Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

The situation was dire. The vanguard unit was struggling against the overwhelming number of Titans. It was well-known that fighting Titans typically required at least 5–10 soldiers per Titan, and with over twenty Titans advancing together, this battle called for the full Survey Corps to engage. But even then, fighting in open terrain without cover or mobility was a gamble they could hardly afford to take.

Ryo assessed the scenario. A retreat to the forest would be ideal. The dense trees provided strategic advantage, allowing their maneuver gear to work effectively. On flat ground, however, they were sitting ducks. Yet, the decision was not his to make.

"Bang! Bang! Bang!"

The ominous sound of flares echoed in the air. Red signals rose from the left flank, indicating a giant threat. The left-wing support team quickly relayed the information back.

"We've got movement on the left now too," Oruo muttered, his usual bravado tinged with unease.

Ryo's gut twisted. If the Titans ahead were a coincidence, the left-wing attack was too coordinated to ignore. As the right wing launched their own red flares moments later, a horrifying realization dawned on him.

"Are the Titans… evolving? Using tactics?" he whispered.

It seemed impossible. For over a century, Titans had been creatures of mindless destruction. But their sudden, strategic positioning—blocking the Survey Corps' retreat from multiple angles—suggested otherwise. And in Ryo's mind, only one explanation fit: the Beast Titan.

Though he had not seen this particular Titan yet, the stories of its cunning and ability to command brainless Titans were no secret. If the Beast Titan was truly behind this ambush, then their predicament had gone from dangerous to catastrophic.

The command squad fired a green flare, signaling an immediate change in plans.

"Fall back! Retreat to the forest!" Petra shouted, her voice cutting through the chaos. She wasted no time, turning her horse toward the forest.

Ryo followed, his mind racing. He glanced at the support squad heading to the left and right flanks in an attempt to secure the retreat.

Oruo scowled, frustration etched into his face. "We're really retreating? This is humiliating!"

"There's no choice," Eld replied sharply. "You want to throw your life away? Look around! We're outnumbered and surrounded!"

Oruo grit his teeth but said no more. Even he couldn't deny the truth.

Ryo's thoughts churned. If the Beast Titan was truly orchestrating this, their retreat to the forest might not be enough. There was a nagging feeling that worse was yet to come.

"Mikasa, has anything like this ever happened before?"

She shook her head. "This is my first expedition beyond the walls. I don't know what's normal for this."

Petra overheard and spoke up, her tone grim. "This isn't normal. Titans don't behave like this. Usually, they act alone—mindless and predictable. Today feels… planned."

The Survey Corps moved swiftly, but unease rippled through their ranks. As they approached the forest, Ryo couldn't help but glance back.

The Titans were closing in, their massive forms cutting an intimidating silhouette against the horizon. It wasn't just their numbers or the speed of their approach—it was the haunting possibility that they were being led.

**"We need to make it back,"** Ryo thought, tightening his grip on the reins. "And we need answers."

With determination hardening his gaze, he followed Petra and the rest of Levi's squad into the dense forest, hoping it would give them the edge they desperately needed.