-Chapter 28: Brewing Tensions-


It was the early morning, the day after the scouts had returned from their expedition. Erwin, alongside Maverick, had traveled to Wall Sina's southern district to answer the summoning's of the Commander-In-Chief. Despite sending their written report the night before it seemed the higher ups in the military still had some questions for the regiment. It wasn't uncommon for the commanders to be summoned for private talks, so all the two could do was be honest and hope for the best.


-oOo-


Ehrmich District, South of Wall Sina

Disembarking from their carriage the two made their way to the military offices where the assembly was present. Opening the doors the two scouts were met with the Premier, alongside the other garrison commanders, and of course the commander of the MP's and Erwin's dear old friend, Niles.

Though a new face was present that Maverick immediately noticed. He was adorned in clothing of higher quality, signifying his higher status, and had a rat-like face, at least that's what the Slayer could describe. The moment he entered the room the man's eyes bored into his, with a look that was a mix of unease and hostility. It wasn't the first time someone had given him such a look, so it did little to unnerve him, besides the man looked far too frail to actually do anything.

"Welcome back gentlemen, good to see you two in one piece." Zachary began, giving the two a rare smile. The sentiment was shared among the others present, even Nile sprouted a half-smile while looking in Erwin's direction.

"Our training and new tactics have served us well, Sir." Erwin responded, saluting to the higher ups.

"Indeed, with far fewer casualties than the last expedition, nothing short of impressive." One commander said, the others voicing their agreement in near unison.

"Let's hope you can keep the momentum commander." Turning to the large glowing man the Premier added. "And to our esteemed soldier, glad to know I made the right decision." He took a quick glance to the commander of the MP's who held his hands close together.

"Yes, despite my misgivings about you I…must agree, with the Premier." He said, struggling to say the words. "Your presence in the Scouts was clearly the best option." A few soft chuckles escaped the lips of the commanders present, while the noble in the assembly simply continued to sneer at the two men standing before them.

Maverick gave the MP a smile as he placed his hands together in a prayer and held his head high. "I am but a humble servant to higher powers."

This got him a half smirk from Nile, getting the double meaning behind his words, while the noble among them simply rolled his eyes at the display. With the formalities done the Premier cleaned his glasses as he prepared himself.

"Back to the topic at hand, your report…" Flipping through the written copy he received yesterday the Premier came upon the pages that had caught his interest.

"There are some questions that were brought up in regard to the exterior base. More specifically with the established defenses around it's perimeter." Zachary leaned into his seat, his piercing stare met with resolute and glowing eyes.

"No specifics were given, yet you claimed that said defensive armaments will be a continuous bulwark against any and all titans that enter the area, and that they will remain operational with or without the presence of the scouts." Questioning looks formed on their faces, while Erwin and Maverick remained neutral, letting the commander-in-chief say his peace.

"I'm sure you two understand just how…bold your report sounds." Easing back his tone he relaxed, leaning into his chair. "We thought the Walls would be a continuous bulwark, and yet the Colossal Titan proved us wrong." A few somber looks were expressed on the higher ups, recalling their own personal losses.

"The previous commander assured that the base would be defended at all costs. How can we be certain your new defenses will succeed? Especially with its position in the south?" The western commander spoke. Prepared for this Erwin took a quick breath before making his case.

"Best to let our resident giant explain."

All eyes turned to Maverick who held a flat look. Cursing Erwin in his head he took a visible breath before taking a few steps forwards, making his case.

"Well gentlemen, you'll be glad to know that I've found a sure-fire way to ease you concerns." His positive tone piqued the interest of the commanders. Minus the noble who rested his head on his fist, attempting to give a stern look.

"Oh? Enlighten us then Slayer."

His tone when saying his name did little to affect him, if anything the Slayer seemed to be ignoring the man's presence as he looked straight in the direction of Zachary and the rest of the commanders. "You see, I managed to recruit some outside help to keep watch of the base while were away, so no giant can come and loiter about."

Everyone eyes widened at that. None more so than the noble, who practically jumped from his seat. "O-Outside help?! Are you saying you've found other humans? Others like you?!"

Maverick simply turned his head in the worry warts direction, finally acknowledging his existence. The raised brow and unamused look he showed didn't ease the man as the goliath left his question unanswered.

"Theres a saying where I'm from. Fight fire with fire." The sides of his mustache raised as he smiled. "In this case, fight giant with giant." Silence filled the room as the everyone present processed what he said. Once it did their bemused looks turned in shock once again, with Nile voicing out what they were thinking.

"You've…recruited titans, into service?" Maverick kept his smile as he answered the bewildered MP.

"I can be very persuasive, Sir." Suddenly the markings on his left hand began to glow slightly brighter. Noticing the higher ups glanced towards the man's large hand, which was raised to show the back of his palm, the eye shaped symbol visible to all.

"Blessings from higher powers does wonders as well." His statement left them awed while others were a bit amused, considering he spoke of his divine origins during the trial. The rat faced noble meanwhile slightly quivered as he could swear that the eye-like marking blinked.

"How familiar are you all with the case of the Colossal Boar?" Maverick suddenly asked. The commanders looked to on another before Pixis replied, grooming his moustache as he spoke.

"The giant boar running amok in Maria? Yes. Recall a report brought to my desk, claiming you and a few squads apprehended the beast and brought it into your service." A nod from the large man egged him on. "We are to assume what you've done to the titans is similar to how you tamed the beast?"

He nodded once again causing the men to begin talking amongst themselves, leaving the two scouts to remain standing. Nile would occasionally give Maverick a glance before returning to the whispered conversation. Moments later they seemed to have come to some sort of consensus as they readjusted their seats.

"Can we truly be assured on your gift Maverick?" Zachary asked, his serious tone more than palpable. With his right hand raised the demigod answered.

"I've done this multiple times with a variety of animals. Works especially well with those with low willpower and intelligence, and our foes outside are certainly lacking in both departments." He continued.

"There are eight giants in total, ranging from twelve to ten meters. I've given them specific orders to guard the area and kill any of their kind that tries to trespass. They'll follow that order to a T." His confident tone brought some ease to the more worrywart individuals in the assembly, minus one of course. If anything his worry seemed to spike.

"How can you be so certain?! What if whatever spells you've enslaved them with fails?!" The noble exclaimed, rising from his seat, with a finger pointed at the marked man. "What if the Colossal returns?! I doubt that many you have at your disposal will be more than enough to counter it!" Turning to face the nervous man the noble now found himself staring down at the stern expression from the goliath, his glowing eyes peering into his soul. Minutes seemed to pass before he finally responded.

"Only in death will they be set free." He spoke, his voice seemingly mixed with other ethereal tones. "And if the big one knows what's good for it, it'll stay away from both us and the walls, less I give it the same treatment I gave to the one that tried to bust down the interior gate."

The noble was left speechless from the words that left the demigod's mouth, even the commander of the scouts was surprised, as his bushy brows raised. The resoluteness in his tone made it difficult to question him, especially with many reports claiming the giant boar acted on his orders, and of course many knew of the fate of the late Armored Titan.

"Let's have some faith in the man. Though I must ask, does this gift of yours work solely on beasts?" Maverick turned to the commanders and let out a sigh, for what he was about to say would worry them, especially Nile, but it had to be said, less he be incriminated in the future.

"I have used it on others before, if that's what you're asking." The nobles' eyes looked to be about to pop out of his skull, while the others looked as if the man had grown a second head, Nile specifically.

"However." He said suddenly, before any could speak. "I've only done it sparingly. Never have I utilized this ability out of malice or for depraved gains. I was raised better than that." While they still had some concerns regarding this certain gift of his, Maverick's sincere tone was enough to make them refrain from speaking out, even the noble managed to contain himself, despite the look of fear that was now on his face.

Zachary remained silent, clearly considering his words. He had taken a gambit in leaving the otherworldly man to the scouts and did not regret it. But this ability to, for lack of better words, enslave the titans, was cause for some concern. Personally, he didn't believe the large man before him held any intentions of becoming a tyrant, but clearly the noble seated alongside him had shown his displeasure and fear. Nile as well still had his concerns about him. He had to show no form of bias in his choice.

"Why did you not include this in the report?" He asked. With his hands joined together he answered. "A topic such as this is not something that can just be written about Sir. I wanted to personally assure you all that my actions have been in humanities best interests." With a sigh he elaborated.

"In my youth I used to read stories that always told of the dangers…but throughout my many, many, lives I've been given the chance to see what happens to those with absolute power in their hands, and how it corrupts them, both in mind and body."

Faces of past foes began to flash in his mind as he spoke. A vampiric despot, the fat minister, the emperor's fallen angels, the Khan, a gladiator turned deceptive tyrant, a cheese loving mad god, even the simple gang leaders, bandit chiefs, and raider warlords. All were examples presented to him of the dangers that came with power.

"I'mma be honest, I'm no saint, there have definitely been moments where I've nearly fallen off the edge. But the bastards I've faced in the past, those who've let themselves fall to chaos and temptations, they remind me that I have to be better than them, that with these great gifts, comes a great responsibility."

That was all that the Slayer had to say, leaving the room silent. Zachary continued to stare at him, tapping his fingers against the desk. While he was certain he was telling the truth, he had no evidence of his previous lives to back up his words, beside the morning star in his arsenal. Yet it had been a year since his arrival, and they have yet to live under his boots. Suppose he would take another gamble.

"Well, we'll take your word, in consideration for your actions since you've arrived in these lands." The noble looked to the commander-in-chief- with panic, nearly letting out a gasp. "All we expect is that you keep you word and use your skills to the benefit of humanity."

Maverick simply gave a smile and a nod, considering that's what he'd been doing ever since he began his otherworldly life. "That goes for you as well, Commander Smith." The commander gave a smile and nod as well, full of determination.

"Well then, I believe that concludes this little meeting. Safe travels gentlemen." The two scouts saluted before taking their leave, with Maverick having to lower his head, less he slam his forehead against the door frame. Making their way through the hallway the goliath spoke aloud, while looking at the decorated walls.

"Well, that went pretty well. Besides the nitwit glaring daggers at me." Erwin exhaled through his nose at his companion's choice wording of the man, couldn't help but silently agree.

"An envoy of the central government. Seems even they are curious about our results." A humorless chuckle was his companions' response. He was never shy to voice or show his displacement with the governing body, especially in recent months.

"Once again, he was staring at me throughout the entire thing, like I killed his dog and assaulted his mother, at the same time." Erwin gave him a very questioning look before attempting to find a possible reason or explanation.

"Suppose they're still weary of you, like most of the people in Sina." As if to drive the point, the two passed by a few MP's guarding the entrance door, who gave some nervous looks as they met eyes, even hearing some whispered mutterings as they left the building.

"Yeah, maybe I should take a trip here someday. Stay at a hotel and mingle with the upper crusts. Give them a little of the Ol 'Maverick Charm." Maverick pulled his black mane back, flashing a smile to a passing pair of damsels. To Erwin's complete surprise the youngest of the two reciprocated with a handwave while the other pushed her along, failing to hide her own flushed face.

He could barely hold in a laugh, till they got on their carriage where he allowed himself to let it all out, showing Maverick a new side to the usually serious and well-mannered commander.


-oOo-


Back at Headquarters…

The carriage ride back to Shiganshina was a long one, but the two scouts eventually made it back to Shiganshina, in the late afternoon. Making it back to headquarters the two were met with the members of their own inner circle, who welcomed them back. Donning some casual clothing the group reunited in the Mess Hall, where they enjoyed some leftovers from an earlier dinner.

Unfortunately for Maverick, his squad leader hadn't forgotten about what she saw on their trip back home. So, while filling their stomachs Maverick had no choice but to confirm her suspicions, which of course excited her to no end.

"I knew it! You can control them!" She yelled out with giddiness while shaking his arm, only to be stopped by a hand grabbing her ponytail and pull her back from the large man, who continued to eat his meal is if nothing had happened.

"Settle down, you want the entire district to hear?" Levi said, his tone unamused by her buffoonery. Hange slapped his hand away and turned back to him, a mad glint in her eye. "Let me have this! Just think of the possibilities now in our fingertips!" She began to giggle to herself, as images began to form in her mind.

"Hange-"

"We could use them to travel across the land, o-or for carrying more supplies! Oh, or maybe even turn them into mobile bases!"

"Hange-"

"Or create an army of titans! HaHaHa! Just think about it! Fighting titans with titans! We'll wipe them all out in no time! Then-"

A large hand enveloped the top of her head making her stop immediately. Knowing whose it was she immediately calmed herself and relaxed, earning her a few pats on the head. The sight had earned her a few chuckles from the others gathered, minus the halfling of course.

"Do you want the give the MP's a reason to send us behind bars?" Levi questioned with a raised brow. Hange remained silent as she slouched in her seat, a bit embarrassed by her theatrics just seconds ago. With a sigh he returned to his tea, while Erwin spoke up.

"While I agree we have a great opportunity at our disposal Hange, we must tread lightly with this. No doubt information regarding Maverick's specific abilities have reached the ears of the government." The commanders' words had brought a serious and tense atmosphere to the table, their jovial moods gone in seconds.

"Meaning they'll be even more paranoid about you." Levi added looking in Maverick's direction, who simply shrugged his shoulders, seemingly uncaring that this worlds government was eyeing him. "Hmph, not the first time."

"Think they'll try something?" Miche said, only for Maverick to give a quick response.

"They got people watching me already, that's for certain."

Everyone turned their attention to him. Despite knowing he's lived countless adventurous lifetimes, the way he sounded so casual about his situation was still very surprising. Taking a moment to wipe his mouth he continued.

"For a while I've noticed shadows moving about, watching my moves, where I go, places I shop..." Memories of days past flashed in his mind, seeing quite a few shady looking individuals among the populace of the district, especially that one in the bowler hat.

"Really?" Nanaba asked, a slight hint of worry in her voice. Maverick only gave her a small smile and a chuckle as he stared at the large kitchen knife in his hands, twirling it into his steak. "Having to deal with all sorts of assassins and cutthroats really gives you a sixth sense about these things Nana."

"Well, suppose the best we can do is resume our tasks and NOT give the government any reason to come and arrest us." Erwin suddenly said, turning his attention to Hange who tried to put on an innocent look, before sloughing back into her seat. "Alright, alright."

He looked to Maverick who gave him a sharp look back. "Oi, whatcha looking at me now? I'm a good boy." Laughter immediately filled the room bringing the joy back to the group of comrades.

With the matter settled for now the serious atmosphere in the Mess Hall beginning to fade Erwin spoke of lighter subjects of conversation. "So, changing topics. How are we all adjusting to our new cloaks?"

"Irritating. Damn nose kept blocking my view." Levi said, while unconsciously brushing his sleeve, still feeling the phantom hairs from his new attire. "Can still feel it."

Erwin then turned to his long-time friend who was smirking at the halfling. "Noticed you haven't removed the antlers Miche, I'm sure the added weight isn't doing much good"

"I like em on." Was the man's simple response. The others said similar positive comments regarding the animal pelts, seeing them as a great asset to the regiment and more importantly their lives.

"And since were one the topic of our uniforms, Erwin." Maverick emphasized his name as he leaned forwards, placing his hands together. With the grin forming on his face he looked his commander in the eye and got down to business.

"I really think we should do something about the pants." Erwin simply smiled while the others chuckled. For this was an issue he had voiced many times in the past. With a sigh escaping his mouth Erwin tried to explain to Maverick, again, the reason for their unified appearance.

"Mav, our uniforms are a symbol of the four military branches' united fight against the titans. It shows that despite our different roles we all fight for the same cause." The large man wasn't buying it as he stood up and made his case.

"Thats a load of bull and you know it Smith! I don't want to spend every day constantly washing these every time I take a tumble on the ground!" Humored looks formed on everyone's faces as the man pointed down at his white pants, which already had some scruff marks. Minus one, again being the tea-sipping short man.

"I'm with Maverick on this one." Levi said suddenly, making everyone go wide eyed. "The white pants gotta go. The fact that well be outside the Walls more often in the future means we'll be more susceptible to the elements." They remained stunned, for this was quite probably the first time the two had shared a similar viewpoint.

And so for the next half hour the inner circle of veterans were made to listen as Maverick and Levi began to share one mind as they proposed their suggestions on modifying the Scout Regiments' standard uniform.


-oOo-


Mitras, Wall Sina, late in the night…

The city of Mitras, the royal capital of human civilization, home to the royal family, the nobility, and of course the King of the Walls. Centered under the protection of the three walls, it's here that those in the upper echelons of society can enjoy a somewhat peaceful and worry-free existence, the thoughts of man-eating giants and the sight of common folk far away from their minds and sight.

But not all were enjoying in their lavish and spoiled existences. For inside of the main capitol building resided the members of the royal government, four to be exact. Aurille, Deltoff, Gerald, and Roderich, including another certain individual, who was out on business. While each of these men held different professions and backgrounds, their status' as the King's personal assembly brought them together. For the past year they had met in secrecy late in the nights, and discussed their most often spoken topic of conversation…

The Slayer of Wall Maria.

When he appeared for the first time he'd been all the four had ever discussed about, mostly of how they could be rid of him. While they had originally left the matter of his fate to the military they soon came to regret their decision after he was placed in the Survey Corps, another thorn in their backsides. It was soon made very clear afterwards that he was not someone they couldn't be rid of in a heartbeat, and that was nothing short of terrifying to them.

But as the months went by their thoughts on the man had mellowed somewhat. He hadn't come for their positions, their lives, or their secrets, as once previously thought. Nay, he had chosen to stay in the confines of Wall Maria, keeping the titans at bay and allowing them to continue their lavish lives. Though that didn't stop them from sending out the interior squads to keep an eye on the man. Besides that, they believed they had managed to find some sort of co-existence with the resident demigod. Minus one official.

Aurille, a high ranking noble member of the small cabal, and the one with the biggest bone to pick in regard to the glowing giant. For the longest time he had been the loudest voice against the Slayer, being the first one to suggest to have him shot on sight. Though cooler heads prevailed that day, he hadn't stopped in his near zealous hatred and desire to see the man gone from their lands, his zeal rivaling that of the highest ranking member of the Wall Cult in their assembly.

While the others were like this for a time, they had soon grown annoyed with him, to the point that they had stopped having these secretive meetings, as even they began to realized there were other more important things to do and discuss. Even when they greenlit the formation of the special squad Aurille wouldn't let it go, he simply had to bring them together and remind them of the clear danger that was living inside their walls.

And today was no different for tonight's secret meeting. The report given to them by their informant today had seemed to invigorate him, even making him smile for what was perhaps the first time in his life. Sitting together, wine in hands, the three members watched as their fellow cohort clutched the paper in his hands, as if it were the greatest thing in his possession.

"This is it! This is the prime evidence we need to finally put him down!" He shouted, his grin stretching ever so wider across his pudgy face. The other members of the cabal were less enthusiastic.

"Settle down." Replied Deltoff, his tone unamused. Aurille turned to him with a shocked look, utterly flabbergasted by his ambivalence.

"Settle down?! Did you even read the report? The man can control titans! Admitted to using it on others!" Slamming his hands down on the table he stared into the three with near bloodshot eyes, while the others calmly held their glasses, not wanting to spill their expensive whine.

"Though he claims to not have used it for nefarious purposes." Deltoff responded, wiping his glass before taking a sip. Aurille couldn't believe what he just said, did he seriously not give a single care for what their informant had written? This was enslavement, he admitted to enslave titans into his command with his foul magics. In his mind, this changed everything! Yet here they were, acting like it was nothing to worry about!

"Tch! And you believe him like the rest of the idiots in the military?" Gerald's brows furrowed at his remark, though soon calmed himself in order to speak.

"Aurille, it's been a year since his arrival, and despite what you and some in the interior squads say, he has yet to commit any acts that have threatened the government." His tone was that of an exasperated parent, telling their child off for what seemed like the 100th time.

"Besides, both the titans and the scouts have been keeping his attention, away from us." The others nodded in agreement. "Quite frankly I'd like it to stay that way." They raised their glasses in a toast, all the while Aurille's mouth went agape. Just how drunk were they to act so nonchalant at a time like this?

"How can you say that? He's simply bidding his time! Waiting for the moment we grow lax!" Turning to the man adorned in the pastor garbs and golden necklace he continued.

"And you Roderich? His following has been slowly growing for the last month! Isn't this a threat to your religion?!" The high-ranking priest simply rolled his eyes and leaned back in his chair.

"*Sigh* Don't even try going with that." His attitude towards the attack on his faith truly said how he felt about it overall. Yet still the nobleman persisted as he waved the report in their faces, before throwing it in their direction.

"This is more than enough evidence for us to have him sent to the gallows! Shot on sight! Like I purposed a year ago!" The three were getting quite frustrated with their fellow, as the last thing they wanted was to rile up the man who could rip titans apart with his bare hands.

"Do we have to remind you of what the man is capable of? Even if we wanted to, the rope isn't gonna be enough to bring him down." Gerald replied, but the stubborn noble refused to see reason, as he stood up from his seat, slamming the table, spilling all their drinks.

"Then let's send in the Interior Squads, take him and the Scout Regiment out once and for all!"

"Do you wish to give him a reason to act against us?!" Deltoff shouted in return, rising from his seat, his cravat tainted with wine. The other two members raised their brows, surprised to see him react in such a manner. Seemed he was finally at his wits end with the man.

"Do you think he's not aware of our suspicions? Reports from the interior squads tell that he KNOWS were watching him, always managing to get a glimpse of our officers and informants. No doubt he's faced similar situations!" He continued getting up in Aurille's face.

"He's not someone we can just whisk away like so many others!" The husky noble remained silent as Deltoff continued to accost him, even going so far as to poke at his chest rapidly, his frustrated look forming into a scowl.

"Why can't you get that through your skull?! Never mind threatening him but include the Scouts as well?! Your constant warmongering will do nothing but sign our own death warrants!" He pushed further.

"Do you want to die?! Do you WANT to see him march up here with ill intent? Do you REALLY wish to see that?! Silence filled the room as the others looked to the accosted noble who struggled to think of a comeback.

"I-I-"

"Hey, Hey, let's all settle down here." The sudden voice caused the four to turn to see a man reclining by the open double doors. Though his features were hidden by his large black trench coat and hat, said clothing had made him very much recognizable to the assembly. "Don't want anyone listening in to our little plots and schemes now do we?"

"About time you showed up." The man didn't seemed fazed at Geralt's snide remark as he slowly made his way to the table, a grin forming on his wrinkled face.

"Had to stop by you-know-who. Wanted to hear about how the scouts little fieldtrip went." He pulled up a chair and joined the rest of the cabal taking one of the spilled wine glasses and refiling it.

"So…same topic as last time?" The silence he received was his answer. "Man, don't y'all have anything better to talk about?" Taking a sip he continued.

"I mean yeah, the big guy's a wonder of the world, but seriously, you think after a year you'd be used to him, everyone else has." His grin stretched wider as Aurille's face formed into a scowl, his bravado seemingly returning.

"He's a potential threat to our way of life!"

"Nah, just yours." The nobles' face scrunched up, seeing as he was quite correct, but that was beside the point.

"All the more to remain vigilant! Why do you think we approved of your little attack squad?!" The man simply rolled his eyes, he'd heard this song and dance far too many times to care at this point, not that he did in the first place. Cutting the noble off with a loud *clink* from his glass he interrupted.

"Yeah, yeah, monitor his moves and gut him the second he tries something, heard it all before." Seeing this as a waste of time he gulped down the rest of the wine and excused himself wanting to get some hours of shut eye. Just a few steps away from the door he stopped and snapped his fingers, suddenly reminding him of something

"Oh before I forget." Digging into his right pocket he fished out a small crumbled up paper and tossed it at the table. "From the big man himself."

He disappeared as quickly as he came, leaving the nobles to themselves once again. Eyeing the paper Aurille unfolded the paper, reading its contents. The others immediately knew it was something bad as his hands began to shake, visible veins on his forehead, and of course the paper was crumpled up once again and thrown on the floor. The noble quickly called the meeting adjourned and swiped the wine bottle, stomping out of the room.

The others just looked at one another, wondering what he had said to cause such a reaction. Gerald picked up the ruined note and presented it to the rest, with looks of shock forming on their faces at the single sentence that was written.

"Leave God's angel to his work."


-oOo-


Leaving the room, the man was met with the emotionless look of his second in command, who was waiting for his return. "So, what now?" She asked keeping in step with the man as they walked the illuminated hallway.

"Ehhh, same as usual." He said, an almost bored tone in his voice "Though to be honest I'm starting to get sick of it." Taking out a blade he ran his fingers along the flat surface, seeing his own reflection. Simply watching the goliath wasn't all that fun. And hearing the people talk about him like he was some sort of god didn't make him feel any better, reminded him about a certain other fellow he knew way back when. He wondered if the Slayer was just like him, what with being all benevolent and all.

Maybe it was time to get out of the shadows and get to know the big man a little better.


A/N: And that concludes this mini expedition arc, which will be one of many in the future. And we also get a glimpse of a certain characters that will be making themselves known to our dear hero quite soon, story wise at least.

I originally intended to release this chapter earlier, but working the night shifts in recent weeks left me quite drained. I also had to rewrite the dialogue a few times, as I personally wasn't satisfied with what I originally thought of for this chapter.

I've also been mucking about with a possible sequel story. Nothing concrete for now, just some story points for each chapter. Helps me refresh myself, considering I'll most likely be working on this AOT story for quite some time.

Like always thanks for reading, and see you in the next chapter.