-Chapter 25: Eviction and Reclamation-

Inside the civilian area of the Shiganshina District

It was a bright summer morning inside humanity's last bastion, yet even as the sun bared down on the denizens below they cared little. For today was the big day, a day that the members of the Survey Corps had long awaited for. That of course being the continuation of their expeditions beyond the Walls.

They had received both the approval from the highest military authority in the walled kingdom, and the funding needed to supply said expedition, the largest of the sums coming from the crown itself no less!

With their preparations made the Scout Regiment set off to towards Shiganshina's outer gate to embark on their year long awaited journey, though not before receiving quite the surprising sendoff from the denizens of the district.

To say that the people were in high spirits would be a severe understatement. For the streets of the civilian half of the district were filled with the sounds of cheers and instruments the moment the scouts returned from retrieving their mounts in the interior. A path was made for the green cloaked men and women allowing them to travel unabated, all the while the townsfolk cheered them on.

"Make way for the Survey Corps!"

"Drive those titans back!"

"Give em hell!"

"Best of luck you loonies!"

The scouts were left completely bewildered, especially the veterans. Not since the day the regiment was reestablished some 70 years ago did the scouts ever receive such celebration and fanfare. Long had they grown used to the disapproving and sour looks, or tears from parents at the sight of their children riding off to die a pointless death. So seeing all the merriment was a completely new thing for them.

The best many could do was simply offer nods of acknowledgement and a hand wave, which seemed more than enough to please the crowd. The newer members though seemed to take the crowds praises in stride, their heads held high with pride filling their hearts.

Though there were few who didn't show any joy, such as the elderly Julia Braun, who watched with teary eyes as her last living son rode along the main street. Turning to his mother Moses offered her a confident smile, while she offered a prayer to whatever higher force was listening to watch over her boy. The prayer was soon interrupted by something falling on her head.

"Eh?"

From the second story windows many a townsfolk rained down flower petals and colored bits of paper to the scouts below, and others began to approach the scouts and offered prayers and good luck charms, especially friends and family.

But nothing could compare to the fervent cheers given to the demigod who walked among them. Especially when those cheering were the faithful members of the Order of the Morning Star, led by Cornelius Bennet, the first acolyte and de-facto leader of the following.

They too had prepared for this day. For many came dressed in blue hooded robes and adorned with large, chained shield necklaces bearing the image of Skullsmite, and armed with a plethora of noisemakers and bells strapped to their bodies.

There were many a standard bearer among the gathered cultists, waving blue flags with the orders' symbol stitched on, or that of the Survey Corps, alongside musicians beating drums and blowing horns. Surprisingly the other townsfolk didn't show any annoyance by their presence and acts, if anything they joined the order in their merriment, all the while Cornelius began to speak atop a crate.

"Remember this day my brothers and sisters! This marks the day that humanity's future shifts towards the light!"

"The beasts outside these walls will truly know the terrors of facing humanities greatest champion, and those bold enough to venture into the lands beyond these walls!"

"May the Almighty bless these brave souls as they depart to lands unknown. May they find victory in the battles to come! May those who fall be avenged! And may the gods above continue to bless their champion!"

At the mention of their idol the crowd began to increase in their fervency, all the while Maverick kept a calm and warm smile on his bearded face.

"May their blades taste the blood of their enemies, and may Skullsmite shatter and eradicate all who stand in the way of its wielder!"

"Praise to the Survey Corps! Praise to the Titan Slayer! Praise to the Gods! Praise to humanities chosen!"

His words and litanies riled up the gathered masses, with their frantic cheers and prayers increasing in volume. All the while the scouts continued to trot along trying to traverse the sea of people.

"Tch, thought Mav was going to keep them in line…" Levi muttered under his breath while steering his horse away from a townsmen who had gotten too close to him.

"It's a momentous occasion Levi, not every day we are sent off with such celebration." Erwin replied, hearing his captain's remark. "Besides he's quite the speaker." The captain's eyes turned back to the hooded leader. Despite his feelings on the cult Levi did have to admit that the man leading them had some charisma, unlike any of the Wallist he had the displeasure to interact with. Guess being a survivor of the skirmish helped to.

As the scouts made their way towards the Wall'O'Guns they were stopped by Hannes and Hugo who were stationed atop the dividing wall between the civilian and military sections of the district.

"The boys up top are scattering the titans Commander!" The blonde haired garrison shouted down. Erwin nodded and motioned for his men to standby. As they awaited their moment the cheers from the crowd slowly started to fade from the scouts ears, in exchange for the continuous rumblings from the cannons above Shiganshina's outer wall.

The cannons fired off for what seemed like minutes on end, further increasing the scouts anticipation. Some of the junior members held onto the reigns of their horses a little tighter, while some began to mutter to themselves. The veterans however kept their eyes forward, steeling themselves for the moment, though there were a few exceptions.

Maverick and the members of Delta Squad were positioned in the center of the formation, waiting for the moment the outer gate would rise. Hange couldn't help but squirm in excitement, as she thought of the many prospects this expedition would entail.

"Ohhhh the suspense is killing me! It feels like it's been years since we last went on an expedition!" She exclaimed in a giddy tone, to the slight amusement from her squad mates. "*Sigh* Just wish we had more time to make more restraining guns."

She had only time to make another two models, one for Moblit, and the other for Rashad, who had proven to be quite the shot with the gun. While they weren't going to be hunting for prospective subjects today, she was adamant to bring th weapons along, for perhaps one might seriously catch her eye. "Wonder what kind of titans we'll see out there!"

"Probably the same ones we have seen already, Squad Leader…" Moblit replied with little enthusiasm.

"Oh come one Moblit, where's your imagination?" She rebuked, only to receive a shrug. "What about you Mav?"

"What Moblit said." She deflated a little, while the vice-captain perked up at hearing his comrades support. Only to perk up once again as she turned to the junior members of the squad.

"So, you boys ready to head out and give it your all?" Her query was met with the resounding responses from the four.

"You bet Squad Leader!"

"Someone's gotta make sure Goggles doesn't get himself eaten again."

"Ready as I'll ever be…"

"We've been outside the Walls before, so I'm quite confident."

Their banter soon came to an end when the sound of the left and right sided cannons began to go off, followed by the outer gate beginning to rise.

*RUMBLE* *RUMBLE* *RUMBLE*

'Looks like they driven them back' Hannes thought, watching as the gates mechanisms began to activate. Nodding to his partner he looked back down at the gathered scouts. "GATES RAISING, 30 SECONDS!"

Erwin gave a nod of acknowledgement and took a deep breath, before turning to the men and women under his command.

"THIS IS IT! ALL OF OUR TRAINING HAS LEAD TO THIS MOMENT!"

"NO LONGER WILL WE BE ON THE DEFENSIVE, TODAY HUMANITY TAKES ITS FIRST STEPS TO RECLAIMING OUR LANDS FROM THE TITANS!"

"OUR OBJECTIVE IS THE RECLAMATION OF OUR EXTERIOR HQ THAT WAS LOST TO US, AND THE EXTERMINATION OF ANY TITAN THAT HAVE MADE THE AREA THEIR SQUALER!"

"TODAY WILL MARK THE DAY THAT THE SURVEY CORPS WILL CLAIM VICTORY OUTSIDE THESE WALLS!"

"DEDICATE YOUR HEARTS, MY SOLDIERS!"

"FOR THE GRAND EXPEDITION BEGINS NOW!"

The dividing gate opened, revealing the opening outer gate, and the distant sight of the lands outside the walls. At the moment the gate fully rose the commander raised one of his blades and shouted out a single command for all inside the district to hear.

"ADVANCE!"

His white horse stood on its hind legs, letting out a neigh, before quickly racing towards the outer gate. The rest of the gathered regiment let out warcries and raised their blades as well, with a large glowing morning star in the mix.

The townsfolk cheered them on as they raced towards the outer gate, past the series of defenses aimed at the gate, and into the wild, unknown lands beyond the walls.

-oOo-

Outside the Walls

Leading the scouts through the outer path the commander looked to his left and right, noticing a few steaming skeletal corpses. A relieved sigh left his lips, glad to see that they wouldn't be having issues right of the bat.

"SQUEAAAAAA!"

The guttural squeals brought his attention to the sight of the giant marked boar making its way towards the regiment.

'The cannons must have attracted him' Erwin thought, before turning his head to the large scout running in step with his horse.

The commander didn't have to say anything as the goliath raced ahead of the group to meet with his bestial mount. It only took him a few steps as he seemingly flew across towards the boar, which at the sight of its master, instinctively lowered its head. Within a few seconds Maverick grabbed one of its massive tusks and swung himself onto its back.

Grabbing ahold of the reigns attached he tightened his grip, just as Caesar went on his hind legs and let out another guttural shriek.

"C'mon Caesar, were going on a little road trip!" The boar snarled in response, and soon both glowing mount and rider rejoined the main expedition force. A few scouts found themselves having to part some space for the large swine, but the slight inconvenience was worth the addition of yet another powerful ally to the regiment.

After a few minutes of riding the commander took a deep breath before giving the command he had long awaited to give to his soldiers once again.

"ALL UNITS, FORM THE LONG RANGE ENEMY SCOUTING FORMATION!"

On que the many squads began to separate and ride off towards their designated spots in the formation, the members of Delta Squad being no different, as their junior members went towards the rear lines.

"Best of luck Sirs, Ma'am!" Abel shouted as he decreased his mares speed waving his superiors farewell. The others saluted, wishing them luck as well.

"Stay safe boys!" Hange reciprocated, watching as her squad mates rode off. Turning to her larger comrade she also bade him farewell.

"We'll see you later Mav!" Hearing her shouting he looked in their direction and waved in their direction.

"Best of luck you two!" His companions nodded before heading off into the farther left side of the formation, with Maverick steering Caesar into the center. Soon enough the scouts had formed into the semicircle shaped formation, prepared to spot, and avoid any wandering titans throughout their trip.

'Best of luck…' Maverick couldn't help but feel some concern for not only his squad mates, but for those far beyond the formation. The thought that this may be the last time he might see the faces of those he had grown fond for the past year brought aching pangs to his heart. Only for a reassuring and collected part of his mind to make itself known.

'They'll be fine Mav, they've been doing this long before you arrived…'

That thought brought him some assurance. In the end he knew he couldn't hold their hands every time conflict arose, he had to have faith that their training and experience would see them through this outing.

With that he allowed himself to somewhat relax and attempt to enjoy the scenery, as the summer breeze blew his hair back. A small sigh escaped his lips, recalling a question he once had when he first awoke in this new world. Didn't really expect that giant B.O.W's would be the answer, or at least so soon.

Their trip was going rather well as the formation continued un-molested. No red or black flares had been seen yet and the plains ahead were free of any titans, only the sound of their horses clopping and the guttural snarls from the colossal boar. Still the forward teams kept their wits sharp and observed their surroundings, weary for any sightings, noises, or smells of their giant enemies.

While observing the distant plains Peer took notice that they were coming up upon a marker. Left behind during one of their past expeditions it signified they had reached a certain threshold in their route.

"We've passed the ten kilometer mark!" He shouted. Erwin looked as they passed a pole with a tattered cloak from a fallen scout waving in the air. Long ago, before the introduction of the ODM gear that mark was as far as the scouts of old were able to traverse before being routed back. Though the regiment had passed that mark many times before, it still brought a small sense of satisfaction, even if they would end up returning back to the Walls.

Though it seemed that history would repeat itself as Beirer looked westward and saw a sight that caused him to tense up.

"Red flares to our left!" Erwin was shaken from his musings and turned to see the series of red flares rising into the air. Loading his flare gun he aimed towards the right side and fired, releasing a green flare.

At the sight and sound the formation began to steer their mounts eastward, avoiding any form of confrontation with the sighted man-eater. After a couple moments another series of flares shot up, this time from the right. Changing directions the scouts were able to distance themselves from the threat before it could truly be a threat.

The stratagem was proving to work, though it was at the cost of their established route, as they had begun to deviate from their original path that had been planned out. The commander had anticipated such an event, for it was common for their plans to go awry at some point.

'A slight detour, but were still on the right track…' In his mind this was all going to plan. If having to decrease the fatality rate meant they'd have to take an uncharted route then it was a necessary sacrifice. Or as Maverick would say "No skin off my back." Besides it was their duty to explore the greater world, going on a detour was just another common event for the Survey Corps.

Back with the superhuman he kept his sights on where the last red flare had been sighted, his grip on the reigns tight as he watched as the last of the red fumes dissipated into the air. A sense of both relief and anticipation filled his mind, wondering when they would have to actually get their blades dirty.

He wouldn't have to wonder for long as eventually the formation had made it towards a series of large boulder formations. Passing them they were met with another open field, with a familiar sight awaiting them.

"Titans straight ahead!" Shouted a scout, though it wasn't necessary as everyone could see the multiple large statured monsters making their way towards them.

The small detachment tensed at the sight of the grinning monsters, with some taking out their blades in anticipation for the coming skirmish. The commander eyed the surrounding area, and was disappointed to see they had little openings to escape. Besides a few scattered trees and cliff tops there was little few areas to outrun the man-eaters.

'Dammit, no way for us to outmaneuver all of them….very well…'

Seeing they had no option other than to fight the commander fired off a blue flare into the air, signaling an engagement, as well as recalling the others for reinforcements.

"All units, prepare to engage! Use the trees and terrain to your advantage!"

The scouts brought their blades to arms, and raced down the hill to meet their foes, only to cover their ears as the colossal boar squealed and leapt over them. Their eyes widened with shock at the sight of its underbelly soaring over them and landing perfectly, all the while its rider let out a cackled laugh.

Charging ahead of the group made them the target of the advancing titans, which was just as planned. As they closed in on the horde Maverick touched his mounts forehead handprint and gave it a single command.

"Caesar…SICK'EM."

By its masters order Caesar let out an aggressive snarl and picked up speed. Still atop the boar Maverick brought Skullsmite to arms and just a Caesar made first contact he jumped high into the air, over the titan the boar had rammed into, and struck the head to the titan behind them, reducing it into nothing more than a bloody explosion of grey matter and skull fragments.

The discharge caused the warrior to fly into the air, making the abnormals look up. Some attempted to jump up and reach him, only to miss and crash back down. Still in the air Maverick held Skullsmite high, as arcs of lightning began to emit from its spiked head.

Descending down like a falling comet he brought down the wrath of Zeus upon the giants. The moment the morning star made contact with one of them it released a surge of lightning that spread amongst the others, both paralyzing them and turning their flesh into overcooked meat. Steam emitted from their still standing bodies, only to fall over and collapse and decompose.

From the steam appeared the marked man, jumping over the corpses and straight into the path of another giant. It attempted to reach for him, only to find itself missing its hand, as well as most of it arm.

Swinging Skullsmite he shattered its knee joint bringing it down to its level. With a grin forming on his bearded face he swung once again with greater force and sent its head into the air.

With the foe dealt with he observed the battlefield, watching as the other scouts engaged with their own packs of titans, while more scouts began to appear and descend to assist. As he decided on which team to join the sound of a flare being fired caught his attention. Turning back he saw the color that he had both awaited and dreaded to see.

"Purple…"

-oOo-

"Where the hell did they come from?!" Shouted a member of Ness' squad as they distance themselves from a group of abnormals the had suddenly appeared from behind a hilltop.

"Doesn't matter! Keep your distance!" Ness shouted before firing off a purple flare. The commander had said to use them in case of an emergency, and a pack of rapidly moving abnormals fit that case.

Said titans ranged from seven to ten meters, every one of them moving in the most sporadic and borderline bizarre movements, like drunks trying to dance for the first time. It would have been amusing to watch, had said drunken ballerinas weren't gunning for his squad.

Squad Ness used some nearby trees as their anchor points, and flew off to escape their pursuers, but the abnormals were dead set on catching them as they jumped to reach them, especially one of them, a pouty looking seven meter with long limbs, who crouched down as its eyes set on its target.

"It's gonna pounce!" The warning came a little too late as the titan quickly leapt with its arms held outwards, catching the scout out of the air.

"Mitchel!" Ness panicked, seeing his junior in the monsters grip, even as the scout began to stab at the fingers. Even worse was that the other abnormals had begun to surround them. Dieter was about to shout an order, only for a familiar voice in the distance to make him take pause.

"DROP HIM!"

The abnormal stopped to look towards the direction the voice came from with narrowed eyes, as if it wondered who dared to spoil its moment. Only for a rapidly spinning morning start to strike it in its right shoulder, dissolving the body part into a glowing discharge of red mist.

The abnormal screamed in agony, letting go of the young scout. Just as Maverick appeared and delivered a bone crushing drop kick to the titans ribs, causing it to fly back and collide with the other abnormals.

"Get him to the cart!" Maverick shouted as he took out his guillotine blades and stood in front of the wounded scout. Ness was the first to act as he swooped down and took the wounded junior into his arms, careful not to move him too much. He sent the goliath a thankful look before somehow managing to fire his anchors toward the cliff top.

Maverick turned back to the gathered giants, who now had their eyes on him. The one he had attacked still had yet to fully recover, though it managed to lift itself with its only arm. The pout on its face was gone, in exchange to a more angered look, barring its gritted teeth at the glowing soldier a short distance away.

The marked scout narrowed his eyes as well, and swung his blade in their direction, gesturing for the beasts to approach.

"WELL?! COME ON YOU SLAGGING MONGRELS!" His taunt brought them out of their stupor and soon they once again began to rush towards him, prancing like drunken revelers.

It amused the superhuman, having long treated these giants as nothing more than pesky feral ghouls, so he allowed them to get a little closer to him, till the last moment when he shot his anchors into the inner thigh of the leading giant and flew under its legs.

It looked down in an attempt to bite him only to cause a collision as the other titans crashed into it. With the group incapacitated for the time Maverick turned his attention to the injured scowling giant, its missing limb slowly growing back. Unfortunately a steaming mass of blood and muscle was as far as it got as Maverick set upon the wounded giant, starting with severing its legs.

It happened in the span of a few seconds, as the titan was reduced to a limbless and screaming nugget, before its cries were silenced by a swift two bladed strike behind the neck. With the cripple now a steaming mess Maverick set upon the rest of the giants, starting with the smaller of the gaggle of abnormals.

There were three in total that had rushed him. The first was met with a swift end as Maverick vaulted over it and slashed its nape. The second was met with two blades slashing open its stomach, causing it to keel over and be susceptible to a swift decapitation, the third leapt at Maverick, only to be rewarded with a blade rammed underneath its jaw and another slicing through its neck.

The entire engagement spanned nothing more than a few seconds. Leaving the dissolving bodies Maverick set upon the rest of the abnormals, and like the first one he began with the limbs.

Screams and anguished moans filled the air as he cut them down to size, leaving them at his mercy. Unfortunately for the titans he had none to spare, for all he saw were rabid dogs needing to be put down. Their voices were silenced in mere moments, the only sounds remaining was the sizzling from their steaming corpses.

Exiting the seaming mass he shook the blood of his dual blades, only to hear the voice of his squad leader.

"Mav!" Turning his head quickly he saw the sight of Hange and Moblit, with the rest of Delta descending the hill. Seeing them again filled his heart with relief, only to feel scorn at the sight of a few giants making their way towards them.

"Stick to the trees, I'll draw them in!" He shouted pointing at the approaching enemy. Seeing them she ordered the others to keep their distance. Sheathing his right blade he picked up a nearby rock and wound up his arm.

"OI, FUCKWITS!"

With but a portion of his strength he threw the stone projectile, hitting one of the titans in the left eye. It passed through cleanly leaving a massive hole where its eye once stood. Despite showing no pained reaction, it managed to get their attention and focus on him.

"Thats right, come and get me…" They made their way towards him, arms stretched and gaping mouths. A smile formed on his face as he led the titans around. Evading them he held out his right arm, recalling Skullsmite back to him. Armed with both blade and morning star he stopped and stood his ground against the onslaught. Striking at every limb and face depleted their numbers, till there were only a few left.

"Rashad, Keiji, legs!" On his order the two scouts swooped down and anchored themselves on the titan, and with two strikes to the tendons it was brought down.

"Harold!" Swinging around its neck the young scout winded up and ended the titans life. The rest of Delta soon joined the fight and slew the titans already dwindling numbers.

"FLAWLESS DELTA!" Before they could bask in their accomplishment the sound of a flare going off attracted Maverick's attention.

"Another purple?!" He quickly set off towards the area of concern, though not before informing his squad mates.

"Delta, assist any squads having trouble! I'm going solo!" He didn't give the others a chance to respond as he speed off towards the sight of the distress signal.

-oOo-

Squad Miche had engaged a group of titans that had approached from the west, likely attracted by the large number of humans out in the area. Though it seemed they had taken on more than they could handle.

"Dammit, need a little help here!" Nanaba shouted, as she evaded a titans choppers. These abnormals had shown to be far more savage and quick footed. All they could do was maneuver around them and hopes they'd expose their weak points. Or until their resident superhuman would arrive, as Miche had fired off the special flare.

"THINK FAST!"

It would be the latter as the abnormal she was facing was blown back by a powerful, bone cracking, eye-popping, and tooth shattering punch to its grinning face. As it fell onto the ground Maverick smashed its face in and threw Skullsmite like a boomerang, striking down the other abnormals.

"Your welcome!" Was all he said as he raced off towards another spotted titan, while the squad was left with the steaming corpses.

"It's like his feet don't even touch the ground!" Henning spoke watching the superhuman practically fly across the battlefield. Nanaba could only chuckle to herself remarking how it took him seconds to relieve them of their situation.

"SQUEEEEAAAA!"

And of course who could forget the massive boar that was currently tossing and throwing titans around like sacks of potatoes. With these two on their side, the success of this expedition would be more than assured.

With the combined might of Maverick, Caesar, and the experience veterans of the regiment they managed to clear the area of the titan menace, and only managing to suffer minor casualties on their end. With the titans eliminated and markers placed around the area and maps, the commander ordered for the regiment to move on and continue to their destination. The Giant Southern Forest.

-oOo-

Near the outskirts of the Giant Forest

"Forest in sight!" Peer shouted, seeing the trees in the distance. The Southern Giant Forest, a decades long battleground between the Survey Corps and the innumerable titan hordes, and the location of their main objective.

Long ago, under the leadership of Keith Shadis, the regiment was able to establish a base of operations inside the forest. It was planned to have been the staging ground for the future expansion operations beyond the walls, only for the regiment to lose the base after a few short weeks.

Attempts were made to reclaim the area of course, unfortunately said attempts ended in failure, resulting in the continuous lack of faith in the Scout Regiment, and waste of taxpayers money.

But things would be different, today the pendulum would swing in their favor, the commander was certain of it.

'Here we go…' Erwin took a deep breath as he was the first to enter the forest, followed by the others of the forward teams.

"Shit, do you think Caesar will be-" Beirer's question was answered as the glowing boar charge into the forest, even managing to nearly uproot a tree that got in his way. "Never mind…"

The scouts maneuvered along the path, a path they had taken and rode upon so many times before. Passing by tree after tree they kept their eyes sharp, watching for any movements in the woods. Surprisingly there were few as the only encounters they faced were a few deer and other woodland critters. "Sir! We've passed our last mark!"

Erwin's eyes widened as he saw the marker pass them by. It was placed some distance away from the location of the base, which meant they were getting closer to their destination. It was honestly a shock to the commander, for they had never reached this far in past expeditions, so they were going in completely blind. It was quite an exuberant and nerve wracking feeling.

'Been too long since the regiments gotten this far….' Erwin thought. Eyeing what looked to be an opening in the woods he motioned for his men to slow down and for Maverick to control his beasts' snarls, less the sounds give away their position. 'Wonder it it's still standing….'

Reaching the opening the commander ordered his men to dismount and reach higher ground. Using the branches as anchor points the scouts ascended and took a gander at the rather…unpleasant sight.

Atop a giant tree in the center of the open area of the woods was the remains of what was once the Survey Corps Exterior Headquarters. Though one wouldn't be mistaken to think that the dilapidated and near demolished platform built around the giant 80 meter tree to once be the scout HQ. Years exposed to the elements and with no maintenance whatsoever had taken its toll. Though Erwin himself hadn't seen the base in its glory day he imagined it would have been a sight to behold. But now it only served as a reminder of their failures, as well as a place to host its new patrons.

"*Sigh* Of course…" Erwin muttered spotting the numerous titans gathered around the area. Titans of all shapes and sizes had made the ruins of the HQ their stomping grounds, with some even lying on their backs. It was an odd sight, seeing them act in such a matter. Hange would certainly find it worthy of study.

"Look at em all, just lounging around like they own the fucking place…" Dirk voiced, watching the abominations squaller about the grounds.

"Disgusting…" Came the appalled voice from Levi, a sentient felt by the rest of the gathered scouts. Their blades were unsheathed, ready to give them their immediate eviction notices, a sentiment Erwin could understand. But they couldn't be too hasty. For he had a plan set in motion, all they needed to do for the moment was wait.

"Are all squads in position?" Erwin asked in a whispered tone. Taking out a spyglass Peer looked over the branches in the distance and saw the other members of the forward teams, as well as the additional squads, gathered around the high branches. "Yes sir, they're waiting on your signal."

With that Erwin one again armed his flare gun and signaled for the operation to begin.

"All units! Clear this area of all titans! Engage!"

By the sound and sight of the blue flare did the multitude of squads fired flares at the titans and descend from the tree branches and into the gathered swarms of confuzzled beasts, their cloaks flowing and blades glistening in the light. Some of course were faster in their approach, such as Squad Four's Slayer, the ever skilled Captain Levi, Squad Miche's namesake, and surprising of all, Team Leader Moses.

"GRAAAHHHH!"

With a vicious warcry he latched onto the neck of the titan below him and swooped down with great speed. The 12 meter abomination was only able to spare him a sideways glance before its eyes rolled up into its head, as its nape was ripped with a double bladed strike.

The scout didn't bother to look at his handiwork or if he had actually slain the beast, his focus was simply on the next titan, that surprisingly looked quite similar to the one that had managed to grab him so long ago.

"Hope you're watching brothers, cause these kills are going out to you!"

Across the woodland arena many a squad had engaged in titan eradication, utilizing the many surrounding trees to their advantage. Their years' worth of training allowed them to traverse and fly circles around their giant adversaries, who were constantly shifting their sights on whatever scout that had entered their line of sight, leaving them open to an attack on their weak point.

"I-I-I did it! Ha, Ha! AHHHH-" Came the cries of Marlene, who's victory was short lived as another titan practically popped up from behind a tree nearby. Though before the drooling behemoth could grab ahold of the frozen scout a glowing morning star blind sighted the titan, quite literally.

"T-Thanks Mav!" She thanked the passing by goliath, who chose to leave his famed weapon by the headless, steaming corpse, and continue the fight with his ultrahard steel blades. Firing his anchors into any and every tree he soared across the forest slicing and dicing any titans that had blocked his path, or were stupid enough to try and go for the marked scout.

For the man was mission to evict every titan from the are as quickly and brutally as possible, as well as helping his comrades whenever he found them biting off more than they could chew, such as the commander, who found himself having to deal with three titans, two of them abnormals. Dealing with the aberrants first allowed the commander and his men more breathing room.

"Quick timing as always Maverick." He thanked, earning him a sharp laugh from the superhuman as he swung about the giant oaks. "Can't have you dying so early in your career Smith!"

Leaving the commander and his retinue he continued to traverse across the ruined HQ, assisting the scouts with clearing the area, gaining speed with every nape he took. It came to a point where he was moving faster and faster, with some scout not even realizing he was even there to help.

"W-Wuh?" One scout muttered as they felt the breeze behind them, only to turn and find the steaming remains of two titans that were not even close to approaching him.

Like a glowing bullet he continued to rip and tear through the titans, the only glimpse the regiment could get of him was when he had to stop and replace his very worn down blades and sharply turn his head towards the next titan, like some automated killing machine.

"God, look at him go…"

"Didn't even give it a chance to do anything…"

"Heh, looks like we'll have this place cleared in no time!"

Right they were. Thanks to Maverick's battle frenzy most if not all of the titans in the central area of the battleground had been wiped out, making the cleanup operation all the more easier for his comrades. Soon after the battlefield was turned into a sizzling, steaming mess, as if a mist had overtaken the entire battlefield. But on the bright side they had achieved their objective, course there were still a few that somehow survived, but they would be dealt with soon enough.

-oOo-

After the skirmish…

"Have the stragglers been taken care of?" Erwin asked aloud watching the steaming battlefield, weary for any sneaky titans that may appear suddenly through the steaming mists. Standing atop a branch Peer observed the area to assure the commander.

"Squad Miche handled the last in the western area, Darius' squad-"

*THUD*….*SIZZLE*

"Just took down the last one…" No sooner had he said that did the sounds of cracking bones and a titans wails was heard. Turning their attention to the southern area they were just in time to see a titan appear out of the steam, falling flat on its face.

"Not all of them it seems…" Erwin observed the titans condition, noticing its dislocated jaw and overall damaged features. Steam erupted from its body, as its regeneration abilities went into effect. What surprised him more however was the fact it was dragging itself across the ground with its still functioning arm, as if it was trying to get away from something. Said something eventually revealed itself to be none other than Maverick, whose glowing figure appeared through the steam.

"Y'know, I'd normally leave one of you alive, let you tell the others what you've seen…"

Maverick stepped atop the titan with great force in every step, breaking its spine, causing it to gargle in pain and discomfort. A vicious grin formed on his face as the titan slurred and drooled blood from its broken mouth.

"But you don't look like you'll be yapping anytime soon…"

The clear venom in his voice, his brighter than usual markings, as well as the glowing trail his eyes left behind, showed he was still showing signs of his battle lust. Noticing his large comrades current state he motion for his men to keep their distance. Minus one who rushed to try and speak to him.

"Hold it Mav! I wanna-"

Her voice fell on deaf ears as Maverick grabbed the titans back, digging one his hands into its spine, and began to pull. All watched with wide eyes as the saw their comrade pull not only the titans' spine, but its entire skeleton out of its body. Its guttural screams echoed across the woods before falling silent as its flesh and skeleton were separated by the torso, its steaming blood pouring out like a fountain.

"O-Oh…"

With the last of the titans evicted from the woodland premises did Maverick finally come back to his senses, as his body's glow began to dim back to normal.

"Watcha say Hanji?" He asked his squad leader in a clam tone, seemingly unaware of the fact he was completely drenched in steaming blood. Hange could only look into his glowing eyes and wave her hands dismissively. "N-Nothing, never mind!"

Shrugging in response he released the giant skeleton from his grip and wiped his hands together, all the while everyone's eyes were still on him. Though they had seen him do things that amazed and horrified them many times in the last year, he always seemed to find a way to one up himself and surprise them all over again.

"Impressive work everyone, this area belongs to humanity once again!" Erwin suddenly shouted, gathering everyone's attention to him. With a bit of a delayed reaction cheers began to erupt from the scouts before soon the entire forest was filled with their victorious warcries.

Finally, after what seemed to be a series of never ending failures, countless lives lost, and the extinguishing embers of hope and rising disappointment, at last he Scout Regiment had claimed a victory under their belt. Not only could they at last begin to reclaim their lost territories, but also the souls of those that came before them could finally rest, knowing their deaths had been avenged.

"Klaus, Dirk, get the cart teams. We need to set up as quickly as possible." Saluting the two squads set of to bring the carts into the area, while the rest of the regiment began to reinforce their position.

-oOo-

With the last of the titan corpses dissolved and the assurance of Miche the regiment began to fortify their location and scout out other areas of the old HQ. Barbed nets had been acquired from the Garrison and been brought along for the expedition, in the hopes they could be used to secure their location, some doubted their effectiveness, but it did provide some comfort, knowing they had some form of security. Small platforms were built around multiple trees, to allow the scout higher viewpoints and safe areas. Other defenses included log stakes and other early era defenses.

The commander and his retinue devoted themselves to inspect the remains of the old HQ, taking stock of anything that could still be salvaged or rebuilt, though the latter proved to be a dim hope.

Hearing footsteps behind him Erwin turned and saw Maverick approaching, his eyes on the dilapidated platform atop the great oak.

"Quite a depressing sight isn't it." Maverick held an impassive look as he walked around, taking a look at what remained of the once prosperous exterior base. "Certainly seen better days."

"Indeed. The rebuilding alone will take some time before its even . Not to mention having to defend this area from any unwanted visitors." A dry chuckle left the slayers mouth as he patted the commanders shoulder.

"Back on the defensive, eh?" Before the commander could offer a response the voice of one of the junior scouts echoed across the woods.

"FUCK, FUCK, FUCK, FUCK!"

Moments later the scout came soaring across the trees at a breakneck speed. Everyone gathered around him as he tumbled onto the ground.

"Jerald, the hell happened?!" Ness shouted in concern. The scout, Jerald, was in a state of utter distress. His shrunken pupils, shaky legs, and his quick hyperventilated breathing. Whatever the young scout had seen had clearly frightened him to his core.

"F-F-Fucking Titans, S-Squad Leader! Those fucking titans!"

"What?!" Jerald didn't respond, only motioning for the squad leader, and the rest of the scouts, to follow. Questions arose in their minds, just what had spooked the scout so badly to put him in such a state? It wasn't titans, for Miche had assured the commander.

A short trek into the deeper woods would answer their questions, as a rancid smell began to enter their noses. Pushing onwards they eventually located the cause of the scouts panic, and what they found caused many to freeze.

It was a massive ball of flesh, roughly three meters in height. Another was seen a short distance away, and another, and another. It was a field of massive flesh balls.

This would normally cause panic in anyone, but what caused fright amongst the scouts was what was inside the flesh ball. For inside were dozens of bodies of previous scouts, already in the late stages of decay. Even so many could still see the anguished expressions on what used to be their seniors members.

"Ohhh….Oh God…"

"W-What the hell…"

"Augh, the smell…"

"I think I'm going to be sick…"

These were but the few voices that managed to spill out of the scouts, as many simply stood silent, their minds unable to think of a proper response to this horrid sight. Maverick was the outlier though as he soon took a few steps towards the gore ball with no signs of fear.

"Make way, make way!" Came the voice of the Fourth Squads leader, who was late to the gathering. She too stopped in her tracks the moment her goggled eyes laid upon the flesh ball. "Hoh…never thought I'd ever see one up close"

Many turned in her direction with surprised look. Sensing their morbid curiosity she answered the unspoken question.

"This is what happens when a titan gets full." She explained.

"Titan don't possess intestines or any other digestive organs. They just keep eating until they puke up everything inside their stomach. Then they just…start it all again."

"Monsters….fucking monsters…" One said to the agreement of the rest of the gathered scouts. "H-How many are in there?" another asked.

"Who's to say. Decomposition has already set in, it'd be next to impossible to identify anything."

As she continued to explain Maverick circled around the regurgitated flesh orb. He had seen his fair share of flesh walls, flesh pits, and fused monstrosities in his life, so the appearance of this morbid gore pile wasn't something new to him.

Continuing to observe the flesh mound a twinkling object caught his eye. With no fear whatsoever he reached into the fleshy orb, and took out a bolo tie. The topaz gem centerpiece glistened in the light, getting the attention of the commander.

"Find something Maverick?" Showing what he had found made the commander go wide eyed. "Seem familiar, Sir?"

"The 11th Commander…" Was all he said as Erwin took the pendant from his large comrade, and held it as if it were some priceless artifact. Giving the commander a questioning look Erwin explained in greater detail.

"This…belonged to one of the previous commanders of the regiment. Bit of blood but still in decent condition…" Maverick gave a look of understanding as Erwin pocketed the trinket. Looking back at the remains of the fallen he sighed, they didn't deserve to be left in such a state, even if their souls had departed the mortal plan. And he'd be damned if he didn't do something about it.

"We brought torches right?"

-oOo-

Later that day, inside the giant forest…

The rest of the day was spent burning the many gore piles scattered around the area, and offering prayers to the long dead scouts of old, in hopes that their spirits could find some peace. By the time they finished burning the last of the gory orbs the sun was already setting. Thus the scout regiment, for the first time in decades, spent the night outside the walls.

The commander had expected the possibility of this happening, thus they had come prepared with bedrolls and other sorts of camping utilities. Cooking pots, ingredients and seasonings, water barrels, sanitary necessities, the works. You name it, they had it.

But despite what should be a momentous moment in the regiments history, after today's discovery, many found little reason to celebrate.

A calm yet somber atmosphere filled the air, for many were still dealing with the aftermath of the burning funerals. Some scouts ate their meals in silence, others worked on their gear, while some chose to stare of into space. Those a part of Maverick's campsite were no different.

"So…that'll happen to us one day huh?" Moses muttered. No one spoke out in response, which seemed to answer the young scouts question. His mind couldn't help but return to that moment a year ago, when he was in a titans grasps, and how close he was to death. Chills ran through his spine, thinking that could have been him, a rotten pile of throw up left in the sun.

"Not if I have anything to say about it." All turned their heads to the marked man, who was currently eating a large bowl of vegetable soup. A few small smiles formed on his comrades faces at his firm tone, understanding his sentiment.

"A touching thought Maverick, truly…" Erwin began with a smile, only for it to turn downward. "But you of all people should kn-"

"I know, believe you me Erwin, I know…." He interrupted, he had seen his fair share of death in wars and battles past, loss good friends and comrades in said conflicts, many he couldn't prevent or stop in time. Even with the gifts and blessings, he knew he couldn't save everyone.

"Doesn't mean I can't try to be the guardian angel they think of me back home."

Many appreciated his statement, for it brought some form of comfort to their minds. Knowing how sincere he was when truly meant something to those gathered, some more than others. Especially since he could back up his words, for his performance in the fight had prevented many possible casualties on their end. With the mood slightly raised Maverick spoke again.

"So, what's on the agenda tomorrow?"

"We'll continue to explore the area, set us some more defenses, and mark spots for the future supply lines." Erwin replied.

"Hmph, thought we'd go further." The disappointment in his tone was palpable, an understandable sentiment.

"Remember Mav we only had enough supplies and materials to reestablish this outpost." The commander understood where Mav was coming from, personally he would love nothing more than to push on and discover more land and secrets, but they had to take small steps towards that goal. The higher ups had only supplied the regiment with enough supplies to retake the old HQ after all. 'Not to mention this is to test you after all…'

"Right…" The sudden sound of snarling brought the camps attention to Caesar who had begun to make his way further into the forest, away from the rest of the regiment.

"H-Hey where's he going?!" Moblit exclaimed. "Mav! Y-You didn't restrain him?!" His panicked questions were met with a few chuckles as the large man simply patted his comrades back.

"C'mon Moblit did you forget?" Showing his shorter friend his marked hand immediately reminded Berner of what he had done to tame the beast so long ago. "Besides, boars are nocturnal. This is his prime time to hunt."

"Heh, maybe he'll find some titans to munch on." This brought a couple laughs from everyone. Despite the joke Caesar had essentially become the guard dog of the regiment, attacking titans whenever they had gotten close to the walls. No doubt he'd hunt them once more, and far easier now that his prey weren't able to defend themselves.

As the night continued someone had the perfect idea to ask Maverick to tell another of his grandiose and bizarre stories, in an effort to entertain and take their minds off the events of the afternoon.

"So Mav got any stories for us tonight?" A sea of eyes turned in his direction, all the while he finished his eighth helping of soup. "Maybe."

In seconds his companions informed the others, and soon the entire regiment gathered around him, like moths to a flame. Even those who were injured had practically crawled their way towards his camp, eager to hear one of his stories. "So…what tale should Ol' Great Uncle Maverick spin this night?"

"Surprise us."

Surprise them they say, well challenge most certainly accepted. Looking up at the trees he began to think and ponder, just what kind of story should he tell. He had told many a thrilling and adventurous tale, what other could he hope to amaze his comrades with?

As he continued looking up he saw the moon seeping through the branches. That glowing rock orbiting the starry night sky mesmerized him for a bit, and his glowing eyes widened. Of course! He had plenty of memories in relation to the orbiting celestial rock. But what fond memory could he tell. Searching through his cerebral archives he remembered a special memory and smiled. Yes, that would make for a good lighthearted tale.

"Have I ever told you all….about the first time I went to the moon?"

And so, for the next hour or so he had enlightened them all of his first trip into the stars, though what fascinated them most was this story was set before his rebirth. During a time where the people of his world had finally begun to truly make an effort to expand beyond their own borders. No simple space stations, mechanized probes and satellites, or small steps for man. No, they had truly begun to travel and colonize the final frontier. And it all began with the celestial body that orbited around the night sky.

A/N: Meant to get this done earlier in the month, but you know, on vacation with the family, also got sick again. But managed to get this out for my monthly deadline, like I said in the last A/N expect the next chapter to come out around mid/late august.

Anyways we finally get to the expedition, and the scouts finally get their first win outside the walls. For those who've player Territory Recovery Mode this was essentially a narrative retelling of the missions Outrider OP and Retake the Forest Headquarters(Think that what it's called). I'm sure you all expected nothing less than a victory, and let me tell you right now this is just the beginning.

That's all I wanted to say for now. Like always, thanks for reading and hope to see you again soon.