The next morning, you found yourself in the courtyard, the pre-dawn gloom heavy upon you, but at least the sky was free of clouds. In your hand was a set of two practice swords, and upon your waist, the fully maintained ODM gear. As you wait to see Captain Levi, the memory of Mikasa sneaking into your bed for a few moments of tenderness lingered upon you.
Mikasa's warmth awakened you with a kiss, her dark eyes locking on yours the moment they fluttered open. She was still under the restrictions she had accepted, yet the look on her face told you that she was still having difficulty with them. Her fingers ran through your hair, and then her lips brushed against yours once more. It was not a kiss filled with passion but gentleness, but even so, the need and desire that oozed off her was unmistakable.
"...I wish I could do more," she whispered against your lips.
"You're already doing more than you should," you replied, your hand reaching up to caress her cheek. The two of you remained like that for a moment, enjoying the intimacy of the quiet morning, her eyes smiling with an emotion that seemed almost foreign to her. Yet it was genuine.
Then, as she finally pulled away, her fingers gave your chest a slight squeeze. "Be safe," she said, and with that, she went to change, displaying her body with the carelessness that characterized her. A display that was meant to make you lose control, to break the restrictions that your four lovers had agreed to, but you resisted, and that seemed to excite her.
After all of this, she left the room with a confident smile, and you could not help but feel as if Mikasa had achieved a victory, even though nothing of the sort had happened. She had tested you, and you had passed. For now, at least.
"Oi..." Levi's voice pulled you from your thoughts, and you saw him standing there in his usual attire, a slight hint of impatience in his gray eyes. "Daydreaming about your...situation?" There was no amusement in his tone, but you were certain that he was making a small joke.
"Just reflecting, sir," you replied with a slight nod.
He shook his head, a hint of annoyance flickering in his expression. "Whatever...Let's begin," The captain said, "Save the swords for later, I want to see how you move."
"Yes, sir." You quickly sheathed the practice blades, securing them to your waist's equipment.
Without waiting for further acknowledgment, Levi turned and led the way to a patch of forest near the edge of the old HQ. It was not the first time you had trained here; you had already trained once or twice here, in your meager free time.
Once there, Levi's training began. He shot his grapple hooks into the trees with such precision that you could barely see them in the early light. Then, with an almost unnatural brutal grace, he took off. You followed your own ODM gear, whirring as the steel rope retracted. You could feel the tug, the momentum, and the familiar sensation of flying through the air.
It was almost as if you were one with the equipment; it was second nature to you. But watching Levi was another story. His movements were so fast, so precise that they defied logic. He weaved between trees with a fluidity that was mesmerizing. There were moments when he was so close to colliding with a tree, only to change his trajectory at the last second.
Clearly, his movements were not just about skill but about a deep understanding of physics, momentum, and the gear itself. He was not just a user of the ODM gear; he was a master of it.
"Stop gawking and keep up!" Levi shouted back at you, his voice cutting through the rush of air.
You focused on the task at hand, pushing your body to match his pace. But it was clear that there was still a great difference in your levels. His maneuvers were precise, efficient. Yours, though almost as good, lacked the extra layer of finesse that made his look so effortless. It frustrated you to see the difference.
You did not give up, however. You pushed yourself, trying to anticipate his next move and mirror it as best as you could. The wind whipped past your face, the trees blurred in your peripheral vision, and all that mattered was the pursuit of perfection.
Finally, Levi stopped, his feet touching the ground with a soft thud. You landed just as gracefully, but not quite as smoothly. There was a slight jolt in your landing, something Levi did not have.
"You've got the basics down," he commented, his eyes assessing you with dead fish eyes. Yet, there was a glint of something else. Respect? Approval? It was hard to tell with him.
"I won't go over how to do this and that...It would be pointless." He then turned towards you. "But I see why you've made it this far." He said, stopping to inspect your expression, searching for something in your eyes. He did not seem to find what he was looking for. "Let me tell you a secret."
"Sir?" You questioned, unsure of what he was about to reveal.
"I hate fighting..." He then walked closer, "I hate getting dirty. And most of all...I hate wasting time on people who don't want to improve."
His words caught you off guard, and yet you could not deny the truth in them. It was clear that Levi's standards were high, and he expected nothing less than perfection. "But... I believe you do want to get better," He then turned his back towards you and began to walk away. "So, for the next few days, you are going to train until you collapse. Then you will clean yourself, your room, and everything around you...You got that?"
You nodded. But then thought about Reiner's situation, the urgency of it all, and felt the need to voice my concerns. "But sir, what if..."
"Don't ask me questions about what may happen, I don't give a damn about the ifs...And neither should you," Levi said, his tone hardening. "Focus on the task at hand. The rest will be dealt with as it comes."
It was blunt, harsh even, but you knew it was for your own good. So you nodded again, this time with more conviction.
"Good. Then let's begin." He turned to face you again, and his eyes were now colder, more focused. "This training won't be easy. I will push you to your limits, and then some. Are you ready for that?"
"I am." You said it with confidence.
Levi's chin tilted a fraction. "Then let's see what you're made of, Almonacid."
And just like that, the training truly began. You, Conrad Almonacid, were determined to make the most of it. After all, you had four beautiful girls to impress and a promise to keep. Humanity's fate rested on your shoulders. You were not going to fail.
***
For a few days, your schedule was brutal, but rewarding. Every morning began before dawn with Levi, who drove you relentlessly in the forest. The man was a relentless taskmaster; however, he did not point out your mistakes or techniques, but rather, he expected you to correct them yourself. It was strange, and you thought it was a little cruel. Yet, the way you moved improved, and by the third day, you were beginning to keep up with him more easily. He seemed pleased, at least, he did not show his usual disgust.
When you pointed out that he didn't provide much in terms of technique, he just grunted and said that if you couldn't learn on your own, there was no point in training with him. It was an interesting method, and perhaps the reason why Levi was so efficient and fast. But it was still annoying.
Nonetheless, you soon came to understand that Levi's methods were more about cultivating self-awareness and adaptability. By forcing you to identify your own shortcomings, he was building a foundation of independence in your fighting style. The results began to speak for themselves; the fluidity in your movements became more natural, your reflexes sharper.
You started to understand the instinct within you that made you rush to protect others, but instead of it being a tsunami that forced you into action, it was now a wave that you could ride upon. This newfound control over your instincts made you feel more at ease with yourself.
By the end of the first week, you felt a noticeable improvement. You could see it in the way Levi watched you; his eyes were less critical and more appraising. "You've improved," he stated flatly after a particularly intense session.
"Thank you, sir," you replied, trying to catch your breath.
"I will be honest, Conrad," He said, arms folded. "Erwin asked me to train you...I had my doubts about it." Levi's voice was calm. "But I see now that it was a good call." His gray eyes held your own.
"The commander?" You repeated, a bit surprised. You had thought it was just a suggestion or something that came from Hange. It made sense that Erwin had taken an interest in your progress.
Levi gave a curt nod. "Yes...You have potential...and a strong desire to protect your comrades..." He paused, his eyes narrowing a bit. "You are not fully human, nor Titan. So I would like to see just how far your strength can go."
The words were blunt, but they made sense. You had already accepted that you were different, but hearing it from Levi, in such a matter-of-fact way, made it official. He was not looking at you with pity or fear; he was assessing your capabilities. It was something that you could respect.
You were about to respond when you heard footsteps approaching. Both of you turned to see Petra walking towards the two of you, her expression a mix of excitement and worry. She was wearing her Survey Corps uniform, the green cloak fluttering behind her in the early morning light.
"Captain Levi, sir..." She said, saluting as she approached. Her eyes then turned to you, and her smile was genuine. "And good morning to you, too, Conrad."
Levi gave a small grunt of acknowledgment, his attention already shifting. "What is it, Petra?"
"Sir...The preparations for Reiner's transport are complete...The escort from the Military Police has arrived...We are ready to move out as soon as you give the order," She reported, her voice professional, but her eyes were bright with excitement.
"I see." Levi turned to you, his expression unreadable. "That means your training is done for now." Then, as if he remembered something, he added, "And don't forget to wash up before we move...I don't need you stinking up the place."
Petra couldn't help but laugh at that, her laughter light and melodic. "I'm sure he will, sir...And besides, a little bit of dirt never hurt anyone." She shot you a playful look.
Levi gave her a deadpan stare. "I will have you remember your own words when we get back." Then he walked past her, signaling for the two of you to follow.
As you all began to move back towards the main building, Petra fell into step beside you. "You've been working hard," she commented, her voice softer now, more personal. "And it shows...The Captain is impressed...That's rare, you know?"
"I've been trying," you replied, giving her a smile. "It's been tough, but...it's worth it."
She nodded, her brown eyes holding yours for a moment longer than necessary. "He's never given personal training to anyone before...Maybe, you should even feel honored by this." Her tone was teasing, but there was a hint of pride in her voice. Perhaps, she was proud of you as well.
With that, you returned to the barracks, your body tired but your mind clear. Moments before entering the barracks, you saw the entire survey corps moving and settling for the move to Wall Sina. There was a sense of urgency, but also a hint of excitement. After all, they would be transporting the culprit of the destruction of Shinganshina and most likely Trost. While the achievement could not entirely be claimed by the Survey Corps, it was a culmination of all the blood and sweat they had put into the Survey Corps.
You wash up inside the barracks; there is only silence as most of everyone is outside finishing preparations. The water is cold and refreshing against your skin. In that moment, your mind flashes back to Trost. The blood of Titans on your face and body, the dust in your lungs, and the weight of all the lives lost...and the need for revenge.
You held your sword against Reiner, and the rage was a fire in your veins. Yet now, you are calm...Calmer than you were when you came to the Old Headquarters of the survey corps. Below you is the water bucket, and there you see your reflection...your grey eyes looking back at you. You feel that you are still yourself...More experienced, maybe a bit wiser, but still the same person who was willing to throw away his life to protect others.
But to protect four people? It's a bit more complex than that...But you can handle it. You feel ready. Whatever it is within you that made you what you are, you know that as long as it helps you protect them, you will be fine. Your heart beats with a renewed sense of purpose, and the water feels like a baptism, cleansing the old you, preparing for the new.
Adelaide, Historia, Annie, and Mikasa...Your heart beats for them. And as long as it does, you will keep moving forward, even if that means that Reiner will have to face the judgment of his crimes. After all, he has done too much for any form of forgiveness.
Before you can finish up, you hear the faintest of steps...It is an almost catlike sound, and you turn your head just in time to see Annie entering the room. She is wearing her usual stoic expression, but there is something different in her eyes today...But you can't figure out why or how.
Her gaze falls on your reflection, and when you notice it, she quickly looks away. But instead of shying away, she walks towards you and hugs you from behind, her arms wrapping around your torso. The feel of her breasts pressing against your back is a comfort more than a new sensation. The way she holds you is firm, as if trying to tell you that she is here.
"Annie?" You call out her name, surprised by the sudden gesture. But then, you feel her lips on the back of your neck. They are cold, yet they make you feel warm.
"Conrad..." Her voice hesitates. "...I'm not sure what to do..." Her tone is uncertain, the same as when she almost stabbed a sword at the roofstops. However, her tone is soft and lacking the same anxiety she had that time. "...But I want you to know that I'm...with you." She pauses. "I will always be..."
There is no mistaking her intentions. You can feel the warmth of her body against yours, and her grip on you tightens for a moment. You reach behind you, your hand finding hers, and you squeeze it gently. "Annie..." You turn around to face her, your free hand now cupping her cheek.
Her ice-blue eyes look at you with an earnestness you rarely see in her. It is now that the glint of her eyes makes sense...They are shining because of tears, not sadness or happiness. But something more complex. She is struggling with herself. She is afraid...And she doesn't want you to see it. But after all you've been through, she can't help herself. She wants you to see this part of her.
"Are you...worried about what's going to happen?" You ask, your thumb caressing her cheek. She doesn't flinch at your touch, instead leaning into it slightly.
"Yes..." She admits. "I don't know how it will go...And I'm scared...For myself, for you...for all of us." She looks down for a moment, her eyes closed as if she is trying to gather her thoughts. "Reiner...he was...my comrade, my friend..." The words are heavy on her lips. "But now he's not...And I have to face that."
The admission is a big step for Annie, and you know that she would not have said this to anyone else. She is allowing herself to be vulnerable in front of you, trusting you with this part of herself.
You pull her into your arms, holding her close. Her body relaxes immediately, as if a weight has been lifted from her shoulders. "I understand...I know how you feel." Your hand runs through her short blonde hair, and you can feel her exhale against your chest.
"Do you?" She asks, her voice muffled by your uniform.
"Yes...And I promise, no matter what happens...we will get through it." You hold her a little tighter, hoping to convey the strength of your words. "Together."
"Together...yes..." She whispers, her arms now wrapping around you fully. You feel the tension leave her body, and she buries her face in your neck, her cold nose pressing against your skin. "Then...there is something we must do..." She whispers.
Her tone has changed; it is no longer filled with uncertainty, but full determination. She pulls away just enough to look into your eyes, her own a storm of emotions. "I will separate from the convoy the moment that I have the chance," she says, her voice firm. "I will keep watch...In case..."
"Bertholdt, right?" You finish her sentence, knowing exactly what she is implying. She gives a nod. "I understand...but it's too dangerous for you to do it alone." You can't help but worry; you knew that she was hiding something from you, but even so, it does not mean that she is going to do something as dangerous as facing another titan shifter by herself. But then, she gives you a smile, one that shows you she knows what she's doing.
"Don't worry...I have no intention of fighting him alone," She assures you. "He should not be there...But just in case..." She then pulls away from your arms, but her hands stay on your chest. "I just want to be prepared...To protect you and all of us."
There is a resolve in her voice that you can't argue with, but you still feel a pang of fear. The thought of her facing a titan shifter alone is terrifying, and you are not sure if you can just let her do it. But then, you look at her eyes and see the same determination that she always has. She has made up her mind, and there is no changing it.
"Just...be careful." You say, your hand caressing her cheek once more.
She nods, leaning into your touch. "I will..." She then gives you a quick kiss on the lips. It is brief, but full of promise and affection. At that moment, you feel a sense of warmth spread through your chest. It is not just love...but trust and a bond that is stronger than anything.
The kiss ends too soon for your taste, and Annie pulls away. "We should get ready," she says, her tone now back to her usual neutral. But you can see a hint of happiness in her eyes.
"Yeah...we should." You agree, though a part of you wants to pull her back into your arms. However, you know that there will be time for that later. Now, it was time to transport Reiner to Wall Sina...And face whatever comes next.
-x-X-x-
Historia's gaze remained fixed on the courtyard below as the Survey Corps gathered in formation, her small hands touching Adelaide's arm with a familiar warmth. The blonde girl's emerald eyes held a nervous energy, one that Historia found oddly comforting in its honesty. She smiled at her, knowing that this moment would be one they all remembered, the transfer of a captive who had shattered their world, yet whose capture now symbolized a fragile hope and also a breach of trust.
"Ready for this?" Adelaide whispered, her voice tinged with the anticipation of what was to come.
"Always," Historia replied with a lightness that felt more genuine than it had in months. Her heart still ached with the knowledge of Reiner's betrayal, but the warmth of the women beside her and Conrad's unyielding strength made the burden easier to bear. She let out a small laugh as she spotted Annie and Conrad together, her lips curving into a teasing smile. "Look at them...Annie seems more composed than ever."
Addie followed her gaze, her expression shifting, yet unable to discern the depth of Annie's newfound resolve. "She does...Though I can't quite figure out what's changed. Maybe it's just the excitement."
"Or perhaps she's just as nervous as we are," Historia mused, though her eyes held a glint of knowing. She'd sensed the shift in Annie ever since the night Conrad had confessed to her, the way the girl's walls had begun to crumble ever so slightly, revealing a depth that few were privy to.
Historia then glanced toward Mikasa, who stood a short distance away, her gaze steady on the armored cart where Reiner was restrained. "And her?" She asked softly.
Adelaide sighed, a hint of concern crossing her face. "She's been like that since yesterday...Quiet. Very, very focused." Her fingers brushed lightly against the fabric of Historia's sleeve, seeking reassurance. "Do you think she's alright?"
"She's Mikasa," Historia replied, her tone soft but certain. "She'll be fine...But maybe she is now trying to think about how to protect Eren...And fight alongside Conrad," She teased. She could see Mikasa glancing at Eren from time to time, but there was a new focus to her movements.
Historia turned her attention back to the scene unfolding below, watching as Levi's squad took position around the transport. They were the ones in charge of keeping an eye on the prisoner, and they were not taking any chances. Her eyes then found Conrad's silver hair among the horses closest to Reiner's cell, a sight that never failed to stir something inside her.
A strange sensation fluttered in her chest, an echo of the passion they'd shared and the future she so desperately wanted to believe in. It was a warmth that spread through her veins, and for a brief moment, it felt as though the walls around them had faded away, leaving only the five of them standing at the edge of the world.
"We'll get through this," she murmured, more to herself than to Adelaide. But the words were for them all, a silent vow to face whatever came next with the strength they had built together.
***
You had not noticed the eyes that followed you as you made your way to the formation, the weight of four gazes on your back. But it was comforting in a way. Mikasa's, especially, felt like a promise, an unspoken bond that you could always rely on. As the order was given to begin the journey, you felt the familiar rush of adrenaline. This was it. The beginning of the end for one of your closest comrades...And perhaps the start of a new chapter for all of you.
As the convoy started moving, you glanced back at the old headquarters. There was a sense of finality, as if leaving this place marked the true beginning of the next stage of your journey. But there was no time for nostalgia. You had to stay focused, keep your senses sharp.
Reiner's transfer would be a delicate matter. There were still many questions left unanswered, and he kept telling Captain Levi that he did not know why he did what he did. The man was broken, his spirit crushed under the weight of his own guilt...And yet you could see the struggle in his eyes. He was not lying...Or so he believed.
It was a mess, a tangle of truths and lies, but one thing was certain: You would be there to see it through. For your comrades, for yourself, and for the women who had chosen to stand by your side.
Niel, the Military Police Commander, led the escort with a stoic demeanor, his men leading the way to the road towards Mithras. This would be the first time that you would be in the capital. It was a bit exciting, yet the reason for going there was not something you looked forward to.
As the hours passed and the journey continued, the landscape around you changed from the familiar countryside to denser forests. The path grew narrower, and the tension among the soldiers increased. Everyone was on high alert, their eyes scanning the surroundings for any sign of trouble.
You glanced back, noticing Mikasa riding behind Eren and Armin, her dark eyes focused on the task at hand. Annie kept close to Historia and Addie, and the rest of the members you had known from the 104th were also in the convoy. Eren, Jean, Sasha, Connie, and the rest were all present, their faces a mix of determination and apprehension.
There was just one thing. That made everything feel more tense...
"Eren..." Armin began, his voice a little shaky. "...Don't you think it is strange? Everyone from the training corps that joined the Corps is here..."
Mikasa's gaze snapped to Armin, and Eren's brow furrowed. "Yeah...Now that you mention it..." He mumbled, his eyes narrowing as he looked around at the other members. It was true; it seemed like a deliberate choice. Why would Commander Erwin bring all of them together? There must be a reason behind this, but he couldn't figure out what it was.
"I thought the military police would only allow a small escort into the city," Connie chimed in, his eyes darting nervously. "And from all the veterans of the Survey Corps, we newbies are here."
Sasha, who was munching on some bread she had managed to save, paused. "Maybe, the rest got sent to Trost?" She offered, crumbs flying from her lips.
"Yeah, the sooner Trost gets cleaned up, the sooner my family can return..." Jean mused, though there was a hint of worry in his voice. "But it is weird to bring all of us along with Reiner...He is certainly more dangerous than any Titan."
Ymir, who was riding close to Krista, let out a low chuckle. "Who knows what the higher-ups are planning?" She said with a shrug. "Probably want to keep an eye on all of us...Especially since we know each other so well." Then she looked at Krista with a sly grin. "What do you think, your highness?"
Krista just gave her a small smile. "I think it's best to trust our superiors," She replied, her tone soft yet firm. "Whatever their reasons are, they must be for the best." Her gaze then shifted to you, and she gave you a reassuring nod. It seemed that even she could feel the unease in the air.
The nod was noticed by Ymir, who merely rolled her eyes. "Right, right...Trust the higher-ups," She said with a sarcastic tone. But you could see that she was also on edge, her hand never straying far from her blade. "...More like trust your...hero to keep us all alive."
It was a jab at you, one not so unusual, but it was still a reminder of the reputation you had built. It was both a compliment and a tease. Historia just giggled a bit at Ymir's comment, while Addie smiled softly.
Annie, on the other hand, seemed to be lost in thought. Her eyes were fixed on the path ahead, her expression unreadable. It was hard to tell what she was thinking, but you could sense that she was ready for anything that might happen. After all, if Reiner broke free, there would be trouble, especially if you crossed a section without trees.
You rode in silence for a while, the only sounds being the hooves of the horses and the occasional clanking of equipment. The tension was palpable, but it was manageable. After all, you were surrounded by skilled soldiers. Yet the question remained: why had Commander Erwin chosen to bring all of you? What was his plan?
There was no way of knowing until he decided to reveal it, and you just hoped that when that time came, you would be ready. For now, all you could do was to stay alert and keep moving forward.
The sun began to set as the convoy continued, the sky turning a beautiful orange and pink. It was a sight that you had always loved, but tonight it felt different, almost ominous. As if it were a prelude to something dark.
It was then that the order was given to stop for the night. The camp was set up quickly, with guards posted around the perimeter. You were assigned to take a watch along with Levi, Mikasa, Emelina, and a few others. It was not unusual for you, and it gave you a chance to be close to the captain.
As you sat by the campfire, eating the rationed food provided, you couldn't help but feel the weight of the day's events. The journey was far from over, and the worst might still be ahead.
You glanced at Mikasa, who was sitting beside you, her expression as calm as ever. She caught your gaze and gave you a subtle nod, a small gesture of solidarity. It was enough to give you the strength you needed to face whatever came next. For now, all you could do was wait, watch, and hope that the night would pass peacefully. However, there was a slight doubt in your mind that this journey would not go entirely uneventful.
***
You had expected a quiet night, but you were wrong. The night was filled with murmurs, hushed whispers, and the occasional rustle of leaves in the wind. Your shift at the watch had ended without any incident, but the atmosphere remained heavy, as if the world was holding its breath. But even then, there was a moment for respite and intimacy.
You stood at one corner of the camp during watch, staring out into the darkness, trying to discern the shadows that played against the trees. Suddenly, you heard a small and soft gasp, almost like a stifled laugh. You turned to see Historia approaching, her golden hair catching the faint moonlight.
"Hello, my dear Conrad." She greeted you with that gentle smile, a little sparkle in her eyes. Behind her was Adelaide, who waved at you sheepishly. They both were dressed in their nightwear, with Historia, which meant a simple white shirt and pants. It was a sight to see her in a more relaxed setting, yet it also reminded you that this was a rare moment of calm before another storm.
"Historia, Addie..." You greeted them, feeling a sense of warmth and happiness that they had chosen to spend their time with you, even during this tense period. "Is something wrong?" You asked, though a part of you already knew why they were here.
"No, not at all," Addie answered, her voice a soothing balm in the quiet of the night. "But we've brought you something," She then revealed a wrapped piece of bread. "A small midnight snack, for our hero," Addie explained, offering it to you.
It was a kind gesture, a small piece of normalcy that meant more than any grand display. You accepted the bread and took a bite. The simple taste was a reminder of the life that was still possible outside the walls, a life that you fought to protect. "Thank you," You murmured, the gratitude in your eyes more profound than the words.
Historia's smile widened, her hand moving to touch your arm lightly. "I was going to suggest we... celebrate in another way." There was a hint of suggestion in her voice, a playfulness that was not unusual for her. "But I am guessing the conditions we've set...are still in effect?"
The 'conditions' were something you had all agreed upon, a mutual understanding that no intimate relationships should distract from the mission. In reality, Petra had suggested that you tone down your 'intimate' interactions, and to be fair, it wasn't Petra who put forward the suggestion, but Captain Levi.
It had been a point of contention, but ultimately necessary for the success of the operation. But you could see the longing in both of their eyes, the desire to be close, to forget the mission, if only for a moment. And in truth, the thought of spending time with them was a temptation that you wanted to indulge in. The promise of warmth, of connection, of being close was something you craved. But you also knew that the responsibility you had taken upon yourself was too important to compromise.
"How are Mikasa and Annie taking this?" You asked, curious as to how they were dealing with the restriction.
Addie giggled a bit, her cheeks flushing a bit at the question. "Oh, they are as composed as ever," She said, her voice light but with a teasing tone. "But I'm pretty sure Mikasa is just biding her time, same as Annie...Same as us." The way she spoke, there was no resentment, only an understanding of the situation.
Historia nodded in agreement. "We're all on the same page here, Conrad." Her eyes sparkled with a mischievous light. "Though, I can't say I'm not looking forward to the moment this is all over and we can celebrate...properly."
The image that came to mind was almost enough to make you forget your resolve. You quickly cleared your throat, trying to refocus. Adelaide and History took a seat beside you, the warmth of their presence a comfort against the cold night air.
"It will be soon," You said, trying to reassure them as well as yourself. "We just have to stay strong for a bit longer."
"I know, I know," Addie said, patting your knee. "And I trust you...We all do. That's why we are here, after all." She smiled at you, the kind of smile that felt like a warm blanket on a cold night. She leaned against you, resting her head on your shoulder, while Historia took your hand, her fingers lacing with yours. You could not help but smile, a genuine expression of happiness. It was a moment of peace, a moment you cherished deeply.
Historia's eyes looked at the starry sky, the same one you had seen so many times before. She seemed lost in thought, her lips pursed in contemplation. "Do you think..." She began, her voice soft. "We will ever go back to the way things were?" She then turned her head to look at you. "The times before all of this..."
You took a deep breath, your hand gently squeezing hers. "I don't know," You admitted. "But I hope so...I hope that after all of this, we can find some semblance of the past...maybe build something new...and better."
Addie hummed in agreement, her eyes closing for a moment. "It's a nice thought, at least." Then she opened her eyes, looking at you with a hint of affection and longing. "But whatever happens, as long as you're with us, I think we can handle anything."
Her words were simple, but they carried the weight of a promise. It was a promise you intended to keep. You pulled both girls closer, your arms wrapping around them as you all sat there, in the darkness of the night. It was a small gesture, but it meant everything.
"We will make it through," You said with a certainty that surprised even yourself. "And we will have that celebration."
They both laughed at that, the sound a melody that you would hold onto in the days to come. For now, it was enough to have them with you, to feel their warmth and love. "...Having Mikasa included will be something..." Addie said with a slight giggle.
"Oh yes, it will be quite the...party." Historia added a smile to her lips as her thoughts went in the same direction as Addie's. It made you a little flustered, the images of what such a 'celebration' could entail making it hard to focus. The two girls noticed and shared a knowing look.
"Ah, but I am glad she's on our side..." Historia added, her hand still in yours. "I've really wondered if you would try and break our little soft hearts...But I guess you showed us that's impossible, huh?" Historia teased you, a light glint in her blue eyes.
It was true, you had been able to restrain yourself, and that was something of a relief and an achievement. "I didn't want to disappoint any of you." You replied, the seriousness of your tone contrasting with the playful mood.
"Well, I appreciate it..." Addie murmured against your shoulder. "But just so you know, the moment the restrictions are lifted, you'd better be ready."
"Of course," You agreed, the warmth of the night and their embrace making your heart swell with emotion. "But for now...let's just enjoy this moment."
And you did. For the rest of the night, the three of you sat together, talking. On the other side of the camp, Annie and Mikasa were also spending their time together. Mikasa had been assigned the second watch, and the two of them had ended up on a patch of grass, sitting near a tree that shielded them from view.
Annie, ever the stoic one, had a book with her. She was reading it quietly, the flickering lantern light making her features look even more severe than usual. Mikasa, on the other hand, was polishing her blades, her movements precise and methodical.
They did not speak for a while, but there was no tension between them. It was a comfortable silence, the kind that only comes with shared understanding. Yet, as all things, it had to be broken at some point. It was Annie who did so.
"Mikasa," She said, her voice as steady as always, but there was a hint of curiosity in it.
"Hm?" Mikasa responded, her gaze still focused on the task at hand.
"Can I ask you something?" Annie asked, turning a page in her book.
"Sure," Mikasa replied, placing her blade aside and turning her full attention to the blonde.
"What do you see in Conrad?" The question was blunt, but there was no malice or jealousy in it, just simple curiosity.
Mikasa thought for a moment, her eyes looking at the night sky as if seeking an answer that she couldn't find in her mind. "He is strong..." Her lips pressed into a line. "Direct, but also caring..." Her voice was soft, but it held an unwavering confidence in her assessment. "...He makes me feel safe, I suppose. That's the easiest way to put it." She then looked at Annie. "Why do you ask?"
Annie's gaze lingered on the page before she finally closed the book, setting it aside. "Just wondering." She then let out a small sigh. "I guess I see something similar...but different."
"How so?" Mikasa's eyes narrowed a bit, a slight furrow forming on her brow.
"He has this...gentleness to him. A kind of innocence, maybe?" Annie tried to find the right words, her fingers brushing the spine of her book. "He really thinks he can protect us all. Even after all we've seen, he still believes it...It's...irritating, in a way."
"I see," Mikasa said, her eyes returning to her blades as she resumed polishing them.
"But I like it," Annie added, her gaze moving to Mikasa's back. "It's...refreshing. He doesn't give up...He never will. It's what makes him different from the rest of us...It makes him special."
Mikasa nodded in agreement. "He is." There was a pause. Then Annie gazed at her. "...Eren...Is different too."
There was a subtle shift in Mikasa's demeanor, a slight tensing of her shoulders. "Eren is...Eren. He has a strength, but not the same as Conrad."
"But he still needs to be protected, right?" Annie pressed, her tone still neutral.
"Yes..." Mikasa admitted, her voice lowering a bit. "...I promised his mother."
Annie's lips curved into a small, almost imperceptible smile. "And I guess, in a way, Conrad has made a similar promise." The two women exchanged a look, an understanding passing between them. Then Annie sighed again, looking back at the sky. "We're all a bit broken, aren't we?"
"Maybe," Mikasa replied. "I've thought about that...but I don't think it matters...We're still here."
Annie nodded, her expression softening. "Yes, we are. That has to count for something...So..." She turned to look at Mikasa once more. "If you're not going to be able to protect Conrad...Don't worry. I'll be there." Her words were quiet, but firm.
Mikasa gave a slight smirk, a rare expression on her face. "As if you need to tell me that..." She then picked up her blades, her work done. "But I guess I should say the same...You're not going to get rid of me so easily."
"Wouldn't dream of it," Annie retorted, her own lips curving into a faint smile. "I know you are the kind of woman who never lets go once she's grabbed onto something..." There was a light teasing tone in her voice.
"Good..." Mikasa stood up, offering a hand to Annie.
She took it, their fingers interlocking as Annie waited for a moment, but then their grips tightened as if each were testing the strength of the other's resolve. "I am the same...So don't worry. I will protect him even if it hurts me."
There was something deeper in those words, and Mikasa's eyes seemed to flicker with understanding. Then, she nodded, and the two broke their grip. No more words were needed.
-x-X-x-
The morning arrived sooner than expected, the light of the sun creeping over the horizon, signaling the continuation of your journey. The camp stirred to life, the soldiers readying themselves for another day of travel and vigilance. Captain Levi was strangely relaxed, as if the trip had become more of a formality rather than an actual escort mission.
But the further the convoy traveled, the more it became clear why Levi seemed so relaxed. The journey from the old headquarters to Mithras, the entrance to the inner wall, had become an almost monotonous routine. You rode, stopped, and slept, with very little to break the monotony.
There were moments when the path opened up, and you could see the Wall Sina in the distance, the massive structure towering over the landscape, a constant reminder of the world you were a part of and the enemy that threatened it. But aside from that, there was little to report. No Titans, no disturbances, nothing but the quiet sounds of the convoy moving forward.
During the long, empty hours of the journey, you found yourself thinking about what the city of Mitras would be like, how Reiner would be dealt with, and most importantly, what would come after all of this. You felt a mix of excitement and dread, knowing that you were getting closer to answers, yet fearing the price that would come with them.
Then you finally saw it, Ehmirch District, the first of the four cities that made up Wall Sina. It was one obvious stop on the way to the capital, where you saw an unbroken gate. People who wore nicer and better clothes than the people at Trost and the rest of Rose moved around the streets without a care, a sense of normalcy and safety that was so foreign to you now. The contrast with the lives of those who had lost everything was stark, and a pang of anger and envy hit you.
But it was quickly suppressed, replaced by the resolve that drove you forward. The people of Sina were safe for now, but it was a fragile safety, and it would not last unless something was done. You were behind the carriage carrying Reiner, and just as Annie had said, she had disappeared without a trace, to watch over the surroundings in her own way.
There were a few guardsmen waiting at the gate, their eyes on the carriage and the soldiers escorting it. One of them approached Niel and Levi, his voice low as he spoke. The details of the exchange were not clear, but it was obvious that the Military Police wanted a greater presence, even if symbolic, while Reiner was moved through their streets.
Captain Levi's relaxation crumbled into his usual scowl, his hand gripping the reins of his horse a little tighter than necessary. His eyes met yours for a moment, then he barked an order at the Special Operations Squad. "Keep your eyes open. Don't let anyone get too close." His words were short, but the weight behind them was heavy. There was a sense of unease, a feeling that you were stepping into something more than just a prisoner transfer. The mood shifted; the quiet journey was about to end. And a new, more uncertain chapter was about to begin.
You could only hope that everything would work out as planned. After all, there was too much at stake for anything to go wrong now.
***
The sound of the creaking wooden floorboards filled the abandoned house as someone came inside. Bertholdt had lost count of how many days had passed since the last time he had moved from here. The bodies of the two previous inhabitants of the house were gone, leaving the smell of rot as the only trace of their demise. It was a sad yet pragmatic choice, another necessary evil. If he had buried them, he risked revealing his position.
Reiner was captured, yes. For a day or two, he had been hopeless, thinking that there was no way to get him back. But each day and each night that he spent alone, he processed the refusal of Annie to help him and the capture of Reiner. He came to understand that while he might be powerless alone, it was his duty to keep moving, keep waiting, and to save him at the right moment.
A streak of blonde hair made its way inside the house, followed by the person wearing it. Bertholdt's heart steeled itself. It was Annie.
"The convoy took longer than you told me," Bertholdt commented. The words came out almost mechanically, as if his heart had been disconnected from the act of speaking.
"It took them three days." She said, not moving from the doorway. Her eyes looked at him for a moment, but her gaze soon moved to the ground.
"I see." Bertholdt sat down on a broken piece of the wall. "How is he?" He asked, already knowing the answer. But still, he wanted to hear it from her lips.
"Bad," Annie replied with a single word. There was a sense of relief in her voice. Yet also sadness.
"That's what I expected." He nodded, looking at the floor. "Have you noticed anyone following you?"
Annie shook her head. "If they had been following me, I would've known. I'm careful." There was a hint of pride in her tone, but also the tiredness that came with the mission.
"Then we are ready..." He said, standing up and walking closer to where Annie was standing. His hand reached for her shoulder, but then he pulled back. It was better not to show any kind of emotion right now. "I am just glad that you decided to help me." It was hard to say, but it was also necessary. Even if the words came from his mind more than his heart, he knew that Annie would not take them as lies. "I know you don't want to hurt anyone...but this is our duty, as warriors. We can't let Reiner face it alone." Bertholdt's tone was as neutral as ever, but his eyes held a depth of emotion that Annie had only seen once or twice before. He cared for her, but his loyalty was to the mission and to Reiner.
"Of course..." Annie responded. "I am still your ally, aren't I?"
"...You are, Annie. I will never doubt that again," Bertholdt assured her. The guilt that he felt about not believing her earlier still weighed on him. But there was no time to dwell on it. The convoy was near, and the next move was about to happen.
"Thank you..." He added, his eyes now fixed on the distance beyond the door. "Let's begin, shall we?"
Annie gave a curt nod, and without another word, she left the house, the door closing. Inside her mind, she uttered a single word, 'Conrad...' Then, she disappeared into the shadows, moving with the skill and stealth that made her the best at this kind of work. Bertholdt watched her go, a heavy feeling in his chest. He knew that whatever came next would be hard for him...But it was necessary. The mission had to succeed, and Reiner had to be saved. Ambiguity had become a luxury they could no longer afford. Annie's feelings were like smoke from an extinguished candle, curling in directions even she couldn't predict. He would simply have to make sure to extinguish that flame to leave no doubt in her mind. He had to do it, for Reiner...For Annie...For the mission. For everyone.
***
The brief stop in the middle of the Ehmirch district left you with a bitter taste in your mouth. The people were living in ignorance, a blissful unawareness that you envied and despised at the same time. How could they be so...unaware of the sacrifices that were made to protect them?
Captain Levi noticed your expression and gave a snort. "Don't look so grim. It's not their fault," he said, his tone as sharp as ever. "Ignorance is a luxury they've been able to afford, until now. They have to thank you for that." He added, knowing that your vital role in defending Trost had most likely allowed this illusion to persist.
You couldn't deny that. If you had failed, if the Garrison and Survey Corps had not stopped the titans, the peace these people lived in would have been shattered. It was a small consolation, but it was something. "I understand...But it doesn't make it any easier to see," you admitted, your eyes still scanning the area for any signs of trouble.
Levi just shrugged, his expression unreadable. "That's the reality of it, Almonacid. You're part of the reason they can be blind. It's not fair, but it's what it is." He then looked up at the sun at noon. The heat was rising, but it didn't seem to affect him in the least. He flinched for a moment, as if the sun itself offended him.
Then suddenly, the skies darkened. It was as if a shadow had fallen upon the convoy, and in an instant, a thunderous roar shook the ground. Your heart stopped, and you felt your blood run cold. You remembered this sound. The sound that preluded the Armored Titan's arrival at Trost.
The horses whinnied in fear, and the soldiers quickly drew their blades, their eyes searching the sky. It was then that you heard it. Footsteps as if those that belonged to a Titan were approaching.
"Titans!!? Impossible, we are still inside the Wall!" One of the soldiers from the Military Police exclaimed.
Behind you, Eren and the others were just as confused. "I don't understand! I don't see any Titan! How?!" Eren was saying that the rest of the convoy was panicking.
The roar continued, and it felt like the earth itself was shaking. In that moment, Captain Levi's voice rang out, "To the rooftops! Now! Move!"
His command was followed without hesitation. You were the first to jump from the carriage and launch yourself up using the ODM gear. The whirring of the steel cable pulling you up, your mind racing as you tried to understand what was happening. No Titans had been reported inside Wall Sina, especially not in Ehmirch district. Yet, the sound was unmistakable, and then you saw her.
A blonde-haired Titan that jumped across the roof stops, with an elegance that belied the sheer destructive power she possessed. Her movement was precise and purposeful as she landed in the middle of the convoy, her feet crushing the horses that carried Reiner's cell. The blood splattered on her feet as she turned her attention to the armored cage that held Reiner. For a single instant, her deep blue eyes stared at you with an apologetic yet determined look.
But then, she lifted the cell that contained Reiner with ease, being careful enough to hold it on its side and avoid crushing its prisoner. As she inspected the carriage as if trying to confirm that Reiner was still alive, Petra shouted at the Captain, "Captain, what do we do?!" Her voice was panicked but also ready for action.
Captain Levi was about to answer when the blonde-haired Titan screamed. The sound was almost like a roar of pain and frustration, forcing you to cover your ears as the other members of the survey corps did the same. Then she began to run towards the Wall Sina with incredible speed, crushing several military police members who could not get out of her way.
Levi's reaction was immediate, and his eyes locked onto you. "Don't let her get to the Wall! Kill her, Almonacid! Now!" His command was all you needed to move, the whir of your gear and the wind rushing past your ears as you pursued the female titan.
The sound of battle cries from the military police and your comrades rang in your ears, but you were focused only on the enemy in front of you. She had a significant lead, but you were determined to catch up. The thought of letting Reiner be taken by another titan shifter was unacceptable. Especially after all the sacrifices at Trost.
It took all of your concentration and training to maintain a tight course after her. As you closed the distance, you prepared your blades for a decisive strike. She would not escape. You would make sure of that.
As you neared the gate, the Titan screamed again, her cry reverberating against the Wall. Then she glanced back, and for a split second, her eyes met yours. Then it appeared as if she had noticed something, something that made her eyes widen in horror, but it was too late.
The skies darkened yet again, but this time the thunderous sound that preluded was close...Too close. You immediately pivoted to look back at the origin, and there you saw him. Berthold.
He stood on the rooftop next to you. He had bitten into his hand, steam rising from his eyes as his lips curled into a desperate grimace, revealing his teeth. Then the transformation happened with the same sound as before. But you saw nothing...Correction, you saw only white as your entire vision was covered, as if filled with just the color. As if the world were covered in snow....But this was no snow. Instead, the air all around you began to heat up, as if someone had lit up a thousand matches around you, and your body reacted immediately. The pain was almost immediate as you began to burn. The pain would have made you scream, but you had no time to even comprehend it, let alone express it.
Then, for a single instant, you saw the muscle building up a massive structure right above you, but before you could make sense of it, the world became black, the heat still burning through you, but it was gone in the blink of an eye. Your consciousness left you as you fell from the skies of Ehmirch.
Everything went dark.
-x-X-x-
You were in the midst of nowhere, a white space that was neither a dream nor reality. You floated, your body not touching anything, your senses numb. There was a voice, or was it just a memory? It was unclear, but it was a childish voice.
"Conrad, when will you come to play with me?"
The words were familiar, but they felt distant. You tried to remember to place the voice in a memory, but nothing came to mind. All you could see was the whiteness, endless and suffocating. But then, a black dot appeared in the center of your vision, and it began to grow. It expanded like ink in water, spreading and consuming the whiteness around you.
And as it consumed everything, a new scene came into view. A street you recognized...No, a street you thought you knew. It was different, unfamiliar. You were looking at it through the eyes of a stranger.
The buildings were intact, and there were people walking by. But something felt wrong, out of place. It was then that the voice came again, but it was clearer this time, and it was a voice you knew well.
"Come on, brother! Let's go!"
Your eyes turned in the direction of the voice, and you saw her. A young girl with long, silver hair that shimmered in the sun. It was someone who reassembled Emelina, but there was something...younger about her. A childish face, and an energy that was far too bright for the usual demeanor of your sister.
You tried to move, to speak, but you were just a spectator in this memory. The girl laughed, her voice carefree and pure, as she grabbed the hand of the person whose eyes you were looking through. The grip was tight, and the girl's laughter only grew louder.
"Let's play! Let's play!" She repeated, dragging the figure behind her. You could see the figure was a boy, his own silver hair bouncing with each step. He was laughing too, as happily as she, a sound of pure joy.
Then the street was populated with people, people who made way for the two of them as they ran. They were like two shooting stars, bright and fleeting. The men tilted their hats, the women curtsied, and the children stopped playing to watch them go.
They ran until they reached a large square, where the boy stopped, pulling the girl to a halt as well. "I am going to get you now, Emelina!" He declared, a mischievous glint in his grey eyes.
The girl, Emelina, stuck out her tongue. "No way, brother! I am the fastest!" She said, before taking off again, the wind was playing with her hair as she ran.
The sky above them was clear and blue, with a sun more intense than the one back at home. The world of Wall Sina felt nothing more than a memory now.
You felt a sense of longing, a deep desire to join them in that carefree play, but you remained a spectator, unable to do anything but watch.
They played for what seemed like hours, their laughter echoing through the streets of a place you thought you knew. But as the sun began to set, a voice called out to them. A man in a military uniform, looking at them with stern eyes.
"It's time to come home," He said. He seemed older and rougher; his beard was cut in a different way than those in the interior of the walls.
The children, both the boy and the girl, turned to him, and they stopped playing. They nodded, their faces still flushed with the joy of their game. But as they walked toward the man, their steps slowed down, and a shadow seemed to fall over them. Then a strange sound began to echo from beyond the horizon.
"Are those birds?" The girl asked, looking towards the sound, her expression confused. The older man did not respond; his eyes narrowed, his jaw tensed. He then said something you could not hear, something that seemed to make the boy nervous.
The next instant, everything became white again, and you returned to that empty space, with only your mind racing. A feeling of nostalgia filled you, but also of dread. Something was about to happen; you knew it.
"Hey..." A voice came from behind you, and you turned to find that there was no one. Yet, the voice continued, "Why do you never remember me?" There was sadness in that voice, a loneliness that tugged at your heart. "I've been waiting for so long...Conrad..." And with that, you woke up.
Your eyes snapped open, and you found yourself lying against a rooftop, staring at the gray skies. The pain in your body was a dull echo now, as if it had been numbed. But you could feel the familiar intense heat of your body healing itself, the regenerative powers working to repair the damage done by the Colossal Titan. You had been close to him, you knew that. Too close...You should be dead.
As your vision focused, you saw the open skies replaced with the dark smog of endless fires, a black cloud that hung over the entirety of Ehmirch district. It was as if hell had broken out onto the streets. The cries of the wounded, the screams of terror, and the sounds of destruction filled your ears. Your mind reeled at the sight.
How long had you been out? What happened?
Your eyes shifted towards the ground in front of you. The Colossal Titan was moving inside the city, leaving a trail of devastation behind. There were no trees to escape to; only rooftops remained as your only path of escape, as the city streets had become a maze of destruction.
The Colossal Titan let out a deep roar, his voice echoing against the walls of the surrounding buildings. Then, with another thunderous stomp, he crushed more of the city beneath his feet. You knew what was going to happen. He was looking for something or someone. The Female Titan was in berserker mode, following and seemingly attacking the Colossal Titan with no success, her strikes too weak compared to its sheer size. You watched as she tried to climb the Colossal Titan's back, but he grabbed her with a massive hand and slammed her against the wall. The impact caused a massive shockwave that shattered windows and cracked walls.
Where the Colossal Titan had once been, there was only a giant, enormous crater. Your eyes widened at the sight, your mind still trying to comprehend the extent of the destruction. Then you remembered...Mikasa, Adelaide...Historia..., they had all been there, and had been on the convoy too, and if you were this far, that could only mean...
You pushed yourself up, your body protesting but obeying. The pain was there, but the regenerative powers were on overdrive, healing you at a faster pace. You had to move, you had to find them.
As you took to the rooftops again, using the ODM gear, you could not help but notice the sheer destruction. The city that had seemed so peaceful, so ignorant, was now in flames. It was a brutal reminder of the reality you all faced. No one was truly safe, no matter what Wall they were in. You blamed yourself for having said those words earlier, about how the people of Sina did not understand the sacrifice. They did now, and the cost was great.
Perhaps, it was better for them not to know, to live in ignorance of the horrors that lay beyond the walls. But that was not a thought for now. Right now, you have to find the people you care about. The ones who mattered more than any philosophical realization.
Your mind focused, your heart racing, you sped through the destroyed streets of Ehmirch, following the trail of devastation the Colossal Titan had left behind. Each second felt like an eternity, each step filled with the fear that you might find them too late. But you would not stop, not until you found them, or what was left of them.
You flew over the city, your blades ready to cut through anything that stood in your way. The air was thick with smoke and ash, the smell of burning flesh heavy in your nostrils. The screams had mostly ceased now, replaced by the sound of burning wood and crumbling stone.
Whatever soldiers remained were trying to organize themselves, but they were few, and the chaos made it difficult for them to be of any real help. You had no time to join them. Your eyes scanned the destruction, your mind trying to make sense of the madness.
And then, through the smoke, you saw it. A glint of sunlight on a red scarf.
"Mikasa!" You shouted, your voice hoarse. She was alive. You moved towards her as quickly as your gear would allow, your heart pounding in your chest.
She turned towards you, her face smudged with soot, her eyes tired and angry. But when she saw you, there was a hint of relief in her eyes. "Conrad," She called back, her voice strained. "I am glad to see you alive."
"I can say the same to you," You said as you landed beside her, your gaze moving around, trying to assess the situation. "What happened?"
"Too much," She answered, her eyes scanning the area. "We got scattered when the Colossal Titan appeared. I managed to get here, but the others..." She trailed off, her expression grim.
You felt a chill run down your spine. "Did you see them?" You asked, trying to keep the panic out of your voice.
"I saw Addie," Mikasa replied, her tone firm. "...She is fine. She ran to the wall to help with the evacuation. She should be safe now...But Krista I..." She hesitated. "I don't know...Annie too...I am sorry, I tried to stay close, but..."
She didn't need to finish her sentence. You could see it in her eyes, the regret of not being able to protect everyone, the pain of not being everywhere at once. At that moment, you wanted to reassure her, to tell her it was not her fault. But you felt anger creeping up every last nerve of your being. Bertholdt, your comrade, your friend...If he had dared to harm Krista. If he had...Your mind was clouded with anger. Your vision became sharper, more focused, as your mind honed in on one singular goal.
"I have to find Historia," You said, your voice cold and determined. "Mikasa, you go find Levi and the others, they will need you."
"What about you?" She asked, her eyes narrowing. She could sense the change in you, the darkness that had fallen over your heart.
"I am going to find Krista and kill him," You replied, your tone leaving no room for argument.
Before Mikasa could say anything, you were already gone, launching yourself into the air with your ODM gear. Which had miraculously survived the Colossal Titan's blast... Your mind was already set, your path clear. You had to find Historia, you had to save her, and you would kill the bastard who had caused all of this.
It didn't matter if he was once your friend. That time was gone. Now, all that remained was the monster who had hurt the people you loved. And for that, he would pay. You went from street to street, only finding strewn bodies, both survey corps and civilians, some entirely burnt, some torn to shreds. Each one was another reason to kill him.
And then you saw them. Krista was on the ground, with Ymir's body protecting her. Both were unconscious, or so you thought, as you rushed to them, landing a few feet away. You approached with a mix of hope and dread.
"Historia! Ymir!" You called out, but neither of them moved. They were alive, but not responding. It looked like the explosion had knocked them unconscious, yet they were relatively unharmed, which was a small miracle. You carefully moved Ymir off Krista, and as you did, you noticed that Ymir was holding her protectively. It was an endearing sight, and it brought a slight warmth to your chest amidst the cold anger.
You checked their breathing and pulse, and both seemed stable, just unconscious. You could not leave them here, not in this place of death and chaos. But then Krista began to cough, and her eyes fluttered open, a dazed look on her face.
"Conrad?" Her voice was weak, and her eyes searched your face, as if not quite believing what she was seeing. You held her hand and gave it a reassuring squeeze. However, the contact made her flinch and scream as the pain of the burnt skin was too much for her to handle. She pulled away, looking at you with a mixture of confusion and pain.
"Historia!" You exclaimed, your voice filled with worry. "Calm down...I will get you help..." Your voice trailed off as your eyes went from her injured hand to the burns on her cheek and neck.
The realization hit you like a punch to the gut. Your eyes widened as you took in the extent of her injuries. You looked down at yourself and realized that your body was unharmed. There were no burns, no wounds. Not even a scratch. The blast that had left others dead or dying had left you completely untouched. Just like Trost.
What...are you?
It was not just a thought, but a scream in your mind. The implications of it, the horror of it, were almost too much to bear. But you forced it down, for now. There was no time for that. Krista needed you. She was still staring at your face, her eyes wide, a mixture of fear and pain.
"Don't worry...I am here..." You said, your voice steadying. "I will take care of you..." And you would, even if you did not know what you were anymore. You would still be there for her.
"Ymir..." Krista whispered, her eyes flickering to her friend lying next to her. "She is..."
"She is alive, just unconscious..." You assured her, but your mind was already racing. How were you going to get them both out of here? You looked around, the smoke still thick in the air, the sounds of destruction still ringing in your ears. You had to move fast. The others needed you too.
It was then that you saw Jean and Eren flying over the rooftops, their faces grim and focused. "Eren!" You called out, your voice loud and clear. He turned towards you, his eyes widening as he saw you and the two girls.
He and the others quickly landed beside you, their expressions shifting from shock to concern. "Conrad!" Eren exclaimed. "You are okay!" He said, but then his eyes fell on Krista and Ymir, and the horror in his eyes was clear.
"I need your help," You said, your tone urgent. "We have to get them out of here, now!"
"Yes, right." Eren nodded, his eyes never leaving them. Eren was already moving to pick up Ymir, and Jean took Krista, as gently as possible, into his arms. The pain on her face was evident, but she endured it, her gaze never leaving yours.
"You will be okay," You told her, trying to give her as much comfort as you could. She just nodded, her trust in you unwavering despite the circumstances.
Jean looked at you as if he had seen a dead man walking. "What...what about you?" He asked, his voice betraying his confusion. "How are you...you should be... I don't understand..."
There was no time to explain, to tell him about the impossible reality of your survival. So you just said, "I have something to do...Go, take them to safety, I will be back."
He hesitated for a moment, his eyes searching yours for an answer. But when he saw the determination in your eyes, he nodded, understanding that there was no changing your mind. "I think Captain Levi is with Commander Erwin; they must be planning something. Conrad, I hate to say this, but they need your strength." He looked at Krista for a moment. "They need all the help they can get. Don't worry about them, we will get them safe."
"Thanks, Jean..." You replied, a small smile on your lips, and with that, he and Eren took off, heading towards the gathering of the surviving members of the survey corps and military police.
There was something new in Jean's words, something had changed about him, but you did not have the time to dwell on it. You looked in the direction that Bertholdt had taken after his transformation. The path of destruction was clear, and you knew where he was going. You would follow him, and you would put an end to this.
No more hesitation, no more doubts. It was time to fight. And this time, you would show no mercy. Especially, not when Historia had been hurt. There was a rage inside you, one that was not blind, but cold and calculated. A rage that would not rest until it had quenched its thirst.
With that, you launched yourself towards the Colossal, hoping to find answers and blood. Hoping to put an end to this nightmare.
-x-X-x-
Old Survey Corps HQ - Earlier that Week
It was dark in the room where Erwin sat alone, a candle on the desk the only light, its flame casting flickering shadows upon the walls. The window behind him was open, and he could hear the sounds of the night outside, the forest that surrounded the old HQ. The world beyond this room was moving forward, unaware of the weight of the decisions being made here.
Erwin's gaze was fixed on the wooden surface before him, where a map was laid out, the streets of Mithras district in Wall Sina drawn in fine detail. His eyes traced the routes, the alleys, the buildings, as if the answer he was looking for was hidden somewhere within the inked lines. But then, he took off his gaze and stared out the window, where the sky was clear, and the stars shone in their indifferent beauty.
The sounds of footsteps made his gaze shift to the door, and soon a man entered the room, the face of a new recruit, that of Annie Leonhart, who looked out of place in the dim candlelight. She was in her uniform, eyes as calm and steady as always, but there was something else.
"Why are you here, Annie?" He asked, his voice steady and even, not showing any hint of surprise. It was as if he had expected this visit all along.
"I have come with a report...And also...I need to ask you something." Her tone was as neutral as her gaze, but Erwin knew better than to take it at face value.
"I see..." He motioned for her to come closer. "Tell me your report first. We will deal with your question later."
She walked up to the desk, her movements precise, and she looked him in the eye, her gaze unflinching. "I know who the Colossal Titan is..." She began, her words as sharp as the edge of a blade.
There was a silence that followed her words, the candle's flame wavering for a second before steadying once more. Erwin's expression did not change, his face as unreadable as always, but his mind was racing. "Is that so...?" He responded after a pause, his voice calm. "Who?"
Annie did not answer right away, her eyes studying Erwin's face, searching for something. "It is Bertholdt Hoover...I am sure of it."
"Are you?" Erwin's eyes narrowed slightly, his interest piqued. He knew about this already. This was an interesting development.
"I am..." Annie affirmed, her voice firm. Then, he asked a question.
"How did you come to this conclusion, Annie?" He leaned forward, his eyes locking onto hers.
There was a moment of hesitation, and Annie looked away, her eyes fixing on the map on the table. "Because I am a warrior too, just like him..." She said, her voice softer, yet filled with a weight that Erwin knew well. He nodded, his gaze unwavering.
"I see..." He paused, then continued, "And what are your intentions, Annie? What is it that you are trying to accomplish by telling me this?" He had to know what she was planning, her reasons for being here.
Annie's eyes flickered back to him, a hint of defiance in her gaze. "I will tell you, so long as you make a promise." Her tone was as cold as ice.
"What promise?" Erwin asked, his curiosity growing. He was not one for making promises, especially when they involved the fate of humanity. But he needed to hear what she had to say.
"To not be taken by the military police, to remain with the Survey Corps..." Her gaze never left his, waiting for his answer.
The request was not unreasonable, considering the circumstances. And yet, it was still a gamble. He knew what it meant for a titan to join their ranks, and what it could mean for the future. But Erwin also knew that this was a rare opportunity. He looked into Annie's eyes, and for a moment, he could see the depth of her determination.
"Very well..." He agreed. "You have my word...But you must tell me everything...I cannot afford any more surprises." His tone was serious, and his eyes held an intensity that could not be matched. Not even by a warrior from outside the walls.
Annie hesitated for a moment, but then she nodded. "Of course..." She said, and with that, she began to speak.
-x-X-x-
The Present
The flames surrounded you on all sides. Wherever the Colossal went, it left a trail of destruction and fires. Your body was still hot from the intense heat of his steam blast, and the smoke in the air was making it hard to breathe, but you had to push on.
You flew through the city, using your gear to propel yourself from rooftop to rooftop, trying to follow the path of the titan's rampage. He had destroyed much of the area around him, and the few survivors were fleeing for their lives. The military police were nowhere to be seen, they were probably trying to contain the situation and keep people from panicking.
Finally, you spotted the green cloaks of the Survey Corps gathered in one area. You flew closer and landed beside them, the moment your boots touched the ground, and Captain Levi's eyes fell upon you.
"So, you're still in one piece." He said, his usual blunt tone unchanged despite the circumstances. "I thought you would be roasted meat by now." The irony in his voice was subtle, but it was there, especially as you saw burn marks on his own cloak and skin.
You nodded, acknowledging his remark, but your focus was on Erwin, who was standing next to him, his eyes fixed on something beyond. "Commander..." You said, gaining his attention. "What is happening?"
Erwin turned to you, his expression grim. "It seems we were played for fools..." He replied, his eyes not showing any emotion. "We lost half of the Survey Corps in the initial blast, but we have him where we want..." His voice trailed off, his gaze moving to the massive titan in the distance. Then, he stared back at you and the rest of the surviving survey corps soldiers. The others were staring at the Colossal Titan, fear and awe written clearly on their faces.
"SOLDIERS OF THE SURVEY CORPS!" His voice was loud and clear, commanding attention from everyone. "The enemy is in sight, and he believes that he has the advantage, that we will be unable to take him on. But he is wrong." His eyes glinted with determination as he continued. "He may be bigger, he may be stronger, but he has made a critical mistake." He raised his hand, pointing it at the titan. "He has come within our reach...He believes that we are cornered...But the Survey Corps does not go down so easily. Today, we will take him down! Today, we will show him the strength of humanity! The strength of those who fight for their freedom! The strength that comes from within!"
His voice was strong enough to resonate within you, making you feel the weight of his words. There was something different in the air, something that filled you with a renewed sense of purpose.
"This is an order from me, your commander...Fight for what you believe in, and do not hold back! Today, you can avenge the people we've lost, you can take back our home...Do you understand?!"
"Yes, SIR!" The collective voice of the soldiers rang through the air, the fear replaced with determination. And for a moment, you felt it too. A fire that burned brighter than the ones surrounding you, the flame of resolve.
Levi, on the other hand, had a grim expression on his face. He was already prepared for the battle, his blades drawn, and his gear ready. "Tsk... This is not what I signed up for." He muttered under his breath.
But you were focused on the titan now, the one who had caused all this destruction, the one who had betrayed your trust, and more importantly, the one who had hurt Historia and so many others. Bertholdt, your friend, had become your enemy.
And there was no turning back.
With a signal from the commander, the Survey Corps took to the skies, their ODM gear pulling them up and towards the giant. The Colossal was turning towards you, steam rising from its body, the same steam that had almost killed you. His eyes seemed empty, and there was a sense of finality in the way he looked at you all.
But you did not care. All that mattered now was the fight ahead.
The first attack was led by Levi, his movements as swift and precise as ever; he sliced at the nape of the titan, his blades almost finding their mark before the Colossal let out steam once more, forcing him to retreat. Others were not so lucky, their gear getting tangled in the steam, causing them to fall, or be thrown away by the Titan's arm. Some even got hit directly by the blast and were immediately turned into ashes.
You should be out with Levi, but Commander Erwin had placed a hand on your shoulder, stopping you. "Conrad, I have a special task for you." He said, his voice serious, as his eyes moved from the battle to you.
"What is it, sir?" You asked, your eyes not leaving the Colossal.
"The Female Titan is currently engaging him. Do you know why?" He asked, though his tone made it clear that he knew the answer already.
"Commander?" You said, not sure where he was going with this.
"Because she thinks you are dead." He revealed his words like a punch to the gut.
"What...?" You turned to look at him, disbelief in your eyes.
"That's Annie Leonhart," he confirmed. "And I need you to bring her back to her senses."
You couldn't believe it. Annie, a titan...Just like Bertholdt...and Reiner...But the evidence was right in front of you, the Colossal Titan was being fought by her, and what reasons would a Titan have to fight another...All the secrecy, all the unspoken things that Annie never revealed. It was making sense now. But how?
"Conrad..." The commander continued, his eyes now focused solely on you. "You are a unique specimen, a soldier who turns the enemy against each other, and for that reason...I thank you." He bowed his head slightly, his gesture of gratitude. "But now I need your power, the power that made Bertholdt fight Annie. Whatever it was that made her sacrifice her own friends for your sake...Use it, Conrad, and we may yet be victorious."
His words resonated in you; the weight of his faith and the knowledge of Annie's sacrifice filled you with a renewed sense of purpose. She was out there, fighting her former comrade, believing you to be dead, and you were the only one who could stop this madness.
"I will do it, Commander." You declared, your voice filled with resolve.