Chapter 9
3rd Pov
The group stood back in utter shock, overwhelmed by the phenomenon they bear witness before them. Watching the boy suddenly transformed into a Titan, seeing how the large body mass forged together alongside a blinding bolt of lighting dawning down from the skies. Everything became unreal, they couldn't comprehend the phenomenon that occurred, but they were quickly brought back to reality by the clashing sound of his roar, shaking the atmosphere they stood in.
Immediately they all covered their ears, protecting themselves from the sound while keeping a close eye on the boy who now stood there as a Titan.
Tsuki frowned to herself once feeling something completely different from Eren compared to earlier. Sensing a danger, an unchained beast with thoughts fogged by something greater than what Eren or her could've envisioned. For a moment, she couldn't sense Eren within the Titan, but instead she swore there was someone else pulling the strings. But that image disappeared before she could even understand what she experianced. Then there was a shift, and she caught onto the Titan's intention, which caused the rogue to tense up. Her eyes widen the second realizing how he began to move towards them, but more important directly at Mikasa.
Darting her eyes over to the trainee, "Move!" Signaling the others to get back as she stepped up, holding her hand out in hopes to take control of Eren.
Putting a stop to his attempt assault, but she couldn't keep him still forever. Not when he's fight back against her. But she successfully pushed him back, providing a distance between them. However, Tsuki soon felt her grip loosen as the Titan struggled furiously against her hold, to the point the rogue was being pushed back as if she was being cornered instead.
Shielding her eyes from the others, keeping her head low in order to hide from the trainee specifically. The rogue took a deep breath before trying to reach out again, to contact Eren's psyche and figure out what is wrong with him. To understand his sudden urge to attack them. To reason with the boy instead of fighting.
Narrowing her eyes, fighting back, Tsuki couldn't reach him or get a proper grip over him to fully control him. It was the same like before, unsuccessful in possessing him, but all she could sense was a different entity than before. Last time, she remembered sensing him, to pick up on his emotions, but this time there wasn't anything aside from the will to fight- to fight them as if they were the enemy.
That's not him! Her eyes widen, stun for a moment when something lashed out at her, suddenly she felt her whole body flinch in pain.
Sharply taking in a breath, she could hear his footsteps as he moved, but he didn't have enough room to move. Not while she continued to restrict him. Still, Tsuki was running on a thin tight rope that is threatening to snap any second now.
"Lieutenant now!" Mitabi shouted over to the scout, holding faith that the woman will fulfill her role properly. But there was a weaver of doubt as he watched the rogue struggle in maintaining the boy under control.
Tsuki stepped back reluctantly, unsure how to handle the situation when everyone was counting on her to keep the boy in check. Unwilling to step down or give up, Tsuki won't deny she's been pushed in a corner with few options to choose form, and none seem to be very useful at the moment.
"No-!" Gasping, feeling her efforts useless as she watched how the Titan reacted aggressive towards her attempts. Tsuki shook her head as she pushed aside whatever discomfort she's feeling. She moved across the roof to get the boy's attention if he is indeed the one in control, but if her powers can't match up then there's little she could do.
I don't have the power to stop him
Her attention snapped over to see the trainee that acted on her own. Watching how she took the moment to get closer to Eren while the others ordered her to stop.
"Mikasa stop! It's-" One of the Garrisons attempted to call for the trainee, but the girl ignored their orders as she put herself in danger.
Tsuki gritted her teeth, clinching her hand as she froze the Titan once more. In return, she could feel like someone was crushing her in a hold, but all she could do was shake it off.
He's not there! Dragging out a deep breath Tsuki did her best to remain calm despite her current position.
But that too, was running thin by the second. Watching how everythings was unfolding, but it only frustrated her to watch Mikasa act without consideration to what her superiors instructed.
"You don't understand!" Shouting over to the trainee, Tsuki couldn't help herself from frowning at how insubordinate the girl was. It's the last things the scout needed, having someone driven by emotion and act impulsively while ignoring orders from their superiors. A complete liability during an operation like this will get people killed. And Tsuki has seen people get themselves and others killed due to their reckless behaviors, and the rogue isn't going to allow that to happen under her watch.
Stepping back, locking her eyes back onto the boy, allowing herself to try one more time in gaining some from of control. Or get him back to his senses, yet Tsuki knew she was fighting against a focus to be reckon with and she's not properly equipped to handle it. It's the Titan itself... Eren isn't in control...
"Eren!"
Mitabi stepped back, tightly holding his blades as he eyed the Titan before them and unsure how to properly think. "Church you can handle him, right?!" Glancing over to Tsuki, he still believed she would pull through and keep the boy under check.
Ian motioned his group back as the situation has gotten out of their hands, "Get back! All of you!"
"Church!" Frowning, Rico sternly shouted over to the woman as she demanded her to quit playing around and actually do her job.
Tsuki shut her eyes in attempts to remove herself from the stressful position she was in, hoping it will help her regain control of Eren. Everything went silent for what seem like an eternity, knotting her brows as she found herself unable to make any progress. It's not the same from earlier, but it's more unstable than before. Taking a deep breath, the scout knew it was similar to how she encountered the boy earlier, but the conditions have gone far more complicated than she would've liked.
Rico narrowed her eyes at the boy while keeping an eye on the rogue from the corner of her eye. Rico was disappointed in how things turned out, however, the woman truly desired to make sure all they did weren't for nothing. Shouting at Eren, the woman frowned, "Idiot! Snap out of it!"
"Hey- Mikasa get away from that thing!"
But the group was taken back the second they saw the trainee moved further away from them than she already did, drawing Eren's attention as she attempted to reason with him.
Mikasa shouted, doing everything she could think of in order to bring him back to his senses, "Don't you recognize me?! It's me, Mikasa! I'm your family! You need to pick up that boulder and seal the hole! Don't you remember the assignment!?"
"Mission failure!"
"Church, now!"
Tsuki could sense the fear and confusion within their voices, unsure what to do or why the scout wasn't effective. She knew the weight was piling onto her, but the rogue couldn't let them down.
"I'm trying, but he's fighting back and I can't seem reach him!" Shouting over to them, knowing they won't completely understand the struggles, but she needed to let them know she's doing her best. Still she worried over Eren, unsure if the boy was self-conscious of his actions or not, but now she must keep him stable enough to insure none of them get harmed.
Where are you Eren? Come on, you can't just give in to it's power! Staring at the ground, her yellow eyes threatening to give into their blue tone and leave the rogue defenseless. Tsuki looked up, winced at the sign of a headache resurfacing, but she kept it at bay.
"All right, I got it... we have no such thing as a secret weapon..." Rico stepped back, disappointed in herself for believing such absurd excuse for hope. She muttered to herself before she collected her smoke gun, already deciding to call the operation to an end without consulting with the others.
"Rico-!" Ian frowned once seeing her prepare a smoke flare, but his attention was redirected to the scout once Tsuki shout over to him.
"Ian! Get her out of there!" Tsuki turned sharply towards her commanding officer, instructing him to get the trainee away. She hoped since he worked with the girl that maybe Mikasa would listen to him, but even the rogue holds her doubts.
"Eren! You are human!" Mikasa continued, hoping to get some reaction that will reassure everyone that Eren was in control. But there wasn't anything, "You are-"
No response- He's not going to- Tsuki sensed the hostility within the Titan, knowing how he is trying to attack, but as long as the rogue can contain him then there's nothing he could do. Still it was for a moment until Tsuki loses whatever control she had over him.
They sternly ordered the trainee to get back, but the group didn't move from their defensive positions as they all watched what the girl was doing.
"Mikasa get out of the way!"
"I can't stop him, Ian!" Tsuki hoped the others could do something, anything, but they too were left with nothing.
"He's-" Blinking at the realization as her words stopped. Her now blue eyes darted over towards Mikasa before they shifted back to Eren's Titan form.
He's going to do something he'll regret!
Her hands found their way to her triggers of her gear. Not wasting a second longer the scout jumped into action while she still had the chance.
"Mikasa!"
Activating her gear, Tsuki launched herself towards the trainee before Eren's Titan broke out of the small hold the she put on him.
Within a blink of an eye everything vanished within their presence.
"Lieutenant!?"
The two tumbled across the rooftop, but Tsuki shielded the trainee from harms way as they fell onto the roof. Shielding the girl, Tsuki looked over her shoulder to see the rumble that was left behind from the blow, but she could only imagine what would've happened if they were caught in it. Glancing back to the trainee, who coughed slightly before flinching as she discovered the cut across her cheek.
Tsuki moved back, sitting beside Mikasa as they both took a moment to catch their breathes, but the scout looked back to the trainee seeing how the girl was in a disarray and confused with what just happened.
Mikasa shook her head in disbelief, "He wouldn't-"
"Dammit." Mitabi cursed to himself, landing beside the two as he lectured Mikasa for her insubordination at a critical and dangerous time, "You listen to our orders, trainee!"
"Church! Mikasa!" Soon Ian landed near them, looking between the two, checking if there's any visible injuries or anything life threatening that they could've received, "Are either of you injured?"
"We're fine, but I can't say the same for Eren," Tsuki assured her comrades, but her concern fell onto the trainee beside her, "Mikasa, are you okay?"
"Yeah, I'm fine," Her gray eyes spared a glance towards her superiors, but Mikasa looked away while ignoring the slight sting across her cheek.
Rico scowled, annoyed at how reckless the teen was and naive she was handling the assignment, allowing her emotions to get the better of her. Something that greatly irritated the woman, Rico scolded her harshly, "Next time, listen to our orders!"
Placing her hands against her head, Tsuki shut her eyes for a moment before asking the group to collect themselves, "Cool it, everyone, please." Sighing in relief, she opened her eyes to see the headless Titan that belonged to Eren. The scout was at a lost of words in how everything happened, she wasn't sure in why the boy attacked and went as far as inflicting self harm in attempts to hurt Mikasa.
Mitabi knelt down beside the scout, and he notice the woman didn't escape the attack unscathed, "Lieutenant, your arm."
This caught the other two Garrisons' attention, but Rico frowned to herself once taking another look and noticed that Mikasa also received a cut across her cheek. Something that the trainee brought onto herself for being reckless and also railing the scout into the mess who saved her.
Rico shifted her eyes back onto the rogue, and she knew Tsuki won't be affected by the wound due to her regeneration trait that she's fortunate to posses. So the group wasn't too worried, but they won't deny they can't have Tsuki under too many restrictions that can render her a liability further into the operation.
Even Rico will stubbornly admit, but she, along with the other two knew how important Tsuki was. They need Tsuki alive and well because the rogue holds a promising future for them and for Humanity, something none of them can risk losing. However, some might debate on the matter concerning Eren's status. Something Rico and Mitabi weren't convinced, but unlike them, their friend and Squad Leader: Ian, will place his faith onto the boy no matter what may come.
"Huh?" Blinking, Tsuki looked over to her arm to see a tear in her uniform. Probably from the debris and something cut her, I didn't even feel it.
"It's nothing to worry about, okay." Ignoring it, Tsuki knew it'll heal quick and surely the others were aware, but she appreciated their concern. Still she understood why they're worried and she also knows her body might be resilient, but it too, has limits before it naturally shut her down.
After all, she is still human.
Just like Eren.
They're human no matter if they posses connections to the Titans. Until their last breathes, they'll be human till the day they throw away their humanity.
The Titan moved faintly, but remained still in his place. But it was enough to gain everyone's attention as the Garrisons went on alert.
"Everyone stand back!" Ian instructed the group, remaining caution as the group became wary of Eren's Titan ability especially experiencing the unpredictable onslaught that happened only a few seconds ago.
Tsuki remain still while the others stood on their feet. All she could do was sit and think to herself all the while trying to make sense of what happened. Furrowing her brows, resting her arms against her knees as she stared at Eren's Titan. The same questions echoed within her mind, but there was no answer to them, Why did you lose control now? The rogue clenched her hands, narrowing her eyes, Where did your mind wondered off to...?
Looking over her shoulder, Tsuki saw the group hold different expressions. Each with their own train of thoughts as they did their best to wrap their heads around what they witnessed.
"What's the deal...?" Rico scowled, she was displeased in how everything ended up. Feeling utterly lied to and angry with herself for even considering the possible success they'll have with the operation.
Mitabi frowned to himself, muttering as he looked over to his comrades, but he spared another glance at the scene, "It's just one of those brainless Titans..."
Mikasa snapped back to reality after having a moment to progress what occurred. Her eyes falling onto the Titan that belonged to Eren, seeing how he was now headless from his recent attack. But it made the concern she felt build as she thought the worse, "Eren!?"
Shouting over to the Garrison, Tsuki needed to make sure that the girl didn't get into any more trouble or near Eren for the time being, "Mitabi grab her!"
"Hey-!" Responding to the scout's order, Mitabi did his best to stop the trainee as she passed him. However, he wasn't expecting how determined and how stronger the trainee was compared to how she looked, she escaped his hold with ease.
Shocked in how the trainee possessed such strength Mitabi was left speechless.
"Damn she's strong." Mitabi muttered to himself, frowning as the girl attempted to speak to Eren.
Now the trio turned their attention to the rogue, some wondering what happened and others asking for confirmation. They began to ask questions to see where the scout was going with her part of the assignment.
"Church, can you try to-?"
"Aren't you the one to secure him if he-"
Interrupting their endless questions, Tsuki kept her tone in check when she responded, "You think I wasn't trying?" Standing onto her feet, adjusting her hood before brushing the debris off her uniform. Giving some insight from past experiences as she compared them while offering some sort of explanation, "If he were any other normal Titan then it'll be easier, or even an Abnormal would be easier to handle at this point."
Her eyes fell back onto the headless Titan, she whispered to herself, "However, Eren doesn't fall into either of those category... He settles into a whole different type of Titan." Folding her arms, Tsuki curled her fingers into her arms as she allowed the thought to pass, Something I'm personally not experienced in yet
"Now what?" Mitabi dropped his arms to his sides, looking over to his companions for something, anything at this point.
Rico glanced over to the headless Titan who was supposed to be their key in getting out of this mess. Her gaze returned back to Ian, "We gave it our shot and this so called Titan experiment failed."
Tsuki sharply turned, enough to face them as she clarified a few things with them, "He's not brainless as you or others believe him to be, but his mind isn't clear. He's not the one in control of his previous actions that just occurred."
"Did you not see what just happened? He attacked us and nonetheless his friend," Rico was the one to get on the fence, agitated in how calm Tsuki was after everything, "How can we expect him to pull this off if that's what his first act? You know that saying, first impressions matter. Especially now! And I'm not impress from what I saw."
"Give me time, Rico," Tsuki stood her ground, trying to convince them on carrying onward, "I know we're running a time meter and we're in a perilous position, but we need to continue on."
"No."
"Rico-" Ian stepped in, attempting to reason with his friend before things got out of hand between the two women.
Butting heads with her friend, Rico wasn't accepting a suicidal trip so easily and neither will she allow her friends to accept it. Keeping her composer as she stated, "Ian, we all saw what happened," Putting her foot down, hoping he'll at least listen to her word and see there's nothing they could do. Narrowing her eyes, she gave her stances on the matter, "I say we retreat and leave this mission that was doom for failure from the start."
Dismissing her suggestion, Ian wasn't going to give up so easily not when everything is on the line. Ian shouted, making it clear for everyone of the direction he's taking for the operation, "We're not leaving without him! We are finishing this mission!"
"Church, you said you need some time," Looking over his shoulder, Ian put his heart to the purpose and he'll stay by it. Willing to give the rogue another chance and hope they'll succeed, "I'll give that to you. Get him back on his feet."
Her eyes widen for a second, surprised to hear him put his trust in her and have the courage to carry the mission despite how their operation has basically fallen into shambles. Tsuki felt the stress build up again because she was holding their lives in her hands, a burden she cannot accept. Yet she can't disappoint them nor give up on Humanity.
I can't reach him in order to control him nor wake him, Clenching her hands, keeping her expression clear as she nodded back, "I'll figure something out to shake him up so we can carry on."
"So we're at a lost already..." Mitabi looked up at the sky, dragging out a deep breath at the mere thought.
"No, I'll try to drag him out and grant this mission a success," Tsuki couldn't let doubt sink into her comrades' thoughts. So she'll accept everything like always, to hold the weight and deal with the outcome of the mission. "That I swear to you Ian, Mitabi and Rico. We won't get another chance and this is our only opportunity."
Glancing between the group, seeing mixed looks. Tsuki knew she was asking for too much out of them, but it needs to be done, "So give me time."
"We're running on a thin line now, Church! You think this will be the best option that will get all of us killed!" Rico couldn't believe how the scout was really willing to pull a risky move, and no one else was thinking rationally anymore. It was logically for Rico to reject the decision. She wasn't planning to die a pointless death with no value, and she can't bear to allow her friends to fall victim to that type of fate. "I don't know how you exactly function, or if this how the Survey Corps do things, but I'm not accepting this!"
Stepping forward, making it known Tsuki won't hesitate in defending her stance and neither will she sugar coat the consequences if they choose to abandon the operation. "Rico, do you want to give up and allow Humanity to lose yet another Wall!?" The scout knew Rico was acting in best of mind for the others, but the rogue needed to remind her of the greater loss if they choose to step back, "If we lose Trost then it'll be a matter of time before Wall Rose falls! Then what will happened?!"
"Remember what became of the Shiganshina District? It was the first sign before the fall of Wall Maria! If we don't seal the breach then we're risking the loss of Wall Rose which will be in a matter of time that it gets attacked if it follows the same pattern as before!" Motioning everyone's attention towards Wall Rose and the district of Trost, showing how important it was to protect their last line of defense. "None of us what that, do we?"
"We're just repeat everything at a more intense level and higher stakes. Where we finally fall apart and Humanity loses not just to the Titans, but to ourselves as well."
"Do you want that?" Standing face to face, Tsuki stared at Rico who held a harsh glare in return. "Do you really want to see people turn against each other and die before the Titans even finish us off?"
"No, of course not." Rico muttered back in defeat because no one would want that and she knew what the rogue is saying holds undeniable truth.
"I'm going to do my best," Tsuki stepped back, determined to continue the mission no matter what decision is made. "Regardless if you or no one believes in this anymore. This operation will continue and we will secure Trost back under our control."
"Squad Leader!" Mikasa yelled over to Ian, motioning them to look at the direction the Titans are moving from.
Mitabi stepped forward, gripping his swords as he looked over to his friend, "Titans in approach from the front gate! Two of them! 10 and 6 meter class!"
Narrowing her eyes, Mikasa took a quick glance at Eren before she shouted to her commanding officer, "There is one more behind us! 12 meters and it's coming our way, Sir!'
"Ian, I say we should retreat! Closing up the gate was never some kid's job anyway!" Holding her voice together despite almost pleading with him. Rico grit her teeth, annoyed at how stubborn Ian was as usual, but she didn't want none of them to throw their lives away without a true purpose. She couldn't watch them be used as pawns, to be sacrificed without any real value to be made by their deaths.
She knows it's selfish, but it's only natural for one to refuse to die. For one to try and protect their friends and family from danger. Rico also knew Ian and how he'll devote himself to the end which was something she admired and hated about him. She simply wasn't going to let him or Mitabi go without a fight, not when she can do something about it.
"Aye... it really sucks, big time, but we should get out of here..." Mitabi scratched his head, he too was disappointed in how things turned out, but he wasn't going to stay with Titan territory without a plan. Glancing over to the scout, he also stated an important detail they all failed to note down, "We can't risk losing the Lieutenant in the progress either, Ian."
Rico motioned Mitabi to follow, and she looked over to Ian as she firmly stated, "Lets go Ian."
"No, we won't be heading back without achieving our goal and succeeding!" Tsuki couldn't accept it, she wasn't leaving Eren behind or forsaking the mission no matter what. I'm not abandoning him.
Humanity can't solely relay on me. The thoughts crossed her mind, knowing how much they're gambling right now and Tsuki can't lose the chance that Humanity needs. She also knows the boy might help her, to be able to fill in her spot if anything happens, There needs to be someone else to-
"This isn't your field, Lieutenant!" Rico had enough, she wasn't having it any more and she isn't going to put her trust into a faulty 'experiment' any longer. Narrowing her eyes, she also can't allow the rogue to stupidly run to her death because the scout 'believes' she can handle it, "No matter how skilled you are, we're out numbered and out powered!"
"Ian, give us the order!" Mitabi stepped in, trying to conceive his friend while assuring him that no one will blame him, "This isn't your fault!"
Rico stood beside Mitabi, stating what many people thought about the plan as a way to persuade Ian into changing the decision and retreat, "The whole plan never stood on solid ground to begin with. Everybody knows it!"
A small shrug, Mitabi felt the pressure kick in since Ian hasn't shown any signs of what he'll do next, "It was worth a try, sure! But we're been trying more than enough as it is!"
"We can't cave into defeat," Tsuki decided to dish out one last attempt to get them to give Eren and the assignment one more chance, "We need to hold the Titans off and give Eren time to recollect himself."
"Then what if he doesn't!?" Rico grit her teeth, glaring at the scout as the two stared at each other. Tearing her eyes away, glancing over to Ian as she decided to leave on her own terms. Hoping it'll get Ian to call off the operation once she announces, "Me and my team are climbing up the wall!"
With that, Rico began to walk away and Mitabi glanced between her and Ian for a moment before he begins to follow after his friend. While Ian and Tsuki watched their comrades leave, but the two of them didn't have enough time to respond when they notice the trainee draw out her blade.
"Wait!" Ian quickly jumped in and finally taking action, he stopped the trainee from continuing whatever she had in mind. The man didn't anticipate the girl would turn her blade against her own comrades so suddenly. Taking a deep breath, he spoke calmly, "Wait... Calm down Mikasa."
Threatening to draw her own blade in defense, Tsuki narrowed her eyes at the trainee as she harshly commanded, "Put your blade down before anything else happens," Eyeing the girl carefully, unsure what to expect next, but the scout knew better to drop her guard, "You stirring up a fight won't help none of us and certainly it won't help Eren either."
Glancing between the group and their surroundings, Ian knew what decision to make and he needed to remind everyone he's in command. Ian turned toward Rico as he began to hand out orders.
"Team Rico, take down the Titan on the rear!" Moving, sparing a quick glance over to his other friend, "Team Mitabi and my own will deal with the couple in the front!"
Rico was stunned at the order, she couldn't believe what she heard as she demanded, "Excuse me?!"
"I am the commanding officer here! Shut up and follow my orders!" Barking back, Ian stood his ground and prepared himself for the challenge his comrades will give him, but he wasn't backing down.
Stepping away from the dispute, holding her head Tsuki tried to keep her mind clear. Her eyes fell back onto Eren's Titan and it only nerved her to the extent that so much is riding on his shoulders.
She attempted once move to reach out and drag him back to reality, Can you hear me? Have you forgotten where you are? Who you are? Closing her eyes, inhaling as she almost scolded him for slacking off at a time like this, It's not a time to sleep- !
Snapping her eyes open, she felt the Titans nearing while Eren remain motionless. Tsuki shouted over her shoulder towards the others, "We cannot allow Eren to remain defenseless any longer! Those Titans will devour him if they get the chance!"
"This is just a detour, Rico," Ian narrowed his eyes, keeping his composer despite the chaos erupting around them. He needed to remain calm for the shake of his friends and comrades which what he'll do.
Agreeing, Tsuki offered her support while informing the others what they'll do with Eren, "We'll protect Eren from the Titans until such time as he's recovers. Since approaching him would be unwise, so all we can do is wait for him to manage something on his own..."
Ian looked over to Eren's direction, he knew exactly what the boy held and it's the key that will help Humanity overcome the trials they were constantly faced. Even if he, too, is feeling the pressure and fear of the uncertainty that is wrapped around them.
Ian needed to secure the future for Humanity to have an equal chance in fighting back, and by doing so he'll have to run into hell and risk his life.
"But the potential he represents for humanity is just too great. We can't afford to let go of that so easily." From the corner of his eye, he saw the rogue standing near the edge but his focus fell back to his two friends, "Just like what Church mentioned, if we lose here then we're risking the fall of Wall Rose and after that there's no returning."
Clenching his hands, he hated to say the words because he couldn't bring himself to be responsible for their deaths. But it needed to be said, "Because unlike any of us, there is no replacing him."
"Hundreds of us already died for the sake of mister faulty human weapon... just on the first try..." Raising a brow, Rico tried to progress what was being asked of her. Rico frowned to herself before looking at the two as she seriously asked, "Let him regenerate? So you find it in yourself to repeat such nonsense? Ian? Church? Huh?"
Nodding, he also can't believe what he's talking about, but Ian has already set his heart on the cause, "Precisely... no matter the casualties or how many times it takes, combat must continue!"
Tsuki lowered her eyes, unsure how to feel as she allowed the words to sink in. Tsuki couldn't agree when it came to casualties because she has always been the one to lower the rates. To be the one to bring her comrades back home no matter what.
Snapping her attention over to Rico's outburst as the Garrison furiously argued back, "Ian, are you mad! Do you hear yourself?!" Glaring over to the scout as she called her out too, "And you too, Church!"
Ian snapped back, stepping closer towards Rico as he demanded a solid answer from her. Giving out questions that no one truly held an answer for. While reminding her of the shakes they're gambling with.
"How then!?"
"Let's hear it!"
"How do we defeat the Titans!?"
"You tell me! What other way is there to sort this whole mess out!? Without loss of life!"
"While remaining human all the way! How do we prevail against the Titans' overwhelming power, huh!?"
"Stop!" Mitabi stepped in between them trying to be the voice of reason among them, "We can't waste time on arguing!"
Furrowing, her voice fell slightly as Rico responded, ".. A way to defeat the Titans...? Of course I don't know any..."
Sighing, feeling drained already by the whole ordeal, but Ian continued, "Right if we known of such method things wouldn't have come to this. That is why... our job right now might suck. But it still needs doing." Ian motioned over towards Eren's Titan as he state the real truth behind the operation and the reality of their position, "Our job is to throw away our lives for the sake of this obscure human weapon.. our job is to die... as bravely as we possibly can."
This caught Tsuki's full attention as she carefully listened to his words. She could sense the distraught in his voice, knowing all too well he's just like everyone else, he didn't want to die. This made her recall the favor that was asked of her, she could tell how much he's trying to convince Rico but at the time he didn't want to. A tragedy within itself and it was cruel from fates part.
Tsuki sat down, the tension was too much and the dreadful silence that followed made everything real. Her eyes stared at the decapitated Titan while listening to Ian's speech.
Ian chuckled dryly at the mere thought, "What a tragedy, eh? As humans, this is about the best we can do... die like animals... for something that might not even pay off."
Taking a deep breath, he acknowledged his doubts but after laying everything out before them. He wanted to know where his friends stood, mainly he wanted to know where Rico stood on the matter. "So... what will it be?"
He lowered his arms, knowing it was quite outrageous of him to ask, and he'll attempt it that he too shared the same fears that his friends expressed, but he couldn't give in to that fear. "This is the battle we can fight... this is as good a struggle as we'll ever put up."
"Yeah, right." Keeping a static look, Rico shook her head in disagreement, but she also couldn't face him anymore. Turning on her heels as she walked away, "I am not convinced."
"Rico!"
Pausing in her tracks, sparing a final glance to him as she reluctantly added, "I'll follow the plan... I believe you've got a point..."
"I will teach them to fear the greatness of human beings fighting with all we've got. Cause you see, I'm not so convinced about the whole dying is a pointless death deal." Drawing out her weapons, frowning as she retorted back to him before leaving to deal with the Titans, "Leave the 12 meters class on the rear to my team."
"The time for idle chatting is over, Ian," Mitabi sighed under his breath while patting his friend's shoulder. Relieved that things were settled, but he was also anxious in what awaits them as he departed, "Let's go! Those Titans up ahead are waiting."
Ian's eyes widen, he was shocked to see his friends put their faith in him. But he was amazed that Rico ended up following the plan. Looking back to Mitabi, he nodded to his friend before following suit, "...Right!"
Tsuki look around watching their choices limit, time was ticking away faster as the Titans advanced to their direction. She couldn't control them when she still had Eren to deal with. All she could do was put her faith into her comrades and believe they'll handle the Titans to the best of their ability.
You said you wanted to join the Survey Corps, right! Then prove to me that your worthy to wear the Wings of Freedom! Moving over to the edge of the roof, desperately trying to spark a reaction so he can carry on for everyone's sake. Everyone is counting on you Eren!
Nothing.
No response or any signs that he could even hear her and certainly he isn't aware of his surroundings either.
This is... It's useless...
Straightening herself, taking a deep breath so she could organize her thoughts. Once regaining her composer, Tsuki noticed Ian speaking with the trainee for a moment, a brief conversation by the looks of it.
She decided to talk with Ian before he leaves to join the others and made sure there was a distances between them and the trainee.
Ian spared a moment to say a few words before regrouping with the rest of the squad. He knew everyone was stressing and it's clearly getting to the rogue too.
"Lieutenant, you're capable of controlling Titans, I've seen it beforehand and I know you'll be able to handle this." Acknowledging the struggle the scout has been going through in controlling Eren's Titan. "We all have challenges to overcome today for the shake of Humanity. And I know you can do it."
"We'll keep the Titans from reaching him or allow them near to avoid any trouble for you." Turning on his heels preparing to confront the Titans. Ian looked over to Eren's directions as he firmly stated, "So focus on him while our teams handle the Titans."
There wasn't anything else to add not when they're working against the clock. Tsuki took his words without question and she hoped for the best, "Best of luck, Ian." Nodding back, she swore, "I will make sure this mission is a success. We'll reclaim our first victory no matter what and Trost will be back in our hands before dawn."
"Thank you for your words, Church," Looking over his shoulder, appreciating the words of encouragement before he went to regroup with the others.
"Mikasa go with them," Directing the teen to move, but the scout knew one thing that will make the trainee reluctant to leave. Tsuki needed to gain the girl's absolute trust and promise she'll protect Eren to the best of her abilities, "Lend them your skills. I'll guard Eren with everything until the end."
"So trust me." Making eye contact as she asked the raven haired girl to put her faith in her.
A request that made Mikasa think over before giving a nod, sparing a quick glance from the corner of her eye. Checking if Eren gained any conscious. Noting nothing changed, she quickly went off to the surrounding Titans.
...Quite stubborn and emotional... Ackermans... Tsuki couldn't help herself from making the connection as she recalled some memories involving Levi and his own behavior. But there was no time to think of old memories or anything else besides the mission at hand.
Taking a deep breath once the trainee left. Now it was time to do something or hope for a miracle if there is nothing she could do. It frustrates her to no end, wondering why her power doesn't completely work on him.
Is it because he's human? Or I'm not strong enough to handle it...?
Whatever is the reason, she couldn't waste valuable time pondering when she still has a job to do. Her eyes trailed over to the boy, taking note his Titan body hasn't regenerated yet nor has he moved an inch.
Activating her gear, she flew over to him. Landing onto the unconscious Titan, Tsuki tried everything she could think of in order to bring the boy back to his senses. Walking across the shoulder, almost pleading for the trainee to regain control, Come on, Eren, wake up
Yet nothing happened.
No response.
Resisting the urge to grab her hair out of habit when she's overwhelmed and stressed. There was so much going on and everyone is relaying on the success of the reconquer of Trost to lift their spirits.
But as things stand now, whatever damage made will be far too late to turn the tables without losing many soldiers.
Dammit!
Her yellow eyes scanned the area to see the squad kept the Titans away from their direction, but there isn't room to waste time.
He's too submerge into his unconscious, but I need to bring him back to the surface.
Sitting there, going through any possible way to get him back into his feet. Mumbling to herself, furrowing he brows, "What could snap you out?"
Mikasa couldn't get through to him... Then what can? Glancing back to the destruction that left the building a mess, recalling how Eren attacked them and nonetheless Mikasa.
Placing a hand against her temple, Tsuki didn't want to give up on the kid yet, but time is ticking as the others are holding off the Titans. There's so much riding and if they fail then everything will be fall apart soon.
"Eren... what the heck are you doing!? Eren!"
Her eyes widen at the familiar voice, looking over her shoulder she saw the blonde trainee standing on one of the many rooftops. It surprised her to see him out on the field instead of his original position in luring the Titans towards the back corner.
"Armin?" Finally acknowledging him, the scout quickly began to think of some form of strategy that might help Eren's case. Armin... He's Eren's close friend- Maybe he can-
"Lieutenant!?"
Armin was taken back once noticing the scout, but it rise many questions. Shouting over to her, "What happened to the plan?" Shaking his head as he landed beside her before he asked, "Where's the others?"
"Armin!?"
The two of them turned around to see Mikasa land on a near by roof. The girl divided her attention between the Titans and the concern for her friend that is now within Titan territory.
She couldn't have the blonde out here, telling him to leave the area, "Get out of here! This is dangerous!"
Armin shook his head, not moving from his spot. He needed to know what happened, to understand why the plan isn't running occurring to how they anticipated. "What's going on with Eren!?"
"Mikasa return to your task!" Tsuki scolded the girl who wasn't focusing on her own assigned position. Why won't you listen to anyone!?
Casting her tired blue eyes onto Eren as she filled Armin in what occurred, "Eren couldn't control the Titan and we can't do anything but wait for him."
Mikasa warned her friend, "I tried talking to it and it didn't react! There is no point in anybody else trying!"
"What about the plan!?" He couldn't believe everything fell apart at a critical point- it's life or death. And time won't stop for them to fix whatever drawback they're dealing.
"It failed!"
"We fight because we can't afford to abandon Eren!" Interfering between their little regroup, Tsuki reminded them where they are and what is expected from them, "At this rate, we'll be overrun by the Titans! We are not going to survive if it continues like this!"
"Mikasa, now go! That's an order!" Snapping over to the girl, directly commanding her to return to her assigned objective.
"You're duty to keep the Titans at bay while Eren regain consciousness! My duty is to protect him and I can't do that if you and the others aren't doing your side of the job!" Tsuki couldn't help herself from scowling at how insubordinate the trainee was, but there was little the scout could do at the moment.
"The Lieutenant is right Mikasa! Go!" The blonde looked at his friend across from him, knowing that Mikasa was better off handling the Titans while he and the scout worry over Eren.
Armin turned towards the scout, hoping to hear something from the woman that will resolve the situation they're in, "Lieutenant... What do we do?"
Avoiding eye contact, she didn't have a clear plan or have any words to share to ease the boy's concerns. What could she do at a time like this where her power isn't enough, I don't know
'... stop selling yourself short, shorty.'
Clenching her hands, hearing the words chime in as a reminder that she definitely has some tricks up her sleeve. There's always a way around an obstacle and she's too stubborn to accept failures. She needed to be confident in her abilities and show the others that they can relay on her no matter what.
I know, I know. There has to be something that will work. Furrowing her brows, her mind began to race for a solution while keeping the pressure from crushing her, I was entrusted with his protection and for the success of this operation.
I can't fail... Not now... Shaking the doubt aside, glancing around her. Tsuki saw there wasn't much time left for to ponder instead all that's left is to act.
I need him to snap Eren back to reality now Her fingers curled over her mouth, lost in thought as she tried to create a plan of some sorts, Once he regains consciousness then everything will be okay.
"We need to shake him up, get him into his senses. Anything that will spark a response." Muttering to herself, Tsuki looked back to Armin in hopes he can elaborate on. She only provided a ground work and surely the boy will bring something up, "He needs to take control of the Titan instead of allowing himself to be controlled by it."
But how? Narrowing her eyes, she still didn't have an answer despite knowing what needs to be done.
Armin took her words, processing them as he began to think further into it until his eyes fell down then points clicked together inside his mind, "... Area from the back of the head to the nape of the neck... length: one meter... width 10 centimeters."
A familiar sound caught her attention as she turned towards the source to see the blonde, "Huh? What are you-?" Her eyes widen the second Armin drew out his blade, but it all clicked together in her head. Taking his words into account, already having an idea in where he was going at.
I understand now... This might work as well Thinking further into what the boy was planning to do and anticipating what will happen, If he manages to shrike perfectly then it'll be enough to jolt him awake
"Armin!?"
They heard Mikasa's strain voice as she shouted at her friend. Frighten in what the blonde will do with his sword and unsure how to feel about the situation. But her attention was divided between the Titans nearing and the need to stop Armin from whatever he had in mind.
Yelling back, Armin tighten his grip over the sword as he directed Mikasa to leave. "I'm getting Eren out of here! You keep the Titans away from here!"
Inhaling, shaky, his hands trembled but he knew it must be done in order to save his friend. Armin muttered to himself while trying to make a logical conclusion for the decision he'll be making shortly. "Eren emerged out of the Titan's weak spot.. surely it has something to do with the fundamental way they function, whatever that is."
Tsuki knew what he was thinking and she's willing to give it a shot. From the corner of her eye, noticing how tense and nervous he was as he held the blade down at the nape. Stepping closer, she reassured him in hope to ease his mind a bit before he goes through with his plan.
"He'll regenerate whatever he loses in progress of getting him out, okay, so don't stress too much on severing a limb or two." She won't deny she's nervous too because it's a risky move to pull, but if done correctly then Armin might get Eren back to his senses. Her eyes scanned the surface of the nape, fully aware Eren is beneath them and her gaze fell back onto the blonde beside her. If he doesn't strike the center or any vital points then all will be fine
Some times pain is the only solution
"Lieutenant! Stop him!"
"It's gonna be okay, so long as I don't strike dead center!"
"Wha- Armin!?"
"It's just gonna hurt a lot!"
"Armin stop- it's- this is crazy!"
"Leave now!" Tsuki shouted over to the girl, but the scout knew that it won't be any use, "That's an order! Go now!"
"Mikasa get going! You might be able to save a few lives! Listen to the Lieutenant's order!" Armin yelled, looking over to Mikasa as he told her to leave and obey the orders the scout has handed to her, and to trust him that he'll be able to get Eren out of there. "Leave Eren to me! I'm going to do what I can!"
"Now go!"
Mikasa hesitated but she listened, leaving the area as she handled the Titans and left the two to take care of Eren. Once she was out of sight, the scout gave Armin the clear to proceed with his idea and allow him to pierce the sword through the skin- hoping that he didn't strike anything vital that could've severely injured Eren.
"NOW!"
The second the blade pierced through the skin, Eren's Titan form suddenly jerked in response to the pain, but Tsuki held the blonde trainee down as they kept themselves grounded until Eren settled back down. Each of them unsure if the boy within the Titan was perfectly fine with the whole idea of being stabbed, but they were relieved to have gotton some sort of response from him.
"Dammit,"Tsuki muttered to herself, but she also winced slightly before placing a hand on her shoulder. She felt a quick sting, but it wasn't too bad despite the slight pain she felt from strange sharp feeling that shot through her. It happened for a split second then it disappeared, but she knew nothing physically harmed, yet it felt like someone stabbed her.
Pushing the thought aside, she looked over to Armin, seeing how much of a nervous wreck he was, but she began to talk to him in order to calm his nerves, "Okay, okay, relax." Tsuki eyed the blonde, taking noticed that he began to take deep steady breathes to calm himself, and once he managed to get a hang of himself he looked over to her. She gave him a nod, glancing down to the nape of the Titan where Eren should be, "Armin, you need to talk to him, alright."
I can faintly hear him now... Tsuki furrowed her brows, she knew Eren was alive, but she couldn't clearly catch anything that Eren was saying. It sounded all foggy or sluggish, but at least she knew he was alive and somewhat conscious, so all they need is to wake him up completely. Glancing up, she finally noticed the strange look that Armin sent her and a part of her felt like face palming herself since she forgot that he didn't knew her secret. And certainly, whatever she said must've sounded ridiculous to anyone sane, but Tsuki needed to explain without blowing her cover.
"Trust me, he needs you to scold him right now. Don't ask questions, please. We just need to act quickly and I believe you need to talk him through it."
/This has to work/
Armin took a minute to think and consider her words, and he gave a quick nod over to the scout before he took a deep breath. He yelled, hoping that his friend can hear him through the Titan's skin, "Eren! Can you hear me! Get a hold of yourself! Get out of here or we're all gonna die!"
"Don't you give in to some lame Titan's body!" The blonde frown to himself, clenching his hand into a fist as he slammed it his hand down, hoping to get a reaction from Eren. "Now quick! Get the heck out of this lump of flesh!"
The scout sat there silently, tilting her head as she tried to catch anything from Eren, but nothing stood out aside from the silence that began grow. Tsuki frowned, harshly thinking, Don't you dare fall back asleep, Eren!
She attempted to pull his consciousness, to keep himself from slipping back to the slumber he has fallen into, but she couldn't get a hold of him. Curling her fingers, she stared at the patch of skin that contained Eren, and Tsuki didn't bother looking over to the trainee beside her as she asked, "Armin, do you trust me?"
"I have no other choice but to!" Armin shook his head, he didn't know anything from the scout aside from what the public knew, and even that wasn't enough to properly get a good idea of who the Lieutenant was as a person. But he knew the scout stood up for them, risking their life for theirs, and now the scout is trying to help them. So he can trust her, and hope that the scout will successfully help him and Eren, and fix the breach.
Tsuki understood where the trainee was coming from, but it was enough for her that he was willing to trust her. However, she needed to be confident in herself, but the thought alone of never personally dealing with some type of Titan Shifter before, she was basically walking on untested waters with her power. I haven't tried any tricks before... Not that I can recall, but... But maybe I can project his words louder if I... Her eyes fell over to Armin, she knew that the blonde held a strong connection with Eren, and from what she knew the two boys were childhood friends, so maybe if Eren heard Armin clearer then he'll wake up and continue the operation.
"I- I'm going to try something and you need to break through and pull Eren out of whatever he shut himself in." Tsuki mentally prepared herself, she was anxious, but she needed to try and hope that Armin will simply go along with her without much question to any of her strange suggestions. "Mentally, he needs to wake up and remember what we're fighting for. He's lost sight of our goal. So wake him up."
"Mentally..." Armin repeated the word, furrowing his brows in confusion as he tried to understand what the scout was talking about, What is she speaking about...
"He can still function with this body, but we need to pull him out of whatever trance he's fallen into." Tsuki motioned back down the Titan body they were both sitting on, explaining a bit more clearer of what her end goal is.
"How?" He shook his head, he needed to understand more of what the scout was asking, and where she was coming from, I don't-
She interrupted his thoughts, speaking calmly as she repeated herself, "Just talk and keep talking until he responses." Motioning him to rest his hand where Eren should be, and insisted him to simply talk to his friend, "Set your hand right here, it should be where his body is submerged." And she repressed the sigh once he listened and went along with her instructions, Tsuki knew she was messing with a slim possibility of testing out a new trick for her power, but now is the best moment to try.
I'll project whatever you say through, so it's loud and clear for him to hear. She placed her hand over the trainee, hoping that she can get his words through with her power, but the second she touched the blonde, she felt her whole body suddenly weaken, God- Why am I already weakening when I didn't even activate my power? But Tsuki ignored it and gave a nod over to the trainee, reminding him of what he needed to do, "All we need is a reaction. Can you do that?"
A reaction? Armin kept repeating to himself, and his eyes widen once he realized what will definitely get a reaction out of Eren. Shouting down to where his friend should be, "Eren! Who's gonna avenge your mother, eh!?"
Please work... Tsuki took a deep breath, closing her eyes as she focused in carrying Armin's words and presences through whatever allusion Eren encased himself in as a form of escape from reality. Hoping that she can successfully project Armin into Eren's conscious and get a response out of him.
"What happened to wiping out the Titans!? You hate them, don't you? They killed your mother!" Armin shouted, now using his friend hand he began to smack the Titan skin, hoping to knock some sense into his friend. Meanwhile, Tsuki frowned to herself, putting all her focus into getting the words through and find Eren's consciousness, and a part of her felt like it worked since the weight on her shoulders lessen even if it's a small portion of it.
/They killed your mother! / Armin shouted, his fist hitting against the window of Eren's home. The blonde tried to get his friend's attention, but to find that Eren was sound asleep until he stirred at the sound of his friend's voice.
/"What are you talking about, Armin?" Eren raised a brow at the sudden noise of someone pounding against his window, but he only found Armin standing outside, shouting nonsense at him, and Eren returned his gaze back to his mother before wrapping himself tightly in his blankets. His eyes threaten to close as he muttered back to Armin, "My mom is standing right here."/
"He heard you, but it's not enough to convince him," She couldn't stop herself from smiling, glancing over to Armin as she encouraged him to continue talking to Eren, "Try again."
"Eren! Eren! Wake up, Eren! Eren!?"
I don't know if I can actually continue this... It's heavily taxing on me... Tsuki winced at the slight pain she was in, but it wasn't too overbearing for her to stop. Shutting her eyes, she felt like she lost her last grip on the line that reached Eren, and now she's blindly trying to find that same line and pull him back to reality.
"Are you in there somewhere!?" Armin frowned to himself, there was nothing, and he turned to look over to scout and see if she had some sort of explanation, but he didn't know what to exactly say to her which caused him to stop mid-sentence, "Lieutenant, is he-?"
It's still not enough... I need to hold out until he's awake She shook her head, but Tsuki responded back and explained what she could based on what she knew, "He's there, he's only forcing himself into a dream like state. You need to shatter that illusion."
He's in denial
Or he's simply trapped an a prison...
It was that simple. Eren was trying to escape reality, to get away from all this, and Tsuki couldn't blame him for subconsciously wanting to abandon everything. He was just a kid who suddenly gotten all this responsibility dumped onto him, and the weight of that alone is enough to make anyone want to escape.
She could relate to that.
To just give in and allow others to control your life as you slip away from reality.
Where's your spirit. That strong will.
Tsuki began to think of a way that can provoke Eren, anything that will wake him up in seconds, but she didn't know him personally to know what can spark a strong enough emotion. But without a doubt, Armin knew what to say to get Eren's attention. She spoke up, catching his attention, "Say something that will without a doubt trigger some form of reaction out of him"
Armin narrowed his eyes, he knew exactly what to say that will certainly strike a nerve within Eren and get a response, "Don't just sit there, or the Titans will kill you! It's all gonna end right here! Eren!"
/'It's all gonna end right here! Eren!'/ Armin shouted again, pounding against the window as the blonde boy tried to get his best friend's attention.
Eren tiredly rubbed his eye, snuggling back into his blanket while trying to understand what Armin was saying, but none of it made sense to him, "I don't get what you're talking about Armin.. What would I need to go outside for..."
"That's right... what good is it out there..." Lowering his eyes, Eren frowned to himself as he shook his head, "What good is the scouting legion...?"
Tsuki pulled her self back, blinking as she heard his last statement, but she was surprised to hear that from him. The scout whispered to herself, "He's refusing... he is shutting it all out." She tried to understand the defense mechanism that Eren built around him, but it seems the boy returned back to his life before the fall of Shiganshina, and decided to live in a world where nothing ever happened. The boy was simply living in a dream, and losing touch with the real world. Tsuki pressed her lips into a thin line while explaining to Armin what she gathered, "If we can't pull him back to reality then we lose here."
Don't tell me you're giving up already! She scowled at the sheer thought of Eren giving up, not after seeing him fight to live and to protect his friends. She wouldn't believe that the same trainee who ran up to her with ambition in his eyes and a burning passion to join the Survey Corps would suddenly give up. Your fighting spirit can't die here, not now, and if I can't get you to release it then your friend will remain you who you are.
"Armin, talk to him about something that will snap him out, please," Tsuki lowered her eyes, furrowing as she waited to hear if Armin had anything to say that will bring Eren back. She told him what she heard, "He saying there's no point in going outside the walls or joining the Survey Corps. There must be something."
"That... No-" Armin's eyes widen at her words, he couldn't believe that Eren would give up on his desire to join the Survey Corps and throw away his wish to explore the world beyond those Walls. He can't believe that Eren would just let it all go and abandon it all after so many years of wanting to accomplish his wish to get out of the Walls.
"Eren!" The blonde shook his head, bringing a hand across his eyes as he wiped away the tears that were building in his eyes. He wasn't going to give up and neither was he going to let Eren abandon his dreams so easily, not like this. Armin spoke softer, allowing himself to go down memory lane, to relieve the memory of when he and Eren spoke about their dreams for the future and what they wanted out of the life they had. He smiled to himself, "...Eren... what happened to exploring-"
/'-Exploring the world outside? We were meant to. '/ Armin leaned his forehead against the glass, speaking to Eren through the window as he reminded his friend of what motivated them to live each day with the hope of accomplishing the dream of exploring the world that lays beyond the Walls. He couldn't help himself from smiling at the thought, he looked over to see if Eren remembered, /'Far, far beyond the walls... There is flamming water... expanses of ice...' /
/'... And snowfields of sand, spreading as far as the eye can see' / Closing his eyes, Armin curled his fingers against the glass that separated him and Eren, but the blonde knew that his friend could never forget the vow they made when they were just kids.
"I've been wondering if you still remembered it... but that..." Armin shook his head, chuckling to himself, feeling his tears build up in his eyes as he recalled the memory and the emotions that it brought up. "... That conversation... is what gave me the impetus to enlist into the Scouting Legion, wasn't it?"
/'The world... outside...'/ Armin whispered, opening his eyes, he looked over to only find Eren sitting still, but he knew that his friend heard him. /'Eren... answer me... '/
/'I know the first step we take outside the walls will begin our journey into hell, but still... '/ He took in a deep breath, fully aware of the future that was ahead of them, but Armin wasn't all too scared unlike before because he believed that they'll make it- they'll see the ocean together and the whole world that awaited outside. But all he needed was Eren to respond back, /'Tell me, Eren... What did you want to see the outside world for?'/
And this time, Eren sat up straight, allowing the blanket to slip of his shoulders as his eyes roamed the home he once lived in. His eyes staring at his mother and Mikasa, watching the two of them sitting at the kitchen table together while his father silently worked on some paperwork. But Eren sat there, sparing a quick glance behind him to see Armin on the other side of the window. Seeing the blonde was standing outside while he stood inside, inside a home that felt empty, a home that didn't feel real.
"You... You actually got to him, Armin," Tsuki sighed in relief, whispering over to Armin, informing him that he has indeed sparked a reaction from Eren. She was glad to see that Armin successfully brought Eren onto his feet, to see that he was close to waking up from the dream he was living in.
"... Eren...?" Armin didn't need the scout to tell him, he knew his friend must've responded, and certainly Eren will wake up.
/'...Tell me why do you want to see the outside world... '/ Armin stared at his friend, asking him the reason why he wanted to outside, and the blonde smiled when he noticed the expression that Eren wore.
"Why...? I, uh..." Eren raised a brow, frowning to himself as he turned his back towards the allusion behind him while shaking his head at his friend, "I thought it was obvious..."
Clenching his hands, Eren declared the sole purpose that drives him into fighting against the world and those who wish to cage him, "It's because... This is the world I was born into!"
"Armin..."
"Eren!"
Armin moved back at the sudden movement that erupted from Eren, seeing how the Titan's form began to shift underneath them, but he looked over to the scout who has gotten to her feet. He hurried onto his feet, but his attention fell onto the scout as he finally wanted to get some answers on what happened, "How did you-?" Armin paused as he tried to form the right questions to ask, but his thoughts wondered back to what he felt a second ago before Eren regained consciousness, Why did I feel-?
Tsuki yanked the blade out of Eren, passing it back to Armin, who was still trying to progress what the scout did. He stared at her, noticing the unusual yellow eye color, but he shook his head, "But what- How did you hear him?" Placing his sword back into their departments, he frowned to himself, I don't understand any of this. Glancing back to the scout, he didn't even realize that Eren's Titan form has began to stand due to Armin trying to get a proper explanation. His eyes widen for a second, one word crossed his mind, and he stared at the Lieutenant, "Are you-?"
"Come on, move!" Tsuki didn't have time to explain nor could she tell him the truth, so she quickly acted on her feet and grabbed the boy by the strapped that drew across his chest, pulling him with her as she active her maneuver gear, "We need to keep him free from any threats so he has a clear route to the breach!"
He didn't have time to react once the scout yanked him off Eren's Titan form, but his eyes widen when he caught sight of one detail that changed from the last he checked, Her eyes they've changed-? Armin looked over to the scout, he blinked at the sudden change of color, they weren't the harsh yellow tone anymore, but a bright shade of blue. Shaking it aside as an hallucination or a mistake on his part.
Everything happened in seconds, no room to think or react. Tsuki needed to get on high ground and keep the trainee alive as they head to regroup sign the rest. But it won't be an easy task to follow. Especially after she messed up her landing, roughly stumbling onto the roof, which added onto her list of unfortunate events. Instantly letting the blonde go the second they reached the rooftop while giving her room to regain her balance.
Gritting her teeth once she felt the sharp pain shoot through her leg, she tumbled across the roof unable to catch herself from the bad landing. Tsuki kept her eyes shut, working against the pain that her left ankle was in, but she knew it was livable. A mere injury to walk off and surely it'll be healed in no time, maybe a few minutes if she's even lucky after wasting so much energy. It'll be gone just like the cut that she received earlier, everything will eventually disappear as if it never happened. And this will be one of them.
So she told herself as a way to reassure her.
Yet she already knew her stamina was running thin, it was a matter of time until her body collapses against her own will, but it'll serve for her well-being.
Armin sat up, looking over to the scout as he called out for her, "Lieutenant?!"
Concerned that the woman has gotten herself hurt for helping him. Before he could say anything he was left speechless to actually see the Lieutenant's appearance. Something the scout was known for hiding from the others, remaining an enigma to everyone outside the Corps. Many began to believe the Lieutenant had gotten injured on an expedition and received gruesome scars across their face or something that made the scout desperately hid from the public despite the reputation they've built up over the years.
His eyes widen, shocked to see the unusual hair finally exposed as the pure white hair stood out from the scout. He couldn't comprehend what was going through his head, all the questions that rushed in all at once. While trying to piece together a reasonable explanation.
She... The Lieutenant is... a rogue...? Recalling how he saw her eyes change, realizing the connection she had with Eren's Titan a moment ago. It brought him back to the rumors, the myths and tall tales that were spread.
None of it made sense to him, all so surreal as he stared at the scout, Rogues... they're real? Glancing at the Walls around them, the walls that separated them. ...From outside the wall...
Shaking his head, abandoning the thoughts for a second as he pulled himself up to his feet. Checking over to see the scout, he saw how she hasn't gotten up yet.
"Are you alright, Lieutenant?" Armin hurried over to the scout as he yanked her hood over her head without question before helping her up, I'll keep her cover for now...
Why is she out of breath? Furrowing his brows in concern once he took noticed how the woman was trying to even out her breathing.
"Yeah, nothing I can't brush off," Dismissing it, Tsuki properly adjusted her hood and for a moment her hand pressed against her temple. There was no time for her to worry over her own conditions, but it was difficult to completely ignore.
Clenching her teeth the moment she got to her feet only to be remained of her recklessness. Darting her eyes down to her foot, Tsuki shook her head as she released a deep breath before taking another step. Narrowing her eyes at the discomfort but there wasn't anything she could do about besides to get used to it until the end of the operation.
I need to hold out a bit longer until I see through this. Checking on her maneuver gear, relieved to know it was still intact and all she hopes for is it to last till the end.
Glancing over to see Eren get to his feet and he moved towards the boulder. Turning her focus on the operation at hand, she looked over to Armin and motion him to move, "Lets help Eren down to the breach."
Tearing his eyes away from his friend who was busy handling his own objective. Armin nodded over to the scout, following suit once they began to run alongside the rooftop.
Keeping an eye on the scout, a bit curious of the enigma who was none other than Lieutenant Church. It was unsettling to know he was working with someone from the outside world, someone who might've experienced the places he only read from the forbidden book that he owns. There were tales- myths about what was beyond those walls. But Armin always held his distrust towards society the moment he saw the outside world through his book and now seeing a rogue. It only further fueled his curiosity to know what really is out there and hope to fulfill the dream to explore the outer world.
Then if rumors are true then why-? Why would a rogue, nonetheless, Lieutenant Church help humanity? The blonde began to raise questions, keeping an eye on the scout from the corner of his eye once they activated their gear.
Furrowing his brows, one thing stood out as he thought about Eren's situation which only made everything more surreal.
Does it mean there's more them within the Walls...? Clenching his hands at the thoughts, Armin darted his eyes back to the scout for a second as the words plagued his mind, Is there others living out there...? We're not alone then? Humanity isn't-
"Armin!?"
Snapping out of his train of thought at the sound of his name. Armin saw the group of Garrison gathered together and he instantly recognized Mikasa among the others.
Landing abruptly, Tsuki bit the inside of her cheek at the sharp jab she felt corse up her leg. Tsuki rushed over to meet with the others, "Ian! We need to move! Eren is up and now he's busy doing his part! This is our final push!"
"Let us see Eren to the gate and our victory is assured!"
"Church you-"
"I had some help from Armin, he managed to pull him back," Pushing forward ignoring everything, Tsuki's focus is solely on getting Eren to the gate and finish the operation quicker before losing any more life. The scout knew she was basically running on adrenaline and it'll be a matter of time before her body just refuses to move on her commands, "But I'll try to keep as many Titans under my control until Eren successfully reaches the gate. Despite me already losing energy, but I'll do my best."
Ian lowered his eyes, processing the information given to him and now he was left with the duty to call the next set of moves that might be the deciding factor. Narrowing his eyes, Ian looked over to the scout as he laid down one of his final commands to the rogue- one that he won't allow any room for discussions, "You aren't to die, Lieutenant." The two of them stared at each other before he continued, stating how valuable their existences means to their cause, "You and Eren are our chance in fighting back, so losing either of you is not on my agenda!"
The lone scout felt her breath caught in her throat, Tsuki was awfully familiar with the feeling of hearing someone's last words. She knew from the second Ian asked for a favor from her when they were listening to Commander Pixies' speech, but now it was clear.
This was the end.
"We can't replace neither of you and there will always be others to replace us!" Turning away, Ian sternly set the final word between them before setting all his focus back to the rest of the group.
His eyes scanned the soldiers, making sure he remembered each face and name clearly. Ian shouted, gaining everyone's attention, handing out the order, "Everyone! Guard him with your lives!" Turning, enough to see Eren's Titan form come into complete view as he directed everyone back toward the gate, "We will protect Eren on his way to the gate even if it's the last thing we do!"
"Keep those two alive and keep Eren safe from any Titan that passes through us, Church!" Ian looked over his shoulder, giving the task to the scout in handling the trainees and act as a last line in defense if it comes down to it. Shifting his eyes over to the two trainees, Ian needed the youth to obey whatever commands the scout will give while they serve under her, "You two get back to Eren! Follow the Lieutenant's orders from here on out! That's an order! Understand?!"
"Yes sir!" Armin and Mikasa both saluted back to their commanding officer before moving towards the Lieutenant and await further orders from the scout.
Ian began to move out with the rest of the Garrison, but before he could order his group, he froze as his eyes caught sight of a group of Garrison on the ground. It was his friend, Mitabi, who was leading his team toward the Titans. He shook his head in disbelief, Ian was lost for words as he watched his comrades forcefully establish contact with the Titans as a means to gain their attention and hopefully eliminate them.
"Team Mitabi! What the...?!"
Rico stood beside him, she felt her whole body tense up as she watched Mitabi bravely fought despite the odds stacked against him and his team. Her eyes were glued on the scene, unsure how to react or what to do, but she restrain herself from jumping down to assist her friend and comrades.
"What the- Why'd they get down to the ground, this is suicide!" Armin shook his head, glancing around to see what his superiors will do, but all he saw was a look within their eyes that told a million stories and the blonde knew what they must be thinking. Still the trainee couldn't stop himself from finding some sort of solution to help the group below them. Armin brought up a tragic fact in hopes to get a response out of the others beside him, "You can't fight without horses or buildings around!"
"Wrong... This... Was the only option." Ian didn't catch himself, not even realizing the words slipping out as he stared down at the terrifying truth. He knew this was the lengths that they must leaped in order to carry out the operation. They needed to put their lives between the Titans and the success of sealing the gate, to forcefully confront death with the clear idea that they'll die.
His words struck a nerve in Tsuki, she knew what will happen next and the scout couldn't accept the reality that will be unfolding in front of her, No, no, this can't end like this... She tensed up as she watched Team Mitabi engaged the Titans on foot with the intention to draw the giants attention onto them and clear the pathway for Eren.
Tsuki couldn't bear to watch them at deaths doors. She could help them- No, she can do it. Do something to prevent a mass slaughter the Titans bring upon the soldiers. Without a second to think logically, Tsuki sharply turned to Ian, "Ian! I can draw them into-"
"No, this is what needs to be done, Lieutenant!" Denying the scout to add her thoughts on the matter, knowing that she'll try to assist and risk her own well being. Ian shook his head, standing by his decision while offering an explanation to the scout, "You can't waste any more of your strength into bringing them all deeper into the walls to give us a fair fight. You've done enough, and from now on, your sole duty is to finish this operation with Eren sealing the breach. Your focus are the trainees. Not us. So use that power of yours sparsely, Lieutenant."
"Our duty to keep the burden from you and Eren, Lieutenant." Rico kept closed off from the scout, but the woman commented on the position their in. Without sparing a glance towards Tsuki, the Garrison followed after Ian as the two returned to their own group while leaving the scout to carry out her own assigned task.
Ian held his arm out once standing in front of his group, giving the call to move forward with the order that no one sane would've willingly accept, but it was an order everyone knows must be done, "Proceed after team Mitabi! Forcibly establish contact if you must! We're making ourselves the targets!"
The rogue stepped forward to follow after the Garrison in attempts to change his mind and form a different plan. Before Tsuki could say a word, she stopped in her tracks, her hands reaching to grab onto her chest while her breathe disappeared and the urge to breath became difficult. Her eyes widen, she felt a pain that she haven't for so long that it scared her with the thought of experiencing such excruciating pain again. Everything went silent around her as the words finally hit her, a voice she instantly recognized and it clear Eren was also struggling on his end of the mission.
"I feel... like my body's going to break apart..."
Feeling a sharp pain shoot through her, Tsuki couldn't stop herself from bending forward as she felt like her chest was being crushed like something is tightening around her, threatening to break her rib cage. But she could hear Eren's words echo in her head. Shutting her eyes, unaware of what to do if her body is finally deciding to give out, but she released a deep breath while hearing those around her turn their attention onto her. Placing a hand against her heart, she knew that the connection from Eren was far different than the regular Titans.
"Church-!?"
Quickly going to her side, Rico and Ian were the first to respond once seeing how the rogue was in agonizing pain. If they lose the scout or have any more complications to the mission then they might be done for. The two Garrisons weren't fully informed about what Tsuki might experience or anything linking to her powers, but they knew that the woman was indeed in great pain and that's enough for them to know that they're reaching the point of no return. That if they can't pull through now then they might face their end today.
Meanwhile, Armin saw how the Lieutenant has continued to decline in health ever since they were trying to wake Eren up earlier. The blonde glanced over to see Eren's Titan has finally came into range of them, but the trainee returned his attention back at the scout while trying to piece together everything. One thing is for sure, there's a connection that the Lietuenant and Eren had with the Titans, but it doesn't explain why the scout is in pain.
"Lieutenant?" Going over to the woman, Armin took a look and saw how she was already exhausted, She's not going to last like this Taking another glance back at his friend, Nor will Eren if we don't move now.
Finally getting a good look at the empty field in front of them, watching those already out their risking their lives while seeing more Titans are moving into the district, We're all going to die if we don't act quickly
Now they're running against time, if they don't hurry to guard and assist Eren then everything would've been for nothing. She's tired of being close to the end and having it taken away when they're almost there. This time, they have no other option, failure isn't on anyone's agenda nor will she accept that as the end result. However, Tsuki can't deny she can feel that her own body might not last enough to carry the mission, meaning pushing herself to near depletion.
Breathing, it was difficult to catch her breath as if her lungs were being crushed as well, I can feel it, my own body is weighing down on me.
Looking up towards the breach that is just ahead of them, narrowing her eyes before gritting her teeth, We need to seal that breach before it's too late
Shaking those who were at her side away, she didn't need them to waste their time worrying about her and certainly she can't have them lose focus in what needs to be done. Her eyes met with Ian, informing him that they're running short on time before the mission does result in failure.
Pushing aside the pain as she warned everyone, "Hurry! If we don't do anything then Eren won't make it!" Glancing over to see the boy's Titan form slowly but surely making his way despite the large boulder basically crushing him by the passing second, "His body won't last too long with that pressure over him before it crushes him! If that happens we lose!"
This woke everyone up, kicking into action as they prepared for their commanding office to give the call before they enter hell to reconquer Trost. No one can't deny the sheer terror and panic everyone was in, but everyone has courage to try bringing victory to Humanity.
Ian stared at Eren for a moment, knowing all to well that this is their final push and it's an all or nothing deal. Clenching the handles of his swords, he looked around to see what they'll be throwing themselves into and deep down he knew everything will fall onto him. Those under his command will die under his orders, but he too knows that his inevitable death is on its way as well.
"Now! This is for Humanity's First Gloria!" Finally calling the order, signaling everyone into action as they took to the open plains while allowing the scout to lead the trainees in front of Eren.
Mikasa and Armin both looked over to the Lieutenant unsure if the woman will be able to carry onward, but the two were stun for a moment when they saw how the scout motioned them to follow as she grabbed her triggers before launching herself down to the ground below them. That alone was enough for the trainees to follow suit, charging into the field as they ran across the ground in formation while keeping guard for any stray Titans threatening to interfere with Eren's path and endanger the mission.
Narrowing her eyes, Mikasa kept her blades by her side ready for any unexpected turns of events as Armin followed close beside her while keeping an eye out for the scout running beside him. The three of them looked up seeing Eren not so far behind them, relieved that he's still intact and hasn't given up yet.
Tsuki saw the Titans that were in the way of their route towards the breach, and she felt her grip tighten over the handle of her blade at the sheer amount of Titans that will be in their way. Not only that, but the fact that there wasn't many soldiers to fight them off, and the disadvantage they're in right now has lowered their chances of any successful combat. There's nothing but clear plains, nothing that they can use their maneuver gear and give them a shot of fighting back. Yet those chances are slim and she knew it.
I can't control all of these Titans... They're all gonna die...
Dammit!
She didn't even realize that her eyes shifted to their yellow tone nor the fact that the nearby Titans seized their movements. An unconscious defense she took as she guided the trainees down toward the breach, but Tsuki blinked at the sound of Ian's voice as he yelled over to her.
Ian took down one Titan before shouting over to the scout, ordering her to stop using her power and just get Eren and the trainees to the breach safely, "Lieutenant, don't put your focus on us!"
"Ian-"
"That's an order!" Ian barked back, demanding her to move along without them, and allow the Garrison to handle the Titans on their own without her power. He knew it was the best option, he couldn't risk having the rogue waste anymore of her energy on them while they were close to fulfilling the mission- when they were so close in reclaiming a lost territory for the first time.
Tsuki bit the inside of her cheek, fighting the urge to argue back, but she couldn't bring herself to simply ignore her current surroundings and basically abandon her comrades. But it was something that must be done for the success of operation then there's no room for any form of dispute. So she moved forward, motioning the two trainees to pick up their pace and follow close behind her.
However, Tsuki's attention shifted once she heard a voice and she quickly recognized it as Eren's thoughts. Hearing how Eren was thinking loudly to himself, a way to motivate himself as he carried the boulder and keeping in mind of his surroundings.
"We were all... All of us... Born free"
"Anyone who tries to take that away from us, it's not gonna matter..."
Closing her eyes, listening to Eren's words as he marched his way up towards the end goal. But those words, they held a meaning behind it, describing everyone's everlasting fight against those who took their freedom away. She too, will fight to regain that freedom and preserve it until the end of her days because freedom is the only that she and everyone ever want in a world where they were imprison since birth.
"... The world out there might be a scary place. No matter."
"Keep moving! Armin! Mikasa!" Shouting over to the trainees, keeping their attention ahead of them instead of allowing themselves to get submerged by the chaos that has surrounded them them. She needed to keep their attention ahead of them, and away from the blood being shed on the grounds they're in.
Glancing over her shoulder for a second before checking how much ground needs to be covered, it was far and Tsuki made sure that Eren knew it, hoping it'll encourage him, Eren! You're almost there!
But once she noticed a familiar figure appear from the corner of her eye, Tsuki felt her breathe vanish from her lungs. It felt surreal to see everything happen in seconds, yet it all moved slowly around them as if time began to suddenly pause.
Ian...
Her eyes widen, the scout saw how the man sacrificed himself in order to save his comrade, it wasn't real seeing everything just go to hell in the open field they're in among the Titans that have a clear advantage over them. Looking away from the tragic scene, knowing there wasn't anything she could do now, but to carry onward.
Taking a deep breath as she held herself together and fulfill her assignment, to keep herself and Eren from dying during the operation. She'll give everything to make sure that all the people that died weren't for nothing, to know that this was what fate had in store for them, to know this is how their faith was going to be tested. Tears in her eyes, hearing the others shout and screaming, but there was nothing to do. All they had was to march to victory no matter what the cost.
Taking a deep breath, knowing that her power cannot handle this amount of Titans nor does she believe her body can handle it. There was so much she can do, but in the end there was a line the scout refuses to cross because the second she does then there's no going back.
It'll only cause more damage than good, in Tsuki's eyes, that is.
Shaking everything off, allowing herself to disconnect from her surroundings long enough until she knows the mission was a success.
Narrowing her eyes, not having the time to mourn for the fallen soldiers as Tsuki made sure the trainees kept their focus on the end goal. Not wanting them to witness any more death, all she could do was shout as she gained their attention, "Keep going! Don't look back!"
One glance, Tsuki saw how the trainees were shaken and tears in their eyes as they simply allowed everyone around them to die. Just so they could live and finish the operation. It struck the rogue deeply to watch how the youth were surrounded by death and pain, trapped in a war that no soul should ever experience.
But they all knew what they were signing up when they decided to join the military. War brings death and suffering, regardless if you're a willing participant or an innocent civilian. No one is safe, and death isn't kind in who dies and who lives. Everyone is equal within Death's eyes.
Clenching her hands, picking up her speed as she felt determined to make sure the mission ends successfully, I swore to you and I'll keep my word
"Move!" Motioning the two to move alongside her, from the corner of her eye she saw that Eren wasn't too far from them, but she needed to make sure there was a safe distance between them. Also to make sure the path was clear of any obstacles. She could hear Eren's voice as he spoke to himself, motivating himself as the weight has gotten unbearable for him, but he needed to keep it up.
"The world out there might be cruel. No matter."
"Just fight!" Tsuki remained the trainees, keeping them with her as they know began to head into last moments of the mission that will be hell. The two teens nodded back, determined to see the end as they prepared themselves for whatever might come their war, "Got it!"
You're not stopping us now!
They didn't have much ground to cover, just a little longer and everything will be over. It's just a matter of hanging on till the end even if it feels like an eternity.
"Lieutenant!"
Glancing over her shoulder to see Armin motion over towards a Titan that managed to get passed the rest of the Garrisons. Tsuki swore under her breath, she didn't have time to mess with any strays, "Dammit!" Clenching her hands, shifting her focus on keeping the Titan at bay, long enough till Eren successful passes through. Her eyes shifted to their yellow tone, commanding the giant to freeze and leave it for someone else to handle it, Stay out of our way!
"I got this Church!" Zipping over them, Rico shouted down at the scout ordering the Lieutenant to move onward and leave the Titan to her.
Rico-! The rogue was surprised to see the woman appear in time to eliminate the Titan. Relieving some of her own worries once seeing that Rico was still alive.
"Keep going! I'll cover you!" Rico ordered the group to proceed down to the gate. Successfully slicing the Titan's nape, the Garrison turned her attention toward the nearest Titan, but Rico spared a quick nod over to the trio before activating her gear again.
Tsuki blinked returning her eyes back to their natural shade of blue as she continued forward. Trusting Rico to handle herself, she owed that much to the Garrison, and Tsuki knows how strong the woman was to deal with a Titan.
You better not die on me Rico
If only one Garrison manages to survive then Tsuki hopes it'll be Rico. They might not be close friends or agree on many things, but the scout has a promise to carry out and she intends to keep it even if they're at the brick of an-all-or-nothing battle.
However, Tsuki couldn't stop herself from feeling responsible for every single life lost today. But those negative thoughts will only hold her back and at time like this, she can't afford anymore restraints.
Knotting her brows, instantly recognizing the sensation and Tsuki was proven right once she looked over to the left. She spotted another Titan already getting in the way of the route, but the rogue knew she couldn't do anything else beside using her maneuver gear. Quickly informing the group of the threat that is nearing, "6 Meter closing in!"
Seeing how Mikasa moved with little to no thought, making sure that all her efforts were used to clear the path for Eren as well as removing whatever burden she can from the Garrison. She knew she owe it to them in the least for helping in the best of their ability. Especially with the death of her commanding office that has done everything in his power to insure Eren's safety and help her in keeping it that way.
As long as they handle them then I don't need to relay on my power Narrowing her eyes, ignoring everything as she moved forward right behind Eren while keeping an eye out for any more Titans that may come in their way. Glancing over her shoulder, Tsuki saw how Armin wasn't on the same pace as her and the rogue should've assumed so due to the fact that few are capable of keeping up.
"Keep up with me!" Shouting over to him, encouraging the trainee to pick up the pace and from the corner of her eye she saw a few more Titans moving their direction.
She's so fast Trying to catch his breath, Armin couldn't believe how the scout can run so fast despite seeing how she had little to no energy not so long ago, almost struggling with the pain she was under, but now he watched the woman moved so swiftly and shrewd like he never seen before. Nodding back, hearing her shout over to him and Armin looked up to see Eren's Titan continue to move forward and deep down the trainee needed to catch up to his friend no matter what. Yet he won't lie, he can't reach the Lieutenant's speed, but he'll try.
Signaling the trainees, Tsuki held an arm out as she informed them of the incoming Titan that were now within range and a possible threat to Eren, "Another nearing! 8 Meter!" Keeping an eye out at the Titan, but her eyes widen at how Rico came out of no where and took an eye out of the Titan causing it to lose its balance yet it was still active and in their way.
This is it
Armin could feel his breathe leaving him, seeing how everything was unraveling around them as they continued to move onward despite everyone dying around them. Darting his eyes over to the scout once hearing her order Mikasa into action, "Mikasa now!" He watched how his friend launched her gear, skidding across the ground before giving herself enough space and velocity before throwing herself high enough to eliminate the Titan.
Mikasa looked up as she watched Eren moved passed and then she realized the small distances that was left to cover, but everything was over and they succeeded. Her eyes darted over to see the scout and Armin run pass her which was her sign to follow suit as they ran right after Eren. Keeping her eyes set ahead of her, not wanting to look around to see the devasation that the others laid their lives for, but she needed was to follow til the very end. To stay by Eren's side til the end.
This is it
Skidding to a stop, now leaving Eren to finish the job while they all stood back and provide as a shield from any more Titans that decide to come their way.
Tears building his eyes, seeing how everything was just within their reach, feeling overwhelmed at how the plan paid off, to know they indeed have finally tasted victory. But it won't erase the fact that many died to pull it off, knowing how everyone placed their lives onto his friend, onto Eren to carry that weight and finally fight against what the world has put them through.
Curling his fingers, seeing how close Eren was and the only thing Armin could do was cheer his friend on as his voice broke the deafening silence that surrounded them, hoping that his friend would hear him, "G... Go Eren!"
We did it...
Suddenly a large blast came the second the boulder was plugged into the hole, with enough force to send anyone flying who were too close in the blast radius. Without hesitating, the veterans quickly acted as they grabbed onto a trainee, bracing themselves for the shock wave that they'll be experiencing. Rico quickly latched her gear, locking into the ground as she held onto Mikasa while the trainee shielded her eyes from the wind, but her mind quickly jumped towards her friend.
"Armin!?"
Quickly looking over to his direction, concern for his well being, but her eyes caught sight of the scout protecting him from the blast. It calmed her nerves for a moment before shutting her eyes once hearing the thundering sound winds that erupted from the collision between the boulder and wall, feeling how the wind picked up, but she held herself together with the help of Rico who kept the two of them grounded.
Acting on the instinct, stabbing her blade into the ground, grabbing the trainee as the two prepared themselves from the intense gust of wind that erupted from the plugging the breach. The scout dug her feet into the ground, using her strength and held onto her sword, keeping herself leveled while holding onto the boy who covered his eyes from the blast. Keeping her head low, Tsuki curled her fingers tightly over the handle of her sword as she waited until the air returned to normal before releasing the trainee.
Looking up, she saw how the breach was successfully sealed and without thinking she fell onto her knees, but her eyes glanced over to the blonde beside her. Seeing how the trainee was lost in words, staring up at the miracle that his friend and everyone pulled together for the shake of Humanity, and Armin couldn't tare his eyes from the scene.
"We... We won..." Disbelief, Rico was unsure how to react once realizing that the impossible has became a reality right before her eyes. Taking a deep breath Rico grabbed her flare gun while setting the correct color into the barrel before getting back onto her feet. The burning sensation within her eyes slowly became visible as she whispered to herself, "Everyone... They didn't die in vain."
Rico covered an ear, rising an arm up as she signaled a flare up to the sky, making it known that they succeed with their assignment. They succeeded in retaking Trost, that they finally achieved a new step toward the right direction where Humanity will continue from here on out.
... No one... I can't see anyone... But the woman couldn't fight back the tears that were building in her eyes, seeing how her friends are now dead, and living with the guilt for managing to survive unlike them. Friends she knew for many years, days that marked back to her trainee days, but her friends were like family to her.
She loved them.
All of them were gone, Rico couldn't keep herself standing any longer as the woman found herself collapsing down. They... They died for this one victory... One victory of many that Humanity will gain starting today... I swear...
"I swear to you... I'll make sure there's another victory," Staring at the sky, avoiding to look at the damage that has been done, to see the remains of those she fought alongside with, yet Rico kept those tears from falling as she smiled sadly, recalling some memories of her dear fellow comrades and friends, Thank you for everything.
Shutting her eyes, releasing a shaky breath before leaning forward as she thought back to her unfulfilled promises and shattered dreams that were linked to them, I- I'm sorry...
The others remain still as they progressed what happened, the trainees spared a look over to each other making sure that the other was well before returning their gaze back at what Eren pulled. Neither of them couldn't bring themselves to say a word, so they sat there in silence as their minds began to allow everything to finally settle in, to understand what they managed to live through.
"Everyone... died to pull this off.." Looking around, trying to catch his breath that he didn't realize that he was holding onto. Armin looked back up at the sky before his eyes fall upon Eren's still Titan form ahead of them. Yet he couldn't finish his own train of thought, still shocked in everything that has happened today as his words fell faint, "Today for the first time..."
From the corner of her eye, she saw how the blonde was speechless as well, but the scout managed to breath out what they were all thinking, "Today, for the first time, mankind triumphed over the Titans." Lowering her head, Tsuki closed her eyes taking a moment to sit through the deafening silence that once held the voices of those who fought for the success of this operation. A silence that held many fallen soldiers that are now gone, fulfilled their duty. I can't live this down- Not until my last breath.
Opening her eyes, looking up as she saw how Eren hasn't moved from his spot beside the boulder, seeing his Titan body leaning against the giant rock which brought up questions about the boy. Getting onto her feet, knowing that they must move out before they're caught by the Titans lingering in the area.
Forcing her body to move, but she felt numb as if she couldn't feel the ground beneath her for a moment. Shaking her head, she needed push forward and hope she has enough strength to do so.
Shouting over to the others, waking them up from whatever trance they have fallen into as she reminded them of the danger they're still under, "The remaining Titans are coming!"
Rico looked around, seeing that Tsuki was right and the Garrison pushed herself onto her feet as she prepared herself while suggesting the next course of action, "Let's climb up the wall!" Her eyes caught sight of how the scout has began to move towards Eren with the trainees not so far behind from her.
Moving towards Eren, not sensing much from him and Tsuki could assume he must be asleep, tired out from a high demanding task.
Shouting over to the group, making it clear of the plan they'll be following, "We'll withdraw as soon as we recover Eren!"
"Mikasa! You are to guard us!" Ordering the girl to stand guard to work alongside the Garrison while she and Armin remove Eren from his Titan body before making a full retreat, "Assist Rico in giving us the time to pull Eren out so we can retreat!"
Catching her breath, her eyes landing onto the blonde as she motioned him to follow, "Armin, you and I will rip Eren out no matter what!" Narrowing her eyes, determine to bring the boy back to Wall Rose no matter what, We can't lose him now.
"Yes, ma'am!"
The two of them hurry down toward Eren until they came into range, activating their gear as they flew up onto the nape of the boy's Titan form. Carefully measuring the area that Eren should be laying under before cutting through the skin. From the corner of her eye, she saw how Armin was relieved to see that he didn't inflict any harm to his friend like before.
The scout left the trainee to pull him out, managing whatever strength and energy left so she can use it when they head back to Wall Rose. But her eyes widen, realizing how submerged Eren was with the Titan as she saw the struggle Armin was having in freeing his friend.
Growing frustrated and slowly panicking at how difficult it was, Armin looked over to the scout, "He's stuck! No matter how much I pull- he's merged with this thing!"
Mikasa jumped back once finishing a Titan, taking a quick second to check on the progress the two are having with Eren, but her eyes widen once seeing how they haven't gotten him out yet. "Armin! How's Eren!?" Tensing up, imagining the worse as her eyes fell back to another Titan nearing and she swiftly stepped in to handle it.
"He's burning with a fever!" Tugging his friend out from the Titan flesh, but Armin took into account how his Eren's skin was burning hot as if he was running a fever. Anxious, panicking with every passing second as he continued to pull his friend, growing frustrated at how stuck Eren was.
Rico skid across the ground, narrowing her eyes as she watched Mikasa take down another Titan before landing on her far right. Rico glanced down at her supply, noticing how much was left and preserving what she needs to climb the Wall and knowing it won't be enough if they continue fighting.
Hollering over to Tsuki and Armin, pushing them to hurry or else they'll be swarmed by the Titans, "We need to climb the wall! Now!"
Tsuki's eyes widen, seeing they have indeed ran out of time and surely Rico and Mikasa won't be able to handle all the Titans before their own supply runs out on them. Clenching her hands, her eyes glued at the piece of flesh that remained attached to Eren, seeing how much needs to be cut in order to release the boy.
"Hold him!" Ordering Armin to remain still, seeing that the blonde kept a grip over his friend. Removing a blade from their department, Tsuki wasn't going to waste any more time as she prepared to cut through the muscle that has latched itself to Eren,"I'll cut him out and it'll be enough to finally rip him out!"
"Cut him out then! Now!" Rico yelling over her shoulder towards the two, darting her eyes back at the number of Titans turning their way and she spared a look over to Mikasa. Seeing how the trainee was prepared to handle the Titans no matter what which gave the Garrison some reassurances as the two of them jumped into action. Hoping that they'll buy enough time for Eren to be freed so they can retreat back into Wall Rose.
"Wa-wait!" Armin attempted to stop the scout, he wasn't prepared, but it was too late once the Lieutenant sliced through the flesh and in that instant he felt himself losing balance as he tried to hold onto Eren.
Grabbing a hold of the unconscious boy, Tsuki placed a foot against the Titan body to help push herself so they can finally yank Eren out, "Pull! Now!"
The two of them tugged the boy from the Titan's flesh, but they weren't prepared for the fall they'll be having afterwards. Sending the three of them tumbling down the Titan's back as they fall onto the ground while Mikasa and Rico remained above them.
Launching their gear up towards to the boulder, getting out of the Titans' reach, in time to finally see Eren freed from the Titan body he possessed. But Rico and Mikasa weren't prepared when they watched how the others have fallen down into dangerous waters with Eren in their hands.
Armin's eyes widen, feeling his stomach twist in discomfort and fear when he saw the Titans coming from all directions, breathing out, "We're surrounded..."
"I can't stop them..." Pushing herself up from the ground, coughing as she shouted over to the trainee to leave as he soon as he can, "Armin, you gotta take Eren out of here! Now!" Not caring for the fact that her hood no longer covered her, Tsuki needed to insure that they don't lose Eren nor will she allow the trainees to die under her command, I need you two alive, I need you all to live through this.
Shock to see how exhausted the scout truly was, clearly seeing it in her eyes. Seeing how her facade has now disappeared as she revealed her true state and it was clear that there wasn't much she could do at the moment. She- She must've worn herself out from everything
Shaking his head, not planning to leave without her because if everyone was willing to keep her alive then there's a reason for her to be within the Walls, "Lieutenant-!" But his eyes widen once realizing how her gear was damaged from the fall, meaning she doesn't have a way to climb the Wall on her own if she tried.
"Climb up the wall! That's an order!" Cutting him off, not having time for arguments as she ordered him to leave while they still can, "Go!"
Closing her eyes again, this time getting onto her knees as she held her head, I might not know everything but I can't afford to lose any of you three
Her hand brushed over to feel that her gear is a bust, frowning to herself at how her luck is just wearing thin now as well. But it wasn't going to stop her from fighting regardless if she was disarmed.
"I can't-" Pulling Eren up with him, the blonde couldn't bring himself to abandon the rogue and he froze once seeing how close they were to death once again, Don't tell me... This is where we end...
"Armin! Eren!"
"Church!"
Coughing, Tsuki winced at the pain her body was in after everything she's been through. Shaking her head, looking over to search for Armin and Eren, sighing once realizing how the blonde wasn't leaving. Her attention soon shifted away once she felt the ground rumble as the Titans came into view.
'I promise to always come back, no matter if my body is bruised or broken. I'll always come back,' Recalling the words she swore to Levi, years ago, a promise and vow she made which she intends to keep as long as possible. Curling her fingers, knowing she can put a last push that will save them from the position they're in.
Examining her weapon that laid in front of her, breathing out once Ian's order came to mind, 'You aren't to die, Lieutenant.' Tsuki couldn't- wouldn't disobey an order nor fail to carry out the instructions that were handed to her. Shaking off the pain as she attempt to get to her feet, and reached for disconnected sword.
'You and Eren are our chance in fighting back, so losing either of you is not on my agenda!'
"I promised!" Clenching the handle of her sword, shutting her eyes as she tried her best to stand, but her body has been worn out from everything. Leaning against the weapon, taking a deep breath, thinking to herself, This is not the end!
Opening her eyes, not giving in to the exertion her body was in, and she made an attempt to halt the Titans in their place long enough to give Rico or Mikasa the time to deal with the Titans.
STOP!
Tugging Eren back with him, moving far back from the Titans as possible with the little room they had. But his blue eyes widen, sensing a sudden shift in the atmosphere, Armin couldn't bring himself to look up. Afraid of what he might see, but there was something off, something that was similar to what he felt earlier when he woke Eren up from his trance, What's that feeling...?
Something... something changed in the atmosphere... Stunned at how the Titan suddenly stopped moving, seeing how they froze in place and from the corner of his eye he noticed how the Lieutenant's eyes changed color. His eyes trailed back to the Titans in front of them, speechless, seeing how the rogue must be the one responsible for the Titans strange behavior, Did they... Did the Lieutenant do this?
The sound of the maneuver gear broke the silence that surrounded them, Armin watched the Titans were quickly cut down by someone who moved way too fast for him to even keep up with. Thankful of who managed to save them from their near death, but Armin spared a glance to the Lieutenant who was now leaning against her sword with her head lowered.
Returning his gaze back to the scene in front of him, seeing a figure stand on top of the Titan with their back turned to them, but Armin couldn't tell who it was. With the stream covering the area, making it difficult for him to see who exactly was the one to finish off the Titans.
"Mikasa...?" Furrowing his brows, unsure who exactly saved them, Armin tilted his head as he assumed it must be Mikasa. But he jumped once someone dropped down beside him, his eyes widen the second he recognized the girl next time, seeing that it was his friend right beside him. "Mikasa!?"
In return, she looked at him confusion, not understanding why he was in a panic, but the two of them looked up to who ever intervene. Glancing back to Armin, seeing how he was taken back at whoever took down the Titans and listening to him, "Then who-"
Landing beside the scout, Rico knelt down beside the woman before looking up to the figure standing on top of the Titan with their back turned towards them. Her eyes widening, utterly surprised to see another scout on the field aside from the rogue, "Those are-"
Tsuki managed to lift her head up to recognize the crest that marked the back of the green cape that faltered with the breeze and her expression soften, The Wings of Freedom. Faintly chuckling to herself, amazed at how the timing was prefect, but once she got a clear look at exactly who was the one to step in.
"Levi...?" Of course, she wasn't surprised not one bit when she finally saw his face when he turned around to face them. Sighing to herself, relieved that if he's here then it only means the others aren't too far behind from him, ...Always there when I need him.
The four of them remain still as they watched the newly arrived scout look over his shoulder, revealing himself. "Hey kiddos..." Seeing how he stared at them, not wasting much time as he cut straight to the point, "Someone care to explain what the hell is going on."
3rd Pov
The Survey Corps moved efficiently as they hurried back and investigate the Walls for the breach they theorized. It was the only explanation they had for the sudden shift in Titan activity. Retreating from their expedition was a necessary and understandable move their Commander decided to take. One that left majority of the scouts confused before realizing what was happening underneath their noses.
Putting all their efforts into returning back, everyone kept in formation as they followed Erwin and preparing for any commands they might receive at a short notice. They all were faced with the dreadful truth-The Walls were compromised during their time away and now fear what damage is done during their leave. Everyone was left in the dark when it came down to the conditions of the districts and if Wall Rose have been breached or not. The uncertainty was only building the tension within the corps.
Its only a matter of minutes until they reach the Trost District.
Levi frowned at the news, he was already agitated at how the progress they made were all in vain at the sudden retreat, but he knew the importance of returning and learning what has been done to the Walls. So he didn't think too much on the failure their expedition concluded in.
He also knew they were at disadvantage due to the uncertainty of the conditions that the Walls might be in. If they rush in without any knowledge they'll lose a portion of their men without any proper preparation.
He glanced over to his squad before checking on the rest of the scouts. Levi thought over the possibilities and he has decided to take action. Calling over to Erwin informing him of his plan, "I'll take the lead and clear the entrance before everyone arrives. To avoid any form of ambush that might be thrown at us."
Planning to clear the frontlines by the time the rest of the scouts entered the district. By doing so then everyone will have a clear path and enough time to handle any Titans within the district.
Erwin didn't take too long to review the suggestion and trusted Levi with the task. "I'll leave it to you Levi." Approving it he gave a nod before directing the rest of the corps to prepare for the hell they'll be entering soon.
Breaking away, Levi signaled his squad to follow him as he cut straight to the point of their new objective, "Our focus is to make it through the gate and clear any threats in the frontlines before the others pass through."
"Yes Captain!"
Levi narrowed his eyes as his thoughts fell onto the lone scout that was left behind, but he knew not to underestimate Tsuki when she was capable of holding her ground during stressful situations. It still didn't erase the fact at how reckless she can be when it involves dealing with inexperience soldiers that will be working with her. Without a doubt the trainees were set out to handle the crisis alongside the Garrison.
Squad Levi moved ahead of the rest of the Survey Corps in hopes to clear a pathway within the Trost entrance. It was a task they can handle on their own so they were the frontline defense for everyone.
Petra was the one to call out as they neared the breach, "Hurry! To the center!"
The rest of them were stun to see the gate damaged beyond repair and certainly it'll be extremely difficult to do so while holding off Titans to seal the breach. No one would've thought they'll relive what happened five years ago with the fall of Wall Maria. But it was real now more than ever tthat hey needed to do something or else everything will be lost.
Nearing the entrance, they were so close, but their path was cut off before their eyes. None of them knew how to react as the squad reeled back to stop in their tracks. This caught everyone off guard and now they awaited for Levi to give them a different order.
What the hell!
His eyes widen at the sudden blockage of the gate, pulling the rein of his horse Levi came to an abrupt stop. Backing up, searching over his squad who were just as surprised by the drastic change of events. Levi returned his gaze at the now sealed off district he glanced up the wall at the thought of climbing over it instead. It was so tempting to just climb over the Wall, but he needed to wait for Erwin and see what his decision will be. Without a doubt they'll be taking a detour and follow the new route that Erwin will lead in order to enter the Walls without leaving behind everything.
Scowling, clicking his tongue Levi tried to think of a possible answer to the sudden blockage, but nothing came to mind right away. "Tsk... What's this about?"
Levi narrowed his eyes confused about how the broken gate was sealed up so easily. It raised questions that he couldn't wrap his head around it.
If they couldn't secure the breach within Shiganshina then what is different now?
Tsuki
The one factor that changed was the fact that Tsuki was within the effected Wall and without a doubt the rogue is taking action against the Titans. If she's within Trost then it's for certain Tsuki had a hand in this unexpected turn of events.
Levi could only imagine the rogue probably gotten a Titan under her control to use for their benefit. This won't be something new for her to do since Tsuki had used the Titans to their gain on a few expeditions.
He won't put it pass her if she was behind this, but now it only means the Survey Corps must take a different route to enter the Walls. Levi didn't have the time to think while they were still within Titan Territory and it was clear once one of his subordinated shouted.
"An Abnormal is heading this way!"
Dammit! Levi pulled back at the sound of Gunther warning them of a Titan. He saw how close they were with the Titan and everyone disbanded before breaking into position.
Levi quickly maneuvered around it, moving underneath the Titan as it continued to crawl on all four. Looking over his shoulder to see that everyone has stepped into action. Frowning to himself Levi commented the expression the Titan wore, "Look at that face..."
Drawing out his sword at the sight of a few more Titans heading towards their direction. Levi knew the squad can handle the Abnormal on their own and he was proven correct when he caught sight of the now deteriorating Titan from the corner of his eye. But it doesn't erase the fact they're going to need to fight off the rest of the damn Titans if they continue to stay outside the Walls any longer, This area is basically infested with Titans and I can only imagine what its like inside the district
The sound of a smoke signaled grabbed their full attention meaning there is a change in plans yet again. Squad Levi turned to see the rest of the formation began to shift according to their Commander's order. "We're moving to the east gate!" Erwin gave the order as he began to direct everyone toward the next gate while doing his best to limit any further contract with the Titans.
However, Levi didn't move like the rest of his squad did as they began to follow. Instead he felt his hands tug at the reins of his horse keeping himself grounded and disobeying the order that the rest has accepted. He had two choices; one is to follow and the latter is to take the short cut. It was easy for him to just run off on his own, but he also had responsibilities as Captain. Still everything turned to the choice of moving on his own and Levi didn't even noticed that he already began to move.
He couldn't follow the order, not when he was so close. Within his reach he could make it on time and trust on the others to handle themselves during his absents.
"Levi!"
I can't be late- not again Activating his gear Levi ignored the calls, he knew they'll do fine without him and surely Erwin and the others will leave him to handle the inner Wall on his own.
"Captain?!"
Finally reaching the top Levi scowled in distaste once he took account of the destruction the town went through. He noticed majority of the Titans weren't near the entrance gate, instead they were lured toward the back corners of the town. However, there were still a few strays wondering around in the front side and within the streets, but he wasn't worried about the strays since he'll take care of them if he cross them.
His main focus was to locate the wings of freedom among the chaos there should only be one person with them. Levi eyes scanned the area looking for the wings of freedom to be somewhere to show him where the lone rogue could possibly be. It shouldn't be too hard to spot her if she's the only one with the green cape on.
Tsuki is the only one to wear it for majority of the time while the rest usually use it for specific occasions, but scouts mainly wore them during expeditions. Garrisons don't tend to use theirs unless they deem so or if an occasion arises that requires them to wear them such as the whether.
"Huh?"
Leaping off the Wall, Levi furrowed his brows at the boulder that blocked the gate. It left him questioning how they've managed to move something so massive without leaning onto Tsuki to manipulate a Titan to do the work or something.
Why in the hell are they are this far? Levi was surprised to see a small group far out and nonetheless they were in clear area where the maneuver gear won't be much use if they're not expertly skilled.
Narrowing his eyes down at the Titans that began surround the group, and it was clear they were at a complete disadvantage. Levi frowned, moving in to take care of the Titans and get the group out, maybe he'll get answers from them for what's going on.
It wasn't difficult- as if the Titans allowed themselves to be wiped out by the scout. It wasn't something that lingered on Levi's mind as he landed on top of one of the Titans.
Narrowing his eyes, he tapped his foot against it, checking if it was indeed dead, which it was. Turning around to check on the soldiers that were far out for their own good. Especially in Titan area where there's no buildings or anything to make their gear actually useful.
"Hey kiddos..." Raising a brow seeing how they just stared at me, but Levi needed answers to what he just walked into, "Someone care to explain what the hell is going on?"
His eyes widen realizing the Wings of Freedom crest among them, but he froze when his eyes caught sight of the white hair that only belonged to one person he was scouting for. Levi never expected her to have her identity out in the open in a time like this or in front of anyone else outside the Survey Corps.
Tsuki?
What made things even worse was the fact her gear wasn't intact, basically leaving her as a dead man among this chaos. But how reckless could she have been to allow such things to happen?
Always in the center of everything
It made it even more important for him to get answers, to know why the hell she was out here with a couple of kids and one Garrison surrounded by Titans in an open field. Knowing the conditions weren't in their favor to begin with, to see that they have one trainee clearly out of commission. They were basically on some suicide mission according to everything Levi could note down.
Frowning at the thought he expected Tsuki to be more rational than to accept a dangerous role, but Levi can only assume it was a necessary call from Commander Pixies. It still didn't settle well with him, but he was glad to know she was alive despite the unfortunate events stacked against them.
At least he knew she'll keep her word to him and that itself was enough for him to ease some of his nerves. Recalling the exact words she used when she swore,
'... I promise you'll be the first person I see once everyone returns.'
She's not wrong, but he thought it'll be in different conditions than this.
Stepping down, seeing how no one said a word or even acknowledge his damn question. Finally standing on the same ground level as them, Levi saw how the group was worn out and the youngsters clearly seen better days.
Can't blame them, they must've seen hell while the Survey Corps were away.
Frowning, he saw how Tsuki herself didn't say anything either and it only gotten his attention to know that something must be wrong. To know the possibility that she's injured, but before Levi could ask again or get close, his eyes widen when she gotten up and moved forward without saying a word.
He wasn't really expecting an embrace from her especially during a time like this, not when they're still out in the open- he hated public affection of any sorts. But he allowed himself to place his hands on her shoulders, Levi frowned once seeing the Titan in front of him dissolving by the second, but his eye caught sight of one of the kids. Seeing how much of a mess one of the trainees really looked, narrowing his eyes at the sight of the strange marking that were on the boy's face. He sure in hell missed something beyond what he would've expected, but in this damn world anything is possible to an extent.
Blinking, shifting his attention back to Tsuki once hearing a cough from her, "Huh-" Furrowing his brows, Levi pulled back to see how her uniform has been dirty, but her face says everything. Certainly, she was exhausted and he don't know how long she's been out helping the Garrison fend off the Titans.
Trying to lighten the mood if it's even possible, he said, "You look like shit."
"Thanks..." Her expression soften, allowing herself to chuckle at his comment. But Levi can tell that she was trying to cope with the shit that happened. Her eyes confirmed it by the way they were tired, how she avoided long eye contact, but she did offer a smile before sighing to herself, "Your timing couldn't be anymore impeccable. You sure know when to show up, and even making a dramatic pose too, huh."
Taking a moment to catch her breathe, how tiring it was from her to even keep herself completely composed. Placing an arm under hers, Levi held her up in case she decides to pass out on him. But all he could do was calmly talk to her until she regains her breathe. "Breath, take a second and breath." Holding her up beside him, he watched how her eyes closed and it was enough to signal for him to know she'll need some support to avoid anymore trouble.
Finally, his gaze landed across from him to see the Titan dissipate, but his eyes trailed the surrounding area to see how truly see what the trainees and Garrisons went through. Everything looked like hell, Titans couldn't have only done this on their own, but he wouldn't put it pass them either. Glancing back to Tsuki, placing a hand against her skin he felt how hot it was, but not near the level it would be if she were injured.
Yet it still needed to be accounted for incase there were some she was unaware of.
"What the hell happened?"
Tsuki frowned, shaking her head as she muttered to herself but her tone gave it away. Something must've came up during the whole operation. Returning the frown, moving her as Levi searched for any signs to tell him that she's indeed hurt in any possible way, but everything appears fine.
Raising a brow, asking her to at least confirm anything, "Are you okay?" Adjusting her hood over her head, frowning to himself as he saw the dirt in her hair, "No injuries?"
Inspecting her arm, his frown deepen to see the tear within her jacket and hint of blood that stained the material justifying an injury was sustained. Looking back at her, "Your arm."
"I've been through worse than a paper cut like this." Tsuki shrugged her shoulder, it wasn't too much to worry over. Especially after experiencing first hand how fracture and broken bones feel like.
"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Stop, fussing already." She removed his hands from her, reassuring him she was free from any injury, but Tsuki did deeply express how worn out she was from everything, "Just tired that's all, exhausted to be exact. Nothing serious at the moment."
Clicking his tongue, Levi scowled as said, "I'm always having to save your ass."
"You wish," Tsuki snorted. All she wanted was to leave this day behind her and just move forward as usual, which won't be easy like always. "But I won't deny I'm grateful of your timing."
Tsuki winced as she took another foot toward the lone Garrison, but she attempted to play it off, but it wasn't fooling anyone- especially Levi who gave her a hard look that basically told her he saw right through her.
"Hang on," Levi suppressed a sigh, pulling the rogue to a stop so he could take a look on whatever injury that is causing her the pain.
"You got the a squad out here too," Tsuki smiled over to him, motioning over to the wall and she was glad to see the familiar faces of their squad.
Levi paused, looking over his shoulder to see their squad arrive. How the four scouts who have lowered themselves down against the walls. If he was being honest, he didn't intend for them to follow after him or even consider the possibility, but he appreciated it. "They must've followed me up the wall once the gaping hole suddenly was shut in front of us."
It was Garther who spoke first, cutting straight to the point in what the next instructions will be, but he was cut off, "Captain Levi-"
Eld interrupted his comrade once he recognized their Lieutenant among the small group, "Lieutenant!"
"Ses, she's alright," Oluo commented, sparing a glance to the rest of his squad, but he was relieved to know the Lieutenant was fine even if he won't openly admit it.
"Captain! Lieutenant!" Petra, concern, moved toward her superiors, but she stopped in her tracks at the instructions that were thrown.
"You are to eliminate all the Titans within range of us. Cover us until we're on the Wall. Afterwards you are to fall back and regroup in Wall Rose." Levi didn't need to think much for him to give them the order, a task to handle while he safely escorts the surviving group. "Leave those that aren't in range for later elimination."
"Yes sir!"
"We need to get them out of here, now," Tsuki looked over to see the trainees and the lone Garrison, and the scout knew she had the responsibility to take charge of the remaining group members. "I'll explain as much as I can along the way."
"For now, just rest up," Levi tried to talk her into focusing on her own injuries she has refused to openly acknowledge. He planned to take the reins and handle the small group that remain from the operation, so he could take same stress of Tsuki. "I don't need you passing out while we're under these conditions."
But of course, she doesn't listen like always.
Scowling at how stubborn she was at a time like this while she gave out instructions to the others in what Levi could assume was her squad or what could be left of it.
It was odd in sense to see if the remaining soldiers were the survivors of the squad she was despatched with. Casualties are inevitable, but Tsuki was one who'll do everything to bring majority of her comrades back, injuries or not. She hardly allowed anyone to die under her supervision.
A ingrain habit that he can safely assume was due to the past. Something that will be her own undoing.
Levi made sure there wasn't a large gap between himself and her, so he could catch her if she were give out. But he stood back, allowing her to kneel beside the lone Garrison who certainly has lost people, friends possibly solely based on how she held herself. Despite wanting to remain strong on the outside, it's clear she has gone through a lot within a time span of a day.
Emotionally, the woman seems beaten despite what they've accomplished here today.
But there was never time to mourn of find solace in a world like this. Not when they're fighting for a purpose within a constant war.
We don't have the luxury to grieve
"It's time to leave, Rico," Tsuki offered some support, not giving much due to the position they're in currently, but it was enough for now. Tugging the woman by her arm, bringing her to her feet, and Tsuki brought her hands onto Rico's shoulders before gently adding pressure, "Lets go."
Levi watched how the Garrison distant herself from whatever feelings that might stirring up from the inside as she put up a defense mechanism in order to get away from the grief she was feeling.
Then he saw how much stress Tsuki putting onto herself in order to continue prevent herself from showing any more weakness in front of the others. It's only a matter of time until she shows how exhausted her body is. He already saw the way she wince when placing her foot down, revealing that she must've injured her foot or ankle, but she hasn't said a word about it.
Tsuki stubbornly refuses to let it show no matter how much it's weighing her down.
A crime I too take part and I stubbornly can't break out of that awful custom
Tsuki tugged her hood over her as she passed by the three trainees, but she spared a glance at Eren's unconscious form before giving them instructions. "Mikasa! Armin! You two are in charge of handling Eren! We'll escort you back!"
"You are to follow our orders, do you understand." Tsuki directed this specifically at Mikasa, who has gone against orders one too many times already. "No insubordination like before because none of us will tolerate such behavior at a time like this."
Tsuki narrowed her eyes slightly, not asking the trainees, but firmly stating, "Understood."
Armin nodded back while Mikasa looked away knowing that she was put under fire by the Lieutenant due to her previous actions, but Mikasa returned her gaze as she spoke.
"Yes Lieutenant."
The rogue gave a quick nod before finalizing her orders, Tsuki glanced over to Rico then Levi, "Rico and Captain Levi will handle the work from here on out. While the Scouts handle any more Titans roaming the area. Our new objective is to climb the wall and return to Wall Rose safely."
Levi raised a brow, still a tad irritated and concern for Tsuki as she made her way back to him, but he understood the responsibility she possessed on her comrades, yet it still didn't excuse her to neglect herself. She always tended to her comrades first no matter what, her men came before her even if she's physically broken- she'll make sure they're taken care of first.
Clicking his tongue, Levi stared at her as he bluntly said, "Giving orders when you can barely walk."
Releasing a deep breath, she chuckled before remarking, "My floor, my rules, Captain."
Her expression changed, her eyes were beyond tired and it must've been hell for her to keep up this facade up. She shook her head, moving closer as her words slipped, "I can't anymore..."
Shutting her eyes, finally she collapsed and he was ready to catch her. Wrapping his arms around her, holding her up as she handed him leadership of the squad, "I'll let you gain control as of now. I only needed to give the trainees instructions... They were put under my care and I need to keep them together."
Stop neglecting yourself
Tightening her eyes shut while she used him for support to get back onto her feet. Curling her fingers into his arms, her voice shaky as she breathed out, "I'm sorry... I couldn't..."
Her words shook him at how vulnerable she truly was, to hear how worn out she was. Her voice alone revealed how defeated she must feel right now. How emotionally drained she was and it pained him to hear her apologize.
Apologize because she couldn't do more, apologizing because she wasn't enough. He knew she was holding back the pain and there must be tears that won't show. He's seen it before.
You don't need to apologize... You don't need to feel like this was your own fault
She always held a heart of glass that has cracked many times, yet it remained together.
But Levi knew it'll be a matter of time until she falls apart like everyone else after bearing so much for so long. Even Levi have became undone before, but he picked himself together. Just like her, they've been destroyed and rebuilt, but there is a limit to that cycle until everything becomes numb.
It will be inevitable for her, Levi knew, because she hold a weight far greater than the rest of them. No human alive could bear a tremendous amount of burden that the world has placed on them, not without crumbling underneath it with every second they hold that burden.
However, he'll do everything in his power to hold her up on her feet and collect every shard possible for her. Till the end, he need to save her from herself and this harsh world. Just like how she's his pillar, he'll be hers.
Rest, you've done enough... Curling his fingers securely over her, he knew she did everything in her power for the shake of the operation. Pulling something at her current state, she still surpasses the expectations from everyone.
But she needed rest and he'll carry her burden from here.
Setting her down, Levi noticed the wince she made the moment she put some pressure onto her left foot. Seeing how the corner of her lips tugged down, but still keeping her expression hidden from any more signs of discomfort. But it was enough to tell him that she hasn't healed yet or that she barely received the injury.
"Just hang on," Kneeling down, get her onto his back and once her arms were secured around his neck and he had a proper grip on her legs. He stood up. Making sure that he had access of his gear before we move into the next wall, but Levi wanted to make one thing clear with her, "Don't use your power now. Once we get to Wall Rose then hopefully the others will be there when we arrive. I'll have you go with them while we sort this out."
It'll be difficult since the Trost gate is closed off, they'll take some time due to using another gate
"They'll be fine." Her fingers curled up, "Lets just get out of here."
Looking over to her, hearing how she was already done with everything and all she wanted was to leave. Levi haven't seen her like this before, it's been some time, so he can only assume she's exhausted and probably in some form of pain, but she hasn't said anything.
"That's what we'll do," Tugging her hood down, covering her completely until he couldn't see her face once she hid her face into his shoulder. Once he knew she was secure, Levi glanced over towards the trainees as they gotten a proper hold over their comrade then his attention shifted over to the lone Garrison who gave the signal to leave.
Levi called over to the trainees, "We're moving out now." He narrowed his eyes at the Wall, his thoughts fell back onto everyone in the Survey Corps. "Climb the Wall and we'll travel from there, it's the safest route."
"Yes Sir."
"Captain Levi a rescue squad should've been deployed by now, they'll have the proper equipment to take care of Eren and Church," Rico followed up beside him, informing him of the support group before they run into them on their way back into Wall Rose, "We'll most likely meet them on the Wall."
The group began to move up the way at a steady pace, caution about the two that were out of commission, however, they moved quickly enough to get out of reach of any possible threats, but there wasn't anything too worry about since Levi's Squad was handling any stray Titans in the area. Even the Garrisons have sent out a few groups to assist in the area, so there wasn't any threats near by. All they need to worry about was to safely get to the top of the Wall, and get the Lieutenant and trainee somewhere for them to recover.
Climbing over the wall, checking on the kids to see if they gotten a proper hold of their friend along the way up. Carefully getting over the Wall, sparing a glance over to Tsuki, seeing how she was completely tried out and he can assume how much energy she used. It's been a while since Levi actually seen her this exhausted and judging on how Trost look like utter shit, there was a whole lot shit that went down.
Adjusting her, raising a brow when she moved her arms a bit and from the corner of his eye he saw her blue eyes staring at him for a moment before shutting them. Sighing, Levi looked over to see that the trainees have made up the Wall safely alongside the Garrison and all we need is to walk over to the rear guard before moving into Wall Rose.
His gaze landed over to the district, seeing that his squad handling the stray Titans effortlessly before watching them head over to the Wall. At least he know they're fine on their own and his job now is just to escort the trainees back.
Levi had to give the kids credit, going through hell before even entering their preferred division. He doubt many are willing to join the Scouting Legion now after experiencing first hand how troublesome Titans are up close and personal.
"Brief summary of what I just walked in on? If you can." Levi asked Tsuki, hoping to get some information and get a clearer understanding of what happened while he and the scouts were on their expedition. Yet he was very attentive to Tsuki's current conditions, and understands if she has fallen asleep or doesn't have the energy to talk much about what transpired during his absences.
Moving her head, he saw her face as she tiredly explain what all about the mess he gotten himself into, "I'll go move in depth with the others, but for now all you need to know is that boy is very important and we can't afford to lose. Nor do I want any of his friends to die." Shutting her eyes, not saying much else on the issue and he can't blame her. It's clear that she and everyone went through a hellish day. "All that matters at this moment is we get him and the other two trainees into the next Wall."
Frowning, looking over to the kid from the corner of his eye, "What's so special about the kid?"
Narrowing down his gaze onto the trainee, seeing the markings on his face have already began to fade, but there were still visible. Something Levi never seen before. Shifting his attention back to her, Levi can tell by her tone that it is something unbelievable of some sorts if she's not revealing it out in the open, "You wouldn't believe it if I told you," Tightening her arms around him, her eyes threatening to close as she willed herself to remain conscious through the travel, "But right now I'm trying to perverse energy so forgive me for not telling you all the details at the moment."
"Just close your eyes and keep yourself hidden for now until we're out of danger then we'll talk once you're rested enough," He curled his fingers onto the green hood, tugging it completely over her, shielding her face. Levi commented as he thought about what Erwin will do once he learns about Trost, "Without a doubt, Erwin will like to know what the hell happened here and certainly it's a story tell by what I saw already."
Grabbing one of her hands, firmly hold it within his fingers as Levi muttered, "I hate you, you know. Always attracting trouble."
What am I going to do with you?
"Tell me something new, will you," Tsuki squeezed his hand, a faint smile formed at his words, but she understood what he meant by them.
"From everything, you just happened to be clairvoyant as well," Levi clicked his tongue, narrowing his eyes as he retorted back half jokingly while recalling how the rogue decided to stay behind as if she knew something was up. "Tough luck, isn't?"
But I shouldn't be surprised by that
"I rather not be linked to that of some 'fortune teller'. Before you ask, no, I'm not particularly happy," Not appreciating the sense of humor right now, can't blame her, she's not in the mood for any type of banter.
It was a shitty joke if it's even considered a joke, and Levi knew that the tension was still thick, but that's all he has to make the mood lighter than it actually is.
What she said next caught his attention, and Tsuki whispered over to him, "But at least we got something that will let us take another step into the right path and we can reclaimed the lost land for the first time."
So it's that important to pull a risky move like this
"Church, how are you holding?"
Levi turned his head towards the Garrison, seeing how Rico caught up with them as she placed her focus on Tsuki. He could see the concern in the woman's eyes as she checked on the rogue, and he also saw the familiar look behind those eyes. It was the fear of losing another person, someone who was a friend or anyone who might be important. So Levi knew that the Garrison must be heavily worried because Tsuki was one of the few to survive outside their original group.
The woman was dealing with survivor's guilt.
It was clear from the moment he saw how Tsuki carefully tended to the lone Garrison, and it was clearer now that the woman is only making sure that the rogue doesn't leave her alone like the rest.
Levi will give the Garrison credit, noting how Rico has done her best in keeping her composer despite the massive loss she experienced not so long ago. But every now and then, he has noticed a slip in the Garrison's demeanor, and he knows it must be difficult to cope with. Yet everyone knows there's no room to grieve while they still need to continue forward.
"Feel like my head is going to explode," Tsuki nodded back, keeping her face hidden between her hood and Levi's shoulder. She didn't say much to the Garrison aside from assuring her that she was fine,"But I can live with it, no worries."
Opening her eyes, Tsuki couldn't see the trainees since they we're out of her line of sight, but she asked the other woman, "How are the trainees?"
"Eren has lost consciousness again, but they're handling him fine," Rico looked over to the trainees, seeing how Mikasa was the one carrying Eren over her shoulder with Armin following close behind. But the Garrison sighed to herself before going straight to business, knowing very well what will happen once they reach Wall Rose, and it was her duty to inform Tsuki. "Once we get there, we're having the Military Police take him into custody for the time being as the higher ups sort this out. For the time being, I'll file my report."
Levi frowned at the word that stood out to him, Custody? It left him wondering what could possibly be special about the trainee to have him under Military Police custody, and to get the top bass involved in handling the boy's situation.
"You should do the same." Rico narrowed her eyes as she stared out to the far distance where the others should be, but she firmly reminded Tsuki of her responsibilities to file a report about the whole operation as truthfully as the rogue can without revealing herself to the higher ups.
Levi stepped in, taking responsibility of dealing with whatever is needed from Tsuki such as reports or any form of requests they'll ask from her revolving this ordeal. "I'll send down her report once it's complete, the Lieutenant won't be attending
anything as of now, so tell the top bass not to bother asking for her."
Checking on her, seeing how she must be fighting to just stay awake, but he knew she was fully aware of their conservation, and Levi can't pinpoint how long her recovery will take.
"You can't-!" Raising a brow once hearing how the Garrison protested against his word, he cut her off before she had the chance to object.
"Try me." Narrowing his eyes, he wasn't going to deal with anyone threatening to have Tsuki exposed or put another burden on her shoulders at a time like this. Especially from someone who is well aware of the secret and system they've created for Tsuki to begin with.
"Commander Pixis as well as Commander Erwin will agree. Also, I need time away from people so I can recover," From the corner of his eye, Levi saw Tsuki move slightly in order for her to see Rico. Stepping in the conservation, attempting to stop an argument that will erupt between Levi and Rico.
Her fingers curled into his uniform while stating what will be happening as she settled the issue, "I won't be much help like this. So I'll have Captain Levi send down my report as soon as possible. I'll leave my superiors to handle any more requirements that will be demanded of me, so I implore you to let this pass Rico."
Then Tsuki firmly reminded the Garrison of the consequences that could arise if she were to present herself and he spared a glance over to Rico to watch what she'll do. "Rico, you and I both know I cannot be present in anything such as court hearings or big public events. We know one will be held soon to deal with this matter and I will not attend it regardless in who demands my presences."
"I'm fully aware of it Church, but I'm more concern in what you will write within your report about this whole ordeal, and I'm more concern of what the higher ups will do if they cannot get you to personally state your position on the matter." Rico frowned to herself, she was already anxious in how the aftermath was going to turn out, but now she's only trying to make sure that the rogue is fully aware of the position she's fallen in. It was a serious matter, and Rico can't put it aside, so she strictly said, "I know you haven't been seen publicly, not in a setting like a court room or hearing, but you and I both know that this is different. They will ask you to present yourself, and I'm not sure what they will think if you refuse."
"I know, and I appreciate your concern, but I have faith that my whereabouts will be resolved and I'll be excused from whatever hearing they wish to hold in order to decide the boy's fate." Tsuki sighed tiredly before hiding herself again as she reassured Rico, "But I will fulfill my duty and write my report as truthful as possible, so don't worry about that."
Levi looked over to check on the rogue, seeing how she already laid down her course of action for what is to come from this mess. He looked back to the Garrison before bluntly saying, "It's the least of our concerns as of now."
"Fine," Rico took in a deep breath, agreeing to the terms, and leaving the subject matter alone.
The blonde trainee caught up with his superiors, and it was Levi who noticed the look on the boy's face, which gave him the impression that the trainee knew something that he shouldn't. Something that slipped passed Rico, but it only made Levi put his guard up. He didn't know what the trainee's connection is or if the trainee saw anything that might've exposed Tsuki's identity during their operation, but Levi knew something happened that could've revealed the rogue's presences. Frowning at the possibility,if it's true then they're going to have a problem if the trainee says a word about it in his report or anyone outside of those aware of the secret.
"Lieutenant, are you-?"
Armin spoke up, asking the Lieutenant if she were alright or if the other two would share any information about the scout's condition. But before the trainee could finish his sentence he was interrupted by the Captain who responded statically, "The Lieutenant's fine. Worry about your friend for now."
The blonde only nodded back before he returned back to his friend's side, keeping a small distance from the older soldiers. It didn't help that they were quite intimating, nothing surprising due to Levi's usual cold demeanor and Rico's strict nature. So Armin kept in mind to stay out of their space, but he couldn't help himself from worrying over the Lieutenant because he knew that the woman was in pain throughout the operation. But he'll have to take the Captain's word that she was fine.
It'll be a matter of time until they reach the back of the Wall and get proper treatment for those wounded within their group, but by then Levi hoped that Tsuki can fake her condition enough that she can easily get by without an issue. Surely the Survey Corps would've entered the inner walls by then, so Levi and Tsuki and their squad members will meet with the rest of the scouts while leaving the trainees in the care of the Garrison. All in all, it is going to be a long day- a day that won't be forgotten for the years to come.
A/N:
Happy New Years!
Sorry, I had to push the upload date back since I had to keep up with school especially after taking a semester off, I needed to get back into routine. But it's over, and I have time to write till spring semester starts up. While I also try to catch up on sleep (if that's possible)
But I'm glad to finally get it up and I'm looking forward into the next arc of chapters, the peace before the next storm, and surely there won't be any rest for the characters till the end.
Again Thank you all for reading, it means a lot to know people still stick around despite my hiatus and large gap updates. I appreciate you all and I'll do my best to reply to reviews when I can :)
-I have the next chap already in progress and soon I'll be editing it. It'll take time since I'll be using my spare time to work on it. I hope to have up soon when I'm free. But I'll have the chapters in the work, so don't worry.
Do feel free to ask any questions in regards to the story and the progress of the chapters, I'll gladly inform you of where I am currently on them.
Until then, hope you have a good day wherever you are :)
