A/N I had a long think about what to do regarding the overthrowing of the government (Hence the update took a little longer than I anticipated) and I decided to keep it mostly the same as canon, so I won't be retelling this part in too much detail as it is not something I want to focus on, the main story is what happens after Historia becomes queen etc. They'll be a few changes here and there, but the plan will mostly be the same.

So, I'll do a little time skip, focusing on Eren so I won't waste too much time on this part of the story. Though, there are some parts which I wrote in this chapter, especially the part where Rod turns into a titan, that I kept similar to the canon events as I didn't want to completely skip this whole part otherwise it would feel a bit weird.


Chapter 4: Annie

Eren sighed as he impatiently tapped the table with his fingers, staring intently at the front door. He was waiting for Levi's return, he needed to talk to Annie, and he was told Levi was the only one in the squad that knew where she was held. This was a huge opportunity for them, if he could get Annie to fight on their side this time, the loss of life could be significantly reduced. Without Armin as the Colossal this time, having Annie could fill that gap. Maybe she could even be used to infiltrate Marley but that was to be decided.

Twisting his head, he sighed as he folded his arms and placed his head on top of them. As he lazily glanced around the room, he thought about what he could possibly say to persuade Annie to join them. Throughout their cadet years, Annie has always been someone that simply didn't care about anything. She never got close to anyone. Did she even care about them? Did she even care when she killed Marco? She was a good fighter, calm and collected, sarcastic, quick-witted but she was always isolated and had no desire for anything. What could he possibly offer or say that will get her to help them?

'Maybe my undying friendship,' he snickered at the thought.

"Eren?"

Slowly turning his head towards the voice, he noticed Mikasa looking worriedly at him. Taking in her features, Eren mentally slapped his younger self for being so ignorant. How could he miss something as big as Mikasa's feelings for him? How did he not realise how pretty she was? She had grown up so much over the years and it felt like he missed it all. His younger self was fuelled by so much revenge, he didn't even stop and appreciate everything that was important to him at the time and he lived to regret it every single day for years after their deaths.

"Eren? Are you okay?"

Snapping out of his thoughts, he blushed as he realised, he was staring at her.

"Oh uhm, yeah! Just got lost in my thoughts, sorry!" he scratched the back of his head, face slightly flushed while he gave her a small smile.

Shifting her chair, a little closer to Eren, Mikasa gently placed a hand on top of his as she stared intently at him, her eyes expressing her worry. This action caused Eren's eyes to widen slightly, now concentrated on the person that he was staring at.

"Is something bothering you?" asked Mikasa, her eyes still trained on him.

"No… Not really," Eren sighed, his eyes dropping to stare at the table as he spoke. "I was just thinking about Annie… I'm not really sure what to say to her."

"What is there to say? She's a traitor and she hurt you,"

Eren looked back at her. "I know… But just think about it, if I could get Annie to help us- "

The others in the room looked at them as Mikasa abruptly stood up, her sudden movements causing her chair to clatter against the floor.

"Help us?! She was the one that put you in that coma! How could you forgive what she did!? S-s-she… Just why…?" asked Mikasa, her face a little flustered from anger, anger at the very thought of Annie. All the pain she had suffered for the past month, every single torturous day, flooded her mind as she stared defiantly at Eren.

"I know, I know… but just hear me out," Eren began, his eyes now looked around the room, now speaking to everyone. "If we get Annie on our side, imagine having her Titan abilities and all the information she has on our enemies? On Reiner? On the Beast Titan? We could torture her, yes. But I'm telling you now, it won't work, not on Annie anyway."

"He's right Mikasa," began Armin, after digesting the words Eren just said. "Eren is right. At this moment, we don't even have a clue who our enemies are. With Annie fighting for us and the amount of information she could give us… It could be a game changer,"

"But Eren- " she stopped abruptly as Eren stood up and grabbed her hand, holding it gently in his own.

"Do you trust me, Mikasa?" asked Eren, his eyes boring into hers.

"I… I do but- "

"Then trust me on this, Mikasa… please," he pleaded.

Looking into his eyes, Mikasa sighed as she hesitantly nodded. She didn't like this one bit; she would be happy for Annie to just die. In her mind, she was a traitor, someone that tried to hurt the people important to her and someone like that didn't deserve a second chance but if Eren and Armin feels like Annie could help them, then she'll follow them and if anything goes wrong, she'll kill Annie herself and protect them.

Pulling her into a tight hug, surprising Mikasa, Eren whispered into her ear, "Thank you."

Sighing in defeat, Mikasa held Eren tighter as she rested her head on his shoulder. Closing her eyes, she relaxed into his hold, her anger from moments ago slowly dissipating as she melted in his embrace. Eren has been initiating a lot more physical contact ever since waking up, she wasn't sure what changed but she wasn't one to complain. She can't remember the last time Eren has been this affectionate with her. It was a nice change; this was the side of Eren that she thought disappeared many years ago.

The other people in the room watched them, fascinated, as they held each other. This was a new side to Eren, a side they weren't familiar with.

Leaning over towards Armin, Connie whispered, "When did Eren get so… you know," gesturing at the embracing pair.

Armin, understanding what he was trying to ask, replied, "I don't know… he has been like this ever since waking up, it feels like he is a different person at times…"

"Really? That coma must have done a number on him," Connie commented.

"Yeah, I mean, I guess it isn't really a bad thing," said Armin, his eyes still trained on his best friends. "He just seems so much calmer, you know. I know it hasn't been long since he woke up but it's nice to see that he isn't being fuelled by anger all the time, I actually hope he stays like this," finished Armin.

Connie nodded, agreeing with what Armin said.

Jean grumbled as he listened to Armin, "Yeah, he might not be suicidal anymore but he's still a bastard," his eyes bored holes into Eren's back.

Eren and Mikasa jumped apart as a resounding slam of the door brought them out of their thoughts. An imposing, short, figure strolled into the room, his footsteps were loud since no one made a sound as they watched their Captain, Humanity's Strongest Soldier, make his long-awaited return to the hideout. Behind him, Dimo and Flegel Reeves followed closely behind, who had been working closely with Hange and Levi in opposing the government during Eren's unfortunate situation.

Levi raised an eyebrow as he scanned the room, noticing the irritated expression on Jean's face and the flushed faces of Eren and Mikasa.

'Interesting…'

"Good to see you up brat."

"Thank you, Captain," replied Eren.

"I hope everyone filled you in on everything?" asked Levi.

Eren nodded in confirmation, "They have."

"Good, I'm afraid there will be no time for you to rest since you and Historia will be instrumental in Erwin's plan," began Levi, as he pulled out a piece of paper. "Which I have here," this caused the squad to lean forward in anticipation.

'Huh, no Nifa this time,' Eren noticed, as he remembered the first time this happened.

"But Captain-" began Mikasa but was stopped as she felt Eren's hand grab hers, his head shaking slightly as he looked at her.

"It's fine Mikasa, this is more important," reasoned Eren.

Mikasa hesitated but nodded in acceptance. "Okay."

Levi shook his head slightly at Mikasa before carrying on, "So, regarding how to have Historia take the throne as Queen…"

"Huh? Q-Queen?" Historia's eyes widened, as did the rest of the squad, while Eren remained calm during this revelation.

Levi looked at Historia. "I forgot to tell you… As you know, the Reiss Family is the real Royal Family. This plan is centred around putting you, Historia, on that throne, for the sake of Humanity,"

Walking slowly towards Historia, until he was right in her face. "What I want to ask is; will you take the throne?"

Eyes wide, Historia replied, "I can't-"

"It doesn't matter," began Levi as he leaned closer to her. "Do it."

Unable to face her captain's calculating gaze, Historia looked away. "I'm… unfit for the role…"

"So, no?" asked Levi, his eyes were cold, glaring at her.

"I'm… unfit-"

Knowing what's about to come her way, Eren decided to pity her and intervene before Levi roughed her up. Putting a hand on her arm gently, grabbing her attention as well as everyone else's due to the surprising turn of events.

"Historia," Eren began, his gentle voice catching the Historia's attention as her eyes widened, a questioning look danced across her face. "I know what the Captain is asking is a lot, I can't begin to imagine what is going on in your mind right now… but you can do this, I know you can…"

"How?! How could you possibly believe someone like m-me can be queen…?" she looked away; eyes wide in absolute fear at the thought.

Placing a hand on her shoulder, Eren gently turned her back towards him, "Because you're Historia Reiss, for all your life you have been thrown to the side like nothing and deep down, I know you would do anything to prove those people wrong… for Ymir and for yourself."

Her eyes widened in shock. "How-"

She gasped as Eren took her hand, causing a flood of memories to flash before her eyes, memories of a dark-haired older girl who took care of her and taught her how to read, the one person in her childhood that cared for her, the one that showed her what unconditional love felt like. Tears brimmed at her eyes as she remembered, how did she forget?

'How… How could I forget her?' she looked up at Eren, her hand still tightly held in his grasp.

Eren smiled, realising the memories has returned to her. "For the people you care about, you must… live your life… with pride."

Her face took on an expression of shock as she stared wide-eyed at Eren, those were the exact words Ymir had said to her when they were attacked at Utgard Castle. This reminder made something inside of her snap. This was her closest friend's wish, Ymir wanted her to live with pride and that was exactly what she intends to do from now on. Eren was right, she wanted more than anything to prove to those people, who had wronged her, that she was strong, that what they did to her only made her stronger, not weaker and if being queen was the only way to do it…

'Then so be it!'

Her eyes flashed as her face hardened in determination, she looked back at Levi and shouted, "I'll do it! I'll show everyone who Historia Reiss is! I'll be the Queen!" she breathed deeply as she stared at Levi, her jaws clenched tight as a wave of strength washed over her, like a new spark of life just ignited inside of her.

Levi's face remained blank for several moments before a slight smirk made its way onto his normally stoic face.

"Alright… we're counting on you, Historia."

She gave him a nod, "Yes sir."

Eren listened as Levi carried on explaining Erwin's plan, it was pretty much the same as when he heard it the first time. He, as well as Historia, will be handed over to the Military Police's First Squad by the Reeves Company and then they will be followed, that was the plan anyway. Of course, the plan will not go smoothly, just like last time, but he was reluctant to alter these upcoming events. He needed that hardening ability and if he changed too many things, finding it would be a lot more difficult than it needed to be. This was the easiest, and safest, way to ensure he gets that hardening ability back and retake Wall Maria again.

After Levi finished explaining the plan, everybody scattered and started to prepare for the upcoming mission, while the two Reeves waited outside. Seeing that Levi was free, Eren walked over to ask the question he had been wanting to ask ever since learning that Annie did not crystallise after their fight.

"Captain," said Eren, grabbing Levi's attention.

Levi's gaze shifted to Eren. "Yes?"

"I want to talk to Annie," stated Eren.

Levi gave Eren a blank look as he spoke, "…Why?"

"If we can get Annie to fight for us, I think it will be hugely beneficial to our cause," reasoned Eren.

"And why do you believe she would even want to talk to us? She was the one that attacked us, or have you forgotten that during that coma of yours?"

"Captain-"

"No."

Eren sighed in frustration. "Captain, please let me talk to Commander Erwin at least. If he says no, then that will be the last time you'll hear about this."

Levi continued to stare blankly at Eren. "I don't trust her," he stated.

Eren opened his mouth but Levi raised a hand, quieting Eren, before continuing, "But… I'll let you speak to Erwin once we carry out his plan."

Eren gave him an appreciative smile and nod before walking away, preparing himself for the upcoming mission. Once he was ready, he gathered in front of the house, with the rest of the squad.

Walking up to Armin, Eren placed a reassuring hand on his best friend's shoulder. "Stay safe Armin, and you better save my ass!"

"You can count on it," replied Armin.

Eren and Armin shared a brief smile before Eren started walking towards Mikasa, who had been watching the exchange in silence with a small smile lighting up her usually stoic face, happy to see her two childhood friends together.

"Mikasa," greeted Eren as he came to a stop in front of her, his voice was soft as he spoke, his tone was unfamiliar to ears that were used to the usual harshness of his voice throughout the years after the Shiganshina attack.

She felt emotions well up in inside of her as she realised, before he was in a coma, she thought that voice was lost many years ago, a voice that reminded her of simpler times, of a calmer, innocent, and happier Eren. When they played outside all day, with Armin, and came home to his loving family, the family that took her in and dulled the pain of losing her own parents.

She looked back at Eren, her face didn't show the emotions she was feeling inside, but Eren noticed, because despite everything if there was one person in the world that could read Mikasa like a book, it was Eren.

"Eren," she replied, her voice copying the soft tone he greeted her with.

Putting a gentle hand on her arm, Eren said, "Stay safe okay?"

Her eyes widened, still not used to the way Eren was treating her. "Y-yeah of course, you too…" she trailed off as Eren started pulling her closer until he was hugging her, she flushed red at the affectionate gesture but happily returned the hug, resting her head on his shoulder as he held her.

"I've never thanked you for all the times you've stood by my side," Eren began, Mikasa remained quiet as he continued. "So, thank you… for everything, for believing in me, for protecting me, for knocking sense into me when I was being stupid," he chuckled. "But most of all, thank you for being in my life…"

Mikasa's eyes widened as her eyes brimmed with tears, her hold on Eren tightened as she listened to him speak. An unfamiliar feeling welled up inside of her. She didn't know what to do, what could she say? She never expected this from Eren, he had never spoken to her like this, not even when they were kids. All she wanted for the longest time was to just stay by his side. To listen to him thank her for being in his life, the emotions she was feeling now was too much, even for her, as tears started leaking from her eyes and before she could even comprehend what happened, a sob escaped her as she buried her face in Eren's shoulder.

Everyone turned snapped their heads towards the embracing pair as the sound of sobbing reached their ears. Levi merely raised an eyebrow as he realised just exactly who was sobbing, while everyone stared in surprise, seeing their comrade and friend express so much emotion, a sight they were not used to.

After a few moments, when Mikasa finally calmed, Eren leaned back from the hug to get a better look at her. Seeing tears still, slowly, leaking from her eyes. He gently wiped them away with his thumb as he stared at her face, taking in her features, she was beautiful and easily distinguishable from everyone else due to her oriental heritage. Leaning up slowly, Eren gently pressed his lips to Mikasa's forehead before leaning away. Her face flushed at the gesture.

"Oi brats! We have to go, save your lovey-dovey shit for after the mission!" bellowed Levi, causing the two teens to finally separate. Eren smiled sheepishly at the Captain, while Mikasa stare wide-eyed at the Captain, her face slightly red with embarrassment.

Turning to face Mikasa again, "See you on the other side Mikasa," said Eren, before making his way towards Historia, who was flanked by Dimo and Flegel Reeves.

'Here we go again,' thought Eren as he came to a stop next to Historia.


Eren groaned as he slowly opened his eyes, squinting slightly at the brightness of the crystals that filled his vision. He froze as he realised that something was tied around his face, blocking his ability to speak.

'God fucking dammit, this again! I forgot I was gagged!'

"Eren?! Are you awake?!"

Looking down, he saw Historia looking up at him.

"Everything's okay, just hold on a little longer!" she said. "My father... has always been and will always be an ally to what's left of humanity inside these walls. We misunderstood him."

Eren just continued to stare at her like she was crazy.

Historia continued to try to justify her father's actions, "Yes, he interfered with the Survey Corps and he had Minister Nick and the Reeves men killed. But he didn't have any other choice," she paused. "It was… what he had to do for Humanity's sake."

Eren glared as he watched Rod Reiss walk up beside her. "Historia, let me explain the rest,"

Grabbing her hand, he led her up the stairs towards the chained Eren. "What is wrong? This is your first time here… but it wouldn't be odd if you remembered it."

As they stood behind Eren, Historia looked up at her father. "Father are you going to explain to Eren?" she asked.

"Yes… I plan to, but there's something I'd like to try," he began. "We only need to touch him. I suppose you could call it an explanation. He has the memory of what happened here somewhere inside of him," he turned towards Eren. "Doing this might make him remember… a slight trigger may be all that's needed in this place. That, or…" he trailed off as he and Historia placed their hands on Eren's bare back, then…

Nothing.

"So?" Rod Reiss began, "Now do you remember… your father's sin?"

Historia turned to her father. "…Father?" she said. "What do you mean his father's sins?"

Turning to look at her. "I once had five children, but five years ago, my wife and all of our children were killed in this place… by Grisha Yeager, his father," he explained, causing Historia's eyes to widen in shock.

"Grisha possessed Titan power, I didn't know who he was… he came here to steal away the power of the Reiss Family, and what Grisha sought was the Titan Power that resided inside my daughter, a beautiful girl with long, black hair, her name was Frieda… Frieda Reiss."

Historia stared up at her father. "Long, black hair? S-she was the one that taught me how to read and write… she was so kind to me and Eren's father killed her…?"

Rod's own eyes widened at this new information. "You knew Frieda?" he said, surprised. "I suppose she worried about you and checked in on you from time to time."

"W-what happened… how did she…?" Historia trailed off, staring at her father in expectation, the question was clear.

"Frieda… she possessed the greatest of all the Titan's. Her Titan possessed an invincible power, but… she lacked the experience needed to exploit its full potential and so, unable to unleash her true abilities… Frieda was eaten by Grisha… who stole that power away," he explained, his eyes looked solemn as he looked back at his remaining daughter.

Eren closed his eyes as he blocked Rod's voice out, he didn't need to hear this. He knew what his father did, he saw through his father's eyes how he had killed each of Rod Reiss's children but in the end, it was the only way… This was something Eren had learned throughout the years as he carried out actions that were worse than anything his father did and he did it with no hesitation, just like his father, in the name of freedom.

Historia glanced at Eren. "My poor sister… How could he do such a terrible thing?"

It was at that moment that Kenny Ackerman strolled in, telling Rod Reiss to hurry up and do what needs to be done as it was only a matter of time before the Survey Corps find where they were before walking back out, preparing to face the incoming invasion. It was a relief to Eren to know that the Coup D'état was a success, just like last time.

Eren watched as Rod Reiss disappeared and returned with a briefcase.

"It seems we're finally alone," Rod said.

"Father…"

"I'm sorry I kept you waiting, Historia."

"Father… what is that?" she asked, watching as her father pulled out a small case before opening it, revealing its contents. He pulled the syringe out before filling it with the liquid that was in the vial, which came from the same small case as the syringe.

Standing up, he placed a hand on Historia's shoulder. "Listen Historia," he said. "This may sound ridiculous to you, but Frieda hasn't died yet."

Historia stared at her father, wide-eyed. "…What?"

"Frieda's memories live on. Do you want to meet your sister?"

Historia smiled at the thought. "Yeah… I do…"

A loud boom echoed in the crystal cave, alerting Rod Reiss that the Survey Corps was closing in on them.

Turning his head towards Eren, Rod asked, "Why are you so quiet Eren Yeager? Have you not figured out your fate?"

"What?" asked Historia, confused.

Turning back to look at his daughter again. "The power his father stole will be returned to its rightful place, Historia. Inside of you."

"Huh?"

Rod went on the explain how Frieda was the only one that knew the true history of the world before a century ago and that if she still had her power, she could've stopped all that has happened in their world. Which was questioned by Historia, as she was confused as to why it wasn't stopped already.

They were interrupted as Kenny Ackerman appeared again, expressing his desire to take the power of the Titans before threatening Rod with his gun but before anything could happen, Historia grabbed hold of his gun, blocking any movement.

Snatching his gun away, he turned to Historia. "Ya get it, right? After what he tolda ya? This old man's tryin' to turn ya into a monster and make ya eat Eren."

Historia's eyes widened before taking on an expression of determination. "Aren't those my orders? What's so sad about becoming a Titan and saving all of humanity?"

"Huh... Ya think it's your mission to eat your friend and upset your little tummy?" replied Kenny.

Historia glared at him. "Yes… I'm going to eat Eren and bring my sister back! Then I'll inherit the history of this world, and… wipe out all the Titans! That… is my mission!"

"Whoa, who. Hold on. Historia? Have ya forgotten what your dad did to ya?" he said, before explaining the circumstances of her birth, how he was ordered to make kill her mother and the reason why her father even saved her was because of her blood. He went on further to say her father never cared about anyone, not even his family, he only cared about protecting himself before dropping him.

Eren watched as Kenny made his way up the stairs towards him, 'Finally,' Eren released a relieved sigh as the gag was released from his mouth. He winced as Kenny sliced his forehead open before flying out of there.

Stretching his neck, he sighed as he listened to Rod as he tried to convince Historia to take the injection. He chuckled, its volume slowly increasing until it became full-blown laughter as he thought about everything Rod said to Historia. He never realised how much of a liar he was.

"Eren…?" said Historia, her voice mixed with confusion.

His laughing stopped abruptly. "Don't you see Historia?"

"Huh?"

"Don't you see how much of a liar your father is?" he glared at the man in question.

"Everything about saving humanity was a lie! A lie!" he shouted, anger leaking into his voice as he spoke, "How many Reiss family members have inherited this Titan and why did none of them save humanity huh? Because they can't! And I know exactly why!"

His lips twitched upwards into a smirk as he watched Rod's face morph into one of fear and shock. "Yeah, that's right… I know… I know everything, Rod Reiss. No one in the Reiss family can save humanity because it's the King's will… every Reiss that inherited this Titan was influenced by the King's will to the point of being slaves to it! The truth is…" he turned to Historia, his voice becoming soft, "If you take this Titan, Historia, you will be influenced too and the cycle will continue. So, please… don't do it."

He gave her a genuine smile as he voiced his next words, "Live your life… with pride."

Her eyes widened as a memory of Ymir flashed in front of her mind. Her eyes shifted to the syringe that she held in her grasp, her eyes filled with anger as Eren's words sunk in.

"No."

"Historia?" said Rod.

Turning to look at her father, her face now morphed into an expression of anger, "I won't do it."

Grabbing her arm tightly in desperation. "Historia-"

Pulling her arm away, she threw the injection to the ground, shattering it.

"HISTORIA!" he screamed as he grabbed her harshly.

With a swift move, Historia slammed her father to the ground before shouting, "What a load of bull! You're just trying to save yourself! I've had enough!"

She snatched the briefcase and ran up the stairs towards Eren. Once she was behind him, she hastily grabbed the keys and started to unchain him. After pulling the chain, that was wrapped around his waist, loose, there was a huge explosion in front of them as Rod Reiss started transforming into a Titan.

'Ah shit,' Eren thought as he felt the gust of hot air hit him, causing the contents of the briefcase to spill behind them while Historia grabbed onto Eren, steadying herself, as she tried to unlock the locks around his ankles but it wasn't long before Historia was blown backwards, only managing to unlock one of the two locks.

Before her head cracked against the wall, she was caught by a strong hand. Squinting slightly, she looked at her saviour, it was Mikasa.

"You okay?"

"Mikasa!" exclaimed Historia, relieved to see a familiar face.

Eren looked back at the approaching squad, "Guys! Hurry, get me out of these damn chains!"

Jean, Connie, and Levi scrambled up to Eren. Jean grabbed hold of Eren's right arm as he fought against the gusts of hot air trying to blow them backwards while Levi grabbed the other. Connie, the one with the keys, wrapped an arm around Eren's waist as he tried to set his remaining ankle loose.

"Hurry up, Connie!" shouted Levi as he struggled against the force pushing against him.

"Damnit, I'm trying! There are just so many bloody keys!" shouted Connie as he fumbled with the keys, trying to find the right one.

Looking up, Levi stated, "That roof is going to collapse."

Jean watched in horror as the Titan in front of them continued to grow, not even the roof could stop it as the growth of the Titan cracked the crystal roof, causing pieces of it to start falling everywhere as it slowly fell apart around the Titan.

Looking up, Jean watched as a massive piece, right above them, dislodged and started falling.

"Got it!" shouted Connie as the last chain was released with a resounding click.

"Ah! Move!" shouted Jean as he grabbed Eren and jumped back, with Levi and Connie, just as the large piece of the roof that dislodged came crashing down on the spot where they just stood.

Huddled up near the stairs, Squad Levi watched as everything around them fell apart as the gigantic Titan in front of them continued to grow.

"This is bad! How the fuck do we get out?!" shouted Jean.

Eren knew exactly what to do. After grabbing the Armoured Serum from Rod's briefcase, that was on the ground next to him, he stood up and opened the bottle before downing it all in one go. Wiping his mouth, he took one step forward.

"Stay back," ordered Eren as he observed the familiar scene in front of him, he got what he came here to do; to get back his hardening ability and now it's time to end this.

"W-what the fuck are you doing?" shouted Jean.

Eren looked back at Jean, smirking. "I'm getting everyone out of here alive," he said before running at Rod's Titan. As he got to the end of the platform, he jumped and bit his hand while mid-air, in a flash of lightning, the Attack Titan has emerged.

As soon as he was in his Titan form, Eren thrusted his hands to the side and started to crystallise. Like a parasite, Eren started producing streams of this armour substance and everyone watched as it spread around the area, forming a protective layer that prevented the roof from crashing down on them.

"Eren!" shouted a worried Mikasa as she ran towards the hardened form of Eren's Titan.


Historia just had her coronation; she was Queen now. After Eren saved everyone from the collapsing crystal cave, they waited at Orvud District for Rod's Titan and when he finally arrived, the events that transpired were pretty much the same compared to Eren's original reality.

Eren stood a good distance away from the crowd, leaning against a building with his arms folded as he watched the celebrations from afar. His eyes scanned the area, he was looking around for Captain Levi.

He sighed. "Why does Captain Levi have to be such a midget," he muttered to himself.

"What was that brat?"

Whipping his head around in absolute horror, Eren's eyes widened in absolute terror as he laid eyes on Levi. Taking a nervous step back, he put his hands up in front of his face, fearing a beatdown.

"N-nothing, I-I didn't say anything, I swear! Must be the wind! Yeah must be!" he chuckled nervously as Levi continued to stare him down or was it up? This caused him to shrink further within himself in fear as the seconds ticked by.

"There is no wind," Levi deadpanned.

Sweat started forming on Eren's forehead as he stared fearfully into the cold, emotionless eyes of his Captain. 'Please don't beat me up…'

"Eren."

Eren sighed in relief when the sound of Commander Erwin's voice reached his ears. Looking past Levi, Eren saw Commander Erwin, who was looking at him intently. Levi must've told Erwin about his request.

"I'm glad to see you up and alive, you have recovered exceptionally well for someone who had been in a coma for around a month," said Erwin. "Must be your accelerated regenerative ability."

Straightening himself up, Eren replied, "Yes sir, I feel good and ready to contribute in whatever way I can."

"Good," replied Erwin. "Levi told me that you wanted to speak to me about Annie, more specifically, your request to speak to Annie Leonhart."

"Yes sir, with the information we could potentially gain from Annie as well as her Titan shifting abilities, she would be a valuable asset to our survival," reasoned Eren.

Erwin's face took on a thoughtful expression as he pondered Eren's words. "I can definitely see the advantages of having Annie Leonhart on our side," he said. "And you're willing to do this, even after what she did to you? You're willing to take this risk? She could betray us all."

Eren nodded. "Yes sir, she could but at the same time, she could be invaluable to us. Risks must be taken for our survival; we don't have the luxury of playing it safe."

Erwin smiled as Eren said those words, he understood those words more than anyone. "If that's the case, I'll let Levi take you to see her, as well as anyone from your squad that wishes to do the same. However, she is due to go on trial for her crimes in the coming days. Whether she is even allowed to live is not up to me, that decision falls on General Darius Zackly. Of course, we will make a case, or more specifically, you will make a case for her."

Eren's eyes widened at this, it was to be expected but this does complicate things. It was nearly guaranteed that everyone in that courtroom will want Annie's head on a spike for what she had done. How in the world was he supposed to convince everyone in the courtroom, especially General Zackly, to keep Annie alive?

"Do you think you can convince those people in that courtroom?" asked Erwin.

Eren's eyes flashed with determination, he nodded.

Erwin turned to Levi. "What about you Levi? What do you think we should do with Annie?"

Levi tensed. "She killed my squad," he stated simply, his eyes were blank as he looked Erwin in the eye. "But… I'll trust your judgement Erwin, like I always have," turning to look at Eren, "If you manage to keep her alive, just know if she steps one foot out of line, I'll kill her myself. Understood?"

"Yes sir," replied Eren.

"Good. The date of the trial is five days from now, be here before noon. Levi will take you to her, go and gather anyone from your squad that wishes to accompany you."


"Eren, she's a traitor," warned Mikasa as she glanced at Eren while they, with Jean, Sasha, and Armin followed Captain Levi down the steps that lead to Annie's holding cell.

Eren sighed, "I know Mikasa, but did we ever find out why she did everything she did?"

"No-"

"Then let's hear her out, I know how you must feel but she could prove invaluable to the Survey Corps," reasoned Eren

Mikasa looked worriedly at Eren as she grabbed a hold of his sleeves, bringing them to a stop. Eren gave her a sympathetic look, he knew now how worried she had been throughout their years together in the Survey Corps, but he had to try. He promised to do things differently this time around and Annie could be the first major change that will set the course of this reality into a future that meant everyone he cared about lived long happy lives.

Removing her hand from his sleeve and holding it gently in his grasp, Eren said, "Trust me."

Mikasa looked at Eren with worried eyes but eventually surrendered. "Fine, but I'll kill her if she does anything that hinders us."

Eren chuckled as they started walking again. "Don't worry, the Captain is already on it."

They continued to walk in silence until they saw a single locked wooden door, which was lit faintly by two torches that were placed on the walls on either side of the door. Their footsteps echoed off the walls as they walked closer to what they assume was Annie's prison.

"Alright, we're here. As requested, Eren will talk to her alone first and if any of you want to talk to her after, be my guest," said Levi.

Turning towards the door, Levi brought out a set of keys before inserting one into the lock that was on the door. With a twist and a click, the door unlocked. Levi slowly twisted the handle before pushing the door open.

"Who's there?" Annie's voice sounded loud as it pierced through the silence.

Grabbing one of the torches from the wall, Levi held it towards Eren. "It's time, go in."

Eren took a deep breath. Taking the torch off Levi, he slowly walked into the darkness. He glanced briefly towards the door as he heard it shut behind him. Noticing a holder for torches on the wall next to the door, he placed his torch on it, allowing it to lightly illuminate the dark room.

"Eren…"

Slowly turning around, he looked towards the wall that was furthest away from the door. There she was; Annie. She was chained up against the wall, wearing rags while each limb was shackled, forcing her against the wall. Her legs and arms were forced wide apart from each other by the chains, preventing her from transforming. Not like transforming in a cramped place like this was going to do any good. Her facial features were unhealthily sharp as she had lost weight, there were dark circles under her eyes, giving her a dull deathly look while her skin took on a paler complexion due to the lack of sunlight. Her usually well-kept blonde hair was frizzled and fell in front of her eyes.

"Annie," Eren greeted curtly, he walked towards her and sat down on the chair that was already placed in front of her.

"I thought I killed you…" her voice croaked from the lack of use.

"It's going to take a lot more than that to kill me. You know me, I don't know when to give up," he replied.

She continued to stare at him through emotionless, dead, eyes. "Why are you here?" she whispered.

"It's simple," he began. "I want you to help me. I want you to help the Survey Corps."

Annie's eyes widened, surprised. "Why… why would you want me to help you? Why do you think I would ever agree to this? Don't you see… I was part of the group that attacked Shiganshina, I was part of the reason your mother died."

Eren's face remained impassive as he listened to her. "I know," he began, he has had years to get used to that fact. "But I also know why you did it. I know about Marley, I know about Liberio and the Warriors programme. I know exactly how us Eldians are treated in Marley."

"H-how…?" Annie sputtered; how did he know? Could it be he unlocked the memories of previous holders of his Titan?

"Does it matter?" questioned Eren. "I want to bring change to this hate-filled world. I want Eldians free from that hate, I want everyone in these walls and all those Eldians in Marley to be free," leaning forward, he looked Annie dead in the eyes. "And I want you to help me bring about this change."

Her eyes dropped to the ground, she whispered, "But… I just don't care… why should I? All I want to do is go home," she looked back at Eren. "I just want to go back home to my father." her voice broke a little as she spoke, a lone tear escaped her eye at the thought of her father, waiting for her.

Eren leaned back on his chair. "Did you ever care about any of us Annie?" he asked.

Annie was taken back by that question; she didn't expect it. She looked away from him. Did she care about them? She honestly doesn't know. She had always told herself repeatedly over the years that these people were nothing to her but was it wrong of her to admit that she did indeed care, even if just a little? She was human after all. She wasn't stupid, after spending all those years on this island, it was clear these people weren't devils, they were just… people.

"You know Annie…" Eren began, his voice bringing Annie out of her thoughts. "Before all this, before we found out that you were the Female Titan, I thought of you as a friend."

Annie was rendered speechless.

Seeing her expression, he said, "Is it that surprising? We spent a lot of time training together during our cadet years. You taught me your fighting technique and it has stuck with me, even now. I respected and valued you as a friend, someone that I trusted," Eren sighed. "Did you know I refused to accept that you were the Female Titan even though Armin said you were? It hurt me to know who you were and what you did, I refused to accept it even though my oldest friend Armin, whose words I trust above all, told me so."

Annie continued to just stare at Eren as he spoke. What was she supposed to say? She never had a 'friend', nor did she ever consider anyone close enough to be one but now here he was, someone who thought of her as such and from the sound of things, he considered her as a relatively close friend. Was he just saying these things to try and break her down? Was he lying? Annie prized herself as someone who was exceptionally good at reading people and from what she could gather, Eren was being truthful and that scared her. She always thought having friends were just distractions, weaknesses. But maybe… just maybe she was wrong…

She was brought out of her musings when Eren stood up abruptly, she watched curiously as he got a little closer to her. "I don't know your father, but I do understand your devotion to him. He is your father, and nothing will change that." He stated. "Despite everything you have done, you were my friend even if you didn't view me the same way. Believe it or not, I want to help you. So, please, let me help you Annie."

She stared at him in disbelief, how could he say that after everything she had done? "Why?! Are you really going to forget about everything just because you think I'm your friend? You have every right to kill me and you're just going to let me go?" she said, her voice was laced with disbelief.

"No," he began curtly. "I want to change this world, to do that I must not fall victim to the endless cycle of death. You're right, I do have every right to kill you right here and right now. But what's the point? I may be willing to help you Annie but don't get it twisted, I don't forget," his eyes flashed dangerously as he said those words, causing Annie to lean back a little with the unfamiliar look. Sure, Eren was dangerous, fuelled by revenge, anyone with that kind of fire was dangerous but the look he just gave her sent a feeling of ice-cold ruthlessness that she had never associated Eren with. He was different from the person she remembered.

"You're different," she stated.

Eren chuckled. "More than you know Annie, more than you know…" he looked at her intently. "Look, your trial is in a few days. I will vouch for you. Everyone will want you dead and I will be the only person vouching for you on behalf of the Survey Corps. You need to make a choice; will you help me or not? Think about it. I'll see you at the trial Annie," he turned away from her and started making his way towards the exit.

"I-" she stuttered. "Eren…"

He stopped just before he reached the door, glancing back, he replied, "Yes?"

She looked away, unable to meet his eyes. "I… Thank you…" she said, her voice barely above a whisper but he heard her, his slightly widened eyes showed that.

He gave her a small smile before opening the door and walking out. With a click as the door closed, Annie was alone again. She sighed and slumped against the wall, the chains around her wrists holding her up. 'What the fuck just happened?'


The day of Annie's trial has finally come. Eren, Erwin, and Levi stood on one side of the courtroom while several soldiers of the Survey Corps stood behind them. The Military Police stood on the other side, just like they had during Eren's trial. The room was filled with various people of importance, quietly discussing the details of the trial amongst themselves.

General Zackly sat on the judges' chair as he looked over the documents in front of him, he analysed the information about Annie Leonhart critically, information such as her crimes, her training, and her past or lack thereof regarding the latter. Next to him, sat Queen Historia who had decided to attend the trial.

The room quieted down when the entrance of the room opened, followed by sounds of chain rattling against the ground as Annie Leonhart appeared before the courtroom, flanked by two Survey Corps soldiers, who were dragging her roughly to the centre of the room. Just like they did with Eren during his trial, they brought her to her knees and locked her in place.

Darius Zackly cleared his throat. "We shall now begin the trial of Annie Leonhart."


A/N I hope you liked that chapter. The next chapter will focus on Annie's trial, I'm going to have a long think of how I want it to go and what should be said etc. See you next time! Don't forget to review, I'm always trying to improve my writing, so if there is anything wrong with my grammar or anything, don't be afraid to let me know.

See ya!