AN: Sorry for the delay in posting this chapter. My co-writer and I were discussing at length about how to make the chapter better, and we started going in a direction that didn't really pan out after a few days. So, I kept the majority as is. Don't worry. There are still some major edits. Enjoy.


Chapter 14: The Trial of Eren Yeager

(Four days after the Battle of Trost)

Prison wasn't kind to its inmates. In many cases, the cells were just there to keep the prisoners slated for death row. They didn't have to suffer the environment very long. The ones that were going to be there for a long time had to deal with two meals a day consisting of stale bread and a mug of water each day. Not to mention that there were little to no regulations on how the Military Police can treat the inmates. They could give one of them a beating, and no one would bat an eye. After all, prisoners were the lowest of the low.

Occupying a cell in an isolated section of the prison was Eren Yeager, who had been there in a coma since Trost. Instantly, after making sure he was still alive, the MPs had him brought to the dungeon and chained to the wall. Since he was underground, he couldn't transform successfully, not that he wanted to. When he eventually awakened, he was visited by Commander Erwin and Captain Levi. They wanted him to use his abilities to retake Wall Maria and find out if his father was telling the truth about the secrets of the Titans lying in his basement. At first, Levi was skeptical, but when Eren declared that he wanted to join the Scouts so he could kill the Titans, it was enough for Levi to put a little bit of trust in him. Granted, he made it clear that if Eren betrayed them in any way, he would personally cut his head off. Before they left, Erwin urged Eren to hold on just a little bit longer until he had his trial.

Until then, the Shifter had to deal with the MPs that were keeping watch over him for the next few days. While Eren understood why they were doing this, the insults the guards gave him really got under his skin. Whenever he asked them for something, or they gave him his meals, they would always say something like "I hope you burn in Hell, freak" or "to think the people of Wall Rose are praising a monster." Again, he knew that deep down, they were terrified of him, but it was getting on his nerves.

Why is it taking so long? Eren thought, staring at his chains again. Are they really planning on leaving me here? I didn't do anything wrong! Damn it, why can't they—

His thoughts were interrupted by the sound of a door opening nearby. Either these were more guards coming in to replace the current ones, or someone was paying him a visit.

"What are you doing here?" one of the guards demanded, glaring at whoever came in.

"I'm here to see my client," a female voice responded in a clipped tone.

"Of course, it had to be you defending this freak," he snarled.

"Noted. I am obligated to be alone with my client, so take your leave."

Begrudgingly, the guard signaled the others and walked out. Once they were gone, the mysterious female came into view. She had brown hair that was tied up in a sleek ponytail, brown eyes that were slowly losing their stern gaze, and a black one-piece dress with the skirt ending just below the knees. Definitely a civilian, but what would a civilian want with him, especially one from Wall Sina? Then, he noticed her carrying a briefcase in one hand, a clipboard in the other, and a pencil in her ear. There was only one reason someone with all that would pay him a visit.

"You're my… lawyer?" he guessed, confused. He hadn't asked for one yet. He didn't even know he got one.

"Only if you want me to be," the woman answered with a warm smile, confirming his suspicions. "My name is Carolyn Amsdale, Mr. Yeager."

He raised an eyebrow. "Amsdale? You're Dillon's mom?"

She nodded. "Yes, I am."

"He mentioned you were a lawyer for the Kingdom," Eren said. "Why are you defending me?"

"Because you are wrongly accused of treason," she explained, taking a seat on the chair in front of him, "and you saved our lives. I have no reason not to help you." Carefully, she placed the briefcase down.

"I can see where he gets it from," Eren said.

"What do you mean?" she wondered curiously.

"Dillon doesn't usually hesitate to save people, especially his friends, if he thinks he can make a difference. Like how you're trying help me, a freak."

"Eren... do I have permission to call you Eren?"

He nodded.

"You are not a freak, Eren," Carolyn told him in a sincere tone. "You have an incredible ability and it's because of you that we're alive."

"I guess you know a bit about unnatural abilities," he inferred.

She was surprised that Eren knew, but she let it go. "Yes, I do." She sighed, thinking about Dillon for a moment when he was in a related situation. "When my son discovered his abilities, he was terrified. He begged his father to take them away, that he didn't want to have an ability that almost killed him."

That caught Eren off guard. "He never mentioned that." Seems like we have a bit more in common, then.

"It's something he doesn't like talking about," Carolyn explained. "It took my husband weeks to convince him he wasn't a freak, that his powers were a gift." She looked at him in the eyes. "I know you're scared, and you have every right to be, but that's why I'm here. I want to help you, Eren."

"Well, thanks, I guess. But I don't exactly have high hopes for a positive outcome," he replied in a pessimistic tone.

"Leave that to me. Now, before we get started, I'm legally obligated to ask this: do you want me to defend you in court? And before you ask, I do not care what they say about me after this."

Now Eren realized where Dillon got his determination to do the right thing no matter the consequences. "If… if you don't care about what they think, then I'd welcome the help."

She smiled. "Let's get started. And Eren? You can call me Carolyn or Mrs. Amsdale. Whatever makes you feel comfortable."

"Alright, Mrs. Amsdale. What do you need from me?" he asked.

"There are a lot of questions I need to ask you," she said. "The MPs are ruthless and they will use anything they can find to bury you. For me to properly defend you, I need you to be completely open and honest with me. Can you do that?"

"Yes, ma'am," Eren answered.

"All right." She took out the pencil so she could take notes on the clipboard. "So, let's start off with some easy questions. In 847, you enlisted in the military. Why?"

"Because I wanted to join the Scouts and kill all the Titans," he explained. "Sure, they have a high death rate, and joining their branch sounds like I'm asking for a death sentence, but they are the only ones fighting for what we need."

"And what is that?" Carolyn pressed, writing it down.

"Freedom," Eren said. "Freedom from these Walls, and from the monsters that lurk outside of them."

"And even when you had a chance to get away and be safe in the Military Police, you declined that offer instantly, didn't you?"

"I would never take that offer," he stated. "Not if it meant making a difference out there."

She smiled knowingly at that familiar statement before she continued the questioning. "Let's move on to the meat of the issue. When did you first discover you could transform into a Titan?"

"I didn't even know I could before I saved Mikasa and Armin from the cannon ball," he replied.

"So, you have no recollection of the first time, then," Carolyn deduced.

"No, not really," Eren admitted, looking away for a moment. "I just remember the Titan biting my arm off, I landed in his stomach and it went black."

"Oh, my God," she said, horrified. She could only imagine how horrible that was for him to be inside a Titan's stomach and bleeding to death on top of that.

"The last thing I remember before Mikasa and Armin waking me is saying that'd I'd kill every Titan," he added, hoping that it would help.

Quickly, she jotted that down. "That might be useful. So, you focused on that goal and you transformed?"

"Yes, and it was similar when I rescued my friends. I put my hand to my mouth an—" He stopped there, wide eyed at what he was saying. How do I know all of this?

Carolyn waited patiently for him to go on. "And what?"

He shook himself out of his stupor and looked at her. "What?"

Her concern was growing. "Eren, are you okay? You look like you saw a ghost."

"No, I'm fine, it's just… I don't know how I know this," he said, confused.

"Eren, whenever you've transformed, are you conscious?" she asked.

He shook his head. "Not the first time. The second time, I wasn't fully enveloped."

"And the third time? When you carried the boulder?" Carolyn pressed.

"I wasn't at first. Armin and Dillon broke me out of it, though."

She sighed. "That's a double-edged sword right there."

He turned his head back to her. "What do you mean? What happened?"

Carolyn hesitated. If she didn't tell him, then if they brought it up, they would see that he was legitimately surprised, but he could lose control of his emotions and get himself killed. If she did tell him, he would remain calm when they brought it up, but would think it was intentional. Let's hope this works. "Eren, according to the report, when you transformed in the Trost for a third time... you lost control and attacked Mikasa Ackerman."

His eyes widened in horror, pulling against the chains instinctively. "What?"

"She's fine, Eren," she quickly assured, raising a hand to ease his worries, "but I wanted to tell you now because they are going to use that against you today."

"Why did I attack her?" Eren demanded.

She needed get him to calm down before he did something he would regret. "Eren, from what you've told me, this was the first time you've been able to transform. All that power, I can only imagine how hard it would be to stay in control. The problem is that the fact that this all so new to you, and they want to use that as an excuse to put you to death."

He shook his head, the frustration he had been feeling coming to a head. "But I sealed the wall! Doesn't that show them anything?!"

"Eren," Carolyn exclaimed sharply, losing her gentleness. "Take a deep breath and calm down!"

Taken aback by her demand, Eren did as she said.

"This is a very delicate situation," she explained. "Right now, humanity is afraid of you. They don't know you, so they don't understand you. If you lose control of your emotions…someone in there is going to retaliate. And, as much I will do everything in my power to protect you, I am not bulletproof."

"I—I'll do my best," he said quietly, feeling like a scolded child.

"That's all I can ask for," she replied before frowning. "Eren...there is one more thing I have to ask you."

"What is it, ma'am?" he asked.

"Looking over your records, I found a… disturbing piece of information about you, something that, were it any other situation, I wouldn't pry, but I have to. Did you kill two men when you were nine years old?"

"Yes," he answered without hesitation

"Why?" Her tone wasn't judgmental in the slightest.

"Because they were nothing but animals," Eren responded with a snarl.

"What did they do you, Eren?" She knew something of this nature was quite sensitive, but to defend him properly, she needed all the facts.

"Nothing. But they killed Mikasa's parents and kidnapped her. They were going to sell her for a high price because she's one of the last Orientals in the wall. I did what I had to so I could save someone."

Carolyn let out a sad sigh. "I know. Believe me, I know. I'm sorry I brought that up, Eren, but I know your character is gonna come into question. I've been in Wall Sina long enough to know that. I needed to hear your side so I can defend you if they attack you in that way."

The teen gave a small nod. "I understand."

"Now, let's move onto your friends and family starting with Mikasa Ackerman."

(The next day)

After the complete clean-up of all the bodies of soldiers in the streets to prevent disease from infecting people, the members of the 104th had their funeral that Dillon unfortunately missed due to his injuries. The minute he got out, he went to the smoking pyre and paid his respects. He was forced to say goodbye to Marco, Mina, Elsa, and Vaughn, the four people that he got to know that were gone too soon. The images of the dead were so engrained in his mind, it made him lose his appetite. He couldn't believe how many of these cadets were able to stomach food after what happened. As for Annie, she was a different story.

She sat as far as she could from anywhere else, her food sitting untouched in front of her as she stared off into space. She was always quiet and a loner, but her cheeks looked gaunt and her eyes were hollow. Her gaze was lifeless, like she stared into an abyss. That brave, comforting face she had on when he woke up was nonexistent.

The others weren't much better. Everyone took grief, horror, worry and loss their own way. Armin might have showed an inner bravery at Trost, but now he was as shaken and small as he appeared to be their first day of training. Mikasa was more animated than before, though hers was no doubt born of worry. It was like she could barely sit still.

Dillon had tried to approach Annie, wanting to comfort her in some way, but his words fell on deaf ears. She even told him to leave her alone, closing herself off the mind link in the process. As for the blacksmith himself, he needed something, anything, to talk about. That feeling of helplessness was crawling through his body and he needed to get away. So, he moved his tray over to Mikasa and Armin's table.

"Hey, guys," he greeted. "Can I join you?"

Armin glanced at Annie, then quickly looked back to Dillon, as if he'd accidently answered the question he'd been about to ask. "Sure." He shifted over to make room.

Mikasa glanced up at the question, her movements not fluid and graceful like they usually were.

"Thanks." He took a seat. "How are you two holding up?"

"We're doing..." Armin deflated before he could even get the reflexive lie out. "We're doing."

"Yeah, me too." Dillon glanced over at Mikasa. "Eren's going to make it through whatever the MPs throw at him."

Mikasa gripped her fork a little tighter. Her fingers shook the implement ever so slightly. "Do you really think that?"

He nodded. "Trust me. Mom's going to be right there with him."

Mikasa made a small noise in the back of her throat and glanced around. "They tried to shoot him even when they needed him. These people... they're scared idiots..."

"I can't exactly blame them," Dillon muttered, telepathically talking to them for a moment. "If word got out what I was, they'd be thrown into quite a frenzy then, too."

"Someone who could see their corruption and ferret out their secrets? You're a threat they'd kill in a heartbeat." Mikasa set the fork down. "Or they'd try to use you. Either way, I wouldn't let it happen. I would…" Mikasa sighed. "I'd be useless in that situation too wouldn't I. Like I am now."

"Well, if I ever need to be broken out of prison, I'll let you know."

"We need to make sure it is kept secret," Armin reminded them, ever the source of logic. "There's not really anywhere to run and hide around here. And if the Titans attack again, and win, that ability to run and hide gets harder. We have to get them to see that Eren is useful. That's our only hope."

"The dogs won't even part with their belongings to save their skins or others," Mikasa said.

"What?" Armin asked.

Dillon tilted his head. "What are you talking about?"

"Just something during the attack."

"Mikasa, what happened?" Armin pressed.

Another sigh left her mouth. "The reason the evacuation took so long. There was a merchant trying to move all of his precious belongings through the gate. The carts were completely loaded down and too wide to get through. So, he stalled survivors trying to escape." Mikasa grimaced in frustration. "Those are the kinds of people with money and power around here."

Dillon raised an eyebrow. "Wait, this merchant... was he an overweight, bald man?"

"That could describe a lot of them," Armin found himself muttering.

"He was."

"And was this man saying he owned a bunch of companies in Trost?"

Mikasa nodded. "He was pushing a lot of bullshit like that, yes."

Dillon sighed. "I should've known. Dimo Reeves."

"Who?"

"You don't know who Reeves is?" Seeing their confused looks, he said, "Right. You're from Shiganshina. Reeves is the head of the Reeves Company, a merchant organization that's located in Trost and operates all over the Districts."

Armin flinched. "That's not a good enemy to make." He looked to Mikasa. "What did you do?"

"Made an enemy," Mikasa answered with a shrug.

Armin put his face in his hand.

"I'm guessing your charm included threatening his life?" Dillon guessed, praying he was wrong.

His prayers weren't answered. "That and a sword."

Now it was Dillon's turn to face-palm. "Great."

Armin mumbled something unintelligible into his hand.

"Then I had his cart tossed so people could get in. Lots of valuables in there. Since it was at the gate, what people didn't steal was probably destroyed by cannon fire." Mikasa looked somewhat pleased by the thought.

"You're not helping your case," Dillon muttered. "It's 841 all over again."

That piqued her interest. "Oh?"

"The Reeves company is the import/export of Amsdale's Forge. They help us get materials and deliver our products and we pay them a reasonable sum. Simple as that. In July, we found out that we were getting less money from our products and all evidence pointed to the Reeves Company taking more than what they were owed."

"What'd you do about it?" Armin asked.

"I was eleven. I couldn't do anything, but my father took it to Reeves himself and... he may or may not have broken Dimo's nose."

Mikasa smirked. "It couldn't have happened to a nicer man."

Dillon fixed her a pointed look. "That stunt almost cost us our livelihoods, Mikasa."

The smirk fell right off her face, her eyes drifting to her food.

"He was ready to destroy our lives. Lawsuits, medical bills, ending the deal, it was a really bad time for us." He sighed. "Fortunately, thanks to the records we kept, my father managed to find out who were the ones in the company doing the skimming and made a deal with Dimo. Dad would pay for the medical bills, and, in exchange, Dimo would disown the thieves from the company and keep the original deal with us. If he didn't, word would get out how the Reeves Company were stealing money from everyone, whether it was true or not. They could destroy us, but we would take them down, too."

Armin stared at him in shock. "Your father blackmailed him?"

"Trust me. I'm not proud of it. Mom gave him quite the earful when she found out what he did, but there was no backing out." He fiddled with his fork. "My father made a mistake and it almost sunk us."

Mikasa sighed, her eyes not leaving the food. "I was so angry. I wasn't thinking about the consequences. Battle makes those moments feel like they don't matter. Then we're back in the world where they do."

"If it makes you feel better, a lot of witnesses saw what Dimo was doing. He tries to make a move against you, Trost comes after him."

"I don't think it would be that simple." Armin finished off the last of his soup. Whereas most of the cadets seemed to lose their appetites, Armin ate more.

Dillon shrugged. "We'll deal with that problem if the time comes."

Before she could say anything in response, the door opened loudly with an officer standing in front of it. "Cadets Mikasa Ackerman, Armin Arlert, and Dillon Amsdale. Hop to!"

The three cadets in question stood up and saluted. "Sir!"

"You're ordered to attend and act as witnesses in today's deliberation!" he announced.

"Sir, permission to attend as well?" Annie requested suddenly, getting up.

The officer gave her a scrutinizing look before nodding. "Granted. Head on out."

Quickly, the four cadets followed him outside where there was a carriage waiting for them.

At first, Dillon was confused about why Annie was coming with them out of nowhere until he remembered Trost. "Annie, do you seriously think I'm gonna get myself into trouble?" Dillon asked, opening the carriage door and letting Armin and Mikasa in.

"Dillon, you have a natural tendency to throw yourself into the thick of danger and hope for the best," Annie answered bluntly, giving him a pointed look. "I'm not about to let you get shot because of your recklessness."

He let out an annoyed grunt as he stepped inside. "Great. You're turning into a bodyguard."

"Use your head once in a while, and maybe I wouldn't have to be."

A small smile, however, appeared on Armin's face. "Familiar, isn't it, Mikasa?"

She fiddled with her scarf uncomfortably. "I'm not that bad."

Ever the tactful one, Annie replied, "You're right. You're worse."


"Excuse me, I've gotta pee," Eren stated.

"No, you just went," one of the guards stated.

The Shifter frowned. "Then can I have some water?"

"Hey," the other guard cut in, having enough. "You're not getting a damn thing, got it!? Damn monster!"

He was going sir-crazy after being in this cell for so long. It wouldn't have been that bad if he wasn't chained to the wall. He couldn't move from his bed, and he couldn't even stand. Every time he wanted to do something, he was forced to ask the guards that hated him to help him. His only hope for anything changing was the trial that was happening today.

Can Mrs. Amsdale really help me? Eren asked himself. I mean, she seemed sincere, but—

Whatever his thoughts were fled when he saw a female face slam in between the bars and stare at him like she was going to devour his soul. He let out a frightened gasp as he backed up quickly.

For a moment, the woman with glasses just stared at him before grinning. "So, you're Eren. Are you well? How are things?"

"Uh…" was all he could say.

"I'm sorry you've been waiting so long," she said sincerely, "but here's your chance to finally get out."

That got his attention as he breathed a sigh of relief.

"One thing," she quickly pointed out as she pulled out a pair of shackles and held them out to him. "You'll have to put these on me, okay?"

With a sigh, Eren nodded. At least he wouldn't be chained to the wall anymore.

Pretty soon, he was released from those chains before getting attached to the new ones. He noticed that there was a blond-haired man with her, who was eying him suspiciously, but Eren ignored that. He figured he would have to get used to that treatment for a while. The woman, the man, and the two guards began escorting him out of the cell block with the woman striking up conversation.

"My name is Zoë Hanji," she introduced. "Section Commander for the Scouts."

Suddenly, Blond Man leaned down and started sniffing him.

"This is a fellow commander, Mike Zacharias," Hanji added nonchalantly.

Eren made his disgust known, trying to get away from him.

She chuckled at that. "Oh, don't mind him. He has a habit of giving people a thorough sniff. Tends to laugh through his nose a bit, but I don't think that he intends it to be derisive."

It didn't help that Mike chuckled, almost looking appreciative by his smell.

I never thought I'd say this, but I think I want to go back to my cell. Eren thought, clearly uncomfortable to be around these people.

"Quirks aside, he's still a skilled Section Commander," Hanji assured.

Sure…. "So, uh, where's that woman that was going to represent me?" Eren asked.

"Carolyn?" A grin appeared on her face. "Let me tell you something, Eren: you're being represented by the best lawyer in the Walls. If there's anyone that can get you into our good graces, it's her. Granted, she's the only lawyer we know, so there's that."

"You know her?" he questioned, surprised.

"I've seen a few of her trials. She's good." Then, she let out a sad sigh. "Aw, crap. I've been prattling on with small talk and now we're here."

His eyes widened when he stared at the double doors in front of him. What?

She shrugged. "Well, I'm sure it's fine. It's probably better if I don't explain anyway."

The two guards moved in and started shoving Eren inside the doors, much to his displeasure.

"Hey, hold on," he exclaimed, looking back.

Hanji's expression turned completely serious. "It might seem callous, but remember: we've all put our faith in you, Eren. Best of luck." With that, she slammed the doors behind him despite his protests.

Eren was forced to face forward and saw a staggering sight. The prison, or at least the holding cell he was held in, was underneath the courthouse, which was filled to the brim with people staring at him in complete silence. He stared down the aisle which ended with a podium that was meant for the judge and his aides. In the middle of it all was a pole that was clearly meant for restraining prisoners, meaning him. Standing near it was Carolyn, who was waiting for him. Her expression was completely neutral at the moment, making him hope he was right to trust her.

Seeing that he wasn't moving, one of the guards shoved him forward with his rifle. "Move it!"

Once they got close enough, the guards took off the pole and forced Eren to his knees. They put the pole back in the gap between his arms and back, restraining him completely. It was the most uncomfortable position he had ever been in, but he had to deal with it.

To the right of him were the MPs, the merchants, and a few Wall Worshippers including the head one, Pastor Nick, wearing his usual black robes. The fact that these cultists gained so much influence over the years astounded him, meaning that he was in trouble. With them was the Commander of the Military Police, Nile Dok. The man had reputation of being cruel and short-tempered. What was interesting was that he was glaring at Carolyn, so he had no idea if that was good or bad for him.

On the left were the Scouts, including Commander Erwin and Captain Levi. He was a little surprised that Commander Pixis was there as well, but given that it was his operation that helped seal the Wall, he might be there to vouch for Eren's skills. However, what caught him off guard was the fact that a few of his friends were here: Armin, Mikasa, Dillon, and even Annie. They had all come to see him…or maybe they were ordered to.

Finally, the door opened near the judge's stand, revealing an older gentlemen with a gray beard and hair. His coat bore many medals, indicating that this man was Darius Zackley, the Commander-and-Chief of the Walls, and the one that held Eren's fate in his hands. Folding his jacket neatly and placing it on the stand, he sat down.

"All right," Zackley started. "Shall we begin? Carolyn Amsdale, you have chosen to defend Eren Yeager. Is that correct?"

"Unashamedly, Your Honor," she answered. "I believe that this is the right thing to do."

This caused a few murmurs throughout the crowd and Nile cleared his throat to get her attention. "Carolyn. I see you're defending traitors instead of prosecuting soldiers. What happened?"

"Today will determine whether that is the case or not, Mr. Dok," she stated in a clipped tone.

Mr. Dok. Already, that carried so much meaning. She completely disregarded his rank.

He furrowed his brow in confusion. "Whether or not what is the case?"

"Whether or not Eren Yeager is actually a traitor. Please, keep up."

Nile fixed a glare on her. "He's a Titan in human form. How is he not a traitor?"

"Order!" Zackley interrupted, though Carolyn caught a very quick twinkle of amusement in his eye. "Mrs. Amsdale, are you fully aware of what will happen to you if you lose this case?"

Eren's eyes widened a bit. Carolyn never mentioned that she would be punished if she lost, too.

"Yes, Your Honor," she answered, "and it's a risk I'm willing to take."

He sighed. "Very well. The revelation of Eren Yeager's existence could not be contained. In the end, we need to publicly disclose the facts to the people, or we will be facing widespread civil unrest. The regiment that I will place you in will determine your fate: Military Police, or the Scout Regiment. To begin, the Military Police will make their statement. Commander Dok, if you would."

"Yes, your Honor," Nile said. "Our recommendation is that, following a thorough investigation into Cadet Yeager and his anatomy, he be terminated immediately." He looked at the report before looking back to Eren. "While his presence and abilities did assist us in this recent campaign to reclaim Trost district, as previously stated, his mere existence is causing rebellious and seditious thoughts and speech. After gathering everything we can for him, we would see him made a fallen warrior for Humanity."

"Unacceptable!" Pastor Nick exclaimed. "This verminous fiend has defiled the mighty Wall; therefore—"

"Pastor, please control yourself," Carolyn requested, her annoyance for the head Wall Worshipper made clear. "This verminous fiend has fixed up the mighty Wall. If anything, you should be thanking my client."

The pastor started sputtering angrily. "How-how dare you speak to me that way, you immoral whore?"

"Says the pastor who just called me a whore. Truly, you are the bigger man here."

"Your grievances with each other will have to wait," Zackley demanded, but he stared directly at Nick, "but if you call her a whore again, Pastor, you will be thrown out of here. Am I understood?"

"Y—Yes, Your Honor," he stuttered, giving the stink-eye to a smirking Carolyn.

"Now, I would like to hear the Scout Regiment's Proposal. Commander Erwin?"

"Yes, sir," Erwin replied, taking a step forward. "I, Erwin Smith, as commander of the Survey Corps, propose the following: We welcome Cadet Yeager into our ranks. Reinstate him as a soldier and the Scouts will utilize his Titan abilities to retake wall Maria."

While the people were whispering among themselves, the Commander-in-Chief asked, "Is that it?"

"Yes, sir," Erwin answered. "With his assistance, I am wholly convinced we can retake wall Maria. Ergo, I think our top priority is perfectly clear."

"Quite bold," Zackley responded. "Assuming you were given clearance, where do you plan to launch this operation from? Commander Pixis, the gates in Trost have been completely sealed. Is that correct?"

"Yes," Pixis answered in a grave voice. "I doubt its gates will ever open again."

"We will depart from Karanes district to the east," Erwin explained. "From there we will move towards Shiganshina. A new route can be established as we move and—"

"That's preposterous!" a merchant interrupted. "Our time and money is best-spent sealing up all the gates. They're the only parts of the Wall that the Colossal Titan can break, right? Let's reinforce the damn things and wash our hands of the entire affair!"

"Shut up, you merchant dog," a Scout shouted. "With this power, we can finally return to Wall Maria!"

"We can't afford anymore childish antics or delusions of grandeur," that same merchant shot back.

Carolyn was about to interject, getting a headache, but someone spoke up.

"Squealing louder won't help your case, pig." Levi interjected. "While we're bolstering our defenses, do you think the Titans are going to stand idly by? And when you say 'we', are you speaking for anyone besides than you and the other fat merchants?"

Carolyn gave an appreciative nod to the captain. She could always count on him to take the MPs and the merchants down a peg, but enough was enough. "Your Honor, if we can please focus on the matter at hand?"

Zackley slammed his hand down several times, catching everyone's attention. "Enough! Save your squabbles for a more appropriate setting." Once they've been sufficiently cowed, except Levi, he addressed Carolyn. "Do you wish to answer a question I have for Mr. Yeager, Mrs. Amsdale?"

"Eren?" Carolyn questioned. "It's up to you."

"I'll answer it, sir," Eren said, understandably confused by what was occurring.

"Mr. Yeager, as a soldier you have made a solemn pledge to answer humanity's call! Can you still serve by controlling your ability?"

Don't lie, Eren. Carolyn pleaded inwardly. Tell the truth.

"Yes! I will sir!"

I can work with that.

"Really?" Zackley asked skeptically. "The mission report I have from Trost contradicts that statement. After transforming, you tried to crush Mikasa Ackerman."

"Your Honor, he's aware of that," Carolyn stated. "I informed him."

"I wasn't in control at the time, sir." Eren explained. "But as soon as I regained control, I was able to seal the wall effectively."

Carolyn flashed him a quick smile of approval. He listened. She had too many bad experiences where her clients thought they knew better.

"Where is this Mikasa Ackerman?" Zackley questioned, scanning the courtroom.

"Here, sir," Mikasa said, raising her hand as she glared at Rico, who filed that report.

"Did Eren Yeager assault you in Titan Form?" he questioned.

Carolyn noticed Nile Dok was ready to pounce on something. Oh, Nile. You think you have us beat. How adorable.

"Yes…he did, your Honor," Mikasa answered hesitantly, "but prior to that, he saved me twice using his abilities! Once when I was about to be attacked, and then again when we were about to be shot with a cannon. I'd like for you to take that into consideration."

Come on, Nile. Don't disappoint me. She taunted.

"Objection," Nile called. "I have evidence and a reason to believe that Cadet Ackerman's testimony may be biased!"

Gotcha! "Objection!" Carolyn shot back, keeping a neutral expression. "While we can only take her word for it on the first instance, there were at least forty witnesses for the second one. Mr. Dok, do you think the Garrison Troops will all be biased as well?"

"You mean the Garrison troops who saw him summon a Titan body from nothing?" he shot back.

"It protected Mikasa Ackerman, did it not?" she asked simply.

Nile growled, but he didn't have a single response to counter it. "That doesn't change what kind of person Yeager is!"

I knew he would bring this up. "Then please enlighten the court, Mr. Dok. What kind of person is Eren Yeager?"

"A killer," he stated coldly, picking up a piece of paper. "After the Yeager family adopted Mikasa Ackerman, we launched a full investigation into the circumstances behind it. Eren Yeager and Mikasa Ackerman, at the tender age of nine, took down three adult kidnappers by stabbing them to death."

There were a lot of concerned murmurs at that statement, but Carolyn crossed her arms. "Would you rather let the kidnappers sell them like human property to be abused and molested, Mr. Dok?"

Nile winced from that underhanded blow. "No. But the fact that this boy decided to take the law into his own hands and kill three people rather than wait for the proper authorities, who arrived soon after the incident, combined with the fact he can barely control his abilities, supports the fact that he is dangerous."

"So, attempting to dissect said dangerous boy is a clever idea?" she retorted.

"The process would be carried out under heavy guard and with the boy under anesthesia," he assured.

Carolyn sighed, deciding to compose herself. "Mr. Dok, and everyone else, I think you have all forgotten crucial details regarding my client."

"Like what?" Nile asked angrily.

"Let's look at the facts, and I'll go slow just for you."

"Might want to make sure it's slow enough for the pigs to understand as well," Levi suggested.

"Thank you for your suggestion, Captain, but I believe we would be here for the next two hours," Carolyn replied.

"Mrs. Amsdale, if you please?" Zackley interrupted.

"Fact Number 1: Eren Yeager is a Soldier. He has trained in the 104th Training Corps for three years and graduated in the Top 10. And despite the opportunity to live the luxurious life of an MP, safe from harm and worries, he has chosen to fight Titans instead. That should speak volumes about his character."

Thank you, Mrs. Amsdale. Eren thought to himself with a slight smile on his face.

"Fact Number 2: Eren Yeager can transform into a Titan. While I will concede that his lack of control as of right now is troubling, I believe he possesses the willpower to control his emotions and remain focused. If I was wrong, we would all be dead and the Titans would have taken over Wall Rose by now!

"Fact Number 3: Eren Yeager is a fifteen-year-old boy, and he has done more for humanity than any of have in the last 50 years. He has gone through Hell several times in the last six years. He lost his parents in Shiganshina, he was forced to kill two kidnappers at age nine, he was eaten by a Titan, and was almost killed by the people he swore to protect, and despite all of that, he did something no one has done for us as of late: he gave us hope. Hope that we can finally fight back against the Titans. He sealed up the Wall and saved our lives. Instead of condemning him to death, we should be thanking him for his service. With all that said..." To everyone's astonishment, Carolyn turned around and saluted Eren. "…Thank you, Eren Yeager, for saving humanity."

"That's a mighty fine salute," Pixis commented quietly, his respect for her all too apparent.

Everyone's eyes were wide at what just transpired before them, save for Levi and Erwin, both of whom looked rather apathetic to what was going on. Murmurs started running through the crowd about how she was right and the fact that Eren could help. Meanwhile, Nile and the reverend were looking around at the others in confusion.

"She has a flair for the dramatic," Annie noted.

"That's my mom for you," Dillon replied. "Puts on a performance of a lifetime and the people will find her more favorable."

"Mrs. Amsdale," Zackley intoned. "While you make good points, you have yet to address the crucial one."

Carolyn faltered, but it was so subtle, no one could see it. "Yes, Your Honor?"

"How can we trust that Eren Yeager will not lose control at another crucial moment?"

Uh oh. Carolyn thought as she backed up, giving an apologetic look to her client. She knew what was about to happen. "I'm sorry, Eren."

Eren gave her a confused look. "Sorry for—"

He was cut off by a foot slamming directly into his face. It was strong enough to send a tooth flying out of his mouth. Eren looked the assailant, who was Levi, in shock only to get kicked in the ribs twice. He finished it off by slamming his foot onto his head, practically making him eat the ground he walked on.

"Eren," Mikasa exclaimed, murder in her eyes. She stood up to go save him, but Armin held her back. It wouldn't do her any good if she tried to kill Humanity's Strongest Soldier.

"Personally, I live under the philosophy that showing is better than telling," Levi said coldly as he kicked Eren a few more times.

"Levi, wait," Nile protested, eyes wide with fear.

Levi pressed his foot against Eren's face and asked, as if bored, "What?"

"If you keep this up, he'll… he'll transform."

"Is that so?" Another kick. "You wanted to dissect him, Nile. Where was your concern then?" He grabbed Eren by the hair and held his beaten face for all to see. "I heard that when he was a Titan, Eren took out 20 Titans before collapsing from exhaustion. His intelligence makes him dangerous, but he doesn't have the experience I have. Killing the brat won't be an issue if he gets out of hand. Can any of you say the same? Is that enough for you?"

Zackley nodded. "Considering all the evidence and the testimonies, I hereby transfer Eren Yeager to the custody of the Scouting Regiment, effective immediately! Should Eren Yeager prove his worth, humanity will accept him. If not, he will be transferred to the Military Police. This court is adjourned."

Carolyn breathed a sigh of relief and ran to Eren's aid. "Eren, are you all right?"

"Hurts," he answered.

"That was the point," Levi said.

Carolyn rolled her eyes. "I'll be with you all in a bit. I have a few people I need to speak with."

"Thank you, Mrs. Amsdale," Eren quickly said.

"Anytime, Eren," she replied with a smile.

Picking up her briefcase, she walked over to Dillon, who embraced her. "Thank God you're safe."

"Hey, Mom," he said with a grin. "You have no idea how much I missed seeing these."

Carolyn shrugged. "Just another day on the job for me." She looked at the MPs with concern. "Though I think they might be a little ticked this time." For now, she put it aside and asked, "Are you and your girlfriend able to make it for dinner?"

"Yes," he assured. "Bring out your best work. I want this dinner to be a memorable one."

She smiled. "It already is. My little Dillon has grown up."

He blushed furiously, thankful that Annie was talking to Armin and Mikasa. "Mom…"

"Sorry. I'll see you two tonight."

First things first: she needed water. As she poured some in the cup from a nearby pitcher, she noticed the MPs giving her the evil eye. Considering how many corrupt officers she helped put away, that wasn't surprising; however, these carried a lot more weight. In their eyes, she defended a Titan, the sworn enemy of humanity. She had a sinking feeling that this might be the case that will push them over the edge, and if that happened…

She shook her head, trying to rid herself of such thoughts. This happened often after the trials she won, and it was no different now. Her name would still be tarnished by the MPs, but they wouldn't try anything… hopefully.

Once she made sure she wasn't needed for anything else, Carolyn entered the private room Erwin managed to get. She almost ran into Hanji, who was holding a tooth while running outside, claiming that she needed a bag. "Sorry I'm late."

"You're quite alright," Erwin assured as she closed the door. "We were simply explaining our strategy to Eren."

"How are you feeling, Eren?" she asked, still concerned for him.

"Sore," the Titan Shifter answered.

She sighed. "Sorry I didn't warn you about that. It kind of slipped my mind."

"And here I thought you were the smart one," Levi snarked.

Carolyn rolled her eyes, sitting down next to him. "Normally, I wouldn't do this, but I need to ask a favor of you."

"Go on," Erwin said.

"Tensions are usually bad between the MPs and my family, but this trial made things far worse than before." She sighed, massaging her forehead as she tried to hide her anxiety. "I know I sound paranoid, but… if anything happens to Matthew and I-."

"Your son is one of us, Mrs. Amsdale," Erwin told her. "We'll do what we can to help him if the worst happens."

"…And if someone tries to get to me through him-."

"You really think we'd let some asshole kill him?" Levi interrupted. "They'll be Titan vomit by sundown."

She nodded as she stood up. "Thanks for your help in there."

"Try not to sound like an actress attempting to win an award next time and we'll be even."

"How about I rope you two into having dinner at my house instead?" Carolyn suggested the captain and the commander.

"You've been asking us for years," Erwin told her with a little bit of mirth in his tone.

"And you've been dodging me for years."

"Sorry, but we'd rather get killed by Titans, not by food poisoning," Levi said.

She rolled her eyes. "You're hilarious, Levi. Now, if you'll excuse me, I have to beat my son and his girlfriend home so I can get dinner started."

"Go," Erwin insisted.

"It was nice to meet you Eren," Carolyn said warmly. "Good luck out there."

"Thank you," the boy replied as she left. "I can't believe someone like her exists in Wall Sina," he replied.

"She's a rare breed in Sina, but let's focus on the matter at hand," Levi grunted.

"Uh, right," Eren responded nervously.


Remastered Edits: So, something my co-writer pointed out to me was that Annie was still going through a lot after Trost; therefore, she wouldn't be in the right mindset to try and cheer Dillon up. So, I decided to replace that with bonding time with Mikasa and Armin. I also added more of Levi when it came to beating up Eren. Carolyn addressed most of the worries except for the most crucial one. I also cut out unnecessary statements from the last part of this chapter.

I hope you all enjoyed this and I shall see you all in the next chapter.