint smile. They had taken their first step into one of humanity's most elite combat units. The challenges ahead would be immense, but together, they were ready to face whatever lay beyond the walls.