Chapter 23: Chapter 24: A Surprising Duel!
After the exhausting physical training, Keith Shadis announced a one-on-one combat session.
"THIS TIME, YOU MUST USE YOUR BEST TECHNIQUES TO TAKE DOWN YOUR OPPONENT!"
The cadets murmured among themselves.
"Again? I'm still tired…"
"I just hope I don't have to fight Mikasa or Annie."
Adam stood casually, watching the list of matchups being announced.
Then, Keith's voice rang out:
"ADAM VS. ANNIE!!!"
The entire area fell silent.
Eren's eyes widened. "What?! Adam against Annie?"
Jean scoffed. "Damn, this is gonna be interesting."
Annie walked to the center of the training ground, her face as unreadable as ever.
Adam smirked. "Finally, I get to see your special technique firsthand."
Annie stared at him briefly before saying, "Don't waste my time."
Keith gave the signal.
"Begin!"
Without hesitation, Annie launched a low kick!
But Adam was ready. He jumped back, dodging her first attack.
Annie didn't stop—she advanced and tried to grab Adam's wrist for a lock!
However, Adam swiftly twisted and freed himself before she could secure the hold.
The cadets watching were shocked by how quickly Adam adapted.
"No way, he's keeping up with Annie?"
Annie's eyes narrowed slightly. This time, she got serious.
She launched a rapid flurry of attacks, searching for an opening.
Yet, Adam dodged each one with precise movements.
And when Annie attempted her final hold—Adam turned the tables!
With a swift maneuver, Adam countered and slammed Annie onto the ground!
BAM!
The entire field went silent.
Jean's jaw nearly dropped. "Wait… what?!"
Eren was equally stunned. "He won?"
Annie remained on the ground for a few seconds before sighing.
She wasn't angry or frustrated—just slightly surprised.
Adam extended his hand. "You okay?"
Annie stared at his hand for a moment before finally taking it.
As she stood up, she said in a low voice, "You're better than I expected."
Adam simply smiled. "I learn fast."
Annie said nothing more and walked away.
Meanwhile, the cadets continued whispering in amazement.
Reiner patted Adam's shoulder. "I didn't expect you to beat Annie."
Adam chuckled. "Honestly, I didn't expect it either."
That night, after training was over, Adam sat outside the barracks, enjoying the night breeze.
He stretched slightly—his duel with Annie had been no joke.
Not long after, Marco approached and sat beside him.
"You know? Everyone's talking about you now."
Adam turned to him. "Oh? Because of the duel?"
Marco chuckled. "Of course. Annie isn't an easy opponent."
Adam exhaled. "I just got lucky reading her attack patterns."
Marco nodded. "That means you've got talent."
They both sat in silence for a moment, enjoying the calm atmosphere.
Then Marco asked, "So, are you planning to join the Military Police?"
Adam looked at Marco for a second before laughing. "I don't think so."
Marco smiled. "Me neither."
Adam raised an eyebrow. "Why not? Isn't it much safer?"
Marco looked up at the sky. "Maybe, but I want to be where I can truly help people."
Adam was silent for a moment before smiling. "You're a good guy, Marco."
Marco laughed. "And you're an interesting one, Adam."
The two chuckled before enjoying the peaceful night once again.