The courtyard is silent, except for the distant sound of the wind rustling dust across the hard-packed earth. The recruits line up, some hastily adjusting their posture, others trying to hide their nervousness in trembling hands.

Erwin Smith crosses the courtyard with firm, but not exaggerated, steps. His attentive gaze sweeps over the group, calmly and professionally assessing each face. He stops before them and takes a deep breath, as if organizing his thoughts before speaking.

Erwin discreetly adjusts the sleeve of his uniform and then says, in a deep, natural voice:

"Recruits… welcome." He glances at the nearest row—not dramatically, but analytically, like someone who has seen many before them.

"I imagine many of you came here motivated by something: fear, curiosity… or the sincere desire to change the world." Erwin crosses his hands behind his back. The movement is simple, almost automatic.

"Out there, there is something you don't yet fully understand. The Titans."

He breathes slowly, looking at the ground for a moment before raising his eyes again.

"You've heard stories. You've seen illustrations. But nothing compares to facing them for real." A recruit at the end of the line swallows hard; Erwin notices, but doesn't comment.

"I'm not here to scare you."

He shakes his head slightly.

"I'm here to tell you the truth. Some of you won't continue on this path. Some will give up. And… that's okay." Erwin takes a small step to the side, continuing his inspection pace. His tone remains calm.

"But those who remain…" He slightly narrows his eyes, as if pondering his own words.

"…will need to have enough determination to face something that doesn't tolerate mistakes." He then relaxes his shoulders—barely perceptible, but human.

"I don't expect perfection from you. I expect effort." Erwin stops again, now in the center of the group.

"Much of what you believe about yourselves will be tested here. And you'll find out if you were born for this… or not."

He gives a short nod.

"You have the chance to prove who you want to be." Erwin looks at everyone with a firm, yet realistic gaze—no heroic speeches.

"When you're ready… step forward. I want to know who I'm counting on."