Answered Prayers

by slingzarrowz

Levi and Petra are in love and together. They are finally, perfectly happy. But as the world around them falls to madness, their love will change not only their own destinies, but the course of history as well. Rivetra.

48. Chapter 48

Mikasa gripped the parachute straps tightly as the wind jostled her about. Her ears were already frozen, and her stomach fluttered as she tried to touch down on the mountainside. Navigating her way to a soft landing amid a scattering of trees was no easy feat, but her Ackerman instincts helped. 'Left' or 'Hold down' would flash before her eyes, plain, white typeset letters against a black backdrop. She pulled the strings down, collapsing the parachute and falling the last ten feet to earth. She rolled to absorb the impact and managed not to get tangled in her straps. Mikasa unhooked herself, and gazed skyward at the rest of the Azumabito as they floated to the ground.

The plane had dropped them off moments ago. Willy and Levi had been correct; there was no concern that anyone would drop into these mountains.

She scanned the steep slope. Paradis had good reason to feel that way; the climb down would be perilous. Fortunately, Hange had designed a more lightweight form of ODM gear. What it lacked in titan-killing oomph, it made up for in versatility. Purely on foot, it would take a frightening week to climb down this mountain to the foothills. If everyone was careful, with this new equipment they'd be down by tomorrow morning.

But it would be a long, difficult afternoon and night.

The warriors landed alongside her. Mikasa looked up when she heard a soft, disgruntled noise. One of them had gotten caught in a tree branch and dangled thirty feet above the ground. She moved at once, swinging up with the aid of her grappling hooks to slice the soldier's straps. The man tumbled through space before expertly using his own gear to land on the ground. Normally, at least a few casualties would be expected during such an operation, but the hundreds of Azumabito retainers landed without a single problem.

They looked to Mikasa.

I hope Jean can help us. She smiled to think of seeing her old friend, even under these circumstances. She hoped he'd found happiness in the years since they'd parted.

She hoped she wasn't about to ruin that happiness.

"Let's go," she said softly. Her soldiers followed her down the mountain, making sure never to put a foot wrong as they made the precarious descent.

Eren. Can you see me now? She tugged quickly at her scarf, a real godsend in this alpine chill. What do you think about all of this?

More than anything, Mikasa wished that Eren and Armin were at her side right now. But she had to make all the next movements alone.

---

Levi had not slept. Even at his worst, his insomnia had still allowed him a couple of hours of rest. Now, he didn't even have that. The entire night he'd walked back and forth across his chamber, wishing to fuck he could speak to Petra and the kids.

Wishing he could tell Erwin to go to hell.

"You have to eat something." Willy sat at the table, toying listlessly with a fruit plate.

"Not hungry." Levi barely had a taste for tea, even.

"You have to be prepared to move if need be. Petra will need you to be rested and fueled."

"Tch. Like you know shit about what she needs," he snapped, irritated. Willy mercifully fell silent as Levi gazed out the window. His wife was in Erwin's clutches right now, trying to negotiate a way out for herself and their children, and Levi was sitting here like an idiot fancying around with fruit cups and shit. "Besides, the signal's not supposed to come for another day at least. I got time to not eat."

Willy sighed. "Yes. Let's hope Mikasa's able to radio in." They had to be extra quiet about this shit. Erwin's lackeys could hide around every corner. The fact Levi and the Marleyan king had even this short breakfast to themselves was a luxury. At the moment, Erwin had the upper hand and everyone knew it.

Willy knew that Levi would kill him and every single Marleyan soldier before he'd let anyone set a bomb onto Paradis while Petra and the kids were there. The whole thing was pure shit.

"Do you think it's true?" Willy asked. He sounded more than a little irritated. "That your daughter simply gave her handlers the slip and dashed off to Paradis?"

"You blaming this on my kid?"

"This war? No, of course not. But this situation is dire because she and your son went to that island. I still don't understand why they didn't have royal guard attending them."

"We wanted to let them just be kids." Levi hung his head, too fucking furious to move. Too tired. "Just like everyone else."

"Yes, but now our entire offensive plan is up in smoke because of them. Clearly they are not just like everyone else."

Levi turned. "I know I'm a fucking idiot, all right? I know that! Stop dragging my kids into this."

He'd been on the verge of saying something truly cruel: that at least he, Levi, loved his children enough to refuse to sacrifice them. But no one deserved those words. Both kings grew silent as they waited for a signal they weren't sure would ever come.

"Then again, if this plan succeeds we'll end the war in a single moment. That would have been impossible without Kuchel." Willy sounded almost apologetic. Gee.

"Then give her a medal when we get her back." Levi slung on his coat. "I need some air." He left Willy behind and walked down the hall. The sunshine was like a steel rod in his brain. Even blinking hurt. Every bit of him was tense. What had Erwin done to Petra? Levi did not fear for a second that the king would hurt Kuchel, and he believed Erwin when he said he wouldn't do anything to Oruo. But Levi's wife was at Erwin's mercy now.

She had to keep Erwin's focus until Mikasa could get there. If Erwin tried anything, Levi knew his wife would fight like hell. Besides, Erwin couldn't be so far gone that he'd force himself onto her.

Could he?

Levi walked out of the building and across the Tybur courtyard. He headed along the street, deeper into the center of town. He headed for military headquarters.

There was a moment coming soon. A moment when Levi would slice Erwin's head from his neck. When he would finally put an end to the horror that he, Levi, had created.

Petra could tell Levi over and over that this shit wasn't his fault, but that was her prerogative as his wife. Levi liked things simple, and this shit was simple. He'd brought Erwin back for a selfish reason. Erwin had saved their people and now might destroy the world. If Levi had done what he knew in his heart to be right, Erwin would not have killed all those soldiers and civilians.

But the vast majority of this bloodshed had come about because Erwin was trying to protect Paradis. His people. His son. Levi.

It was like a fucking knot you could never untie. The more you picked at it, the worse it got. It was absolutely true that Erwin had done evil; it was absolutely true Erwin had done all that evil to save people like Levi and his family.

The deepest truth, the one Levi had tried not to look at for years, was that if he had waited another full second on that rooftop in Shiganshina he would have changed his mind and injected Armin. That was how close he had been to making another decision. The right decision.

Because he remembered that kid's eyes.

It was true that Erwin was Levi's primary focus in those last minutes on that rooftop. But what had made him ready to choose Armin were those eyes. Armin's eyes had always been a wide, vivid blue. The kid had been so excited to see the ocean, jungles, fiery volcanoes and glacial islands. Armin had possessed that pure, happy curiosity. Levi had seen it on occasion in Erwin, especially before the years and the basement started to weigh him down. Levi had seen it in the faces of his lost comrades. Idealists. Dreamers. Believers. Those people had dreamed of a better world, believed it was possibly to create one.

Levi had never possessed that kind of mind or soul. He had desperately latched onto Erwin because he craved that purpose. That sureness. And in that moment before he made his decision, he had realized that Armin was Erwin's natural continuation.

Truth was that if it had been Floch burned to a crisp on that rooftop, or Mikasa, or even Hange, Levi probably would have chosen Erwin despite knowing the suffering it would cause. He wanted to let his beloved friend rest, but couldn't throw away the entire world's future on fucking Floch.

But in Armin's eyes, Levi had seen the glimmer of a chance. Just the faintest glimmer of one, but it'd been there. Levi had realized that he wouldn't just be giving Erwin a gift; he could be saving the world as well. Because Armin could do it. He had the same visionary mind as Erwin, but also the innocence and sweetness the commander had lost. A boy like that, one who was both sharp and good, brave and pure, could make the world into what they had always wanted it to be.

Eren was dead many years now, and Levi had come to realize that the fiery, angry boy hadn't been the one who could've saved them from Marley. Eren had only ever known fury and passion, eyes fixed dead ahead. Armin had known subtlety, and wisdom. That was what they'd needed against Marley, not simple force.

Erwin had provided that. But he'd also lost himself in his duty.

And he'd lost himself because Levi had brought him back. Because Levi chose wrong.

He'd forced Erwin to destroy his own soul, and that part was not Erwin's fault. That was Levi's.

So now people like Willy were mouthing off about how great it'd be to get rid of Erwin, like the king was a tumor on the lip they had to cut away. Erwin Smith, the greatest man in history, had outlived his usefulness and now they just wanted him to go away. They wanted Levi to chop his head off like it was nothing.

Levi had to clean up his own mess. He had to set free the one he'd imprisoned. His body felt so heavy as he turned the corner and came upon military HQ. Then he stopped dead, because he had been going to visit Hange and now he remembered that Hange would not be there. She'd never be there or anywhere else ever again.

Levi bunched a fist, wanted to pound a nearby wall. God, he wanted it all to stop.

He has my wife and children. I need to get them back.

Levi felt like his head would explode. He ought to return to Willy's house, but the military gate opened and a few armored cars rolled out. They were escorting a couple of long trucks, headed for the port.

Something about the whole thing set Levi's hair to standing. Why were so many heavy duty armoreds guarding what appeared to be a couple of trucks' worth of equipment?

What was the equipment?

Levi let his steps guide him over to the gate guard. The man saluted Levi at once, and went rigid. Guess Levi made people nervous.

"What's all that shit I just saw heading east?" he asked.

"Uh, Majesty?"

"On the trucks. With the armored car escort. If you need to get me clearance to find out, go ahead and do that." Levi narrowed his eyes. "The top brass know who I am."

---

He was not going to kill Willy, but he sure felt like giving it a shot.

Aides and workers jumped out of his way as he strode to Willy's office door and almost kicked it open. The Marleyan king looked up from behind his desk, put a few papers down.

"Levi. What is it?"

"I want to know why you're increasing the amount of warheads at the launch sites," he said quickly and as calmly as possible. "I want to know why you've ordered scientists on fucking stand by in case a launch is needed in the very near fucking future."

Willy sat quietly. "It's just a precaution."

"My family is still on Paradis Island. Until they're off, I don't want a single fucking hyperfusion bomb pointed in their direction."

"The weapons won't be fired while Petra and the children are still on the island."

"I didn't say shit about the weapons you already had, or the troops at the launch sites. I just don't see why you had to level it all up while my family's sitting dead smack in the middle of the target." A bad idea itched at the back of Levi's mind. He ground his teeth. "Willy. I'll ask this nicely once, so think how you wanna answer. Does this have anything to do with the fact my son's—"

"No one is going to harm Oruo. You have my word." Willy's eyes flashed. "I know what it is to sacrifice a son. I won't ask you to do that."

That was a little relief.

"But," Willy said.

But…

"But what?"

"But we know that Erwin has the Founding Titan directly under his nose. If he realizes that fact and manages to restrain Connie, he now has two sources of royal blood he can utilize. Historia is the Reiss that doesn't challenge his rule; Oruo is the Reiss that does. Given a choice between the two, it's likely he'd use your son to unlock the Founder's full potential. Oruo being on Paradis is dangerous to us on two levels. He's your son, which means a hyperfusion attack from Marley can't happen, and he's a powerful weapon that's landed in Erwin's hands. It would be irresponsibile to not think of Oruo as a hazard as well as a child. If there is even the slightest chance that Erwin can fulfill the necessary criteria to bend the Founder to his will—"

"If you fire on my family, I'll kill you."

It wasn't delivered with fear. Levi wasn't angry. He was just making a promise.

He kept his promises.

"I said it wouldn't come to that," Willy snapped.

"It won't come to that, but you laid out why it may have to happen. How dumb do you think people are, Willy?" Levi sneered. "Or just how dumb do you think I am?"

Hange could have helped Levi negotiate his way through this, but Hange was gone. She would never come back. It was another blade to the center of his heart.

"I honestly wish you were stupid," Willy said. He sounded pissed and weary. "You're smart enough that you make my job difficult, and you're ignorant enough that you do the same."

"I want those extra troops and weapons pulled."

"You're the king of Paradis, Levi. Not Marley. We're allies in this war, but I and I alone control the military of this country."

"Yeah, that's right. And you wanna make me king of a dead island, husband and father to a dead wife and kids." He grabbed Willy by the lapels and yanked the king from his seat. Levi pressed their faces close and looked the Marleyan king in his eyes. "I'm no you, Willy. I'm no Erwin. I don't know much about politics, but I do know this. If you cross me, I'll kill you. And if I kill you, your whole country really goes to hell. I have nothing much to lose if those bombs go off, but you've got a lot that could just go away.

Willy's nostrils flared. They two men stared deep into each other's eyes. Finally, Willy nodded and Levi let him go. The Marleyan king sat back down, while Levi went to the other side of the room. Willy reshuffled his papers and looked over them, but Levi could still feel that he had the man's attention.

"I know you think I'm a terrible man for letting Cassius burden himself with the War Hammer." Willy scribbled something, never looked up. "Letting him become a martyr for my family is the most evil thing I've ever done, and I've done my share of evil. But I did it so that millions of other people's children could be safe. I did it to stay alive so I could guide Marley and the rest of the world into a clean, safe age. And it killed me. It's killing me now." He looked up at Levi. "A real king is willing to destroy his own heart and soul to keep his people safe. I think you're right that you're no true king, Levi. But it's not the wonderful personal quality you take it to be."

With that, Willy went back to work.

---

Brigitta was allowed to attend the picnic, and made sure to apply a lot of rouge before she went. She hadn't seen Erwin or Siegfried in at least a month. She spent her days knitting sweaters for Siegfried, or mending something that had torn. Erwin allowed those articles of clothing to be handed off to her. He knew she needed something to do.

The last of the red dye had finally gone away, and she was no longer ironing her hair straight, but the damage had been done. Her light brown hair had no shine to it any longer. The ringlets had relaxed into stringy waves. Wrinkles had sprouted along her brow and at the corners of her eyes and at the sides of her mouth.

She'd taken to ensuring she never left her room without a cream foundation and rouge.

Her heart pittered quickly as she imagined seeing Siegfried. Her little angel. And Petra. Brigitta's eyes stung with tears as she passed a brush along her hair. What had the year done to her big sister?

Brigitta hadn't spoken to Petra in any way since her last visit to Mitras. But now…

She slipped into her shoes and left her chambers. Servants bobbed in curtsies or bows as she passed, some looking surprised to see her. Brigitta's life these days was mostly solitary. She was allowed to walk in the gardens, to go to town for shopping or tea, to wander about the palace as she wished. She'd seen Willem a couple of months ago. He was finally getting married, but had no interest in letting Petra or their parents know. He'd half-heartedly invited Brigitta to come live with him and his wife, but she'd politely declined. As long as Siegfried was here, she'd stay.

Other than that, she'd met Edvard by chance at a tea shop a month ago.

They'd sat down for a polite cup and fifteen minutes of chat. He'd revealed that his wife had given birth to a daughter three months earlier. At least his children hadn't been born in the age range where they could have been subject to Erwin's…experiments.

She'd smiled and asked what his daughter's name was. Edvard had gently said they'd named the child 'Brigitta.' She'd been flattered, and gave him a hug when his wife showed up with a stroller and their son. Brigitta had fondly said goodbye to Edvard and Flora, his wife, and to Hans and little Brigitta.

The family had left. Brigitta had gone home and sobbed alone in her room for a full hour.

She walked the halls, feeling like she was haunting them. Why is my life like this? I never tried to hurt anybody. I just don't understand.

Maybe…

Maybe Petra was right. Maybe, hopefully, Levi would win this war and take Paradis back. And then if they became king and queen, Brigitta could remain with them. She could still give her love to Siegfried and Kuchel, and little Oruo. Maybe in time she'd regain some of her bloom and find someone new, and adopt. Maybe she could manage one of Levi's orphanages.

Brigitta felt a sharp relief that her sister was here. That Erwin was being challenged.

Except that…

Petra might not want to show any friendship after the despicable way Brigitta had behaved when last they met.

Brigitta left the palace and walked across the gardens. It was ironic. She'd always been called the Ral child with the most sense and grace, and somehow she'd fucked up worse than either of her siblings could have ever dreamed of doing. She had to believe it was all her own fault, because if it wasn't then that meant life had been cruel to her. Not deliberately, but randomly.

Please. Let Petra be happy to see me.

Brigitta steered clear of the titan pits, but came upon Erwin's underground experimental bunker as the door opened and the "king" stepped out into the sunlight. Brigitta dropped a quick curtsy, eyes down so she didn't have to look at the man.

"How are you today?" he asked calmly. She did not have his full attention.

"Fine. Where are the children?"

"Inga is bringing them from the river. They all wanted to go swimming." Erwin regarded her with mild curiosity. "I imagine you'll be happy to see them."

"Of course. They're my niece and nephews."

Siegfried, though…he was more than that. She adored Kuchel and Oruo on instinct, but she had washed and fed and clothed and loved little Siegfried his whole life. She remembered the endless hours of joy she'd had cuddling and rocking him as a baby. She had sung him songs and told him stories, and he'd beamed gummily up at her.

He was the sweetest of Petra's children. The tenderest, the most loving and gentle.

All Brigitta wanted was to be first in his heart. It was all she'd wanted for a long time now.

Erwin nodded. He was satisfied with her calmness; he'd told her that before. But neither of them had suggested becoming lovers again. Truthfully, when Brigitta remembered everything she'd done with him, she felt cheap. Ugly.

She stayed only for Siegfried.

"Is everything going all right?" She eyed the barracks door. Erwin nodded.

"Well as can be expected."

Brigitta feared knowing what went on there. All she knew for certain was that Queen Historia was still alive and not doing too well.

She walked beside the king as they made their way to the river. Brigitta's heart lightened a bit when she heard laughing up ahead. The children raced into view, their swim clothes dripping and their hair wet and stringy from the river. Servants followed them, carrying blankets and baskets and umbrellas to keep the sun off. Erwin strode ahead, and against the tree line Brigitta noticed Inga.

And there…Petra.

Her sister wore a bright yellow day dress. Erwin had probably insisted she dress to please him; Petra would never have worn anything as crisp and dainty for the daytime. Her sister had always been the tomboy.

Petra grinned as her children gathered around her, hugged and kissed them each in turn. When she hugged Siegfried, Brigitta's heart twisted. But then the kids went to lie down on the blanket and sneak sandwiches. Erwin watched over them with an adoring eye and a smile.

"Hi, Pet." Brigitta spoke quietly. Petra looked up at her. For a minute, her older sister did not react. Brigitta cleared her throat. "I'm glad you're all right."

"Yes. You, too." Petra sounded kind, but a little distant. Brigitta looked at the ground to hide the tears.

"I'm so sorry," she whispered. "What I did to you was unforgivable. With Siegfried. I know I did it all wrong but—"

Then her sister was hugging her tightly. Petra hushed Brigitta, squeezed her. It was an embrace of absolute forgiveness. Nothing was held back. Brigitta clung to her sister, feeling so insanely grateful in that moment. All the weight seemed to lift off of her.

"No. I'm sorry," Petra said. "I never stopped to think about how this would've affected you. I'm so sorry, Gitta."

"I should have listened to you and Mama," she whispered. "Erwin's a monster."

Petra stiffened. Had something happened?

"We just need to hang on a little longer." Petra kissed Brigitta's forehead. "But we're sisters. That's what matters most. When this is over, we're all going to be together."

Brigitta hugged Petra again. She realized, as Petra rubbed her back and spoke gently, that finally they'd assumed their proper places. She, Brigitta, was the wayward younger sister, and Petra the older, soothing her and guiding her.

Took thirty or so years to get there. Brigitta smiled.

"Let's sit down. We don't want to draw too much attention," Petra murmured. She went and sat between Siegfried and Oruo, stroking both boys' hair.

Brigitta felt fully herself for the first time in what felt like years. Yes. It was going to be over. They were going to be together.

She smiled in gentle relief.

"Mama!"

Siegfried hugged Petra tightly. Petra lavished kisses on the little boy. They gazed adoringly at each other.

Brigitta's shoulders slumped.

---

Jean Kirschtein had risen through the ranks admirably. That's what Pixis said on his last inspection of the northern regiments. The old man had retired last year—forced retirement, some said, with orders from the king not to leave his home in Wall Rose without invitation. During that inspection Pixis had clapped Jean on the shoulder. 'You make a fine leader, son,' he'd said. Then, with a twinkling eye, he added, 'My deepest condolences.'

Jean stood outside the barracks as the sun went down, overlooking the edge of the forest as he took a smoke break. Una kept telling him what a filthy habit it was, but since they weren't married or even really together he didn't see that he had to stop.

She kept insisting they should think about the future, though. Una was a nice girl. Pretty. Black hair. Good in bed. But something always stopped him from posing the question. They'd been dating on and off for a year, usually for a couple months at a time before one of them took a break for whatever reason. Still, since they were in their late twenties everyone expected marriage. Living the eternal bachelor life wasn't a great idea. But sometimes Jean would see Una's face in the firelight at just the right angle. Her features would change, and with her black hair she would become somebody else. Someone he missed.

There was sex, and then there was love.

Fuck. Jean threw his cigarette to the ground and stamped it out. Why couldn't he get that idiot schoolboy crush out of his head?

Except it wasn't a crush. You were together almost every day for years.

Mikasa had always been aloof. Regal as a queen, but also kind. Gentle. He could imagine how soft she'd smile at the one she loved.

Also, she could bench press a full grown man. Something about that was a turn on.

Jean shut his eyes. Forget. Couldn't he just forget?

"Hey, Jean!"

Sasha swaggered over. She was just coming in from guard duty at the edges of the wood. It was an unnecessary use of manpower in Jean's opinion, but the king liked to have all his areas checked. Made sense. Sasha shouldered her rifle and stopped next to him.

"If I'm right, you've got two days furlough now," Jean said. He scratched his nose. He tried to rotate Sasha as much as he could, to give her a chance to get home.

"Yeah. Niccolo's gonna be super pleased to see me. Luca and Mikasa are a nightmare."

Every time he heard Mikasa, his heart seized. When he remembered they were discussing Sasha's twins, it just wearied him further.

"Are they teething yet? Anka said babies teethe."

"Yeah, they're li'l chew monsters." Sasha sounded proud. The kids were just like their mother. "I'm gonna change into my civvies and head for the train. Hoping I can be in Trost by nine."

"Say hi to Niccolo." Jean leaned his back against the barracks wall. Sasha paused.

"Hey, Jean?" Her large brown eyes darted about, making sure they were alone. "You hear what they're sayin'? Those reports about the hyperfusion—"

"Keep your voice down." Jean lit another cigarette to give himself something to do. He knew what she knew: that Erwin's Final Push was coming. That there was a reason he'd wanted as many Paradisians as possible off mainland Marley. Sometimes Jean tried telling himself that this all would've happened anyway, and that Paradis had a right to defend itself.

But it wasn't the island defending itself. It was the king defending himself.

Jean, of course, had never spoken those words aloud.

"Jus'…they're not gonna do it, are they?" Her eyes appeared full of pain. "There's gotta be another way."

Since having children, Sasha had lost some of her sweet thoughtlessness. Events had more weight to them now. Jean shrugged.

"Don't know. It's not our place to know." He nodded. "Better head home."

She entered the barracks, leaving Jean to stare at the darkening woods. He sighed. At least if this war ended in victory, Paradis would be truly safe. Wouldn't it? Bet he'd get a promotion. Maybe become the king's right hand.

But all those opportunities felt hollow. He turned to go back inside—

What?

Jean pulled out his gun at once, because he swore he saw something move at the treeline. But that wasn't possible. There were guards posted in the woods, all the best marksmen. No one could get past without them firing a shot. Probably a deer.

Except that he did see a flash of movement. And it was human-shaped.

Shit.

Jean aimed his gun and opened his mouth, ready to shout…

But it was her.

"Jean." She appeared at the forest's edge, her face pale as the moon, her eyes luminous. Trembling, Jean lowered his weapon.

It couldn't be…Mikasa?

His head spun. He knew his duty. She was an enemy of Paradis now, and if he didn't arrest her…or kill her…it was treason.

But he couldn't. He realized as he lowered his weapon that he could never hurt her. Better to die than do that. As if in a dream, Jean hurried the fifty or so yards to the forest. The longest journey of his life.

Mikasa held up a hand when he joined her. "I promise we're not going to hurt you."

We?

Oh, fuck.

As if creeping out of the shadows themselves, a whole crowd of black-geared Hizurans rested their gazes upon him. Jean went for his gun again, but they drew on him too quickly.

"Stop!" Mikasa hissed. "Please. Listen to me. We don't mean you or the barracks any harm." She touched his arm. "Jean?"

Her touch set his whole body on fire. He looked into her clear gray eyes, swallowed a lump in his throat. Fuck, he'd dreamed of this. He'd had sex with Una while she was on her stomach multiple times, just so he could look at her bob of black hair and imagine…

He'd almost convinced himself it'd been a schoolboy crush. But Mikasa Ackerman would never release him.

"What are you doing here?" Jean cast a glance at the barracks. "What do you want from me?"

"We want you and your soldiers to join us when we march on Mitras."

He kind of wanted to laugh hysterically. Jean leaned his shoulder against the tree, half-smiling as he looked into her eyes. Waiting for the punchline.

"We're the king's men, Mikasa. That's treason."

"Not if you're behind the right king," she said.

Captain Levi. Right. He was the long lost son of Uri Reiss or something. Jean was smart enough to know that much of the 'false king' narrative that Erwin had concocted for Levi was bullshit. Just propaganda. If Mikasa had come here with the Azumabito warriors just to fight for Levi Ackerman's cause, she had to believe it was right. Because Mikasa would never do anything that wasn't good or right.

The opposite of him.

Jean tried not to stare at her face too much. She was a woman now at the height of her beauty. Her cheekbones were perfectly defined, her figure gorgeous.

In that moment, he hated Eren Jaeger more than ever before, though the guy was years dead. If that stupid kid just hadn't been around…

And Jean knew something then. The guy he was now, with the possible promotions and the cushy life in the capital, the marriage to Una and the children they'd have, none of that could compare to Mikasa. Whatever she did had to be right.

And Marco…Marco would always want him to do the right thing if he could help it.

Jean would go with her. But as for his soldiers…

"Look. Sasha's here. I know she'll back you, but I can't be sure about the others," Jean said. "If it turns to fighting—"

"It won't," she said calmly. "I know it won't. We have the reports from Paradis. We know what Erwin's done to the island." She lowered her eyes. "How many children he sacrificed. I think most will want to join us. Then we'll go to Mitras and dismantle the missile launch program. We'll save the world." Her eyes softened. "It's what Eren would've wanted. I know it."

It was a kick to the balls. She would never see him, not even standing in front of her. Jean tucked the hurt away, though. He wasn't just some simpering admirer. There were reasons to follow Mikasa. Good reasons.

He just…

"I'm not sure you'll convince them," he said. His body stiffened. "And I can't just choose between you or them. They're my soldiers."

"I understand." She gave him that soft smile that she gave so rarely. Jean could have lived the rest of his life in that smile. "Don't worry. I don't think a single shot will be fired. If," she added, stepping towards the end of the treeline, "you allow us to go inside the barracks."

Jean stared at her back, and wondered…how would this go?

---

"Mama, will you be here tomorrow morning?" Armin asked as he lay in bed. He gazed up at his mother's face. She was so pretty. And she called him Armin, which he liked. Ever since he found out that was the name she'd given him, he secretly called himself Armin. Papa got mad when he did it out loud, though.

"Of course, angel." She kissed his nose and laughed as she wiped lipstick off. "Little cherry nose," she said. Armin hugged her tightly. She smelled like flowers.

"And the next day? And the next?"

"We'll be together for the rest of our lives." She kissed the top of his head. "My little bundle. My little piece of sunshine." Mama's eyes got teary. "I missed you so so much. My heart had a big hole in it until I got you back."

Armin couldn't get enough of Mama reading to him or playing with him. She was so gentle, and had such nice soft hands. He'd always dreamed of an angel with golden eyes, and she was real. Mama tucked him into bed.

"What 'bout me?" Oruo demanded as he jumped onto the bed and bounced next to Armin. His brother had a frown on his face. He had that a lot. "You got a hole without me, too? An' Kuchel?"

"All three of you are the most important pieces of my heart." Mama tucked Oruo in beside Armin and rubbed noses with him, too. "My little babies."

Oruo seemed satisfied. He only ever really smiled for Mama. Armin beamed; he liked having a real family. It made him feel warm inside, like he had a full belly.

"Mama, do you hafta go? Can't you stay with us?" Armin asked. He hated when she left him alone. He'd been alone so much.

"Your Papa needs me to have dinner with him and some friends. Like a party." She smoothed his hair from his forehead. "So I gotta go. But I'll be in the palace, so if you really need me I'll come rushing back."

"Like really, really fast?"

"I'll fly back. Like this." She thrust out her arms to either side and made a whooshing sound, then leaned in and gave him a kiss. Armin giggled; Oruo demanded his own kiss. He got it. "But you and your brother and sister can have a fun sleepover."

Yeah. They were in their pajamas, and could tell scary stories or hopefully not so scary ones. Kuchel was brushing her teeth in the bathroom. Mama stood up and sparkled in the light. She was wearing a real pretty green dress with lots of diamonds.

Papa knocked and came in. Armin sat up and bounced.

"Night, Papa."

"Good night, Siegfried." Papa kissed him. He was dressed in the old robes he sometimes wore. He said it was their 'heritage' or something. Papa placed his hand on Mama's back, and Armin noticed her make a tiny face. That made him sad. He wished they could all be friends, and stay together forever. Maybe someday Mama would like Papa better. Then Mama's husband could live here, too. Uncle Levi. Armin liked him.

"See you in the morning." Mama winked, then hugged Kuchel when she came out of the bathroom. His sister gave Papa a big hug, too. That made him happy.

It was so strange. Papa and Mama's husband…

"I wonder how my papa's Papa and your papa's Uncle Levi," he mused to Oruo, who now had his finger up his nose and was making a face. Oruo kicked a lot during the night. Armin kind of hoped they wouldn't share a bed forever. "Well, Inga says that when a Mama wants a baby, she prays to a dove. Then the dove comes down and lays an egg in her tummy, and the baby hatches." He frowned. "But I don't get where the papas fit into it."

"They have sex," Oruo said. Armin stared at his brother.

"Huh?"

"Mamas and Papas have sex. That's how they get babies. My sitter told me once to make me stop asking." He took out a booger and wiped it on Armin's sleeve. Armin whimpered and got it off. Oruo was real gross sometimes.

"So…can anyone have sex?"

Oruo shrugged. "I guess. But I think it's just for grown ups."

Armin thought. "What is sex?"

Oruo rolled his eyes; apparently Armin was a real dummy. "It's like they go to a store and they ask for sex, and then they have it together."

"Like cake?"

"Yeah, but I don't think sex is a cake. It's like a drink. Like wine or something. That's why only grown ups can have it."

"Okay." Armin nodded, very solemn. Wow, Oruo sure knew a lot.

Kuchel came over when Papa and Mama left. She did a handstand in her pajamas first; she sure was strong. Oruo always looked grumpy when she showed off.

"What're you guys talking about?" she asked.

"Sex!" Armin answered cheerily.

Kuchel made a really weird face.

---

Connie adjusted his tie, looking in the mirror. He bared his teeth to make sure he didn't have spinach stuck or anything.

"Hey."

Inga approached him from down the hall. Connie beamed.

"Hey."

They kissed quickly. Then he kissed her fire-scarred cheek. He liked it when she blushed. It made him feel real smooth. When they first got together, she'd been so shy about her face. But he didn't think it mattered at all.

"How're the kids?" he asked. He frowned. "Oruo?"

"Nothing's happened yet." She hugged him.

They stayed like that a minute. He liked holding her. She really made Connie feel rooted to the earth. So many bad things had happened to this woman, but they'd only made her steadier and kinder. She was a jewel.

"It's going to happen soon now," he said softly.

She stiffened in his embrace.

"Yeah. I know." When she released him, he saw her try to hide the sad look on her face. "You sure it'll be all right?"

"I only know what Eren let me see." He took her hands. "And I know this is the last chance we have." He winced. "Or everything ends. Everything."

Inga took a sharp breath.

"I'll do my part." Connie kissed her once again.

"Hey. Uh. I know I'm just some dumb guy, but…" He muttered at the ground. "Iloveyou."

"Huh?" She perked up. "Did you say…?"

"I love you. Just…yeah. Wanted you to know."

She kissed him again, and this time she laughed. It was a good sound, one she rarely made. Connie held her close, grateful to have given her that.

Because if he failed, she would have nothing. Be nothing.

---

Erwin entered with Petra by his side, and glanced around. Zackley was here, drooling out the side of his mouth after that stroke. Couldn't have happened to a nicer man. It gave Erwin satisfaction to see the old bastard being wheeled around by a nurse. Zackley was still there enough that it was humiliating for him, with that slack face and withered hand.

Pixis and Anka had also arrived, as had Rico. He noticed the women look directly at Petra; likely she'd find sympathy in that corner. They wouldn't dare help her, of course. No one would.

Connie, Brigitta, and Floch made up the last of the official party members. A small, informal dinner. The real celebration would be held after the end of the war.

"Remind me again what I'm doing here?" Petra muttered.

"You're proof that I have Levi Ackerman where I want him," he answered. Erwin's hand rested on the small of her back. Petra maneuvered herself to escape him. "You may as well get used to it. At our wedding, it'll look odd if you avoid me."

"One of us will be dead before that day comes."

"It won't be me. Therefore, in the interests of your children, I'd suggest going along with it all." He snaked an arm around her waist. He turned her to face him. Petra's amber eyes were fiery in her anger. Erwin lifted her chin and forced her lips to his for a brief moment. When he released her, she bared her teeth.

"Do that again and I'll bite."

"I'll heal."

He let her go to her sister and the other women. They immediately clustered into a knot, one that Connie soon joined. Erwin watched his Armor carefully. Connie was a good lad, but too sympathetic to Petra. She had been his lieutenant once.

At least Floch properly despised her. And everyone else.

"The sparkling wine is being poured." Pixis approached. "We should think up some reason for a toast. A bad one, especially."

"I have just the thing." Erwin waited for everyone to receive a glass, then lifted his. "To the new Eldian Empire. To the next thousand years of peace and prosperity." He gestured at Petra with his glass. "And to the future empress, mother to a future emperor."

Brigitta pursed her lips. Rico's eyes were half-lidded. Anka placed a hand of support on Petra's shoulder.

His "fiancée" looked murderous. Everyone started to toast.

"One more." Petra raised her glass higher. "To the king of Eldia. May he crush his enemies." She gave a bitter smile.

Clever bitch. Everyone drank.

Dinner was served moments later. They sat at the formal long table, Petra at the opposite end from him. She spoke to Pixis, showing genuine warmth. The old man squeezed her hand briefly. She would do well here, after the war. He knew Petra missed her home. Erwin would be a good husband to her.

And Levi?

He could not bear to have Levi anywhere near them. Also, he could not stand the thought of Levi's absence. Once more, the captain tore Erwin down the center.

As he watched Petra, Levi continued to flit across his thoughts.

When would he make his move? Because he would not be stay out of the fighting. Erwin wanted the Marleyan attack on their shores to come. The missiles were prepped; he needed only an excuse. A few cities gone, and then…

They enjoyed their fish, their duck, their dessert. Petra looked tired. Perhaps he would send her and the children out of the city tomorrow. Somewhere the kids wouldn't be so near the fighting. Somewhere she could be kept out of trouble. Perhaps he'd send them to Candlemoor, though he himself would never go back there. The place was haunted by personal ghosts.

Marie…

He imagined for one moment that she was by his side, laughing. That made him think of Nile, still out in that pit after all these years. Erwin knew it would be mercy to kill him, but he just couldn't quite bear the idea. He was a coward.

"Majesty?" Floch finished drinking his port. "I wanted to talk to you about a Level Five threat."

Erwin was tired of discussing this with Floch.

"I've told you before. Devastating three cities with hyperfusion will frighten the world and make them consider suing for peace. Three cities also does not release enough radiation to harm the planet itself. However, if we unload half our arsenal in one go, we'd not only increase the amount of radiation that Paradis would absorb over the next twenty years, we'd make our enemies believe it was the end. They'd retaliate, having nothing left to lose. Paradis would be gone. So would every country on earth. And the combined fallout of all that hyperfusion radiation would kill whatever was left on the planet over the next ten years." He sipped his coffee. "So no, Floch. Level Five was only ever created as a hypothetical. What not to do."

"If they find a way to kill Paradis," the young man said, "then everyone else should die, too. If Eldians can't live in this world, no one can."

Erwin could not bring himself to think that way. Even with all his atrocities, he wanted to remember the beautiful cities of Nambia, the shorelines of Hizuru, the fields of Hybernia. He had loved the world, even though it hated him. His only real wish was to spend his life learning its many wonders, reading its histories. He didn't want this butchery.

But he had it. No other way out.

"The bombs won't enter our airspace while Petra and the children reside on this island. They're an insurance policy."

"I told you my idea before." Floch spoke quickly, knowing he'd be shut down fast. "Rig the missiles to all launch if a bomb is detected heading for our island. Maybe if we let Levi and Willy know that'd happen, it'd be another deterrant. Isn't that smart?"

"And if anything triggers it, the world will end. I don't want anyone's finger on that button. Not even my own." Erwin let the servants clear.

"There's another thought." Floch cleared his throat. "Oruo Ackerman." He spoke low. "Turn him into a titan now and leave him in a pit. If the Founder ever makes an appearance, you can nab it and—"

"Enough of this." Erwin spoke low, but terrifying. Talk of the kid seemed to genuinely piss him off. "If you care to talk about anything else, join us in the library for a brandy. Otherwise, this is good night."

"But sir—"

"Good night, Floch. Go home."

The younger man looked drawn and pissy as he got up, bowed, and left. Floch was a petty nationalist; if his country did not exist, he felt none should. And to think of using Oruo…disgusting man. Erwin wearily got up from the table.

"My dear," he said to Petra. "Shall we?"

She looked like she'd swallowed something bitter, but decided to go along without a fuss. Erwin had her under his control.

That was good.

---

Son of a bitch.

Floch stormed down the palace hallways, teeth gritted, fists clenched. King Erwin had gotten too soft. Floch had followed him without question when the king was strong, but now things were worse than ever. Erwin had turned the world's hatred up to the boiling point, and just when he needed to go in for th kill he started weakening.

Floch would not let Paradis fall. The king was getting older. Fifty-one now. He wasn't the daring young man he'd been thirteen years ago.

Someone had to save this place. Damn the consequences.

Floch paused when images fluttered before his eyes. Shit, he hated this part. Porco Galliard and the Tybur kid were in his mind now, taking up room like guests who won't leave. Were these memories Porco's, or Cassius's? Either way, when a 'memory flash' came upon him, there was no way to stop it. Just had to ride it through.

He saw Willy Tybur's face in perfect detail. The man was smiling with affection. Okay, so this one was the kid's.

And then—

"Let's look at it again." Willy pointed to a sheet of paper. Names and faces were printed upon it. "Levi Ackerman is the true king of Paradis."

"And Kuchel's the real princess." Cassius sounded kinda shy. Aww, a crush. How disgusting.

"Yes. Petra and Oruo are the queen and prince. Hange Zoe oversees our hyperfusion program. On Paradis, you know of Erwin Smith." He pointed to the man's picture. "He's the usurper. And this is Floch Forster, considered his right hand man."

Yeah. Good. Floch should be noted.

"Our allies on the island are few, but there are some. Queen Historia, obviously. There are some members of Levi's former squad who might want to help us, but we can't know at this moment. And here, the most important." He tapped on Connie Springer's picture.

How in the name of fuck did that meathead Springer become the most important anything?

"The one thing Erwin doesn't know is that Connie Springer ate Eren Jaeger almost six years ago. He's got the Founding Titan. As long as he keeps it secret, Erwin can't ever use the full power of the titans. Now—"

The memory faded abruptly, but Floch had seen more than enough. He put a hand to the wall, his thoughts scattering. Connie. Somehow, it actually made sense. Who else would inherit the power of a god and then sit around for years doing nothing with it? The fucking traitor. How could they not have ignored the possibility?

Who knew the meathead was a good actor?

The first impulse was to run and tell Erwin. Floch would receive promotion and praise. But…

If Floch ate Connie and took the Founding Titan, and if he turned either Historia or Oruo into a titan and then touched them, he could control the full power. He could start the Rumbling. He could unleash a worldwide wave of titans, bringing the planet to its knees in seconds.

He could save his country. His people.

First things first. He had to get Connie alone, out in the grounds. Far away enough that the others couldn't see. Then he'd transform fast and eat the guy before he had the opportunity to fight back. After that, if Floch could be quiet, he'd get into the children's room, nab the kid while he slept, and take him to the pits for a quick trip to titan land. Floch knew Historia still had her uses, and one less royal Ackerman was good in his opinion. Touch the boy, save the world. Easy.

But first things first.

He made his way to the library, where everyone had gathered before the fire. Pixis was a little easier going now, probably because he'd had a few drinks. Petra sat rigid in a chair, the king standing directly behind her. She'd always been a nice piece of ass, but Floch didn't quite see why Levi and Erwin were so obsessive about her. Maybe she was good in bed. Probably.

Anka couldn't help rolling her eyes when she saw him. Floch had tried asking her out once, and she'd responded in the bitchiest way possible. Rico, meanwhile, looked like she had all evening: annoyed. Brigitta just looked drained.

Zackley drooled in his wheelchair. Honestly, it was creepy that the king had wheeled him out of the hospital for this. Floch wondered if Zackley was aware of everything going on around him.

And there was Connie, leaning against the wall by the fireplace. Floch went over to him.

"Psst." He kept his voice casual. "I'm going for a smoke. Want one?"

"Okay." Connie smiled brightly. What a fucking idiot. Connie didn't smoke as much as Floch, but he liked it once in a while. Said he wanted to deepen his voice. They were already in the shadows, and so slipped out of the room pretty natural. They walked to the nearest exit and headed out across the lawn. The trees and titan pits were a few hundred yards ahead. Floch walked alongside the other man, trying to focus.

If he tried assuming his Jaws form, Connie would have enough time to take his titan shape. Jaws could try beating Armored, but unless he jumped real good Connie would trounce him.

But Floch had the War Hammer. The last one to hold it before the kid had been able to manifest shit without transforming into a titan. Floch had been practicing, as if in waiting for this moment.

"Oi, Floch?" They stopped over near a hedgerow. Floch took out a cigarette, lit up, and passed Connie one. "Did the king talk it over with you? What happens in case…"

"It's impossible the king won't survive," Floch said smoothly. "I know I'm on the final list of successors, but the idea is just to hold the throne until the boy's old enough to rule."

If there was anything to rule by then. If the world didn't end. Or at least, Paradis could end…and after that, what did the world matter?

I'm going to be a hero. I'll save everyone.

"Yeah. Guess I didn't make the cut." Connie shrugged, puffed. Probably on account of how fucking stupid he was. "You and Jean are the top two."

"Kirschtein doesn't have the stomach." The ambition, sure, but that was why Floch was here in Mitras and Jean up north. Kirschtein was valuable, but he wasn't a natural killer. Slowly, Floch reached his hand into his pocket. He fingered the little spiked ball he kept on him at all times. Just in case. He checked the windows of the palace. None of them faced him and Connie directly. This was his chance. "You know what I think?" Floch asked, taking a few steps forward and piercing his finger. He felt the blood flow, the power vibrate in his blood.

"What?" Connie asked.

Floch was far enough away. His hair stood on end, like static electricity.

"I think you've got secrets."

He envisioned a line of crystal running across the ground, snaking towards Connie. Immediately, the material streaked towards the boy.

I want a blade. Floch smiled. A sharp one.

Before Connie could even react, a protrusion of sharpened crystal erupted out of the earth and sliced both his legs off at the knee. The Springer guy wailed as he fell to earth. He huffed, groaned, but Floch had taken off too much. Connie's body needed to heal itself before he could transform.

Floch had the upper hand.

"You bastard! What the fuck?" Connie bellowed. He dragged himself along the ground, the stumps of his legs tracking blood on the grass. It was like a snail's trail. Gross.

"Can't believe I had to find out you're the Founder by looking at a dead kid's thoughts."

Connie gaped up at him.

"N-No. What the— Floch, you're out of your fucking mind."

"No. I can trust my mind. And my memories." Floch lifted his bleeding hand from his pocket. "And before anyone can ask, I'll eat you."

"What? Fuck! Stop!" Connie cringed, trying to take his titan form. But the mutilation was too extensive. Floch stepped backwards, the lightning starting to crackle around him. He summoned the Jaws, and—

"What the hell are you doing?"

Floch only just managed to stop the transformation as Pixis and Erwin came racing at him from over the lawn. Oh shit. What were they doing out here? Probably wandering around to look at gardens like the old men they were.

"I…"

Connie froze at the sight of the king, and that was how Floch knew he'd been correct. If he were innocent, Connie would be screaming for help.

He was guilty.

"Explain this," Erwin snarled. He gripped Floch by his shirt and almost yanked him off the ground. "What were you doing to him?"

"Trying to help you, Majesty." Floch nodded. "Cassius Tybur's memories showed me a meeting he had with his father. Willy showed him pictures of the main players on Paradis and in Marley. Connie was on that list. Willy said that Connie ate Eren Jaeger years ago, the night Eren attacked Kuchel Ackerman. He's been the Founding Titan ever since. Hiding in plain sight."

The blood drained from Erwin's face. The king looked especially haggard as he released Floch and looked down at Connie.

"Did you…?" He seemed to answer his own question. He murmured, "You were in titan form when we arrived. But Petra said—"

Then Erwin completely shut up. His eyes hardened.

"You…bastard," he growled. He grabbed Connie by the throat and hauled him into the air. Connie choked and flailed in the king's grasp. His wounds were already steaming shut, but he was still too weak to fight.

"I realized I had to capture him for you." Floch bowed.

"Hmm. The young man's legs were already off when we arrived." Pixis watched him with those twinkling eyes of his. Floch hated that shit. "If Connie was already incapacitated, why transform into a titan?"

Shit. Erwin glanced at Floch, interested in that reply.

"I wanted to carry him back to the palace. It's easier as a titan. Less heavy."

"Mm hmm." Pixis nodded. So did Erwin.

"Very well. Thank you, Floch. You've given me a great prize tonight." Floch could tell in that moment that Erwin didn't trust him for shit. But Floch could still prove useful to the king, so Erwin kept him around. His stomach knotted up. He'd have to be very, very careful from now on.

"Will you transform here, Erwin?" Pixis looked grim. Connie struggled in his grasp, screaming bloody murder.

"Even a half transformation could damage the palace. We'll grab Historia now, along with some serum. Then we'll ride out into the forest, two miles north. It'll be safe there. I'll transform, eat Connie, reemerge, and then if I feel I'm prepared we titanize Historia. And then it's over." His eyes shone with a flat yet mad light. "I can end this war, this trauma, in an instant. The power will be mine. Between the Founder and hyperfusion, the rest of the world will bow peacefully to me. No more bloodshed."

"I'll alert the guards." Pixis sighed and trudged off towards the bunker. Floch smirked in Connie's face.

"You stood there by my side, and you watched me murder all of those children." Erwin spoke very softly. "You knew all I wanted was the Founder; you knew I hated doing it. And you waited to betray me." He squeezed tighter. Connie choked a minute. "I don't know where the PATHs lead dead Eldians, but I pray there is some eternal misery out there. And I pray that you're swallowed by it."

That, Floch realized, was what seemed to hurt the king most. Not the personal betrayal, but the kids. This was why Erwin had been losing his touch lately. Fatherhood had made him soft.

"Floch. Go and prepare a car. We need to leave immediately. Have a servant tell my guests that—"

"Majesty!"

Several guards were racing across the lawn, terror on their faces. Pixis came up behind them, and even that unflappable prick looked scared. What had happened?

"Pixis? What?"

"The bunker." One of the soldiers came to a halt with a quick salute. "The guards on duty are all dead. Someone shot them."

"What?"

"There's more. The queen…" The guard winced, like expecting a blow. "Majesty, the queen has vanished. Whoever killed the guards took her."

Erwin actually dropped Connie.

"No," Erwin hissed. "No. Not when I'm this close. She can't…"

Floch fought against a smile.

"Sir?" he asked. "We don't have to stall the plan. There's another source of royal blood just inside the palace."

Erwin didn't look at Floch. He merely shuddered.

"Send as many as you can to check the perimeter. Search the woods and underground. Search the city. Find her. Do it fast. Do it now." He grabbed Connie by the shirt and hauled him up again. "Pixis, go inside and tell my guests to depart. But have the guards escort Petra back to her room, and lock the door."

---

When they locked the door, Petra's mind spun with ideas. Levi was here; Mikasa was here; or, worst of all…Erwin had lulled her into a false sense of security and was now moving to take Oruo.

She went ballistic. She managed to kick until the lock broke on the door, and the soldiers had to physically restrain her inside the room.

"What are you doing?" Erwin shouted when he entered.

"Not my son. You bastard, leave my children alone!"

"Oruo is not in danger yet." Erwin pointed an accusatory finger at her. "But you, madame, are being given a new room. One that suits you better."

They carried her down to the palace jail, Petra fighting all the way. They kept special cages on hand for political prisoners. The cell was furnished with only a cot, a sink, and a toilet. They thrust her inside and locked the door. Erwin glared at her through the bars, as though she were a zoo animal.

"My son," she gasped.

"Oruo, as I said, will not be harmed if I can help it."

Not yet. If I can help it.

"You swore you'd give him back. You wouldn't touch him!"

"And if I must use him, it will be because you concealed Connie's secret from me."

It was a bomb going off in her mind. Petra clung to the bars.

"How?" she croaked. There was no use bullshitting him now. She could see in Erwin's eyes that he was certain.

"Cassius Tybur was a great help."

Floch. That monster. That fucking cunt. Petra let out a long, furious scream.

"As I told Connie, thousands of children could have been spared if you had told me what you saw that night in the warehouse. I should have suspected Connie. I would have, but some part of me trusted your word. Perhaps because you'd been victimized by Eren in the cruelest way. Why on earth would you defend him?"

"I'm not the one who killed thousands of children. Neither is Connie." She rested her forehead against the bars. "You're a demon."

"Yes. I know."

"He's just a baby." Petra was beyond tears; she was primal now. She slammed against the bars. "I'll tear out your heart with my bare hands if you—"

"If you have any idea where Historia is or who has taken her, you can help me save Oruo." Erwin sounded desperate. "Someone killed the guards and took her. We don't know where they've gone."

Historia. Of course, Erwin had probably intended to use Historia right away. What timing. Even though it meant delaying the king holding the Founder, the queen's absence had placed Oruo in grave danger. Petra knew the damn world was at stake, but her baby…

He'd nursed at her breast. He gave her smiles where he gave others none. He liked making jam pies, which was just jam on top of jam. He liked it when she sang to him.

She had almost lost Kuchel this way. She would not lose her son.

"I will avoid using Oruo as long as possible." Erwin looked miserable. Oh, good. Glad he was so affected. Petra sneered. "But Marley and the rest of the world has bombs pointed at this island. The war can't continue much longer; someone will unleash hyperfusion and take humanity down a dark path. I can avoid that by using the Founder. I will use Historia if given the choice, but I can only hold out a day or two at most. The time for Paradis—and for me—has almost run out."

"I'll kill you." It was all she could say. The only promise she could make. "Levi will rip you to pieces."

"If he has a counterattack planned, he'd better hurry." Erwin glowered at her. "One way or another, this will end."

Petra felt dizzy. She wanted to throw up.

"Have you…eaten Connie yet?"

"No." Erwin frowned. "He'll stay alive until I find Historia. We'll torture her location out of him. There's no way in hell he he didn't aide her." You could eat him and see his memories. She kept silent, though. As if reading her thoughts, Erwin said, "Shifters rarely see any memories in the first few weeks after consuming a titan. Even when the memories come, you have no control over them. It's too big a gamble at the moment. Connie won't transform, either." Erwin looked at the ground, his gaze filled with disgust. "If you insert metal rods into a shifter's severed limb, the flesh can't finish growing back around the foreign object. He'll be in agony, but he'll be impotent as long as I need him to be."

Floch. It was all down to fucking Floch. If he hadn't seen that stupid memory…

"Meanwhile," Erwin continued. "You'll reside here until I receive the Founder, one way or another."

"The children aren't going to like the fact I'm in a cage," she growled. "Kuchel will kick your ass."

"She won't. She loves me, as I love her. Her mother required a time out, that's all. But Mama will be released." Erwin sighed. "If you want to see them, you'll need to swear not to breathe a word about any of this. The moment you do, well. I'll be forced to take extreme measures to ensure Oruo's security if I have to."

Her babies were asleep upstairs, snuggled up in bed and so vulnerable. Petra wanted to bash her head against the bars. Levi. Mikasa. Please get here.

"Again, Petra. If you have any idea where Historia is, tell me. For your son." What was worse was he sounded sincerely pained. "At most, I can give him forty eight hours. And if the attack arrives, the timetable may need to be moved up. Drastically."

"If you touch my son, I'll send you to hell. Even if I have to go down there and stay with you."

"The fury in your eyes could melt steel." Erwin bowed his head. "You've always been as fiery as you were gentle. It's a rare combination."

"I'm not playing."

"Neither am I. So do your son a favor and help me."

Either the world was destroyed, or Paradis was destroyed, or Erwin obtained the full Founder and became a kind of god on earth. There didn't seem to be any good option left.

"You weren't always like this." She felt hollow.

"I can't find the place where it started." He sounded distant. "When there was no turning back. Was it Hybernia? Or before? When Armin was born? Every choice was the best one I felt I could make at the time. I have always said not to regret choices like that." He winced. "But I have such regrets."

"If you want me to feel sorry for you, you failed," she muttered.

"I don't want your pity." He looked on her with tired eyes. "I think I want your hate now more than your love."

"Well, good news. It's yours."

"I can't let Paradis fall, though." Erwin became calm again. "That's the one thing I can't do. I gave up my soul to save Eldians and this island in particular. I won't have all this hideous death be in vain."

Oruo. She could only think of holding him. Why had she left him alone? Please, let Kuchel protect him. Let Levi get here.

"You've always been a monster." Petra fought tears. "I just didn't see it."

"Would you like to know two of the reasons you hate me?" he asked softly.

"No." But he told her.

"One, you hate me because Levi chose me for your sake alone. The world could end because of his selfish devotion to you."

"You bastard—"

"And two. Because any of the choices I've made, you could have made, too. I'm not some special being like people say, Petra. I'm only a man. And what I've done? So much of it, anyone could do if properly motivated. It could come down to the world or Oruo, you know. Yet I don't think you'd hesitate to damn humanity. You're capable of it, and I've reminded you of that fact."

Her stomach grew cold. He left her then, reeling in how he was correct again. That hateful bastard, he was right.

Oruo. She could never, ever, ever…

Mikasa. Damn it, where are you?

---

The barracks was a party, the last gasp of happiness before the long march on Mitras the next day.

Mikasa had been right. The sight of the Azumabito warriors plus the promise of an end to Erwin's tyranny won over almost all the soldiers. Those who wouldn't go along were locked in the brig and being guarded.

But up here, officers were pouring foaming kegs of beer and roasting sausages. They were going through all of the perishables. It was a feast to celebrate King Levi.

Mikasa smiled and drank.

"Can't believe it took you this long to come and see us." Beside her, Sasha scuffed her shoes in the dirt. They'd caught her before she left for the train, and even the promise of her family couldn't make her abandon her duty.

"I would've been hanged if I came back."

Sasha blushed. "Oh. Right."

Mikasa wasn't much of a hugger, but she put an arm around Sasha. Her hair was shorter now, and she was more muscular from years as a soldier.

"I'm sorry you didn't see your children."

"They're okay. Luca's a sweetie. Li'l Mikasa, though? She's started walking." Sasha shook her head, eyes pained. "I'm worried, 'cause she's as dumb as I was at that age."

Mikasa choked on a quiet laugh. "When this is all over, I'd like to see her."

"Yeah!" Sasha brightened considerably. Then she sniffed the air, and her eyes turned saucer wide. "Uhhh, the sausages are almost done. Mind if I…?"

"Go ahead." Mikasa left and wandered the edges of the party, hands in the pockets of the coat Sasha had lent her. She watched the soldiers dance around, cry, hug, laugh, shout with vindictive rage about Erwin.

Would Levi be a good king to these people? She had come to like him, even love him in her own way, but these people needed someone to do more than take care of them. They needed someone to guide them towards something big.

Erwin at least could do that.

"Hey." Jean appeared at her side, a half empty bottle of beer in his hand. "Had anything to eat?"

"I'm not hungry." She gave him a quiet smile. "I'm restless, though."

"Then let me show you around. It's my barracks, after all." He sounded proud as he led her away from the party. They entered the echoing halls, now dark and empty; everyone was outside, or in the brig. Jean showed her his office, the mess hall. He sounded the same as ever, a bit cocky and braggy, but there was also a gleam of pride in his eyes when he spoke of his soldiers. Mikasa felt at home for the first time in years.

She had missed those days. The days of them all together. Jean brought it back for her.

Mikasa thought while they walked. He showed her the upstairs, the supply rooms. Then they were wandering the dormitory halls.

"Which one is your room?" she asked.

"Uh, here. I get one all to myself." He opened a door and gestured. Inside were the simple furnishings of a soldier's room. A bed, a desk and chair, a table. Some black and white photos of Sasha, Connie, Jean's mother.

A dark haired girl.

Mikasa went to the dresser and picked that one up. Something familiar about her face…

"Uh. That's Una." Jean took the picture and placed it facedown on the dresser. Mikasa wasn't hugely intuitive, but in that instant she knew everything. Why Una's picture was here. Why he so easily put it down.

Why Una looked like her.

"So. Er, how's life in Marley? Always wanted to go there for a long vacation." Jean sounded smooth again. She almost started laughing. "Uh. You okay?"

"I'm fine. Marley is fine."

"Good. So. Friends back there?" So casually it was easy to spot: "Boyfriends?"

"No. I tried dating a few times, but I didn't feel anything." She looked at the floor. "I've only felt that way…about Eren."

"Yeah." He sounded resigned. "Yeah, I know. Hey, let's get back to the party."

Mikasa thought. She decided.

"But Eren isn't coming back. I've missed…having family. I've felt empty for years. I've had the Ackermans, and my warriors, but they're not the 104th. I always want to go home, but I never can."

"Because Eren's gone."

"Because of all of you. I've missed you." She looked into his eyes. Jean swallowed loudly.

"Um. Am I…?" he said. She didn't really know much about how to do this. She just looked in his eyes for what seemed like several minutes until he drew nearer. She was tall, but he'd shot up well beyond six feet. She had to lift her chin to kiss him. Mikasa shut her eyes. The wild, hot throbbing didn't start in her body as it had when she thought of Eren at night. It wasn't like Petra's romance novels, filled with stars and fire. But it was different from the men in Marley, the few she'd kissed. That had felt like standing in an empty room with a locked door, waiting patiently to be let out.

This felt like a cozy hearth fire. It was warm, and good. It was comfortable.

Jean broke off the kiss. "Are you okay?" he whispered.

"What about Una?"

"We're not official. On a break. Ah, Mikasa." His hands trailed up and down her back. She saw such a powerful need in his eyes. Mikasa had always wanted Eren to have overwhelming desire for her. Just for one night, it would be nice to experience what it was like to be kissed by someone who burned for her.

"I…don't know how to say this." She looked down, could feel heat creep up her face and neck. "I've never done anything."

"Oh." He sounded surprised. Maybe a little happy.

"We could die tomorrow. I'd like to try it." She looked back in his eyes. "Do you—"

His mouth found hers. He kissed her well and thoroughly. Jean was good at it, better than the boys in Marley. She began to throb between her legs. She felt almost sore; Petra called that wanting. It wasn't intense passion, but Mikasa's body wanted more of this.

"Are you sure?" he whispered. She saw in his eyes the ecstasy of a man in a dream. Mikasa shrugged off the coat, hung it over the chair, and then carefully unbuttoned the blouse Sasha had gifted her—warrior clothes were not comfortable as civvies. Jean took her hands, his touch begging her to let him. She held her breath as he finished, slipped off the shirt. She was only in her bra.

Mikasa was…well, less than ideal. She'd seen enough magazines to know.

She had toned, muscular arms and defined abs. Her shoulders were a bit broader than the average woman. Her hair was also cut boyishly short, though some long bits fell into her eyes. She liked her body, was proud of its strength. But this was all so new, and she was so uncertain.

She tried not to show her nerves.

Jean pulled her close.

"You're perfect." He sounded utterly serious as he raked his gaze over her body. "God, I never thought I'd have this."

He undid her bra. Then he undressed the rest of her, and removed his own clothing. Mikasa bit her lip when she saw him…free. She knew what to expect, but seeing it first hand was different.

She got on the bed and he got on top of her. For a while, they only kissed. She held her breath when his erection brushed against her. Jean's hand slipped between her thighs.

Mikasa hugged him tightly around the neck. He made her come so easily. It was different, having someone else do it for you. It felt more freeing. It tickled more, in a way. Jean asked her to touch him. She did, surprised at how smooth it felt, almost velvety. She knew she was blushing.

"This is every fantasy I've had since I was thirteen," he gasped, watching her stroke him. His hips bucked, and he stopped her. "I'm going to finish before we even get started." He kissed her, then kissed her breasts. She didn't feel the passionate frenzy Petra had described, but she had a comfortable curiosity as she watched him kiss and play with her body. Seeing someone in the middle of lovemaking, you discovered a new side. Jean was so animated now. So utterly uninhibited. He was very handsome as well. His long face was suited to a light beard, and his hair was wild. She laughed a little when the beard tickled her. Jean trailed the tip of his tongue along her stomach, across the defined abs she'd been so uncertain about. She groaned softly. He slid down the bed, then spread her legs and kissed her between her thighs.

At first, she almost died of embarrassment. But soon, his tongue made her forget every inhibition. Mikasa cried out twice, three times. When he crawled back up to her, she felt so relaxed.

"Are you ready?" he asked. She nodded dreamily. She smiled as he pulled open a bedside drawer, took out a foil packet and ripped it. As he fitted a rubber along his length, she thought of the way he'd stared at her in the mess that first night of training. A gangly boy of twelve or thirteen, flustered. Stammering. He'd liked her hair.

Boys had crushes all the time. But Jean's had lasted long past the expiration date for a normal infatuation.

In his eyes, she saw the same need she'd felt when she was around Eren.

But she had to try to move forward.

Jean lay down on top of her and adjusted himself between her legs. They kissed, and the tip of his cock began to open her. The next few minutes were slow, and painful. She tried to breathe deeply and relax, but she cried out as she felt herself tear. It was agony. But he was gentle, and stopped whenever she whimpered. He kissed her, whispered that she was a goddess. She was better than his fantasy.

Finally, he slid himself all the way inside and allowed her time to adjust. Mikasa felt him track his thumb along her cheek to catch the tears she must've shed.

"You're the most beautiful woman I've ever seen." His voice was low, but it wasn't the silken tones of a seducer. He sounded like he was praying. "I know you can't feel for me what I feel for you. But if all I ever get is this one night, I'm going to die happy."

She looked up at him. She felt him heavy on top of her, and hard inside of her. She gently kissed his mouth.

"I'd like you to…" She couldn't say it.

Mikasa gripped his back as he moved. His hips rocked against her. Now she understood why Petra called it 'being ridden.' After a few minutes, the pain lessened. She marveled at how it felt. Something was moving within her body. Another person was inside her. Nothing could be more intimate. It was so nice to feel someone's naked skin warm hers. She'd never experienced it before. She smiled as he made faces of rapture. If she couldn't have ecstasy, she had something she never thought she could experience again.

Contentment.

Mikasa did as he asked her, tightened her legs around his waist, moved her body to meet his thrusts. Soon, the tickling began between her thighs again. She called out his name as she climaxed, and soon after he followed. He sped up, making the springs shriek, and then thrust deep a few times, moaning softly. He lay in her arms. She touched his damp back.

"Any regrets?" Jean whispered in her ear.

"No." She kissed his cheek. "Thank you."

"I love you, Mikasa." He sighed. "I always have. You don't have to feel the same. But I love you so damn much."

She hugged him, warmed her body against his. He didn't expect her answer. She didn't give one. But she kissed him again.

If she died tomorrow, she had known passionate desire with Eren, and full, warm happiness with Jean.

And that would and should be enough for any life.

---

When Kuchel opened her eyes, she thought about Aunt Hange. Every morning she woke up fine and normal, and then one second later she remembered that Aunt Hange was gone forever. And she wanted to cry.

She didn't, because her brothers were still asleep. She got out of bed and went to the bathroom. She brushed her tangled hair; it got so many knots while she slept. Mama said she was like a flopping fish at night. Kuchel liked to move. She always had.

When she came out of the bathroom, Oruo was yawning and Armin was up.

"Morning!" He beamed at her. Kuchel gave him a big hug. She'd loved him from the moment he was born. She had missed him every day.

And then there was Oruo.

"I'm hungryyyy." He sounded like an angry frog in the morning. His wild hair looked even wilder, but he never brushed it unless someone made him. He rolled out of bed and immediately did that weird thing where he wandered along the room, checking the walls.

"Why are you such a psycho?" Kuchel asked.

"I am not a psycho!"

"Uncle Kenny was."

"Well, okay then." Oruo sounded pleased by that. Papa had told Oruo that he had a lot in common with Uncle Kenny. Mama always looked kind of worried when he said that.

"What're you doing?"

"Checking to see if there's a way out if they lock us in." He gave her a contemptuous look. Like she wasn't taking this seriously.

"Oruo, Uncle Erwin won't do that. He's being nice to Mama, and when Papa gets here they'll all talk."

"Yeah," Armin said. "My Papa wouldn't do that."

Oruo, sensing he was only going to make them mad, finally quit and grumbled as Kuchel started pulling things for them to wear out of the dresser. Uncle Erwin had moved the three of them into this room so they could all stay together, and had the maids buy lots of clothes for her and Oruo. Kuchel picked a swishy blue skirt and a white top. She shook her head a little when she saw the frillier dresses Uncle Erwin had given her. They were too "little girl." Kuchel wasn't little anymore.

She gave Armin a pair of trousers and a blue shirt, which he accepted. Kuchel sighed when she saw Oruo sliding open drawers and pulling clothing out before flinging it over his shoulder. The floor behind him was littered with shorts and shirts.

"Just wear this." She gave him denim trousers.

"No." He picked out his own clothes, which were completely black. "I like it my way."

"Why are you such a brat?" Kuchel's patience was already gone. Armin stood by quietly.

"I am not a brat! You're a dick!"

Ugh, that was his new favorite word from Papa. Kuchel had had enough. She picked Oruo up under one arm and easily carried him to the bathroom. Her brother shrieked and spat and flailed, but he was no more than a doll to her as she put him inside and flung the clothes she'd picked after him.

"Stop being difficult, and clean up those clothes when you're done getting dressed."

Oruo huffed and puffed. His face was red, and to her surprise there were tears on his cheeks.

"You don't pick me up! I don't like that!" he howled. It was so startling that Kuchel shrank away.

"Okay. I'm sorry. I won't again."

Oruo pouted, then shut his eyes. His face turned tomato red, and he bunched his fists. It looked like he was trying to go to the bathroom; it was pretty scary. Finally, he took a deep breath.

"Why can't I just do it?" he muttered.

"What?"

"What you do." He sulked.

The Ackerman "gift." Kuchel barely remembered the night it happened. But she remembered being scared.

"It's better not to have it turned on," she said softly. Then she closed the door and gave him privacy. When she turned, Armin was already dressed.

"Um…do you like pancakes or waffles better?" he asked softly. Kuchel smiled. He was a sweet boy.

---

"Hi, Papa!" Armin rushed ahead into the dining room. Uncle Erwin looked kind of tired. His eyes were red. But he smiled when the kids came in.

"Good morning, children." He kissed Armin and Kuchel and nodded at Oruo, who had gone straight to the buffet on the side of the room and now had a danish jammed in his mouth. Kuchel looked at the other end of the table. She frowned.

"Where's Mama?"

Uncle Erwin made a weird face, like he'd accidentally swallowed something bad. It was gone pretty quick, though.

"She's not having breakfast here this morning." He ate a piece of grapefruit.

"Is she sick?" Kuchel felt nervous. Armin tugged Uncle Erwin's sleeve.

"Can we see her?"

"What's wrong with Mama?" Oruo shot over to them, raspberry jam smeared all over his face.

"She's absolutely fine. It's sort of like a time out. You've all had time outs before."

Armin and Oruo nodded. Kuchel frowned deeper. That was true, but Mama was an adult.

"So she's sitting in her room for a while. But you can see her soon."

"Okay." Armin was satisfied with that. But Kuchel wasn't satisfied at all.

"What'd she do?" Kuchel asked.

"She lied to me about something very important." Uncle Erwin looked tired. "And because she did, some bad things happened."

"What things?"

"It's really not something you need to worry about, sweetheart. It's all taken care of now. Everything is all right, and your mother will be fine. Even grown ups need to be punished from time to time."

Kuchel thought Uncle Erwin was the smartest man in the world. But this made her stomach feel sick.

"But grown ups don't punish each other."

"They do." Uncle Erwin got that blank look that he got when he thought hard. "They punish each other a lot. And usually, it's never something as temporary as a time out."

He talked to Armin, who had some blueberry pancakes. Oruo crammed a muffin into his mouth. Kuchel had a bowl of cereal, but the sick feeling didn't leave her. Something felt wrong.

She wished very badly that Papa would come.

---

"Is there any way I can persuade you not to do this?" Willy asked. He sounded defeated. Good. They were outside on the Liberian airstrip as the afternoon sun lowered in the sky. The world was painted like fire.

"I took care of the 'babysitters' Erwin gave us," Levi said, checking the straps on his gear as he did so. He'd knocked all those pricks out, then dumped them in a prison cell. Wouldn't kill them if he didn't have to. He was sick of killing. "I can't wait for Mikasa to signal us from Mitras. Hold the rest of the troops back, but I'm doing this."

The plane was waiting, an old bomber that could fly high over the capital. Levi would parachute out, hopefully avoiding death on the way down. But he couldn't wait. It wasn't possible. His instincts told him Mikasa would make it in time to help him, but he could not sit here one more second and think of Petra and the kids. It wasn't possible.

He was a man who took action and did what was needed. He was a husband and a father. His duty was clear.

"I won't try to fight." Willy sighed. "I know there's no use."

"Good. Smart man." Levi turned back to Willy. "And you're going to Valle."

"Yes. Central command is down there. The generals have requested my presence."

"In case you need to fire on Paradis." His voice was flat.

"I will not make that decision unless there is no other choice," Willy said. "But I can't let the world die to save your family."

"At least if you fire, you kill all of us together. That's one mercy." Levi put a hand on the hilt of one of his blades. "But if you kill us, I'll haunt your ass. See how this PATHs shit works."

Willy's mouth twitched. It was almost a smile.

"If I die," Levi said, "then it's up to you. Be good to them all."

"The Eldians?"

"Yeah, and the non-Eldians, too. Don't be a fancy diplomat going to parties all the time. Do the rough stuff. It's your job."

Willy did smile now. "I can honestly say you are the most unique man I've ever known." Willy put out his hand. "I hope we meet again."

Levi shook. "Yeah. Me too. I hope the world's still here in a few days."

Reality will unravel.

Levi remembered what Petra told him that Eren said. He picked over it as he got into the plane and it took off, headed across the sea for Paradis. That had to be nonsense. Years had gone by, and nothing had happened. Feeling better, Levi shut down and only thought of the mission ahead. Hopefully, they wouldn't get shot down. Hopefully, Levi would make it to his wife and children.

Hopefully, he'd have no regrets.