A/N: Welcome back to Chapter 3 of Our New Daughter. I'm on a role! I hope you guys are enjoying the story so far. I know some of you are confused at the Titan's behavior in the last chapter, don't worry that'll be explained later. I'm not sure when, but it will. From this point on this story will be M rated. Since I'm going to have certain themes and topics other than violence. Any who here's the next chapter, so enjoy.
Rating: M (for this chapter; language, and "sexual themes?" I guess? Read and find out.
"Talking."
"Flashbacks/off screen speech/thoughts."
"Titan Shifter speech."
Chapter 3: A Forced Choice
Eren and Krista stood outside of the Garrison Headquarters. For the past three minutes, Eren just stood still, glaring at the building in front of them. Krista just stood off to the side, waiting patiently as she eyed him. The child in Eren's arms had long since fallen asleep, as she continued to cling to Eren. Soon, Eren started walking to the front doors of the building. Just has he felt his right arm had fully regenerated.
Entering through the doors, Eren and Krista walked inside the Garrison HQ. Krista looked around as she continued to follow Eren. She could see members of the Garrison Corps doing variety of things. Some were sitting down and conversing one to another. Others were cleaning, and some were walking around going about their duties. As she and Eren approached the person at the front desk, several female members of the Garrison Corps saw the child in his arms. They smiled sweetly and "awed" at the sleeping child in Eren arms. He however, ignored them, while Krista just smiled sweetly at them. Once they had approached the front desk the soldier seated there greeted Eren.
"Welcome, what business are you Scouts here for?"
"We are here to meet with Commander Pixis. We were told that he needed to see us."
The soldier looked down at the paper in front of him. Then he turned his attention back to Eren.
"Are you Mr. Yaeger?"
Eren nodded in response. Then the soldier pointed to Krista.
"Then that means you are Miss. Lenz, I presume?"
"Y-Yes, I am Miss. Lenz."
The soldier nodded and then pointed to the stairs.
"Go up those stairs, and turn right. Go down until you reach a set of double doors. That's Commander Pixis office. He's expecting you, so you can just walk right on in."
Eren slightly bowed and said, "Thank you."
With that Eren turned and walked away from the front desk, towards the stairs. Eren climbed the stairs with Krista right behind him. Once they got to the second floor, they turned right. And sure enough, they reached the double doors to Pixis Office. Opening the door, they were greeted by the older Commander.
"Ah, Mr. Yaeger, Miss Lenz. I assume you two completed your mission?"
"You are correct Sir."
Eren and Krista stopped in front of Pixis. Commander Pixis was currently standing behind his desk.
"And I presume you brought the package with you?"
Eren nodded.
"Commander Pixis, permission to speak freely sir?"
"Permission granted."
Eren sighed heavily, and looked down at the child in his arms. She is currently sleeping, completely unaware of what's going on around her. Then Eren looked at Commander Pixis.
"Did you know that the package you sent Krista and me to retrieve and escort back, was this child?"
Commander Pixis, face fell as he sighed heavily.
"I'm going to be honest with you, Mr. Yaeger." Commander Pixis paused as he stared between Krista and Eren. Then he laid his eyes directly on Eren. "No." He answered. "No, I did not. I assumed that the package Zachary wanted us to retrieve was something else. Like you was I was left in the dark as what the real package really was."
Eren looked directly into Pixis eyes, as he glared at him. Eren was trying to see if the older Commander was lying, but he didn't see anything that suggest that he is. If he was, he is hiding it very well. Sighing to himself, Eren leaned his head back.
"So…" Eren said to himself. "We have no idea who this child is, then."
Krista decided then to speak up.
"C-Commander?"
Pixis turned to Krista with a smile. "Yes?"
"Um…" Krista was having some trouble processing her thoughts. But the Commander waited for her to speak her mind. "Um, the child. What's going to happen to the child? Now, that we brought her here? I mean, she is the package that we were suppose to deliver to you after all."
Pixis pulled out his canteen and took a drink. Afterwards, he put it away and sighed silently to himself.
"Well," He began. "what's going to happen now, would be to get that child to a family. After all, she needs to be taken care of. But first she needs to be taken to the hospital to make sure nothing is wrong with her. Then a new family will adopt her."
Krista face fell for a moment as she looked towards the sleeping child. It's true that the child needs to be placed to a good home. After all she still needed to be taken care of. And two young scouts wouldn't know anything knowledge in taking care of a child. Eren sighed softly as he turned back to Pixis.
"Do you want us to take the child to the hospital, Sir?"
Pixis smiled but shook his head. "No, I'll do it. I was going to head over there after I'd talk to you. Besides, you two had done enough for this old man. You two need rest."
Eren nodded and slowly cradled the child, to hand to Pixis. But Pixis put up a hand.
"Hold on a minute, Yaeger." He then turned to Krista. "Miss. Lenz, if you could take off your 'Wings of Freedom' for me."
Krista was a bit taken back at this request, but she followed orders and took off her 'Wings of Freedom' cape. She then handed it to Pixis. Pixis then placed the cape on his desk. He then turned towards Eren.
"Now Yaeger, gently placed the child on top of the cape."
Eren turned towards Krista, who just looks equally confused as well. But following Pixis advice, Eren placed the child on top of Krista's cape.
"Now for your 'Wings of Freedom' cape, Mr. Yaeger."
Eren is now extremely confused, but took off his cape. Then following Pixis instruction placed his cape on top of the child. Then Eren and Krista watched as Pixis swaddle the sleeping child with their capes. Once done, Pixis turned towards the two scouts.
"Mr. Yaeger, and Miss. Lenz you are free to go. I shall take the child to the hospital as soon as possible."
Eren and Krista both saluted, and they turned around and left Pixis office. As Eren and Krista left Commander Pixis office, another man entered. An older man with glasses, mustache and a white coat.
"Ah, Dr. Nile, what a pleasant surprise."
Dr. Nile just smiled at Pixis, however, he stopped abruptly once he saw the little bundle, wrapped with the cape of the two scouts that were here.
"Commander Pixis…Is that-"
"She is, but you can't speak more about her here."
Dr. Nile stared intensely at Pixis.
"Does that mean she made it to Safe-haven?"
Dot Pixis just sighed as he took a drink from his canteen. He then eyed the sleeping child on his desk. Hopefully, she'll stay asleep long enough for them to do what they needed to do.
"Not yet, I'm afraid."
This caused Dr. Nile to be shocked.
"What?"
This statement got Dr. Nile to think.
"If she's not at Safe-haven yet, then something went wrong."
Dr. Nile took this time to really look at the sleeping child. He walked closer to her and as his eyes scanned over the child, it was then that Dr. Nile eyes went wide. His mouth dropped open as he stared at the child in shock.
"She-She…She isn't covered? This is bad. This is bad!"
"Something wrong, Dr. Nile?"
Dr. Nile struggled to speak as he turned his attention to Commander Pixis.
"The child she isn't covered." Dr. Nile quickly started to take off his coat. "Quickly, Commander Pixis, we must cover her before-"
"It's too late for that Dr. Nile, she has already imprinted herself on someone."
Dr. Nile stood shock as his coat fell to the ground. Then without thinking he rushed over to Pixis and grabbed his uniform.
"This is bad Commander Pixis! If she imprinted herself on someone else other than them, it'll be a disaster. You must tell me who it was that she imprinted on!"
The sound of the sleeping child stiring caused both men to stop in their tracks. They both watched at the child slightly moved before settling down, signaling that she's still asleep. Both Dr. Nile and Pixis sighed in relief.
"Dr. Nile, you must calm yourself down. I'll tell you everything I can, but for now I ask you, do you trust me?"
Dr. Nile let go of Commander Pixis and took a step back.
"I trust you Commander Pixis."
Commander Pixis smiled.
"Good. Now, I can't tell you with whom she imprinted herself on yet. And before you object," Commander Pixis raised a hand to stop Dr. Nile from speaking. "I would rather you to see who it was that she imprinted on, but I can't show you to them yet. The reason why, is because Safe-haven isn't built yet. We have one more week until it's done, then she'll be moved to Safe-haven with no problems. But we have a bigger problem to deal with first."
Commander Pixis eyed the sleeping child with a stern look.
"We must make sure that she doesn't wake up first."
-Year 845 *two months before fall of Shinganshina*
A tall, slender looking man approached a luxurious estate house gate. Standing on the otherside of the gate were two older couple. The woman approached the gate in desperation.
"Dr. Yaeger, thank goodness you have come."
Dr. Yaeger smiled.
"I got here as soon as I got your message. Now tell me what happened?"
The older gentleman opened the estate gate, while he did this he spoke.
"Well, our granddaughter, as you know, got very sick with a high fever two weeks ago. Now, we gave her the medicine that you gave us for her fever."
Dr. Yaeger walked onto the compound as the gate was shut behind him. Looking around he could see no one else outside. Though this is a huge estate owned by Rod Reiss. However, Dr. Yaeger has yet seen a single yard servant since he stood outside the estate.
"Did the fever went away after you gave her the medicine?"
"Yes," The woman said as she walked behind Dr. Yaeger. "The fever went away but it came back three and a half days ago."
"So…Then it worked." Dr. Yaeger thought to himself.
"Are there any one else here besides you two? Family members? Friends?"
The older man shook his head. "No, we sent the servants home as your letter instructed. And her father isn't here, nor her mother."
"Hmm."
Dr. Yaeger stopped in front of the house and turned to the older couple.
"I want you two to stay here outside."
"I should come in with you." The older man said.
"No." Dr. Yaeger said sternly. "I need to be alone with her. Only after I am finished with my work would you be able to see her. For now, it'll be best for her if I am alone. And whatever you do, don't come in."
The man inhaled deeply and nodded. With that Dr. Yaeger entered the house alone. He quickly looked around the inside of the house. Then went up the stairs towards the upper floors. He soon heard heavily breathing coming from one of the rooms. Entering the room, he noticed the 10-year old girl under the covers. She turned to him once she heard the door opening. Dr. Yaeger smiled.
"Historia, it's Dr. Yaeger. Do you remember me?"
Historia breathed deeply as she panted, but she shook her head.
"I remember you. You gave me some medicine to help me."
Historia saw Dr. Yaeger grinned.
"You still have your memories, that's good."
Historia was a bit confused about this statement.
"How is that good, Dr. Yaeger?"
Dr. Yaeger laughed as he answered.
"Because, it means that your condition will get better. Now then," Dr. Yaeger took a chair and sat down. "can you sit for me? I need to look you over."
Historia continued to pant, but she nodded and slowly, very slowly, sat up. Though weaken by the fever, Historia was able to sit up. Once Historia sat up, Dr. Yaeger took a look at her vital signs. Her eyes could still see, her ears were in working order. Her throat was a bit sore, but nothing too serious. Soon, it was time for Dr. Yaeger to get down to what he needed to do.
"Alright, Historia, I need you to get undressed."
If Historia wasn't already red, she would be. But Historia knows that Dr. Yaeger was there to help her get better. Just like before. Nodding, Historia slipped her sweat-soaked nightgown that she was wearing off her body. Feeling the cool air hit her body, cause some relief for Historia as she slightly shivered. Dr. Yaeger took the blankets off the bed before turning his attention back to the young Historia.
"You have to take off your underwear as well, Historia. But don't you worry, I'm not here to hurt you. Understand?"
Historia slowly nodded and did as she told. She took off her small underwear. With in a few moments, she sat on the bed completely nude. Dr. Yaeger meanwhile, had grabbed somethings out of his bag. Once he has the items, he walked back to Historia.
"All right Historia, now I need to you lie down for me, OK?"
Historia, did as she's told and laid down on her back. Then Dr. Yaeger looked down on her.
"Now, I want you to relax. I'm going to touch your body, but only for medical purposes. I need to know if there's any short of things that shouldn't there. Understand?"
Historia could feel her heart beating quickly, and she was nervous about what's going to happen. But she nodded. And as soon as she nodded, Dr. Yaeger placed his hands on her. Historia gasp, as Dr. Yaeger was gently feeling around her upper shoulders. She could feel Dr. Yaeger massage some spots with his hands and fingers. Then she felt him go lower. His hands would at times skim over certain areas, while massaging others. This caused strange sensations to wash over Historia, as she continued to gasp and slightly squirm under Dr. Yaeger's touch. Gripping tightly against the bed sheets. Then she gasped loudly when Dr. Yaeger's fingers and hands went over her small nipples. Her body arched as her legs pushed her lower body off the bed. Dr. Yaeger lifted his hands away from Historia.
"It's alright Historia. How are you feeling?"
Historia was panting slightly hard, as she looked at Dr. Yaeger.
"I feel weird, strange sensations."
"This is working a lot better than I had hope."
"That means, you are maturing. It's a completely normal experience. Understand?"
Historia nodded as she gripped the sheets tighter. She felt Dr. Yaeger placed his hands on her again. And just like before, the strange sensations continue to shoot through her body. Especially in her chest area. A few moments later, Dr. Yaeger moved from her chest and down to her stomach. Historia, lightly started to giggled as she felt Dr. Yaeger fingers around the navel.
"That tickles, Dr. Yaeger."
Dr. Yaeger smiled and started feeling Historia's waist. And soon, he reached Historia's lower region. Then Historia quickly balled up out of fear. Causing Dr. Yaeger to remove his hands.
"Dr. Yaeger, no!"
"Historia," Dr. Yaeger said softly. "it's alright."
Dr. Yaeger knew that Historia was a bit frighten.
"I'm not here to hurt you, remember? I'm a doctor. And as a doctor, it is my job to make sure that you are healthy, understand?"
Historia slowly nodded. And with reassurance from Dr. Yaeger, she opened herself back up. Slowly, Dr. Yaeger parted Historia legs, though Historia at times would close them out of embarrassment. But she trusted Dr. Yaeger, and she leaned her head back and closed her eyes. Dr. Yaeger, waited for a few moments to let Historia relax. Then slowly, very slowly he placed a hand over her lower region. Almost on instinct, Historia closed her legs from the touched. Only for Dr. Yaeger to reassure her once more. Once her legs parted once again, Dr. Yaeger continued his examination. Historia, once again felt something, only slightly stronger.
"D-Dr. Yaeger, I-I feel so strange."
Historia let out a loud cry as her back arched. While it was a few minutes, to Historia it felt like an eternity. An eternity feeling something new, and strange, as she gasped out loud. But soon she felt Dr. Yaeger hands leave her private region and move along her legs. Historia, was slightly breathless once Dr. Yaeger placed her legs back on the bed. Her mind a bit hazy from a mixture of the fever, and the sensations.
"You did a good job, Historia. You are going to grow up very healthy."
Historia smiled at that thought. Then she felt her arms, being raised.
"Alright Historia. Now I need to do a procedure. This is a necessary thing for me to do, understand?"
Historia nodded in acknowledgement.
"Good. Now, I need to restrain your arms and legs. This is a safety measure. Understand?"
Historia didn't understand, but she nodded as Dr. Yaeger restrained her both her arms and legs. Once she was restrained, and Dr. Yaeger had her pull against the restraints to make sure that she won't get free. Then he reached into his bag, and Historia watched, eyes wide as Dr. Yaeger pulled out a a small bottle of alcohol and a syringe. She then watched as Dr. Yaeger as he hoovered over her body. She then felt, Dr. Yaeger hand rubbing over her lower abdomen. She felt like something was wrong here, but Dr. Yaeger was here to make her better. Whatever it was he was going to do, hopefully it'll be over soon.
"Now prepare yourself Historia." Dr. Yaeger said as he prepared to do what he needed to do. "This is going to hurt."
Historia, watched as the needle pierced her.
Krista woke up screaming as she sat up in bed. Panting, she tried to slow down her beating heart. Yet for some reason, she felt a small about of pain in her lower abdomen. A hand on her shoulder caused Krista to turned her head.
"Krista, are you alright?"
Krista smiled as she spoke.
"I'm fine Ymir, just had a bad dream."
Ymir eyebrow arch at this statement.
"Oh. What was your dream about, that made you scream?"
Krista took a moment and tried to recall what her dream was about. But was it a dream? Or was it a memory? Either way, Krista tried to recall what it was that she dreamt about, but was unable to at this moment.
"Sorry Ymir, I can't seem to recall what the dream was about."
Ymir studied Krista face and saw no deceit on her face. This caused Ymir to sigh in relief as she handed Krista a glass of water.
"Never mind about the dream right now Krista. Here, drink some water. You must be thirsty."
True to Ymir's word, Krista noticed that she was parched. So, she took the glass of water and drunk it. While Krista was drinking, Ymir got up and started to leave the room. Krista saw this and called out to her.
"Um, Ymir. Where are you going?"
Ymir stopped at the door frame and looked back at Krista.
"To find you something to eat. You must be starving. We'll talk some more when I get back."
With that Ymir left the room and out of sight. Krista sighed softly before finishing her water. Then she took this time to take a look at her surroundings. Almost immediately she noticed that she wasn't in her room at the barracks. Instead, it looked like she was in the hospital.
"Huh? This room…looks like the hospital that I would volunteer at."
Krista then noticed a nurse coming in the room.
"Um, nurse?"
The nurse walked over to Krista and smiled.
"Why, good afternoon Miss Lenz. It seems that you are doing well."
Krista was a bit confused at this statement.
"Um…I'm not sure what you mean by that?"
The nurse studied Krista's face and softly sighed. She then grabbed a chair and sat down beside Krista's bed.
"Tell me what was the last thing you remembered before waking up in this room?"
Krista was a bit confused as to what this nurse was getting at. But seeing as she remembers leaving the Garrison HQ after talking with Commander Pixis with Eren, but nothing after that until she woke up.
"The last thing I remember was leaving the Garrison Headquarters, after talking with Commander Pixis. Then I woke up here, why? Did something happen?"
The nurse looked over Krista as she wrote somethings down. Then after a moment of silence, the nurse spoke.
"Nothing serious. You just rest and the doctor will be here shortly."
With that the nurse left before Krista could say anything. Krista sighed in annoyance as she flopped back down on the bed.
"Why am I in the hospital?"
Hearing light breathing, Krista turned her attention to the left. There in another bed lie Eren, fast asleep.
"Eren?"
Hearing footsteps, Krista turned to see a doctor coming walking in.
"Ah, so you're awake. How are you feeling?"
"A bit confused." Krista answered. "Why am I in the hospital?"
The doctor smiled softly as he looked over some papers in his hands.
"You fell unconscious, we have eyewitnesses tell us that you and that young man there, were walking when all of a sudden you two collapsed. Seeing that you are now awake, I'll need to do some test before I can conclude my report."
"Um, doctor?"
"Yes, my child?"
Krista quickly looked over at Eren, who made no movement, then she looked back at the doctor.
"H-How long were we out?"
The doctor sat down in the chair by Krista's hospital bed.
"I'm afraid you and your friend have been unconscious for two days."
This statement shocked Krista.
"Two days?!"
"Now, I'm going to conduct my test now. So, first thing I'm going to do is to check your vision."
For the next ten minutes, the doctor conducted his test to make sure nothing was wrong. Seeing Krista follow his directions with no trouble, along with her passing all the test he gave, he got to his conclusion.
"So, doctor, what happened to me?"
The doctor smiled as he stood up. "You passed out from a combination of stress and fatigue. Most likely from going on a mission beyond the walls. As long as you rest up, you'll be good in a couple of days. I'll contact Commander Erwin and you should be good to leave in a couple of hours."
With that the doctor left Krista alone. After the doctor left, she was visited by her friends as Ymir returned with some food. As they were conversion, Eren woke up and noticed the talking. The doctor came back and checked on Eren, but he too was cleared to leave in a couple of hours.
Eren and Krista were both released from the hospital a couple of hours later. Soon, however, they were both put to work in cleaning the barracks by Captain Levi.
"Oi, Captain Levi. Both Krista and I have just been released from the hospital. And you are putting us to work?"
Captain Levi just stared at Eren. Levi was currently in his cleaning uniform with a mop and bucket. He had just given Krista a broom and Eren some rags and cleaning supplies.
"Commander Erwin gave me specific orders that you two aren't allowed to train. He also wants you two to rest up for a few days, but the barracks needs to be clean first. So, you two are going to help me clean, as Commander Erwin put me in charge of you two."
Eren just gritted his teeth and stared fiery death glares at Levi.
"Um, Captain Levi?"
Levi turned to Krista and acknowledge her.
"What is it shrimp?"
"Um…Do you want me to sweep all of the floors? Or just the rooms?"
Levi sighed heavily as he is wasting time answering stupid questions.
"Lenz, all I want from you is to sweep the floors in the hallway. After that you may rest. Yaeger, you however, must wipe down all of the walls, ceilings, doors, door frames cabinets, cupboards and beds. Only after that will I allow you to rest."
Eren just stood with his mouth open and before he could protest, Levi walked away from them. Eren clenched the rags in his hands, as Krista turned her attention to him. Then after a moment, Eren threw the rags onto the ground.
"DAMN IT! Who does that jerk think he is? We got hospitalized for several days due to stress and fatigue from the mission and got exhausted. Now that we get out, and instead of resting we are put straight to work. What kind of bullshit is this?!"
Krista just stared at Eren as he was ranting. She couldn't help but admire the fact that Eren just spoke what was on his mind.
"You know Eren it could be worst."
Eren glared at Krista while she continued to smile. He doubts that anything could be worse than cleaning.
"How?"
"You could be replacing the tiles on the roof, while trying to fix the chimney."
Eren thought about that as he looked up at the roof of the barracks. He certainly didn't want to be up there. Just then the sound of Levi caught both Eren and Krista's attention.
"Oi! Eren, I forgot to mentioned something about the roof."
Quickly with great speed, Eren ran inside the barracks to start cleaning. While Krista slowly followed behind, smiling at the fact that while Eren could face a hundred Titans, he will not show fear. But when it comes to Captain Levi, he kind of cowers. Krista giggles to herself as she started entering the front entrance.
"Mommy."
Hearing the whisper in her ear, Krista turned towards the setting sun. Krista was a bit confused as she looked around. However, there was no one around. Only Levi as he was getting more water in his bucket. And of course, Eren, who she could hear swearing up a storm as he started to clean. Thinking it was her imagination, Krista went inside to start sweeping. Maybe she's more tired than she thought if she is hearing voices. The sooner she gets done, the sooner she could rest.
Five days passed without much happening. Krista and Eren were able to get the cleaning done, though Krista was done way before Eren was. But for the next several days both Eren and Krista took the small leave from scouting to rest up. The 59th Expedition took it's toll harder on them than they realized. They only saw their friends when they came back to the barracks in the evening. Apparently, from what Krista and Eren were told, Commander Erwin was pushing everyone even harder in their training. What for, no one could tell? Some, like Jean and Connie, commented that they might be going on another expedition. Though, Reiner, Bertholdt and Armin stated that if they were going on another expedition, it won't happen for a couple of months.
Soon, Eren and Krista rejoined their friends in training. They soon found out why everyone was tired. Erwin, would run mock Expeditions with Titan Stands. To better prepare the scouts as they rode their horses. The training consisted of traveling. Starting at Trost the scouts would travel north to Ehrmich District while trying to avoid the "Titans" as much as possible. The only way the scouts were given permission to attack the "Titans," were if they or the group they were with encountered four or more "Titans." Then they would have to decide if they would attack or run away. If they chose to attack, they only had 30 seconds to attack the "Titans." If they didn't kill all of the "Titans" within that timeframe, they were to fire purple flares in the air to signal that they, or the group they were with are dead. From what Eren and Krista soon found out was that purple flares were going off constantly. As once a scout was "dead," they would take their horse back to Trost.
Normally, Eren could use his Titan powers to deal with the "Titans." But he was under orders to not use his Titan powers during the exercise. So, within the first hour of training, Eren ended up by himself and was surrounded by six "Titans." How he ended up by himself he didn't know. Choosing to fight he only managed to kill four of them in the 30 seconds. Only because another "Titan" jumped out of nowhere, blindsiding him as he got hit in the face. Falling to the ground caused Eren to groan in pain as his last ten seconds ran out. Someone, obviously, forgot to tell him about hidden "Titans" jumping out randomly. Firing a purple flare into the air, caused the worst thing to happen. Erwin fired a yellow flare into the air to signal that the mission has been aborted. Basically, what the flare said was "Eren Yaeger died. Hole won't be sealed. Humanity is doomed."
So Eren, went back to Trost and waited with the others who had "died" during the exercise. Since it'll take a while for everyone to get back to Trost. Once Eren got back to Trost he was surprised that both Jean and Sasha were "dead."
"Jean? Sasha? You both died?"
Sasha just smiled sheepish as she rubbed the back of her head.
"Hee-hee, yeah. I ended up running into about five "Titans" and accidently ran into Jean."
Eren looked at Jean who was red from embarrassment as he looked away from Eren.
"Wow. I'm more surprised that you two didn't stabbed each other."
"SHUT UP! What about you? Huh? You died and cost us the mission!"
Eren narrowed his eyes as he cursed.
"I know that. You don't think that I can't feel that? The disappointment that not know my friends' fate. Are they alive? Are they dead? In the first 30 minutes of this exercise all I could think about was the first expedition that we went on. While I watched as purple flares danced through the air, people sacrificing their lives, so that I can live just to save humanity. You don't think I can't feel that burden?"
Jean sighed heavily as he placed his hand on Eren's shoulder.
"Eren, I may not know the burden you bear. But the thing is that even though I 'died' in this exercise. All I could think about is that, if you could complete your mission and plug up the hole, then my death would have meaning. Knowing that I died to bring humanity from the brink of extinction, that I lived and fulfilled my purpose. Then I would die happy…But you dying totally ruined that."
With that Jean headbutted Eren and knocked him to the ground.
"Ow! What was that for jackass?"
"That's for dying." Jean then offered a hand to Eren. "And this is me forgiving you for dying."
Eren just sighed deeply before smiling. Taking Jean's hand Eren was pulled up off the ground. While dusting himself off, Sasha spoke up.
"So, Eren how did you died?"
Eren looked at Sasha for a second confused. Then he got what she was referring to.
"Oh, I facing six 'Titans.' I killed four of them and before I could go in for the kill on my fifth one, a seventh 'Titan' came out of nowhere and blindsided me. I got hit in the face and fell to the ground. Knocked a tooth out."
Jean started laughing at Eren, which caused the latter to growl in anger. Soon, the remaining scouts arrived back to the starting point. Once everyone was here, Commander Erwin started speaking.
"Alright scouts, I'm not sure what most of you are thinking. But I know what I am thinking. How many of you ran into four or more 'Titans?'"
Erwin watched as most of the scouts who "died," raised their hands. Erwin sighed, as he spoke again.
"And how many you decided that since these aren't 'real Titans,' you decided to attack?"
Once more, majority of the scouts who "died," (with exception of some who put their hands down,) kept their hands up. Seeing this Erwin sighed.
"I know that it is easier to convince oneself to say, 'These Titans are fake. I'll put up a fight.' Remember, that real Titans won't just stand still and let you kill them, they'll put up a fight. Which is why if you need to retreat, do so. Don't throw your lives away mindlessly. As scouts our first priority is to study Titans behavior to learn more about these monsters. Understand?"
The entire Survey Corps saluted and yelled out, "YES, SIR!"
Erwin smiled at his scouts.
"It seems that I got through with some of them. This exercise is design to get them all use to making quick decisions. While I can't make this as realistic as fighting real Titans, I hope this will increase the survival rate of the Corps."
"Commander Erwin."
Erwin turned to see Levi standing beside him.
"What is it Levi?"
Levi pointed to several Garrison soldiers standing a bit away.
"Those two Garrison soldiers told me that they need to talk with you."
Erwin nodded and said, "Alright, I'll speak to them." He then turned his attention to his scouts. "For now, I want you all to prepare for another run. Take this time to stock up and replenish any Titan Blades and gas. I shall be back soon."
Commander Erwin walked to the two Garrison soldiers. Both of them saluted, and one of them handed Erwin a piece of paper. Raising an eyebrow, Erwin took the paper, opened it and read it. After reading it, he turned to the two Garrison soldiers and nodded. With that they left, having completed their duties. Erwin thought deeply to himself before heading back to his scouts. Then he called out two names.
"Mr. Yaeger! Miss Lenz! Come to me!"
Eren, who was filling up on gas, turned and went to Erwin. He was confused as to what Erwin wanted with him. Walking to Erwin, Eren could see Krista running up to him.
"Eren, what does Commander Erwin want with us?"
Eren sighed heavily, for he was getting kind of tired from all of these so-called meetings.
"I'm not sure."
Whatever Commander Erwin wants with them, it can't be any worst than cleaning the barracks when they were supposed to be resting.
Eren and Krista stood outside Commander Pixis office. What the Commander wanted with them this time is a mystery. Though both Eren and Krista could hear crying coming from inside the office.
"Hmm, I wonder who's crying in there?" Eren stated.
Before Krista could respond, Commander Pixis office door opened.
"Ah, Mr. Yaeger and Miss Lenz, please come on in."
Eren and Krista looked at each other before walking into the office. Entering the office, they saw a nurse holding a small crying child.
"Hey, now. Hush little one."
Commander Pixis closed the door and spoke loud over the crying.
"Sorry to call you two in on such a short notice. But as you can hear we got a small problem."
Eren looked over at the crying child for a second, before turning his attention to Pixis. Krista meanwhile, kept her attention on the crying child.
"But first, do you recognize this child?"
The nurse brought the crying child over to Eren and Krista. And almost immediately the child looked at them and stopped crying. The child looked over them and laughed and reached out to them. Quickly, Krista held out her arms and took the child.
"Oh my god, it's you." Krista lifted up child eye level. "How are you?"
The child laughed as she grabbed a hold of Krista's cheek.
"Mama." The child said causing Krista to stare at her in shock.
The nurse meanwhile, sighed in relief once the crying stopped as she walked out of the office.
"Thank goodness."
Eren looked away from the Krista and the child and looked at Commander Pixis.
"What's the meaning of this Commander? I thought you said she was supposed to be adopted?"
Commander Pixis just smiled. "I did say that, yes. But that was before she woke up."
Both Eren and Krista were confused at this statement.
"What do you mean, Commander?" Krista asked as she held the child.
The Commander sighed. "As you can hear, the child isn't crying anymore since she laid eyes on you two."
Eren just shrugged his shoulders. "That doesn't mean anything."
Pixis just sighed. "It does when the child has been crying for the past week nonstop, whenever she's awake." Eren and Krista were shocked as the listen to Pixis continue. "Now, I know that this isn't what you two are probably expecting. But for unknown reasons, this child has taken a liking to you two. And no matter who we bring in, this child refuses to settle down. Which is why, under orders, I brought you two in here today."
Eren turned to look down at the child in Krista arms. The child was currently hugging Krista and Eren could tell that the child had a grip on her. It seems like the child was terrified to be left behind. Eren stared at the child and the child stared back intensely. Her teal-green tear stained eyes piercing his own green eyes. Like she is asking, "Why did you leave?" Breaking his sight from the child, (who pressed her face deeper into Krista's neckline,) Eren turned back to Pixis. Pixis was staring intensely at the two scouts. Eren opened his mouth to speak.
"What you are saying? That you want Krista and me to take care of this child. Is that what you are saying?" Eren asked.
"Yes."
Krista eyes went wide, as she turned to Pixis.
"Eren and I can't take care of this child! We aren't in love with each other. We are both in the military. And even if we weren't in the military, we have no way to take care of this child! We aren't parent material!"
Commander Pixis didn't reply, as he turned his attention from Lenz to Yaeger.
"And your thoughts on this Yaeger?"
Eren sighed deeply as he looked at Commander Pixis with narrowed eyes.
"Commander, let's say for a moment that Krista and I aren't going to take care of this child. That we refused. What would happen?"
Commander Pixis sighed heavily as he turned around and looked outside the window. For a few moments he stayed silent.
"The order to take care of the child comes down from Zachary who was told by the King. Should you two refuse, you both shall be arrested and put into jail for treason. Then you both shall be executed as enemies against humanity. The child shall then die."
Krista gasped as she instinctively clutched the child closer to her body. Eren just grits his teeth as he angerly stares at Pixis.
"So basically, Krista and I have only two choices. Accept this child or die?"
Pixis silently sighed as he turned around to face Eren and Krista.
"I know that this is a harsh burden to place on you two. But believe me when I say this, this is for the survival of humanity. You accepted the mission to save humanity, when you put on your uniforms every day. If you want a moment to talk about it to each other, you may stand outside. But I must have an answer when you come back inside."
Krista turned to move outside, but Eren refused to move. This caught Krista by surprise, as she stood there watching Eren.
"There's nothing to talk about outside, Commander."
Pixis eyed Eren as he spoke.
"Are you sure?"
"When given the choice of living or dying, most people will always choose life. Which is why there's nothing to talk about. Krista and I will take care of the child."
Krista eyes widen as she looked down at the child in her arms. Asleep and calm, the child silently breathed in and out. Pixis mentally smiled as he spoke.
"Is this something you agree with Krista?"
"Um…"
Krista wasn't prepared to speak. She was hoping to talk to Eren about it outside of the office, but as she looked down at the child, something stirred in her. Taking in the fact that should she refused, she'll end her life. But should she accept? What would she get out of it? Sighing to herself, Krista couldn't dismiss the fact that there was something about this child that draws to her. Looking at Pixis, she made up her mind.
"Yes." Krista said after a few moments of silence. "I'll help take care of the child."
Smiling to himself, Pixis then walked to his desk. He then pulled out some papers and place them on top of his desk. Pixis then sat down in his chair and turned to Eren and Krista.
"Alright, before I let you two go, you both needs to sign this paperwork."
Eren rose an eyebrow. "What is it?"
"Oh, nothing much, this paper is just an agreement that you both will accept this child under certain conditions."
"Conditions?" Krista asked.
Pixis nodded his head as he held his canteen. "Yes, the first condition, or order since this is from Zachary. Is that you both agree to be escorted to your new residence. And that you won't discuss anything pertaining the child or your new residence. You'll still be in the Survey Corps, since you'll still have your duties. But you'll not live in the Survey Barracks. Instead you two are to live together and help raise the child. The second condition is that you two and her be baptized in the Church of the Walls."
Eren and Krista were shock at that last one. Why would all three of them have to be baptized?
"Um, Sir?"
Pixis looked up from the papers and answered. "Yes, Miss Lenz?"
"That second condition. Do we have to have the child be baptized? And not only that, but do Eren and I have to be baptized as well?"
Pixis nodded as he answered Krista's questions. "Yes, Krista. This has to happen for two reasons. One is for the child to be raised with the ideals to help humanity. The second is to show faith that you two will be able to raise the child."
Eren crossed his arms as he glared at Pixis. "Any other conditions that we have to abide by?"
"Just one more condition. You both must agree that one of you will stay behind from going on a Scouting Expedition, to raise the child. You can switch off if you want, but when an Expedition comes up, you must choose who stays. Zachary has already spoke to Commander Erwin about this, so you won't have to explain when you get back. But you are to inform Commander Erwin, or any of your Commanders, within 24-48 hours of an expedition."
Krista turned to Eren with a concern look. Eren looked at Krista and saw that she was silently asking him a question.
"Are you OK with this?"
Sighing deeply, Eren looked at Pixis. This was a lot of conditions for a small child. There's a reason behind it but what? Eren was kind of regretting agreeing in taking care of the child. Especially, for a child that isn't even his, nor Krista's for that matter. But it was either this or being arrested for treason. No going back now.
"Any more conditions that we need to know?" Eren asked.
Pixis shook his head. "No, those three conditions are it. If neither of you two have any objections, I'll collect your signatures now."
Pixis held out a pen for them to sign. Krista was a bit hesitant in signing, but Eren grabbed the pen without saying anything. He then signed the paper stating that he agreed with the conditions in taking care of the child. Seeing Eren signing, Krista then stepped in and signed as well. Watching the two scouts signing, Pixis smiled at their resolve. Once both Eren and Krista signed the agreement, Pixis then placed another paper in front of them.
"Now, you both need to sign this adoption form. And of course, you have to decide on what to name the child. You don't have give a name now, but you both shall present one at your baptism in a week or two. I'll send a message the day before, after I speak with Minister Nick, whom shall be the one to baptize you three."
Eren inwardly tsk at hearing Minister Nick name. After all, he was very vocal about wanting him dead at his trial three or so months ago. However, there's nothing that he can do right now. He just wants to get this over with as soon as possible. He and Krista have a lot to speak about in private. Quickly, Eren and Krista signed the adoption papers. Which basically means, that they were now parents to this blonde child. After they were done signing, almost immediately at that moment, Pixis office door opened.
Turning around, Eren and Krista watched as two people came walking in. The taller of the two, Eren recognized, was Minister Nick. The second older person neither Eren nor Krista recognized at all.
"I'm sorry for bothering you Commander Pixis." The older man said apologizing to the Commander.
Commander Pixis just smiled as he answered. "It's fine Dr. Nile. If you'd give me just a moment, I just need to finish with Mr. Yaeger, Miss Lenz."
"Of course," Dr. Nile said as both him and Minister Nick left the office.
"Now then," Pixis said regaining Eren and Krista's attention. "Mr. Yaeger, Miss Lenz, if you go downstairs, you'll see two Garrison soldiers, both of which you already know. They shall escort you both and your new daughter to your new home."
Eren gave a salute, while Krista just slightly bowed. And with that they both exited Pixis office. As they were exiting the office, they walked by Dr. Nile and Minister Nick. Both stared at the two scouts, but what caught their eye was the small child in Miss. Lenz arms. But before either of them could process what they saw, Eren and Krista walked away and down the stairs. Walking into Pixis office, Minister Nick started to speak.
"Commander Pixis, that child. Is-"
"Yes, she is. But first close the door."
Dr. Nile closed the door and walked over to Commander Pixis. Commander Pixis was taking a drink from his canteen. Once he was done, he spoke.
"Now, I know you have questions Minister Nick."
"Of course, I fucking have questions! That child is uncovered! And not only that but no one knows she who she is. And she is with the Titan Shifter Eren Yaeger! H-How did that happened?"
Dr. Niles listened to Minister Nick's rant, before he too added his thoughts.
"Commander, is it wise to leave her? After all what if they find out about her, and discovered who she really is?"
Dot Pixis sighed heavily. "I'm afraid it's not that simple. You see, I sent Yaeger and Lenz on the 59th Expedition to retrieve the child and bring her back. However, due to certain instances involving the Titans, all but two of the Garrison soldiers sent to protect the child perished. And with the death of Nurse Bloom, they didn't know anything about the child. The child imprinted on both Yaeger and Lenz when they removed the sheet covering. As to wither they will find out about the child is uncertain. That's something to be discussed later, for now I need to talk you about something Minister Nick."
Nick and Dr. Nile both stood, and listen to Commander Pixis as he spoke. Hearing that Pixis had something important to say, caused Nick to think very carefully.
"What do you need to talk to me about?"
Pixis took a seat and bid the others to do the same. Now, all three men were sitting down, as Pixis placed his elbows on the desk.
"Minister Nick, when would you like to baptize them?"
Nick rose an eyebrow at Pixis question.
"I'm not sure what you mean Commander? Baptize whom?"
Pixis sighed as he stared at the two men in front of him.
"What I mean, is that since I have placed the child's care into the hands of both Mr. Yaeger and Miss. Lenz, due to the fact that the child imprinted herself on them, I had them both agree that they and the child must be baptized into the Church of the Walls."
This caused Nick to shoot straight out of his chair and slammed his hands on Pixis desk.
"WHAT?!"
"I know that this is sudden-"
"You bet it is sudden! Why would I baptize Mr. Yaeger?! What purpose is there for me to do that?!"
Commander Pixis waited for Nick to settle down. Once he saw that Nick was waiting for a reply, Pixis spoke.
"Minister Nick, we need people to fight for humanity. Not against it. Now, I initially thought that you would be for, having Mr. Yaeger baptized to show that he is willingly for stand for humanity. Am I wrong?"
Nick listened to Pixis as he sat back down. Having Yaeger be baptized into the Church will probably have mix reviews to certain members. But would Yaeger agree to it? Especially since he advocated to have Yaeger killed.
"Commander, while that would be a great moral booster, there are going to be members who will be against it. Plus, even if I want to baptize the Titan Shifter, there's no way he's going to agree with it."
"If he's already agreed to do it? Would you do it?"
Nick looked at Pixis in shock.
"W-What do you mean? There's no way he'd agree to something like that."
Commander Pixis gave Nick a piece of paper. Nick grabbed it and started to read it. It says.
Yaeger, Eren, and Lenz, Krista,
Agree to care for the child of unknown origins. Under the following conditions;
1. That we are to be escorted to our new residence. Location withheld. That we will not discuss anything pertaining to our location nor the child. That we are to live together and help raise the child. While still maintaining our duties to the Survey Corps.
2. That we will, along with the child, be baptized in the Church of the Walls. To show our support of humanity.
3. We agree that one of us will stay behind from going on a Scouting Expedition, to raise the child. And to bring the decision to Commander Erwin, or the current Commander in command, of our decision within 24-48 hours of an Expedition mission
Signature by:
Dot Pixis
Pixis, Dot (witness)
Eren Yaeger, Krista Lenz
Yaeger, Eren and Lenz, Krista (recipient)
Nick read the paper multiple times as he stared at both Miss. Lenz, and Mr. Yaeger's signatures. The room was silent as information were being processed. Dr. Nile looked towards Pixis.
"Commander Pixis, what about Commander Erwin? Surely, he won't just allow this to happen without his say?"
Pixis sighed. "Commander Erwin, while he voiced his concern, stated that he would support Zachary and the King. Unfortunately, he doesn't know where the location we are sending them to."
Nick placed the paper back on Pixis desk and sat back and sighed.
"Minister Nick," Pixis started calling for his attention. "I need your answer concerning Yaeger, Lenz and the child."
Nick looked at Pixis for a moment before standing up. Then he turned around started heading towards the door. Pixis didn't say anything, along with Dr. Nile. They watched as Nick froze at the door, and turned his head.
"I'll do it. I'll baptize Yaeger, Lenz and the child. I'll do it next week. This might upset some members but I'll make it work somehow."
With that Nick, left the office leaving the two older men alone. For now, he has some convincing to do. Pixis smiled as Nick left his office, then he turned his attention to Dr. Nile who started to leave as well.
"I'll leave you tonight Commander Pixis."
"Just a moment, Dr. Nile."
Dr. Nile looked at Pixis, who sighed.
"I'm going to need to send a nurse over to Safe-haven to help with the child. Yaeger and Lenz will have their hands full in adjusting to their new 'life' you could say. They're going to have to deal with a lot of stress that they will not be used to."
Dr. Nile nodded in response.
"If I understand what you are saying, it's that you want me to find a nurse that will be willing to abandon her life to help take care of the child?"
Pixis nodded and took a drink. "More or less."
"And you want me to pick out the nurse?" Dr. Nile sighed and nodded. "Very well, I'll pick out a nurse. I'm assuming you have a list already made?"
Pixis, smiled and pulled out a small stack of papers.
"Here you go. Now you'll find them in the Hospital waiting room. If you could pick one as soon as possible."
Dr. Nile nodded and left. Once Dr. Nile left, Pixis sat down for a moment. Then he got up and looked outside the window.
"It feels like it's going to be a long night."
After leaving Commander Pixis office, Eren and Krista walked downstairs. Upon reaching the first floor, Eren and Krista noticed two familiar Garrison soldiers. Smiling, Eren walked up to them.
"Hannes, Peter, how are you two doing?"
Hannes turned to Eren and smiled brightly.
"Eren, my boy, it's so good to see you." He then turned towards Krista. "And Miss. Lenz so nice to see you again."
Krista smiled sweetly and bowed slightly. "Nice to see you as well."
Hannes just grinned as he scratched the back of his head. Eren, meanwhile, shook Peters hand in greeting.
"How are you Peter?"
"Oh, just fine. Hannes and I were given the order to escort you and Miss. Lenz to your new place."
Eren's face fell as he spoke. "'New place.' Do you know where this 'place' is?"
Peter noticed Eren's reaction and turned to Hannes. Hannes looked at Eren in concern, and sighed heavily.
"Eren," Hannes started. "We wouldn't be escorting you if we didn't. We have a wagon ready to carry you two outside. We're going to take you straight to your new home."
"What about our personal belongings back at the barracks?" Krista asked.
"Don't worry about your belongings." Peter answered. "Your things have already been packed and are on their way to the destination, if they aren't there already. The only thing you two have to worry about is that child and yourselves. Do any of you two have any more questions?"
"Where is this place located?" Eren asked.
"Sorry Eren, but we aren't able to say." Hannes answered. "Anything else?"
Krista stayed silent, while she does have more questions, she's afraid that she won't get any answers. For now, her questions have been answered. Eren however, had a lot of things on his mind, but he too stayed silent. Taking the two scouts silence as a "no," Hannes bid everyone to follow.
"Very well. If you two would follow me, we'll load up the wagon."
With that Eren and Krista followed Hannes outside, with Peter directly behind them. Outside, they were greeted by several horses connected to the wagon. Eren and Krista went to the back of the wagon, with Eren getting on first. He then helped Krista, gently, into the wagon. Hannes took the time to inspect the wagon once more, while Peter loaded the last bit of supplies. Krista sat down and gently moved the child in her arms into a cradle, still holding her tightly. Eren exhaled sharply as he sat down next to Krista. Looking up, Eren saw the stars shining as a full moon continued to rise. Within a few moments, once everything was completed and the three passengers were seated, Hannes and Peter urged the wagon forward. Their destination? For Hannes and Peter, where ever it is that they are heading to. For Eren and Krista, unknown.
-Scout Headquarters Mess Hall-
"What's taking them so long?"
Jean looked toward Connie as he sighed.
"What are you going on about now, Connie?"
Connie turned away from the window and towards Jean. Right now, Jean, Sasha, Bertholdt and Reiner were playing cards to pass the time. While, Mikasa, Armin were talking to each other at another table. Ymir was standing by herself and for some reason, Hange and Moblit were here as well, along with other scout members.
"Commander Erwin," Connie said as he looked towards Jean. "he called us all here for some reason. Not only that, but Eren and Krista haven't made it back from where ever it is that Commander Erwin sent them. It's been several hours, and the sun is going down. I'm worried about them."
Jean fold his card hand as he stood up. Walking over to Connie, Jean placed a hand on the back of his head.
"Now Connie, what's there to get worked up about? I'm pretty sure that whatever going on with Eren and Krista, has to do with the last Expedition we went on. They'll be back, so what's the point of worrying over nothing."
Connie smiled for a brief second, then he turned back to the window. Jean rose and eyebrow at Connie's behavior.
"Oi, Connie, what's so interesting outside?"
Connie placed a hand to his chin as he stood in a thinking pose.
"I'm not sure, but I keep seeing some Garrison soldiers over at the barracks."
"What?!"
Jean moved next to Connie and looked out the window as well. Jean statement and movement caught the attention of Reiner, Bertholdt, and Sasha. Those three got up to investigate as Jean moved to the widow. The gathering of the small group of friends caught Mikasa's attention as she stood up and walked over. Looking outside, Jean indeed noticed a handful of Garrison soldiers over at the barracks. They were moving some boxes and crates, but they were also moving some furniture.
"What the hell? What are they doing?"
Soon, everyone was trying to look out the window to see what's going on. So far, the garrison soldiers worked as if what they're doing is completely normal. Though there's a good chance that they knew they were being watched and don't care. Jean stared intensely at some of the items that were being moved.
"Hey, Connie, how long have they been out there?" Reiner asked as he watched the soldiers
"I'm not sure. But I noticed them over there when we were told to wait for Commander Erwin. They've been working since."
Then, Commander Erwin came into view with Captain Levi to the Garrison soldiers. Rico Brzenska who was organizing things around struck up a conversation with Levi and the Commander as they approached her. As the three spoke, the other Garrison soldiers continued working. Then two soldiers brought out a wardrobe. A wardrobe Sasha recognized belongs to Krista.
"Hey, Ymir!"
Ymir, who was still standing away from everyone, started walking to the group at hearing Sasha.
"What do you want?"
Sasha pointed out the window as she turned to face Ymir.
"Isn't that Krista's wardrobe that was in her room?"
Ymir moved to look outside the window. Looking outside, her eyes went wide in shock as she was staring at Krista's wardrobe sitting outside. Anger flared into her eyes as she watched the soldiers load the wardrobe into a wagon.
"What do they think they are doing with Krista's wardrobe?!" Ymir hissed as she gripped the window board in anger.
Everyone started to become nervous as they could feel the "Goddess Protector" anger. Jean looked away from Ymir and back to the scene going on outside. Soon, however, Jean noticed that Eren's wardrobe was brought outside.
"Oi, oi! Look right there! The Garrison brought out Eren's wardrobe as well."
Everyone around the window looked and just stared in shock. Mikasa glared her eyes and started to walk away. Armin noticed her leaving and called out to her.
"Mikasa, wait!"
Armin's voice caught everyone's attention, as they all turned and saw that Mikasa was going to head out of the door. Armin, started to run after her, followed by Jean as he pushed through the crowd. Soon, everyone was following Mikasa outside the mess hall. Once outside, Mikasa headed straight towards the Garrison soldiers.
"MIKASA!"
Hearing Armin's voice, Commander Erwin, Levi and Rico turned their head. They watched as Mikasa had walked straight towards the soldiers with Eren's wardrobe. The two soldiers were preparing to load Eren's wardrobe, when Mikasa slapped a hand on the furniture. They looked at Mikasa as started to cower at the vide Mikasa was giving off.
"What do you think you two are doing?" Mikasa said coldly at the two soldiers.
The two soldiers were frozen in fear as they looked at Mikasa. However, before Mikasa could do or say anything else, Commander Erwin called out to her.
"AKERMAN STAND DOWN!"
Mikasa, hearing Commander Erwin, followed orders and backed away from Eren's Wardrobe and the two scared Garrison soldiers. Erwin walked up to Mikasa, who stood still.
"Commander I-"
Erwin held up a hand to Mikasa silencing her.
"Akerman, report back to the Mess Hall. I'll be there to talk with you in a minute."
Mikasa didn't say anything as she walked pass Erwin. Turning to the rest of the Scout Regiment Commander Erwin spoke.
"That goes for the rest of you! Head back to the Mess Hall!" Erwin turned to the two Garrison soldiers and said, "You two, get back to work and load up the rest of their stuff."
"Y-Yes, Sir!"
With that the two soldiers loaded up Eren's Wardrobe and went to grab the final things. Meanwhile, Erwin turned to Levi.
"Levi, head into the Mess Hall, I shall be there shortly."
Levi saluted and left to follow his orders. As Levi left his sight, Erwin sighed heavily as he turned to the wagons. He watched as the Garrison soldiers loaded what's left of Eren's and Krista's belongings. With a nod, Rico smiled apologetically to Erwin and got up on the wagon. Then after a moment or two, the small Garrison unit left. Erwin stared at the wagons until they went out of his sight, then he started walking to the Mess Hall. He had some explaining to do.
Entering the Mess Hall, Erwin heard whatever quite conversation between the Scouts died down. He turned to Levi, who stood by the entrance, and nodded at Levi. Levi then walked to an empty seat. Looking over his scouts, he could tell that they all had questions for him. Sighing silently to himself Commander Erwin spoke.
"Now, I know some of you have questions. Before I ask them what they are, I have several things to say to you all first. The first thing is this, Mr. Yaeger and Miss. Lenz won't be staying at the Scout Barracks anymore."
Just like he predicted, several voices spoke up in shock.
"WHAT?!"
Erwin inwardly sighed as he kept his stern look.
"What do you mean by that Commander?!" Jean stated as he stood up. "Is this a joke?"
In an instant, Levi ran up to Jean with a blade pointing to his throat. Levi stared down Jean as he spoke.
"When has the military ever do "jokes" Kirstein?"
Jean nervously stared back at Levi. A moment later Commander Erwin called out.
"Levi, stand down."
Levi sighed as he put away his blade back in its holder. Then Levi walked back to his seat. Erwin waited for things to settle down a bit before continuing.
"If I could have no more interruptions, I'd like to get done with what I need to say." Commander Erwin paused for a moment before continuing. "Thank you. Now as I was saying, Mr. Yaeger and Miss. Lenz won't be staying at the barracks anymore. The reason behind this I do not know. But what I do know is this. Mr. Yaeger and Miss. Lenz, will still be a part of the Survey Corps, but they have been placed in an undisclosed location. A location known only to a select few in the Garrison Corps, Zachary, and the King. Any more than that I do not know. They'll continue to train with us when possible, but know that they have other duties to attend to. My hope is that this is temporary. Unfortunately, I can't tell you anymore than this. But I'll say this, that they will continue to serve humanity to their fullest and in that aspect, we must trust in them. That is all I have. If any of you Scouts would like to discuss this further, I'll talk with you in my office. For now, get your rest, because we have another hard day of training ahead of us."
With that Erwin left the Mess Hall to let the information he had given to his soldiers sink in. Erwin looked up at the stars. Something he hasn't done in sometime. Hearing the door to the Mess Hall open and close, Erwin turned around. He saw Captain Levi standing in front of him with a stern look like always.
"I'm heading out, Commander."
Erwin nodded and replied. "Good luck, Levi. Make sure you keep an eye on them."
"I will."
With that Levi walked away. Where's he going? Erwin doesn't know, and that frustrated him to no end. He turned and continued his walk to his office. If there's one thing that Erwin hated more, than not knowing enough about the Titans, was not knowing the location of his soldiers. Even though this is for the best, according to Zachary, doesn't mean he has to agree with it.
"I just hope where ever they are, they're safe. Mr. Yaeger, Miss. Lenz, what have you gotten yourselves into?"
Eren and Krista stayed silent during the trip, as they had a lot to process. Like the fact that they both agreed to raise a child together. And not just any child. A child that they found outside the walls. As they left Trost District, both Eren and Krista were mentally regretting in accepting the child. What sane person would actually agree to live with a complete stranger, with a child that doesn't belong to either of them? Eren doesn't know a lot about Krista, other than the fact that she's kind to everyone. While she is petite, she can hold her own. And Krista, she too doesn't know a lot about Eren, other than he was present when the Colossus Titan and the Armored Titan showed up five years ago. He knew Armin and Mikasa for years, and that he has a strong resolve to kill all Titans in the world. Those were the only things that Krista knows about Eren, besides the obvious Titan Shifter powers. Looking down at the sleeping child in her arms, Krista couldn't help feel that she might not be able to do this. To be able to take care of this child. So, why did she agree to do it?
Sighing softly to herself, Krista turned to face Eren. Eren was looking at the sky, which cause Krista to look as well. Seeing the stars shining brightly caused some short of relief to overcome her. But when she looked back down at the child, she can't help but to think that this might have been a huge mistake. She's going to have to live away from Ymir, the one friend that she has come to trust. So, why did she agree? This child isn't hers. While Pixis spoke that this is an order from Zachary, there was something that wasn't said. Something important. Yet at the same time, she feels that this child is connected to her in some way. But before Krista could dwell on that thought, she felt her consciousness slipped away, as she fell into a deep sleep.
Eren, meanwhile, was having similar thoughts alongside with Krista's, but his thoughts were also on his two friends, Armin, and Mikasa. They both wouldn't be shocked to know that Eren has made another rash decision. But they would be shock in what decision Eren had made. They'd both yell at him, saying along the lines of "You can't take care of a child." Though in Mikasa case it'd probably be more along the lines of "You should've talked to me about this, Eren. You shouldn't make decisions rashly, especially with children." Eren sighed heavily just as he felt something leaning against him. Turning to his right, Eren saw Krista asleep as she leaned against his shoulders. Not wanting to disturbed her, Eren allowed Krista to get some sleep, while he stayed awake. He looked back towards Trost as the District got further and further away. Eren then wondered if any of the others knew that he and Krista won't be coming back to the barracks tonight, or at all? Eren looked down at the two sleeping beings right next to him.
"I guess this in my new life now, isn't? Did I choose the best decision?"
A/N: That's chapter three. I hope it's to your liking. I'm still not sure if Krista's past memory falls under "sexual" since all Dr. Yaeger was doing was examining her body for any signs of abnormity. But it's mostly language that made this M-rated. Any who, let me know if there's any mistakes that I made. And I'll see you in the next chapter.
-Sergeant Daniel out.