Forgive me for this long delay. I don't know how to describe it, but I may have felt some depression and couldn't get much sleep, but I'm feeling much better now. Gotta take care of my health first then get right back to what I love doing most. Writing. This chapter may be short, but the next one will be longer.
Die Rollen, Die Wir Spielen
The Roles We Play
私たちが果たす役割
Before the Colossal Titan breached Wall Rose
Before all the chaos in Trost happened, the Survey Corps were preparing for another expedition outside the walls. Erwin was leading a squad of Survey members with unique qualifications. These included the likes of Hange, Levi, and Mike.
As the gate to Wall Rose slowly lifted off the ground, Hange was buzzing with excitement. Hange was secretly hoping that during their expedition they would meet the War Hammer Titan again! Or should they call them by their name Faye? The anticipation of meeting that Titan again was making their heart pound faster inside their chest. They wanted to hurry up and be out there already! Just what is taking so long?!
"Right outside is my friendly Titan…" Hange smiled at the thought of meeting their favorite Titan again, "What kind of Titan will we see this time? Will we see my most favorite one?" They brought their hands together as if they were praying, "It'd be so great if we saw our friend the War Hammer Titan!" Then they had another thought, "Oh! Or maybe we'll see a one of a kind Aberrant?!" So many possibilities!
Sitting on a horse next to her was an annoyed Levi, "We have one right here." He said, looking right at Hange with an irritated expression.
Hange wasn't his annoyance any mind and focused more on his comment about there being an Aberrant nearby, "Huh? Where?" They questioned, looking around frantically so they could find it.
Levi moved in closer, placing his hand on their ponytail to make them look in his direction, "Right here." He said simply in a dry tone. Hange didn't reply and instead gave him a confused expression.
"Forward!"
Erwin's commanding voice made every survey member sit upright on their horses as they prepared to depart outside into the unknown.
"Survey outlying areas and establish supply points that would support a human advance. Being entrusted with these missions, the Survey Corps receives the best humanity has to offer."
Once they were given permission to go through, the survey members moved forward.
"The military genius of a select few within their ranks has greatly boosted their survival rate."
Grim but determined expressions were on their faces. But even so, they were prepared to keep pressing forward.
"But even so, every excursion into Titan territory costs over thirty percent of their troops. Or so…it was in the past."
A Titan gnawing on a poor survey corps soldier. The lower half of his body was considered the Titan's new chew toy as the man was still alive.
"The difference in strength between humans and Titans is that great."
"Just you wait…" The soldier grunted in pain as he lifted himself up slightly while having half of his body in the Titan's mouth, "It won't be long before humanity wipes you out! We'll be the ones to survive in the end!" He declared, stabbing the Titan in the left cheek. Of course it didn't really do much and to the Titan it was merely a little sting that didn't even hurt.
In response to having its cheek stabbed, the Titan bit down harder, causing the poor man to scream in agony, but he didn't give up, "Captain Levi will…" he continued talking through the pain, "kill you all!" He vowed.
As if hearing the soldiers words, a wire shot out from behind the Titan, embedding on the side of a tower. In a blur, a figure came in fast from behind and wasted no time slicing the nape. Levi spun around before landing on the roof of a building.
Levi surveyed his surroundings after killing the Titan, "One to the right…" he spotted a Titan fairly easily, "Two to the left." He calmly observed the three Titans.
A woman landed on the same roof as Levi, along with two others. She was a relatively short woman with shoulder-length light ginger hair that has bangs swept to the left side and amber-colored eyes.
One of the men to her right has brown eyes and long blond hair which had a middle parting and a bun folded at the back to keep his hair tied. He also had a small beard. He had small brown eyes and a serious face.
To her left is a man of average height with a slightly darker skin tone. He has a short crop of brown hair that was kept to a point on the back of his head.
"Captain, I've brought reinforcements." She informed him.
Levi addressed her, "Petra, tend to the wounded soldiers below. The rest of you, support the right flank." He ordered, "I'll take care of the left." With his orders clear, he went to engage the other Titans.
Petra gasped, "Captain!" She called out to him in worry.
Levi paid it no mind as he went to confront the other Titans.
One of the Titans he spotted nearly took a bite out of two members, but luckily they got away just in time. Hange joyfully propelled herself in the air, "Ya-hoo!" She landed on a roof and got the Titans attention as she did so. Holding out her arms she spoke to it, "It's okay!" The Titan slowly moved towards her, "I won't hurt you." She promised.
It just stared at her for a moment before lifting its hand and tried to grab her. Hange already anticipated this action and avoided it with ease. Laughing the whole time.
"So close!" Hange happily said, swinging around, "Now it's my turn." She arrived at the nape and sliced it open. Spinning backwards as the Titan fell to the ground.
Hange landed safely with a smile, blood on the dark green cloak she was wearing, "See?" The blood started evaporating, "That didn't hurt, did it?" She asked the dead Titan.
Levi was moving closer to the two Titans, "You all have…" He landed on a nearby roof and walked towards them in a slow, but maxing manner, "the stupidest expressions." The Titan closest to him opened its mouth wide as he approached.
Not waiting for it to get any closer, Levi shot his hooks into the wall and moved behind the Titan. Spinning in the air, he dug his blades into its nape—carving a chunk of it out.
Then he used that momentum to jump off a stone wall to face the other one. Bringing both arms back, he swung his blades right at the Titan's eyes. Blinding it.
Levi landed on its head, "Whoa." He nearly lost his balance but straightened up quickly, "Stay put." Turning around, he took out two more blades, "Otherwise, it will get messy…" Looking down at the Titan, he didn't hesitate to end it, "when I slice you." Jumping high in the air, he spun back down and sliced open its nape.
He back flipped on a nearby roof and examined the handle of his blade. Sneering at the mere sight of the Titan's blood, "Damn." He cursed, "Filthy…" Taking out a handkerchief from his pocket and started wiping down both his hand and handle.
While steam was coming off of the Titan's corpse, Petra sat nearby tending to the same wounded soldier that was nearly chewed in half. Levi silently approached them, "Captain," Petra looked at Levi, her voice trembling, "the bleeding won't stop…" She reported in a shaking tone. Her hand was pressed on the man's wound with his blood soaking the rag she was using. Blood was even coming out of his mouth.
Levi stared down at the man, his gaze seemingly impassive, but in actuality somber. He's seen this many times during his time in the Survey Corps, but it never stops affecting a person.
"Captain…" The man wheezed, his gaze unseeing as he called out to Levi.
The black haired male leaned down before the dying man, "What is it?" He asked, his tone gentle.
"W-Was I able…" It was starting to get harder for the man to talk or see, but he still found the strength say a few more words, "to help humanity?" His dying question expressed an answer that would help him pass on peacefully. Slowly, he lifted his hand, "Or will I die, never having been of any use at all?" Despite his hand being stained with his own blood, Levi didn't hesitate to grasp it firmly.
"You have done a great deal." Levi promised him as tears gathered in the dying man's eyes, "And you will continue to do so. The resolve you leave behind will give me strength." His expression became fierce, "I promise you…" Even his tone changed, "I will obliterate the Titans!" He vowed.
There was nothing but silence now as the soldier didn't respond to anything Levi said. Petra looked down in sadness, "Captain…" she called out to him somberly as tears fell from her eyes, "He's gone." Petra closed her eyes and looked away.
Levi looked at the man's face to see the light had already faded from his eyes. He was gone.
"Did he hear me to the very end?" Levi asked Petra, looking at her.
Petra opened her eyes and turned to the dead soldier, "Yes. I'm sure he did." She assured him, "Look." The expression on the deceased man's face appeared to be at ease in his final moments, "He seems so at peace…"
Levi could see that. In fact this might be the very first time he's seen a Survey Corps member look so peaceful after death, "Very well, then." He accepted the man having passed on with no regrets. He stood up without saying a word.
"Levi!" Erwin called out to the man, getting his attention, "We're pulling back." He said.
Petra stood up too, confused by the order.
Levi didn't look impressed, "Pulling back?" He questioned, "We have yet to push ourselves to the limit." A nasty glare was sent Erwin's way, "Are my men dying for nothing?" If they were just gonna pull back after coming all this way, then why even bother dong this excursion in the first place?
Erwin wasn't bothered by Levi's irritation and anger as he replied, "The Titans are heading north, toward town." He replied.
Petra gasped as her eyes started shaking.
Levi frowned.
Erwin turned his gaze elsewhere, "Just like five years ago…" For the same thing to happen again five years later, "Something is happening in town." He frowned, "The wall…" There was an unsettling feeling in his stomach, "may have fallen."
-進撃の巨人-
They were riding back fast. Well, as fast on horseback anyway. The only thing on their minds right now was to get back to Trost and prevent any Titans from getting through the wall. Why is this happening again? It's been quiet for five years but now the same thing is happening again? Coincidences don't exist. This was a planned attack.
In the distance the sun was starting to set. By the time they get there it'll probably be close to night.
Levi glanced at Hange and saw the lunatic thinking about something. She may be a crazy scientist that spouts nonsense, but when it comes to dealing with Titans, her input is greatly valued.
"What do you think? Is this a repeat of five years ago?" He asked her.
Hange was deep in thought but answered Levi's curious inquiry, "It's hard to say. When it comes to Titan behavior they don't think and act on pure instincts," she started explaining her thoughts, "Because we never suspected anything else outside of their normal behavioral patterns…none of us saw what was coming five years ago."
Levi frowned as he remembered that day clearly. They were out on another expedition far away from Wall Maria. By the time word got to them about what happened, it was all over. Some people died that day, but the rest were spared because of one particular abnormality.
"Another problem we have to worry about is them getting inside the city, which can only happen if there's a breach. And if that's the case, that can only mean…" Hange's voice trailed off.
"The wall's been breached." Levi deduced.
"That's right." Hange's voice was grim.
Levi's grip on the reins tightened, "It doesn't matter. Let them show up if they want. We won't make it easy for them before going down trying."
Hange didn't comment, but did have another thought, "Why would the Colossal and Armored Titan wait five years to try and breach the wall again? And the fact they waited this long proves that both Titans are intelligent."
"Your point?" Levi raised a brow.
"All of it sounds very puzzling. Why would they try the same method again after five years of silence?" Hange couldn't help but wonder about their strange actions, "That just raises more questions than answers. Could they be after something and attacked Wall Maria in order to find it? And if that's the case, it's possible they didn't find it at Wall Maria and tried again?"
"It doesn't matter." Levi interrupted, scowling, "Their actions and motives don't matter. All that matters right now is taking them both out."
Hange didn't disagree, "I agree. It's unfortunate, but it appears only the War Hammer and Mysterious Titan are our only allies."
Levi huffed, "Yeah, but what do they get out of it?"
"Ilse didn't get that very far in her interview with Faye, and all we know about the Mysterious Titan is that it fought off the Armored Titan and controlled the Pure Titans," Hange replied, "Another thing we know is that the two of them are working together. Ugh, if only I could have talked with Faye a little bit more~!" She whined, slumping over on her horse.
"Get over it." Levi unsympathetically said.
"Mean!" Hange exclaimed.
Petra came up next to him before he could retort, "Captain, we're getting close! Wall Rose will soon be in sight!" She reported.
Levi frowned as Wall Rose was soon visible to them, but something was strange. Where the hell are the Titans?
"Somethings not right. We haven't run into a single Titan on our back to the walls. That could mean one or two things: the Garrison killed them, or the Titans are already inside the city." Levi's eyes narrowed at the last part. If they did manage to get through then this was going to get ugly real fast.
Hange frowned, "Let's hope we're not too late to minimize any casualties." She grimaced.
But the closer they got to the wall there still didn't seem to be any Titans in sight. As they got even closer, another strange thing was noticed.
It was the breach…
"Captain, I can't be too sure, but it looks like the breach has been sealed!" Petra reported.
"Sealed?" Levi questioned, confused.
"Did the Garrison somehow manage to plug the hole? If so, then that's impressive!" Hange complemented.
Erwin had other thoughts but decided to think about them right now, "Move forward!" He ordered.
"Yes, sir!"
It didn't take them long to approach the wall. With there being no Titans hindering them, it was easy to approach the wall and have some Garrison members use the elevator to help them up the wall. Looking out into the city there were indeed some damaged houses and buildings, but otherwise everything seemed to be under control.
"Ah, so you finally made it back." An elderly but firm voice greeted them. It was a bald man with a structured build. He had gold eyes and a distinguished mustache, with light skin and notable wrinkles under and around his eyes. This man was Dot Pyxis, Commander of the Garrison.
Erwin was the first to greet him back, "It's good to see you, Commander Pyxis. Though I wish it were under better circumstances."
"Indeed, but as you can see everything seems to have calmed down," Pyxis chuckled, "Funny how things have a strange way of working out, wouldn't you say?"
"Sir, if you don't mind me asking; what happened?" Erwin was understandably confused as to why there were no Titans around.
"Also, how were the Garrison able to seal the breach?" Hange asked her own question.
Pyxis didn't answer them and instead gestured for them to look down at the breach, "Instead of having me explain, why not see for yourself how the breach was sealed." He said, looking down.
Erwin, Hange, and Levi did just that. What they saw made the two men lose their composure, while Hange reacted in a way one would expect from her.
"OOOOHHHH!" Hange exclaimed in utter happiness, "It can't be, but it is! This crystallized Titan body could only come from the Mysterious Titan!" The scientist was practically frothing at the mouth at the sight of the crystallized Titan body left behind.
"Are you telling me this was done by the same Tian from five years ago?" Levi questioned, then came to a realization, "That explains why we didn't see any Titan's on our way back." Testimonies from civilians of Shiganshina five years ago explained how the Mysterious Titan controlled the other Pure Titans before sealing the breach.
And from the looks of it, the very same thing happened here while they were away.
Erwin stared at the crystallized form left behind by the Mysterious Titan. This will be the second time this Titan has prevented humanity from being massacred from inside the walls.
Twice is no mere coincidence.
"Commander Pixis, please explain what happened in detail." Erwin requested.
The bald commander's relaxed expression morphed into a serious one, "About an hour after you all left, our old friend the Colossal Titan made a reappearance."
"So we were right in deducing that the Colossal Titan had appeared again and breached Wall Rose." Hange's guess had been correct.
"Yes, and as you guessed it breached a hole in the wall before vanishing into thin air." Pixis continued.
Levi frowned, "Vanished? How the hell can a giant ass Titan like that just up and disappear?" Did it do the same thing five years ago, but due to all the chaos and panic, no one noticed?
"I also would like to know how that's possible, but for now I'll keep telling you what happened." Pixis kept explaining, "Just when things were starting to look grim, an unexpected ally appeared before us once more."
"The Mysterious Titan." Erwin said.
Pixis smiled, "Correct. Just like five years ago, it controlled the other Titans to either stop attacking or let themselves be killed. Then, it walked over towards the breach, sealing the hole with its own body." He finished.
The other survey corps members were silent as he finished. Once again the Mysterious Titan has become a savior, but this time to the residents of Wall Rose.
"This is amazing!" Hange squealed, excited, "Hearing this proves my theory that the Mysterious Titan really didn't die, after all! Maybe it was waiting for the Colossal and Armored Titan to come back and finish what they started, or—"
"—about that." Pixis said, cutting them off abruptly.
All eyes look back on him as he interrupted Hange, "There's a lot more to this that may interest you."
-進撃の巨人-
The cleanup was awful.
There weren't that many Garrison members left after the wave of Titans came through. So the cadets were ordered to assist in recovering the bodies of what was left of those who didn't make it.
Connie grimaced behind the white cloth around his face. He just found a half eaten Garrison soldier lying dead against a building. It was not a pretty sight.
"This is awful…" He carefully covered the body before dragging it away to lay with the rest. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, he looked around and observed the rest of the graduating cadets.
They were having a harder time dealing with this than him. All of these dead bodies scattered all over Trost. He felt like throwing up but forced himself to hold it in.
"It really is, but leaving their bodies out here in the open seems too cruel." Marco walked up to Connie and placed another body with the others. While the sight of all this devastation bothered him just like the rest of the cadets, it's something they'll have to get used to.
"I still can't believe all of this happened. The Colossal Titan coming back and breaching the wall, the titans getting in, and then…we were saved by the Mysterious Titan." Connie still couldn't wrap his head around the fact they were literally saved by a titan. And not just any titan, but the very same titan that saved Shiganshina. No matter what anyone else says, that titan is a hero. Hell, they were only alive because of it.
Marco couldn't believe it, either, "All of this feels like a dream, but it's real. Do you remember what Eren said before we all started training?"
"Eren said a lot of stuff back then." Connie reminded him.
"That's true, but I'm talking about the time he said this could all happen again," Marco elaborated, "How this wasn't over yet."
Oh, yeah. Come to think of it, Eren did say something like that. But it seemed so long ago that everyone had forgotten about it. And it's not like he mentioned it anymore after that, either. Connie wondered if maybe Eren knew all of this would happen. It sounds crazy, sure, but how else would he explain Eren's calm demeanor and lack of reaction towards everything.
"It happened just like he said." Connie acknowledged, "The Armored Titan didn't show up, but the Colossal Titan did." Seizing it up close and personal almost made him shit himself on the spot.
Marco suddenly looked nervous and glanced around them before whispering, "By the way, I don't know if it's true or not. But I heard some of the others talking…" he whispered in Connie's ear.
"Huh? Talking about what?" Connie questioned, eyebrow raised. Why was he whispering?
"Do you remember those Titans Eren volunteered to distract?" Marco asked Connie.
"Yeah, I remember? What about it?" Connie was wondering where he was going with this.
Marco hesitated before explaining, "The others are saying Eren actually killed those Titans all on his own." Some of the cadets noticed Eren had some blood on him, but it wasn't his. All that blood on him had belonged to the Titans he killed. Most, if not all of them wanted to ask him about what happened, but now really wasn't the right time.
"Seriously?" Connie would normally have a hard time believing a rumor like that going around. But after actually seeing Eren in action, him saving Samuel, confronting the Colossal Titan, and killing off any Titan that approached his squad at the time—he'd be inclined to believe anything involving him.
Now that he thinks about it, he saw the skeletal remains of the titans that chased after Eren. Just how many had followed him again?
"Hey, Marco. How many titans were chasing after him? Do you remember?" Connie asked him.
Marco shook his head, "No, but I know it was enough to overwhelm even the strongest of soldiers." Meaning that their fellow graduate took on all those titans alone and lived to see another day, and without getting his limbs chewed off.
Holy shit…
"Hey, you two help us with this body over here!" A garrison soldier called out to them.
Marco looked over his shoulder and replied, "Yes, sir!" He turned back to Connie, "Why don't we finish clearing out all the bodies and talk more about it tonight? Everyone else wants to have a gathering and celebrate."
Connie grinned at the idea, "Sounds good to me. Besides, we could all use it after today."
"That's true." Marco agreed, chuckling.
Office of Commander Pixis
Pixis suggested all of them, Erwin, Hange, Mike, Levi and his squad finish what they were talking about in his office. Once all of them were gathered and seated the bald man wasted no time giving a report over to Erwin. He didn't say a word as he watched the blonde read over the written contents. When he was finished, he passed it over to Hange; who stiffened in place before passing it over to Levi. His eyes narrowed then placed it down on the table.
After a tense silence the one to break it was Erwin, "Commander Pixis, I assume this report is accurate?" He already knew the answer.
Pixis closed his eyes with a grunt, "Yes. What you just read is indeed correct." No further explanation was needed.
"So I see." Erwin replied.
Petra worriedly looked at Levi, "Um, Captain? What was in the report?" Whatever was written in it has all of them looking very serious. What's wrong?
A cough shifts their attention over to Hange. The titan scientist came to a stand, "I'll read it over for all of you." She said.
"After the Mysterious Titan sealed the breach with its own body; an unidentified individual came out the crystallized body." Hange read to the Levi Squad and Mike. Aside from Mike, the members of Levi's squad expressed their shock.
A human came out of the Mysterious Titan?
Then that means…
Erwin sat there observing their reactions. The momentary shock seemed to last for only a moment. True the contents of the report were indeed shocking, but not surprising. They've known for a while that the Mysterious Titan was just like Faye. A human capable of transforming into a Titan.
Another human that's inherited one of the Nine Titans.
It is no coincidence the inheritor of the Mysterious Titan appeared here once again when Wall Rose was breached. While it was unexpected for the Colossal Titan to show itself once again after five years of silence, that wasn't what he focused on. Was it possible Fay'e ally suspected the return of the enemy and decided to wait for them to try and attack them again.
Or perhaps they were caught off guard and weren't expecting another surprise attack like five years ago?
Erwin was betting more on them anticipating the enemy would try again to see what would happen this time. But like what happened five years ago at Wall Maria, the enemy's plans to eradicate them were once again put to a stop.
'Whoever the shifter is has to be someone from within our military. It could be someone from the Garrison or possibly the new graduates. Both are a possibility.' His mind was already going through a list in his head, but he would need more information to confirm his theory.
Pixis was watching Erwin and saw the man was thinking. And he has a feeling it was about their mysterious savor, "I can see you already thinking about who could possibly be our Mysterious Titan shifter. Care to share your thoughts with the rest of us?" He inquired.
Erwin was silent at Pixis's inquiry about his thoughts. It's true his mind was already thinking about who the possible shifter could be. While their face wasn't revealed to help figure out their identity much quicker, there should be a way to work around that.
"Before I share my thoughts; there's something that you should know first, Commander Pixis." Erwin decided to share something with the Commander first before anything else.
Pixis seemed to understand that Erwin was about to share something of great importance. In fact, his expression didn't change when reading the report. That could only mean he knew about this information beforehand.
"Interesting. Explain everything you know." Pixis insisted, looking very interested in hearing what Erwin had to say. Any information he had to say would be beneficial to humanity.
Needless to say…
…the information Erwin provided was more than he was expecting.
Pixis crossed his arms as he leaned back against his chair. It would seem there's more to their world than they were originally led to believe. So the Marble Titan—real name the Warhammer Titan was also a shifter like their friend the Mysterious Titan. Not only that, but they know more about the world than any of them. This is turning out to be a lot more complicated than simply making sure what's left of humanity stays alive.
Yes, all of this was turning out to be far more complicated than it needed to be.
"I can understand why you kept silent about this until now," Pixis wouldn't hold it against Erwin for keeping something this important to himself until now. Information this valuable could be used either with or against the Survey Corps—no—all of them, "Never thought I'd live long enough to hear what you've just told me." While he was joking, part of him was serious.
Erwin looked the man right in the eye as he spoke, "Then you believe what I've told you, then?" He knew Pixis would listen and understand. It wasn't a gamble, but a strategic move on their part.
"Yes, I can honestly say that everything you've just told me is indeed not a lie. While I don't know if keeping this to yourselves was very wise, condemning you for not bringing it to our attention much sooner would be foolish." Pixis explained. Besides, there is a strong chance the Military Police would not take this information well and order to have both shifters found immediately and executed.
"Thank you for your understanding." Erwin thanked him.
"Tell me, Hange," Pixis turned his attention over to the scientist, "I'm curious to know more about the Warhammer Titan, and since you're the only one who has encountered it personally, I'd like to hear your opinion."
Hange stood up and saluted to Pixis, "Sir, my personal assessment of the Warhammer Titan is that it was Intelligent. And when attacked, it did not try to eat or kill the soldier, it simply stared at them and let them down. This leads me to believe that while they are capable of killing us, they have no intention of doing so." She sat back down having finished speaking.
Pixis hummed in thought about what Hange said, "Is it possible that the shifter of the Warhammer Titan doesn't see us as its enemies?" He questioned.
"Yes, I strongly believe that while Faye may not see us as allies, we aren't seen as enemies, either." Hange could tell during their interaction, and when the shifter didn't try to kill Oluo. Faye was an interesting, yet complex individual who Hange wished could have talked more with.
Maybe their time will come in the near future. Possibly.
"Then we can assume that this individual called Faye has their own agenda. And that agenda is more likely stopping the Titans from coming close to the walls." Pixis guessed, though it is a shame this individual has no interest in working with them.
At least for right now.
"That was my assessment as well," Hange agreed with Pixis, "I also believe that in the near future we could work together to finally uncover the secrets Titans have hidden within them."
"That time will soon come to fruition, Hange." Erwin suddenly spoke up, "For we now have a new objective."
Levi raised a brow, "And that is?" Though judging by his expression topped with having that gleaming look in his eyes; Levi knows what he's going to say next.
"Our new objective is to uncover the identity of the Mysterious Titan." Erwin announced to them. While they may have been unable to have a proper discussion with the Shifter of the War Hammer Titan, perhaps their chances would be far more beneficial with the individual behind the Mysterious Titan.
Hange was already excited by the prospect of finding out the identity of the Mysterious Titan, "Great idea, Erwin! How should we go about doing it?!" Her excitement truly couldn't be contained as she looked to be on the verge of frothing at the mouth.
"First we interview every soldier from the Garrison to the graduates. We need to see if anyone was behaving strangely outside the norm." Erwin explained to Hange what they should do first.
"That's a good plan. Most of the Garrison were either trying to keep the Titans who were trying to get through the wall at bay or kill the ones that managed to get through to really pay attention to anything else." Hange was thinking that out loud, but everyone else in the room was thinking the same thing.
"So you think the Shifter is either a Garrison soldier or one of the graduates." Levi could already see the gears inside Erwin's head moving.
"That's right." Erwin confirmed, "All of them are potential suspects in being the Shifter of the Mysterious Titan. We'll start by interviewing the Garrison Soldiers next, then question the graduates."
Mike hummed, "Sounds like a plan."
"Why not do this tomorrow. Most of the soldiers who fought and survived today are exhausted." Pixis suggested. His statement rang true. If they were to walk around right now they could see for themselves just how tired everyone is. All of them looked dead on their feet, walking around like zombies and ready to fall over.
"I agree. We'll meet first thing in the morning and discuss more about finding the identity of the Shifter. Dismissed." Erwin dismissed all of them from the room. They've also had a long day themselves and needed to rest.
Erwin and Pixis waited for all of them to leave the room before conversing. Such interesting events that happened today. Neither of them could have expected another Titan attack after five years. That's what made it strange in the first place. Right now they need answers and the only one who can provide them is the Shifter.
"I must admit I'm curious to know more of your plan. While true, the Shifter hiding amongst us is fighting on our side…how do you plan on getting them to fully cooperate once you've finally tracked them down?" Pixis was curious and knew Erwin's negotiating skills were valuable and produced many results. But how does he plan on negotiating with the Shifter? Have them join the Survey Corps and lower casualty numbers? Or did he have something else in mind?
Erwin had an eerie smile on his face that showed he already had something planned, "You'll see." And that was all he had to say.
With the rest of the Graduating Cadets
"We survived!" Connie and Sasha shouted, taking huge gulps from their drinks. They weren't the only ones celebrating for all the graduates that managed to survive. Once the reality of them actually surviving a Titan invasion settled, celebrations soon started.
Sasha wiped her chin, happily, "To think none of us died and we all made it out alive is a miracle." It really is a miracle they all lived to see another day. Of course she was terrified, but also knew letting fear take over wouldn't help anyone.
"It's almost scary. I really thought I was gonna die and not have the chance to show my mom what a good soldier I'll become." Connie's biggest fear was dying and leaving his family behind. Just imagining his mother's crying face at hearing the news of him dying was enough to make him sick.
"But you didn't die. None of us did. We're all still alive." Sasha grinned, "We love to see another day!"
"Hell yeah!" Connie can toast to that.
Marco was looking at them with a smile. It was nice to see the two of them back in good spirits, especially Connie. He looked so depressed when they were collecting the bodies of dead Garrison soldiers. All of them decided to host this party to celebrate their survival, but it was also in remembrance of the soldiers who didn't make it.
He doubts any of them will forget what happened today, and hopefully this life threatening experience can help shape them into better soldiers.
Speaking of which…
"Are you okay, Jean?" He asked this friend. Seeing his best friend being so quiet was worrying. Jean would normally have something to say, but for him to be silent was a first.
Jean looked to be deep in thought about something, but hearing Marco's worried voice brought him back to reality, "Yeah…I was just thinking about that Titan." He said.
Marco was understandably confused but then it clicked in his head, "By that Titan, you mean the Mysterious Titan, right?" He has to admit that seeing the Mysterious Titan for the very first time was quite the experience. Not to mention actually seeing it control the other Titans and protect humanity, just like it did five years ago.
"That's right. I don't know what it is, but there was something about its eyes that felt familiar." Jean saw its green eyes clearly, displaying slight emotion and intelligence. Unlike the rest of the normal Titans, that one was special. The first time he heard about how a Titan saved the residents of Wall Maria he scoffed, saying there was no way some Titan was smart enough for that. But the same thing happened again, and the very same Titan from five years ago appeared and saved them.
Was it a coincidence?
No, there's no way anything that happened today was a mere coincidence.
The Colossal Titan showing up again and breaching the wall, and the Mysterious Titan showing up to save them. All of this couldn't be a coincidence.
And then…
…there were those eyes.
For some reason he couldn't get those eyes out of his mind. How could a Titan express so much emotion in their eyes when its well known Titan's have a dead look in their eyes? But the Mysterious Titan's green eyes expressed a determination that could only be seen in humans.
Green eyes…
Wait…could it be…
"Jean, what's wrong? You look nervous." Marco said, concerned.
Jean didn't answer him as his thoughts brought him to a conclusion, 'It sounds ridiculous, but I can't ignore how similar they are! It also makes sense! Five years ago it appeared in Wall Maria, and now here in Trost!' Standing up suddenly and scaring Marco, he spotted a familiar face sitting alone and approached. If he's wrong he'll apologize, but he needs to talk to someone about this. Not his best friend, but with someone he knows will listen and give an honest opinion.
"Armin." He called out to the quiet blonde. It was rare seeing him alone for once, but figured Eden and Mikasa were busy elsewhere and will show up later. Ignoring the slight pang of jealousy of the two of them alone together he focused on the task at hand.
"Oh, Jean." Armin was startled when the other called out to him all of a sudden. It isn't strange or anything, just surprising. Jean must have a reason for calling out to him and judging by his serious expression, whatever he had to say was important.
"What's wrong?" He asked the taller boy.
Jean looked conflicted for a moment, but pressed on, "I need to talk to you about something important. It's about that Titan." He figured Armin would understand the meaning of why he wanted to have this discussion.
And his hunch was right for Armin's eyes seemed to understand the hidden meaning, "Okay." He moved over so Jean could sit next to him and explain his thoughts. Even if his fellow soldier doesn't come to the same conclusion, at least he can say he told someone trustworthy.
Mikasa walked through the quiet halls lost in thought. There was so much going on with the sudden attack on Wall Rose that she didn't have time to gather her thoughts together. But now that everything's calmed down she has a little time to herself.
There was a lot going through her mind at the moment, but the most present was her close encounter with the Mysterious Titan. It had saved her from being eaten then placed her on the roof of a house so she'd be safe and out of harm's way. A normal Titan would never do such a thing. But that Titan was anything but normal.
She knew that five years ago when it saved the citizens of Wall Maria.
Such a strange yet intriguing Titan.
Mikasa could still feel the phantom warmth when its thumb touched her cheek. The look in its eyes expressed concern, like it was actually worried about her. Part of her is saying that it was just her imagination, but…was it really? Nothing about its actions make any sense. Why would it express concern for her well being?
Coming to a stop at a door, she shakes her head before knocking, "Eren, are you awake?" She asked.
There was no response. Maybe he was still asleep? Which is possible seeing as how out of all of them Eren was probably the most tired. He gave them a scare after he literally fell to his knees, eyes closed. If Armin hadn't said that Eren had suddenly fallen asleep, which prompted animated reactions from Jean, Connie, and Sasha. Then they would have panicked and assumed he had been injured during the invasion.
Jean and Reiner volunteered to bring a sleeping Eren over in this room so his rest wouldn't be disturbed. Of course she didn't want to disturb his rest, either. There was no harm in simply checking up on him, awake or not. Mikasa knocked on the door again, "Eren, I'm coming in." Twisting the door knob open she came face to face with a shirtless Eren.
Both teenagers stilled as their eyes made contact. Eren was just about to put on a black shirt, his movements halted when the door opened. Mikasa shamelessly stared at his revealed chest, abs and all.
"S—Sorry!" She quickly looked away, eyes tightly shut. Mikasa wasn't expecting him to be changing, but then again she should have suspected it since he didn't answer when she knocked on the door.
Eren blinked at her but proceeded to put on his long sleeved black shirt. He wasn't expecting anyone to come check on him, but shouldn't be surprised the person was Mikasa. She must have a six sense when it comes to him.
"It's fine. You can look now." Eren said.
Mikasa opened her eyes with a relieved sigh. She's not ready to look him in the eye without him wearing a shirt. Her heart was still pounding loudly, cheeks slightly flushed. Ah, she needs to calm down!
"What's wrong?" Eren asked her.
Mikasa gets it together finally and faces him, "Nothing." She was trying to convince herself it was nothing at least, "How are you feeling?"
"Better." He gave his arm a sniff, "I don't smell bad anymore either."
Mikasa was confused, "Why would you smell bad?" She asked.
He sat down on the bed, "I noticed the smell after waking up. It was similar to how a Titan smells." It wasn't pleasant either. The moment he woke up, he washed himself thoroughly to make sure the smell was gone.
"Oh." Mikasa doesn't smell anything related to a Titan on him, but Eren sounded serious. And considering he used himself as bait to lure those Titans away from everyone, it would make sense for him to keep smelling Titan flesh.
Her eyes then stare at the shirt he was wearing, 'Wait, that shirt…' It's the same one she bought for him when the girls went out into Trost during free time. A warm feeling entered her heart seeing him wear something she bought for him.
Eren felt her staring at him and deduced it must be because he was wearing the shirt she got for him. He's taken a liking to it. The texture felt nice against his skin and very comfortable.
"I wanted to wear it for today. What do you think?" He asked for her opinion about how it looks.
Mikasa squirmed in places a little before replying, "I-It looks good on you…" And it did.
"Thanks." He thanked her. Eren then stood up from the bed, "We should get going. Armin is probably waiting for us."
"Mm."
They both left the room and headed to where the others were. It was quiet without Armin being in between the two like normal, so it was just the two of them. Mikasa had honestly missed it. Just the two of them alone like this. She thinks the last time they were alone together like this was when they were kids. Mikasa missed this.
Eren stopped walking suddenly, much to her confusion, "What's wrong?" He didn't respond to her at first.
"I forgot something. Sorry, but could you wait here for a bit?" He asked her.
That was rare. He never forgets anything, but she guessed that today's a first for everything.
"Okay, I'll wait." Mikasa promised.
Eren left her alone in the hallway, heading back in the direction of the dorm room.
While the rest of the graduates were celebrating inside. Three individuals weren't so celebratory. Their faces were shadowed and hidden, leaving only their physical bodies showing.
"Looks like our hunch was right." One of them said, voice deep.
"But we still don't know if my fave was seen or not. I looked away quickly, but…" Another male spoke in a light tone that was nervous.
"Don't worry. I doubt your face was visible enough to get a good look at. But it wouldn't hurt to make sure. Just make sure to be subtle about it." The same male with the deep voice said.
"Right."
A tired sigh got their attention, "So, what now?" Questioned the final individual, voice feminine.
"There's no doubt our identities will be discovered if it hasn't already. We need a new game plan and fast." She stated.
"Which is why we're going to speed things along. Now that we've confirmed our hunch was correct, we no longer have to breach anymore walls." The male replied.
"Wait, then does that mean…"
"That's right. One of us will need to keep tabs on the Military Police since they serve the royal family." He looked at the female, "Sorry, but I'm gonna have to give that task to you."
She scoffed, "Fine by me."
"Then it's settled. The two of us will join the Survey Corps and watch our target. Once the target is alone we'll use that opportunity to stage an ambush and capture the target." He explained.
"Okay."
"So long as we get this over with."
The male grunts and stands up, "We should head back inside." He suggested. There were no objections from the other two as they followed behind him and headed back inside. Unknown to them someone heard every word of their conversation. Their presence was carefully hidden in the shadows thanks to the trees, so a face wasn't visible.
But that didn't matter much.
It was the conversation spoken not too long ago that held more importance.
The figure stood there for a few more minutes before finally leaving the area. It would be in their best interest to keep what they heard silent for now. Revealing it too soon will cause unnecessary problems, something they want to avoid.
So for now they'll keep what they've learned to themselves.
Ymir spotted the two new arrivals before anyone else, "There they are!" She announced their presence, "Oi, you two! Hurry up and get your asses over here already!"
"Ymir, you're too loud." Eren said, sitting down next to Armin. Mikasa sat on his other side.
"Damn right I am! We live to see another day, my ass is getting drunk tonight!" She declared, proceeding to chug down the beer in her hand.
"Ymir! Where did you get alcohol?" Krista asked her out of concern.
Finishing with her drink, Ymir replied, "Some guys from the Garrison brought some for all of us! Said it was for doing a "good job" in defending the wall." She openly mocked how the guy talked.
"Good job," my ass!" Connie exclaimed, "We almost got eaten by those Titans!"
Sasha, who had her mouth stuffed with food, nodded her head up and down.
Mina smiled, "That may be true, but we're all still alive. Today was scary, but with this experience we'll be ready next time." Her voice was confident as she said these words.
"I think I've still got an adrenaline rush." Thomas smiled.
Ymir snorted, "From what? Didn't Yeager have your asses covered the whole time?" She mocked.
"Oh, screw you, Ymir!" Samuel cursed at her.
"I'll pass. You ain't my type." Ymir mocked him.
Armin smiled at the chaos around them from their fellow graduates. It really is a miracle none of them lost their lives and love to see another day. But, today was another reminder they need to remain on their guard, and be prepared for anything.
"I'm glad we're all alive. No one was seriously injured or killed." He sounded relieved.
Mikasa shared his sentiments, ". We'll be more prepared." We're all alive, Armin. That's all that matters." She didn't even want to talk about it anymore. Nor did she want to think about what she could have lost. No. Mikasa would rather not forget about today after all, but reminded herself to keep getting stronger.
"I know. But still, I can't believe the Colossal Titan actually showed up again after five years." If Armin had any theories about the Colossal Titan being intelligent, then his theory was proven after today.
Mikasa frowned at the mention of the Colossal Titan, "After five years of it being quiet, only to make a reappearance and breach a hole in the wall again." That giant behemoth knew exactly what it was doing. If by any chance it shows itself again, then she'll be there and tear it to pieces.
Eren took a sip from his drink and stared at the liquid for a moment. He was preoccupied with his own inner thoughts. Many things could have gone differently today, but it all worked out in the end. Even though his mind was still thinking about what other move he should make, for now he would focus on right now.
"Hyuk! What the hell are you all looking so serious about, huh?!" Slurring his words and stumbling about was a very drunk Jean. His cheeks were flushed as he wobbled about like a newborn fawn.
Ymir saw his current state and laughed, "And here we have Horseface here drunk off his ass! I fucking love it!" She hollered.
"You shouldn't laugh at him like that! What if he hurts himself?" Krista scolded.
Jean paid her no mind, "I'm not dead yet! No way in hell was I going to die! Hyuk!"
"We get it, Jean! You should really stop drinking so much!" Marco urged him. Jean waved his hand in dismissal before walking unsteady again.
"No way in hell was I going to die…I can't die…because…" Jean stopped, hunched over then declaring at the top of his lungs.
"I'VE GOT THE SURVIVAL SKILLS OF A COCKROACH!" He shouted.
Silence.
Marco's mouth was gaping.
Sasha and Connie gave him incredulous expressions.
Armin was confused by the strange declaration, while Mikasa sported her usual blank expression.
Reiner and Bertolt didn't know what to say.
Annie looked at Jean like he was an idiot.
Eren simply stared.
The rest of them either had no reaction or didn't know how to react. But the biggest reaction from that declaration came from nine other than Ymir.
"BWUAHAHAHAHAHA!" She hollered, slamming her hand against the wooden table. Tears were streaming down her face. Once again poor Krista made it her personal mission to make sure Ymir didn't choke on her own saliva while laughing.
Ymir's sudden laughter snapped all of them out of it. No one knew what to say though, but the resident Potato Girl did say something, "Are you saying you act like a cockroach?" She asked innocently.
Connie joined Ymir in laughter as did a few others. They can always count on Sasha to be herself. While not intentional it had the desired effect of making everyone relax.
"Huh? What the hell are you talking about, Potato Girl?" Jean frowned in her direction, "My Cockroach survival skills are better than your Wild Girl survival skills." He bragged.
"What did you say?!" Sasha took that as a personal offense. If he wants to have another challenge then she's all for it. And this time she'll win!
Jean grinned, "Then, I'll prove it to you!" He pointed his finger at a quiet Eren, "Oi, Eren! Get over here and fight me!"
Eren blinked at being called out suddenly, "Hm?"
"Now hold on a minute, Jean! Don't go dragging Eren into this!" Marco tried stopping him, but again it was useless.
"Shut the hell up, Marco!" Jean snapped at him before looking back over at Eren, "Come on, Eren! Fight me!"
Eren didn't even bother looking at him, "Jean, you're drunk." Was his response.
"HAH?! Who the hell are you calling drunk?! I'm not drunk!" Jean yelled at him.
"Uh Jean, you are drunk." Connie pointed out, but of course Jean wasn't listening.
Jean was already approaching the table, "Get over here! I'll kick your ass!" Armin was already up and ready to stop him, Marco wasn't too far behind.
"Jean, that's enough!" Marco grabbed one of his arms trying to pull him away.
"You should sit down and let this go, okay?" Armin had zero experience when it comes to dealing with drunks. Not even Hannes got this plastered, but he came close. It's clear Jean had way too much to drink.
"Like hell I will!" Jean refused, leaning forward, "Stand up, Eren and fight me!" He wasn't letting this go unfortunately.
Mikasa frowned at Jean's drunken behavior but she was more surprised when Eren stood up. He wasn't really planning on encouraging Jean was he? The others were wondering the same thing as they watched Eren walk right up to a drunken Jean.
Armin moved out of way when Eren was face to face with a disoriented Jean. Facing him with his ever stoic expression, the brunette said nothing.
Jean let out a confused grunt, "What are you looking at? You gonna fight me or—"
CHOP
Jean was quickly silenced with a swift neck chop. He fell forward as he knocked unconscious but Eren caught him before he could fall and hit the floor.
Ymir snorted, "Yeager claims victory! So much for you being a resilient cockroach!"
"Ymir!" Krista chided.
Eren handed Jean over to Marco, "He's had enough." That was an understatement, but there's no doubt in everyone's minds that Jean will never drink again.
Marco gave Eren an apologetic smile, "Sorry, Eren." Reiner helped Marco take Jean back to the sleep quarters. No one made fun of Jean for behaving like a drunk. They remember how he was one of those that were freaking out about being killed by a Titan and not making it to the Interior. Jean was just cutting loose, and there was nothing wrong with that.
"I never thought Jean would be like this when he gets the chance to relax. It's a refreshing change." Armin comments.
"That's not what I'd call it." Eren doubts Jean would find it refreshing in the morning.
"I'm glad you didn't humor him. I was kinda worried there for a moment." Armin really did think Eren would accept Jean's drunken request for a fight. Thankfully he had nothing to worry about.
"Never support the foolishness of a drunk." Eren said, confusing Armin. He elaborated, "Mom told me to ignore a drunk person's request because they'll regret it later." The prime example of this was Hannes. Before his parents started dating Hannes got drunk and requested a cheek from his mom.
He came to regret that decision after getting a beating from his teacher, and a harsh scolding from his wife. Even his father punished him by cutting him off from alcohol for a month. Since then Hannes would get flush after having a few drinks, but he never got really drunk ever again.
"Ah, that sounds like something she would say." Armin had a feeling she said that because of a certain person they all know.
Eren sat back down, "Let's forget about today. Just for tonight." He said.
Mikasa smiled, "Just for tonight."
Armin sat back down and watched over their graduating class with a smile. Today was scary and all of them could have died. But tonight…they were going to forget and enjoy being alive.
Humanity now has a new hope.
That's why they can relax and not worry about tomorrow.
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Once the celebration was over everyone proceeded to finally get some well deserved sleep. In the boy's sleep area, Eren lay there in bed with his eyes closed but he wasn't sleeping.
As he relaxed his body fully his surroundings began to change. Opening his eyes, he knew instantly where he was. His mind successfully transferred over onto this isolated mindscape. Instead of being surrounded by his fellow graduates, it was replaced with a bluish-green light in the sky. Even the ground beneath his feet was replaced with a soil that reminded him of sand from one of Armin's books.
"Finally came to report about what happened today?"
Eren turned his head and saw Erena standing there with that knowing smile of hers.
'There's no need for me to report anything to you. Because you already know what happened.' His hard gaze stared into her amused eyes.
"Your expression tells me you have questions and want them answered." She closed her eyes, "And I do have the answers to your questions."
They both already know the answer. And after what happened today it was already confirmed.
.
.
.
.
.
…the real enemy is here.
Auf Der Suche Nach Dem Verborgenen Schatz
(Seeking The Hidden Treasure)