Attack on Titan: The Strongest Newcomer

"Yes!"

Mikasa's voice rang out, firm and decisive. Her gaze was fixed on Annie, unwavering. A rare opportunity stood before her, and there was no way she would let it pass.

If she could defeat Annie and prove her strength, Eren would surely turn to *her* for training next time.

"In that case, let's settle this."

Annie adjusted her stance, fluid and calculated. She adopted a fighting posture that resembled a boxer's, emphasizing agility and flexibility. This style had allowed her to dominate her opponents in the past.

She had previously defeated both Eren and Reiner with ease. Though they held advantages in strength and size, Annie's precision and fighting skill rendered their attacks ineffective. However, Mikasa wasn't like them.

Mikasa exuded an aura of pure power, her intensity unmatched. Annie couldn't afford to underestimate her.

"Looks like you two are about to throw down," a voice interrupted.

The gathered recruits parted, revealing Ryo Akira as he approached. His presence instantly shifted the atmosphere, and both Mikasa and Annie hesitated.

Though Ryo rarely fought openly, his strength was no secret. After his solo mission against the Titans, his aura had changed. There was now a cold, almost lethal edge to him—a product of experience and survival.

The faint murderous intent he carried wasn't lost on Annie or Mikasa. They knew he had grown even stronger.

"I'll act as a referee," Ryo offered, his calm demeanor barely masking the weight of his authority.

Annie nodded, wary but unafraid. She had no intention of clashing with Ryo today, and he clearly had no plans to intervene directly.

Mikasa didn't even acknowledge Ryo. Her focus was locked solely on Annie, her determination burning brighter than ever.

"Very well," Ryo said, glancing between them. "Just remember—stop before you go too far. You don't want to face the instructors' wrath for breaking regulations."

The two women nodded, their attention returning to each other.

Mikasa was like a blade unsheathed—sharp, fast, and relentless. Annie, by contrast, was a fortress, steady and unyielding. The clash between offense and defense was inevitable, and the tension electrified the air.

"Are you two ready?" Ryo asked.

Neither answered. Instead, they sprang into action simultaneously, fists flying.

Ryo watched closely, his sharp eyes assessing every move. Mikasa's strength and speed were undeniable. Her attacks were precise and relentless, each strike aiming to compress Annie's reaction time.

Annie, however, relied on her experience. She expertly deflected Mikasa's blows, using her flexibility to avoid taking damage. Yet, unlike with Eren or Reiner, Annie found herself unable to counterattack effectively. Mikasa's strategy was clear—keep Annie on the defensive and deny her the opportunity to retaliate.

The recruits watching erupted into cheers, their voices blending into a cacophony of excitement. Mikasa's supporters, charmed by her fierce determination and striking presence, shouted encouragement. Meanwhile, Annie's allies, particularly Bertolt, looked on with growing concern.

Bertolt's heart raced as he watched Annie struggle against Mikasa's relentless assault. His worry was written all over his face. To him, Annie wasn't just a fellow warrior from Marley—she was someone he admired deeply. Her strength, skill, and stoic demeanor captivated him in ways he couldn't fully explain.

But could she withstand Mikasa's overwhelming offense?