Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

Even Darius, who had high expectations, did not anticipate Ryo's exceptional performance in his first battle.

Killing 22 Titans in one battle was a feat that made him stand out as an extraordinary warrior. If every soldier could fight with the same courage and strength as Ryo, the Titan threat that had loomed over them for centuries would no longer seem insurmountable. Unfortunately, such warriors were a rarity. To date, Darius had only encountered two others who shared such incredible skill: Levi and now Ryo.

Oh, and one other individual.

Thinking about that particular person brought a sneer to Darius's lips. That man, consumed by revenge, didn't deserve to be called a true warrior. His strength, though undeniable, was clouded by personal vendettas and lacked the disciplined purpose of someone like Ryo or Levi.

Darius's gaze lingered on Ryo as he silently acknowledged the young man's potential.

---

"Erwin, I've read your previous battle reports," Darius said, his tone measured. "But I haven't seen your detailed combat summary. Did you bring it this time?"

Erwin nodded, rising from his seat. "Of course."

He handed over a thick folder filled with reports meticulously prepared by the Survey Corps. Darius, known for his scrutiny, opened the folder and began to review it carefully.

The military reports followed a strict format, designed to make it easier for commanders to sift through key details. Casualty figures and resource usage always took precedence, as they directly influenced decision-making.

The Survey Corps, under Erwin's leadership, had implemented innovative strategies, including the long-distance scouting formation, which had significantly reduced casualties in past expeditions. However, the recent push to reclaim Wall Maria had forced them to carry heavy supplies, slowing their mobility and exposing them to more Titan attacks.

In just three years, the Survey Corps had launched 25 expeditions beyond the walls. The frequency and intensity of these missions were taking their toll, and Darius often wondered how much longer the Corps could sustain itself before it was bled dry.

But today, as he read through the casualty numbers from the latest mission, he felt a momentary sense of relief. The losses were lower than he had expected. Still, the mission's ultimate objective—to advance and establish a stronghold in Wall Maria—had not been achieved.

Placing the report on the table, Darius looked up at Erwin. "The operational objective wasn't achieved this time. What's the Survey Corps' plan moving forward?"

Erwin, ever composed, replied, "We plan to launch the 53rd expedition beyond the walls in a month. Our priority will be re-establishing a base in the A1 area to prepare for future operations."

Darius nodded, appreciating the clarity and foresight in Erwin's response. He understood the weight of the situation. While the Survey Corps had failed in this particular mission, their efforts were critical to humanity's survival. Without their relentless push against the Titans, the people within the walls would have no future to speak of.

"Good," Darius said finally. "I'll report this to the royal council."

He gestured for the waiter to pass the reports to the other corps leaders present: Pixis of the Garrison Corps and Nile Dawk of the Military Police. Both corps had provided support for the operation, and it was only fair they reviewed the results.

Ryo, standing quietly to the side, couldn't help but glance at Nile Dawk. The Military Police had suffered heavy casualties in this battle. Ryo wondered how Nile would react upon seeing the grim figures. Would he lash out, or would he remain composed?

As the reports were passed around, the atmosphere in the room grew heavy with tension. For the Survey Corps, failure meant more than just lost lives; it meant increased scrutiny from the royal family and dwindling support from the other corps.

Darius, sensing the unease, turned to Erwin with a rare moment of candor. "Remember, Erwin, failure isn't final as long as you have a plan to recover. The royal family may be watching closely, but as long as you deliver results, they'll have no choice but to support you. Stay the course."

Erwin nodded, appreciating the encouragement, even if it was laced with expectation.

Meanwhile, Ryo stood silently, his resolve hardening. He didn't fight for the approval of the royal family or the admiration of commanders. He fought for the future of humanity, for the little angel who shouldn't have to bear the weight of Titan powers, and for a world where the walls would no longer define their lives.

No matter the challenges ahead, Ryo knew one thing for certain: he would keep fighting, no matter the cost.