Two days after Thomas's big reveal and Hange's revelation, the Scouts were set to leave the moment the sun poked through the cloudy sky. Rowan had woken early, stretching her limbs before shoving herself out of bed. After the mission debrief throughout the day prior, she had snuck away to her room, not wanting to wake Levi up with all the pacing she was doing. He had fallen asleep so quickly, she knew he needed the rest. She sighed and swiftly changed into her uniform, tossing the dark green cloak over her shoulders. Her body was vibrating with anxious anticipation, but she knew she was ready. It was her first mission beyond the walls, but Levi and her friends would all be there with her. A soft knock on the door startled her as she was looking for the crystals. Of course, she hoped she wouldn't need them, but she wanted to be cautious. Rowan tugged her door open and was met with gray eyes and a frown. She expected this, but not so soon.
"Levi? I thought we weren't leaving until sunrise. I'm sorry I slipped out last night. I had a lot on my mind and didn't want to wake you." Rowan met his gaze before turning to glance out her window. A soft hand cupped her cheek and angled her face back towards Levi's. His hand slipped down to his side.
"Are you just going to stand there and block me out of your room?" His voice was quiet, the only sound in the barren hallway. Rowan stood straighter, stepping to the side to let him in. She shut the door behind him as he sat on her bed. He was in his uniform, his own cloak wrapped around his shoulders. The only thing missing was his ODM gear. She stood near the closed door, waiting for Levi to explain why he was in her room in the first place. Usually, he would be debriefing with Commander Erwin and Hange prior to a mission.
"Why aren't you with Commander Erwin and Hange?" She decided to drop down next to him on her bed and he sighed.
"This was more important." He turned to look at her and her eyes widened. "After Thomas attacked the Scouts in his Titan form, rumors spread quickly. We did our best to contain them, but it was out of our control. Unfortunately, the higher ups got word that you and your brother were working together to infiltrate and dismantle the Scouts. Many soldiers claimed you were arguing about the plan with your brother before he got angry and swatted you into a nearby building. They are calling for a retrial." Levi muttered. Rowan gasped, pushing herself to her feet.
"A retrial? How is that fair? I had nothing to do with my brother and his Titan form! I didn't even know he had one! I told Commander Erwin the truth, all of it. Why is it suddenly okay to assume someone is guilty by association?" She growled, turning away from him and pacing from the door to her window.
"Erwin does not know about the request for a retrial."
"How do you know then?" Rowan paused for a moment, settling her gaze on him.
"Hange and I intercepted the messenger. We sent him packing. I am not sure if that will make matters worse when we return, but at least the mission will not be hindered now."
"Levi…you and Hange intercepted the messenger for Commander Erwin? You could be exiled for that." Rowan tried to think back to her training. In class, they learned the legality of communication between the higher ups, commanders, and captains. If someone interrupted the communication, they could be exiled or forced to work in the fields.
"They would never exile Hange and I. Regardless, we told the messenger to keep quiet if he wanted to live. We advised him to tell whoever sent him that the Scouts left a day early and the headquarters was empty." Levi stood, wrapping his fingers around Rowan's wrists. "I told you that I would do everything in my power to protect you and I meant it." Rowan locked her gaze on his and frowned.
"In doing so, didn't you betray the Commander?" She turned her gaze to the floor.
"No. Erwin will understand. I plan on telling him after we leave. I am not leaving you behind again and I am especially not leaving you to face a retrial without us." Levi tugged her forward and wrapped his arms around her. Her head was resting on his shoulder and she slipped her arms around him. She simply fell into the embrace, focusing on the clean linen scent that smelled like home. A knock on the door startled her, but Levi held on tighter. Her door swung open and she could feel Levi sigh against her. "What is it, Hange?"
"Heya, my favorite partner in crime and my favorite witch! We may have a slight problem." Hange's voice was sheepish and Rowan slipped from Levi's arms and turned to stare at them. "Erwin knows."
"What?" Levi stepped forward, his gaze dark as he focused his stare on Hange.
"I went to meet with him like always and he asked where you were. I told him you were with Rowan and he seemed understanding, but he still asked why. I just explained that you had wanted to talk to her about something and he mentioned the demand for a retrial. He asked me to retrieve both of you." Hange spoke quickly, their body bouncing in the doorway.
"Damn it. Okay, grab your gear and let's get this over with." Levi muttered, following Hange out the door and into his own room. Rowan gulped, her hands shaking as she secured her ODM gear around her waist. She closed her door behind her, her hands still shaking as she waited for Levi. Hange was rambling on about something in Levi's room, but Rowan couldn't quite make out what they were saying. The door swung open and Levi shoved Hange out before closing it behind him.
"Off we go!" Hange started leading the way, their footsteps quick. Rowan stayed outside of her room, her shaking hands clasped in front of her. One trial was bad enough, but a retrial? They probably wouldn't even let Levi be there with her this time. She would have to face death alone, in front of hundreds of unfamiliar faces who hate her for being born. Nothing could prepare her for that.
"Rowan. Come on." Levi's hand gently slipped in between her hands. He entwined their fingers together and he gently tugged her down the hallway after Hange. "I am not going to let you face this shit alone." Tears formed in Rowan's eyes and she nodded, squeezing his hand as they walked. The rest of the time was silent, everyone lost in their own thoughts. Rowan thought about her friends. What would they say if they knew what was happening? Would they believe that she was somehow working with Thomas? She really hoped her friends knew her better than that, but she couldn't blame them if they questioned her. She felt Levi's grip on her hand tighten as they reached one of the conference rooms. Candles lit the hallway and she could just make out a soft glow beneath the door. Hange knocked twice.
"Come in." The Commander's voice echoed down the hallway. Rowan tugged her hand away, but Levi maintained his grasp, his hand following the movement. He glanced down at her questioningly before pulling her through the doorway. "Hange. Levi. Rowan. Please have a seat." Commander Erwin was standing at the podium, his eyes trained on the three of them. Levi released her hand for a moment and saluted the Commander. Hange and Rowan quickly followed, showing their respect before taking seats at the table. Levi sat at the front and pulled the chair out next to him for Rowan. She smiled softly and sat down right as Levi's fingers found her hand again. He squeezed her hand, almost as if he was sharing his strength with her. Hange took a seat across from them and turned their gaze to Commander Erwin. "I have recently become aware of a demand for a retrial for Rowan Mixerton. It is suspected that she assisted Thomas Mixerton with infiltrating and attacking the Scout regiment. Rowan, I would like to ask you again. Did you know your brother had a Titan form?" Though he was speaking to the group, his eyes were trained on Levi's and Rowan's connected hands. She cleared her throat for a moment before speaking.
"I did not, sir. I had just learned about witches having Titan forms from Hange right before Thomas transformed. It was something that I never learned about in the village. I was an outcast, I suppose. My mother let my siblings and I skip school. Rather than teaching us what I know now is propaganda, she taught us about humanity and their fight with the Titans. She taught me how to heal and use my inner magic to be stronger. My father also taught me how to use my magic as a weapon to protect myself. He did this in secret and we often practiced at the barrier's edge. During these sessions, I would see members of the Scouts fighting Titans and I knew I wanted to help. I didn't think it was fair that we could live peacefully inside of our barriers, while humans were in a constant war with man-eating creatures. While I had a peaceful childhood with freedom to explore and ask questions, Thomas chose to go to the school in the village. Unfortunately, I do not know what he was taught during this time. We were never very close, so he never spoke about it with me. I have already written out everything I know about my kind and about my village and other witch villages in a notebook for Hange. They have it in their library." Rowan explained everything to the best of her abilities. She wanted the trust of the Scouts and she would prove during the mission that she deserved it.
"Hange. Is this true?" Erwin's gaze shifted to Hange and the scientist nodded.
"Yes indeed, sir. Rowan even helped me translate some of the texts we found during our last mission. With her help, I should be able to translate everything much quicker. I believe that Rowan is an irreplaceable asset to the Scouts and to our cause." Hange. Despite everything they have read, they still stood up for Rowan. She wouldn't forget that.
"Levi." Erwin's gaze once again settled on their conjoined hands. Rowan tried to pull her sweaty hand away, but Levi continued to grasp it tightly.
"Erwin." He responded, his tone clear and respectful.
"What is your opinion about the retrial?"
"Frankly, I think it is bullshit." Rowan had to bite her tongue to keep from gasping. She noticed a small smirk form on Hange's lips as they made eye contact.
"Care to elaborate?" Commander Erwin was entirely focused on Levi now.
"Rowan has done everything she can to prove she belongs in the Scouts. She was nearly the top of her class, she saved many of her comrades during the mishaps that happened during training, and when she found out her idiot brother had a Titan form, she ran to warn everyone around him. She asked me for five minutes to talk to him before I cut him down. I granted her that. She wanted to know why Thomas was attacking. Thomas wasn't really in a talking mood and attacked her. That is when Mikasa Ackerman and I stepped in. Mikasa got Rowan to safety while I got rid of Thomas. Nothing more happened than that. They were not infiltrating the military together. They were not planning on dismantling the Scouts. Thomas was and Rowan was caught in the crossfire. We do not get to choose who our families are. We do not have a say in what other people do simply because we are related. Rowan has not done anything that would legally call for a retrial. Therefore, their demand is based on speculation and is bullshit." Levi spoke harshly, his eyes glaring at the table.
"While your word is credible, there are conflicting views from other soldiers. I hope you understand that it is difficult to take your word for it given the recent development between you both." Erwin gestured to their hands. Levi tugged on Rowan's to rest their conjoined hands on the table.
"Rowan and I are together, yes. I am not going to lie to you about that anymore. I will do whatever is necessary to protect her, but only because I trust her judgment, her skill, and who she is as a witch and a soldier. She is irreplaceable to our cause. I would hope that you would trust my judgment enough to know I would not be blinded by emotions. I would have never developed feelings for Rowan in the first place had she not been trustworthy. It is also worth noting that Rowan has not only my trust, but the trust of Hange, Petra, Oluo, Gunther, Eld, Mikasa, Eren, Armin, Jean, Sasha, Connie, Christa, Ymir, Reiner, and Bertolt as well. Every single person I named is a trusted member of the Scout Regiment, many having served for years under your leadership. I hope you take that into consideration." Levi's tone was unwavering as he stared right into Commander Erwin's eyes.
"Hange. Rowan. I would like to speak with Levi alone. You both are dismissed and free to meet with the others at the stables." Levi squeezed her hand once more before releasing his grasp. Her hand felt cold without him there, but she understood. Both Hange and Rowan stood and saluted the Commander before exiting the room. Levi hadn't even looked at her and she hoped he wouldn't be punished for what transpired between them. As the door clicked shut behind them, Hange threw their arm around Rowan's shoulders and pulled her in tightly.
"Don't worry about Levi. Erwin hand-picked him and will never lose trust in him. This is just a sticky situation that I don't think Erwin was prepared for. I mean, stoic Levi having fallen in love with a recruit who isn't even human? It doesn't even sound plausible." Hange chuckled, releasing Rowan as they led her out to the stables.
"Gee, thanks Hange." Rowan huffed, staring at her feet as she followed behind. Hange's feet were suddenly in her view and facing her. She glanced up to meet Hange's determined gaze.
"Listen to me. If Levi were to fall for anyone, I am grateful that it's you. I can see how you feel about him and he deserves someone who loves him for more than just his skill. Erwin knows that too. He knows Levi doesn't let his guard down around others often. The fact that he let you in? It speaks volumes. Erwin can't ignore that. They just need to be careful about this, as do you. The higher ups and the military police would use this against you. They don't trust Levi, not fully. They simply fear him. If it is revealed to them that you and Levi are together, it would only make the situation more dire." Everything Hange said made sense, but it didn't help Rowan feel any better. If Erwin's trust for Levi wavered, it would be her fault. "Come on. The others are probably worried about us." Hange entwined their hands and dragged Rowan all the way to the stables. Everyone was already there, chatting and preparing their horses. The conversations lulled as Hange and Rowan approached.
"Rowan! We were so worried about you! Connie saw you being taken to a meeting with Commander Erwin. We all thought you would be banished from the mission again." Armin threw his arms around and she hugged him back before stepping to the side. Hange had slipped off to talk to their squad, so Rowan was left alone, standing in front of her fellow squad members and her dear friends.
"I am not banned from the mission. I'll still be going with you all. Commander Erwin caught wind of uprisings within wall Sina. Apparently, the military police and higher ups are demanding a retrial for me because they think I was working with Thomas to infiltrate and harm the Scouts. We discussed it with him this morning, but he is still talking with Levi now." She frowned, meeting each one of their gazes.
"That's ridiculous. I can talk to the Commander about what happened. I heard everything." Mikasa stepped forward and Sasha joined her.
"I saw it too! We left our room at the same time to go to the stables together. I was right there when it happened." She spoke up, her fists clenched in front of her chest.
"A lot of us saw it. We would all vouch for you. Let's go talk to the Commander right now. He has to know that we all stand behind you." Eren pushed through the group and stood right in front of Rowan. He fell silent though as someone approached from behind her. A gentle hand settled on her shoulder and she glanced over to see Levi standing beside her. Her friends all jumped to salute him.
"Enough. Nothing is going to happen to Rowan. Everyone, move your asses and get into formation. Now." He ordered and her friends all scattered. He turned to meet her gaze and he smiled softly. "We aren't in the clear yet, but I think Erwin has calmed down enough to think rationally. Though, I can't say he is happy about us, he at least is still willing to see you in action. I think he will question my motives more, so I need to be more careful and aware of it." Levi huffed, his fingers curling against her shoulder. Rowan shook his hand off and stepped back. She cursed herself before throwing her arm into a salute.
"I'm going to join the others and get into position Sir." She cringed as the words left her lips. She had to do this though. She didn't want to ruin the trust between the Commander and Levi. She refused. She spun on her heel and headed off towards the horses, but Levi had other plans. He snatched her wrist and tugged her body to his. He stared up at her, his eyes narrowed.
"What game are you playing?"
"I'm not playing a game Sir." She frowned, trying to separate their bodies. He just pulled her closer, so close that their noses were touching.
"Cut the shit. What's going on? Tell me Rowan."
"Is that an order Sir?" She challenged and he rolled his eyes.
"No. It's not. Rowan, just tell me what's going on. I'm not asking as your Captain. I'm asking as Levi, your partner." He gave her some space and she took that opportunity to put more distance between them.
"My partner?" That caught her off guard.
"Yes. I told Erwin that we are together and I meant it. If you'll still have me that is."
"I don't want to ruin the trust you and Commander Erwin have built. If he loses trust in you…it would be my fault. This partnership, it's not worth it. I'm not here to dismantle the Scouts and I would be doing that if I put a divide between the two of you." Rowan tried her best to explain her thought process, but it seemed to only piss Levi off more.
"It's not worth it? Even if it did somehow break the trust Erwin has for me, which is ridiculous by the way, this is really not worth it?" He turned his back to her and stepped away.
"Levi. Please. Can I explain myself better?"
"You have five seconds." He paused and she held her tongue, taking a second or two to think it through.
"It's worth it for me. You'll always be worth it to me, but it's not worth it for you. We won't survive if the Commander doesn't trust Humanity's Strongest Soldier. The regiment would fall apart."
"You're foolish if you think my feelings differ from your own in any capacity. I don't take what we have between us lightly. If you die, I will keep fighting and if I die, you will keep fighting. Until that day comes, we will continue this fight together and be stronger together. I already told Erwin all of this." Levi was suddenly in front of her, his hand clutching her chin.
"Levi…I don't want people to treat you differently because of me."
"Let them. I don't care. You know the forced respect pisses me off anyway. Most of it is just a charade."
"But…I…" Rowan trailed off and before she could even form a sentence, Levi interrupted.
"Rowan. Stop thinking so much. You'll just end up hurting yourself." He huffed before tugging her into a hug. Rowan's arms wrapped around him, her chin on his shoulder. She was met with startled gazes from most of their comrades. Though, Hange just smirked at them and Petra silently cheered, dancing around happily.
"Levi…everyone is staring."
"Tch." Levi sighed, releasing her and turning to glare at everyone. "What's everyone doing standing around? Get your asses on your horses and wait for the Commander's signal." He shouted and all the soldiers saluted him before scattering to find their horses in the formation. "That means you too, Mixerton."
"No problem Captain." Rowan saluted him, throwing in a wink before sprinting away to her place in the formation. Eld was holding her horse steady for her and Rowan thanked him before hopping onto Dahlia's back. She was a strong horse and would serve Rowan well.
"I didn't know the Captain was into PDA. You must have really done a number on him, Rowan!" Petra teased from behind her. Heat rose to her cheeks and she turned her face away from the squad. Eld and Gunther were already staring at her from the sides and Oluo was glaring at her from where he sat next to Petra.
"Why is everyone staring at Rowan? She didn't do anything wrong." Eren. He had been talking with Armin and Mikasa, but made his way over to the squad.
"Not that it's any of your business, but we think the Captain's judgment may be clouded. This witch could be charming her way into the squad. First Petra and now the Captain? It can't be a coincidence that this witch chose to befriend and join the strongest squad in the Scout regiment." Oluo spat.
"Oluo, stop being ridiculous. Do you really think the Captain or I would be easily fooled if Rowan was playing us? Both of us have spent the most time with her. We truly know her and trust her. We aren't asking you to be her friend, we are asking you to fight by her side." Petra growled, moving her horse next to Rowan's.
"Petra, you have to understand our perspective. No other recruit became friends with any of us. It's not normal. There has to be another angle and we have to consider every possibility." Eld retorted and Rowan's eyes widened. Eld had been so nice to her. She didn't expect him to speak out against her. Oluo and Gunther didn't surprise her, but Eld?
"She's not a human for crying out loud! She didn't know how the hierarchy worked and she is older than the other recruits. Of course she reached out to us and interacted with us. The Captain was the first person she trusted after using her power to save his life. If the Captain trusts her, we all trust her." Petra argued and Rowan was worried this whole discussion would cause a rift between the squad. This was something she was afraid of, but she didn't know how to fix it.
"The Captain never showed interest in anyone before and yet he is suddenly seeing a witch? I don't buy it." Gunther chimed in and Rowan's fists clenched, grasping the reins of her horse. Before Petra could argue or Rowan could defend herself, a dark presence resided behind her. Everyone faced forward, saluting who Rowan assumed was Levi.
"Are you second-guessing my decision, Gunther? Eld? Oluo? Are you questioning Rowan's loyalty to the Scouts and to the cause? Are you questioning my judgment? I hand selected each one of you because I knew you were skeptical and strong soldiers. I want you to ask questions and be cautious, but I won't tolerate disrespecting Rowan or forcing Petra to pick sides. Do you all understand?" Rowan shivered, Levi's voice dark and warped with fury.
"Yes sir." The four of them jumped to salute him, pulling their gazes away from him and Rowan. Without another word, Levi positioned himself beside her and Eren. Rowan sighed in relief, her hands starting to shake. What if the others didn't trust Levi anymore? What if they decided to leave the squad? What would happen then?
"I thought I told you to stop thinking so was an order" Levi's voice pulled her from her thoughts. She gave him a small smile.
"Right. Sorry Sir." She nodded, turning to meet his gaze. He looked like he wanted to say more, but he didn't have the opportunity. Commander Erwin took his spot in front of the Levi squad and shouted for the mission to begin. The Scouts moved out, trekking through the city before reaching the gate. This was it. Rowan's first mission beyond the walls. She had to stay focused. She couldn't keep worrying about what the others thought about her and Levi. It wasn't the time for that. As the gate opened, Rowan glanced behind her. Levi had hand-picked a group of dependable soldiers to stay close to Rowan and Eren. He had chosen Mikasa, Armin, Jean, Sasha, Connie, Christa, and Ymir. Of course that meant Christa and Ymir had to learn the truth about Rowan, but neither of them even hesitated to join. They didn't even question the mission. Rowan locked eyes with Armin and smiled at the boy. He gave her a nervous smile back before she turned her head forward to follow the other horses. She kept pace with Levi, following Commander Erwin's orders and directions. Her hair whipped back behind her, the wind rushing through her body as Dahlia ran. It was a freeing feeling, leaving the walls. They followed the course they had discussed, heading towards the abandoned town Hange had found. As they continued, her friends spread out, serving as spotters between the center and the furthest group. Armin, Sasha, and Connie dispersed to the left while Christa, Ymir, and Mikasa dispersed to the right. Black smoke had cut through the sky and Rowan gulped. An abnormal already? That smoke was followed by streams of red and black. Rowan clutched the reins tighter.
"Petra, fire green to the right. We are redirecting away from the Titans." Levi shouted and Petra nodded.
"Yes sir!" She shouted as she covered her ear and fired off green, signaling the new course for the Scouts. They continued their journey, pushing forward despite the flowing black smoke from the left. Armin, Sasha, and Connie were out that way. Rowan hoped they were okay. She wished she could be with them. Facing an Abnormal is always unpredictable. They could run, crawl, jump, and were driven by an instinct Hange could never pinpoint. Every Abnormal was different, making them extremely dangerous.
"Shit." Levi huffed as the black smoke shot into the sky from the closer spotters. It was in the center, which means Armin was face to face with the Abnormal. Eren's eyes were staring in the same direction. He must have realized the same thing she did.
"Levi! Can I break formation to help Armin? He can't handle an Abnormal alone!" Rowan spoke over the clattering hooves of their horses, hoping Levi could hear her.
"No Mixerton. Nobody breaks formation. Armin is a soldier just like any other member of the Scouts. He can handle it." Levi snapped before turning to look at Eren. "Hey kid. Fire off green and follow Commander Erwin." He ordered and Eren nodded, struggling to load his gun. The tension was high, knowing the Abnormal was so close to them. As the canister dropped to the ground, Eren cursed softly. The kid's hands were sweaty and shaky. Rowan yanked her gun from its holster and fired off green in the direction they were proceeding. Levi glanced back curiously and Rowan sheepishly smiled at him before nodding at Eren's mumbled thanks. "Mixerton, fire another green." Levi growled as they shifted direction. They were heading straight for the forest. Why the forest? They wouldn't be able to see their spotters and they would be sitting ducks, especially for an Abnormal. Rowan did as she was told, firing off the green canister to signal to everyone else. Before she could even question it, the center group was already in the woods, Hange's squad following close behind before breaking away down a side path. Everyone else was separated, branching off to go around the forest rather than through it. What game was Commander Erwin playing? How was this strategic in any way?
"Why are we in the forest? We are cut off from our spotters! We won't be able to see a Titan before it strikes." Eren shouted, his body even sweatier than before. The squad stayed silent, unable to answer his question.
"Take a look at the forest. The trees are quite tall, aren't they? It makes the perfect environment for ODM gear. Clear your head and calm down Eren." Levi explained, not even glancing over his shoulder as he led the group deeper into the woods. Rowan glanced at Petra and Eld, both looking equally as terrified. She realized then that no one had any clue what they were doing, not even Levi. He was just spewing bullshit to calm Eren down. Commander Erwin must know what or who has been chasing them. He has to. If he did, he could make a strategic call to enter the woods and hide. The only question is, why haven't they retreated yet? Did he intend for them to fight whatever was after them? It had to be after Eren or herself. That's why it kept charging to the center of the formation. If that's the case, who knows what it's actually capable of. The ground below them shook violently, trees collapsing from the impact as a Female Titan crashed through the trees. The hand of the Titan just hardly missed Eren as she slammed right into the trees, bark shattering everywhere. Rowan ducked her head, nearly avoiding a branch that would have knocked her right off of Dahlia. The Female Titan shoved herself up, kicking back up to speed. She was charging right at them and gaining fast. She was unlike any Abnormal Rowan had ever seen or heard of. Her heart was thundering in her chest and she turned to face forward, urging Dahlia to run faster.
"Captain! Should we attack? We need orders sir!" Petra shouted as the reinforcements that had gathered behind them were wiped out. Rowan could hear the screams of her comrades as they were thrown into trees and slammed to the ground. She couldn't even make herself look back at the carnage. The Female Titan continued running, dodging attacks effortlessly and throwing their comrades around. Levi was silent as they continued on, Rowan's eyes focused on him. Why didn't he say anything? They couldn't engage without his permission. Eld freed one of his swords, his knuckles white as he prepared to attack.
"Sir! What are your orders?" Petra shouted once more, her voice wavering. There was a sick smirk on Eren's face, as if this Titan was going to be defeated rather than being successful at hunting them down and eating them. Rowan knew better though. This Titan was like Eren. She was way too sophisticated to be a regular Abnormal. Levi had to know that and that's why he hadn't given orders yet.
"Captain?" Eren shouted, echoing Petra's screams. Even Oluo joined in, his body coated in sweat.
"Everyone shut up! Cover your ears! Now!" Levi ordered, pausing a moment for everyone to respond before he shot off an acoustic round from his gun. Rowan could feel the vibration from the gun and once that subsided, she uncovered her ears to hear the Female Titan growling in pain.
"Now pay attention. Is our mission to act on impulse and risk our lives? I'll answer that one. It's not. Our mission is to keep this brat and witch alive, no matter the cost. Got it?"
"Yes sir!" Petra shouted, her gaze focused ahead of her. Rowan stole a glance at Eren, both of their eyes wide. Eren and Rowan could tag team the Female Titan. They could keep her busy and help their squad take her down. Another scream caught her attention and she regretted turning around. One of her comrades was snatched from a tree and ripped in half as the Female Titan ran.
"Wait, what about all of our comrades? If we don't do something, they're all going to die!" Rowan shouted as another comrade was thrown into the ground.
"Rowan's right! We need to do something! We have the ability to help them!" Eren shouted, looking over his shoulder to see the carnage.
"Keep your eyes forward and keep pace with the group! Both of you!" Eld growled. He had never given her an order before and she clenched her jaw, turning her eyes forward.
"None of our comrades have to die! How can you ignore what's happening?" Eren continued, bewildered by the circumstances.
"Enough Eren! Eyes forward!" Petra shouted, a glare fixed on the boy. Aside from Eren and Rowan, the whole squad trusted Levi. Rowan didn't want to question him. She trusted his judgment, but she also knew that this wasn't his plan, it was Commander Erwin's.
"If we can't take that Titan out, then who can?!" Eren made a fair point. With her magic, his Titan ability, and the Levi squad's skill; they were the strongest in the regiment.
"Enough kid! Be a soldier and do as you're told!" Oluo shouted, but Eren growled and lifted his hand to his mouth. Ah, hell. Rowan's eyes scanned their surroundings, planning her escape route from Eren.
"No Eren! You swore an oath after the last excursion! You would only become a Titan if your life depended on it!" Petra wasn't wrong per say, but it seemed like their lives depended on it at that moment.
"I wouldn't blame you. Just know that you're not a monster. You don't need to just act without thinking it through. Question where you draw the line. When do you lose control and when do you freely give it up? Whatever the case, there's no reason to go against how you see it. Either trust yourself or trust the people willing to put their lives on the line for you. I wish I had an answer for you or even some advice, but I don't. It's a question I often battle in my own mind. In the end, you have to make the choice. We can't make it for you." Levi spoke up, still not looking back at them. Trust yourself or trust your comrades. It was a tough call to make when said comrades didn't trust Eren or her.
"Please trust us Eren!" Petra pleaded. Rowan knew she didn't trust Eren, but she could learn to. If he showed her trust, he would receive it in return. Eren seemed lost in his thoughts, probably imagining all the tests Hange ran on him. Especially when he couldn't turn into a Titan by biting his hand for that brief time. The squad had been out in the field, having tea at one of the picnic tables while Petra and Levi discussed their options. Rowan had been sitting right next to Eren when he had dropped his spoon on the ground. He had flinched in pain before struggling to reach it. As soon as his hand touched the metal, Titan steam shot out from him, sending the squad flying. Levi had managed to catch Rowan before her body tumbled across the ground, stopping her momentum. She was grateful for his strength, unsure of where she would have ended up if he wasn't there. When Eren came to, only part of his Titan form was there and he was struggling to pull his arm from it. Levi had pulled Rowan in front of Eren and raised his hands as the steam cleared.
"Calm down. It's not what it seems. Stand down." That was when Rowan noticed the looks of fear and hatred in her squad members' eyes. Gunther and Eld looked ready to strike, their eyes like daggers. Oluo and Petra were standing at the ready, blades raised. While Rowan felt uneasy, she knew it was a mistake. Eren wouldn't purposefully spawn a Titan arm without being asked or having a threat present. How was Eren supposed to trust them after that? The squad had surrounded him, yelling that he didn't have permission to transform. It seemed like the only one who was happy was Hange, who had just started squealing from the nearby forest. Petra had even yelled at Levi to step away and he had retorted that she was the one who needed to step back. The squad kept yelling at Eren to say something and he shouted at them to be quiet. They only shut up when Hange came sprinting in, shoving through Gunther and Eld. They had pressed their hand against the exposed skin of the half formed body and burned themselves. Once Eren was able to separate himself, everyone had calmed down. Levi had explained why they reacted that way before Hange explained that self harm and a key objective in mind are both key to transform. Once the squad knew it was an accident to transform, they apologized, but everyone still seemed uneasy. Rowan could only hope that they trusted him now and that he could trust them in turn. He had to believe in the squad and in Levi. He put his hand down and continued following in line, making his decision to trust them. Rowan sighed in relief.
"Fire!" Commander Erwin shouted as spikes shot from the trees, cutting right through the Titan's flesh. Rowan did her best to calm Dahlia, the horse startled from the sudden noise.
"Ditch your horses up ahead. I have to step aside for the moment. Switch to ODM gear. Eld is in charge until I am back. Keep Eren and Rowan away from the Female Titan." Levi ordered. Everyone nodded and he shot off his horse. Rowan wasn't that good at listening though and she stupidly followed, despite the protesting shouts from the squad. Levi turned to stare at her as she glided through the trees.
"Rowan? Get back with the others, that's an order." He was positioned on a branch, his glare fixed on her.
"Levi. This whole time. It was a plan to take the Female Titan alive, wasn't it? What would you have done if Eren transformed?" Rowan needed to know if she was right.
"Improvised." He muttered, his gaze now focused on the Female Titan as she screamed. More spikes were shot through her flesh, pinning her to the ground.
"You've got to be kidding me! All of those soldiers died for this! Why would you take that risk?" Eren was unpredictable. The whole plan was a gamble.
"Don't tell me what I already know. Those who laid down their lives deserve all of the credit. This is for them and I will never forget their sacrifice." Levi's eyes darkened and he turned back to face her.
"Levi, what does Commander Erwin want to do with her?"
"Expose who she really is. We know she's like Eren. Now get back with the rest of the squad." He snapped and she flinched back.
"Levi. I think it's Annie. Don't underestimate her. Be safe, okay?" Rowan turned and looked over her shoulder to meet his now surprised gaze. "And you better come back to me." She whispered before taking off to regroup with everyone else. When she found the squad, they were arguing about why Levi kept them all in the dark and not just Eren and Rowan.
"Think about it. There's probably another Titan spy in the regiment, someone like Eren. Despite that, keeping us in the dark means the Captain doesn't trust us." Eld seemed conflicted, pacing back and forth. Rowan dropped down next to Eren, her feet planted firmly on the bark.
"Rowan, did you know about this?" She didn't blame Eren for asking, but this was something Levi couldn't have shared with her, even if he wanted to.
"No. I didn't. I was left in the dark just like the rest of you." She sighed, dropping to her butt and pulling her knees to her chest.
"How could Levi keep this from you too?" Eren was shocked, jaw hanging open.
"If there is a spy, they would have to keep a list of potential people. Only a select few knew about the plan to ensure the spy wouldn't be tipped off." Petra reasoned, leaning her back against the trunk of the tree.
"Even to identify the spy, was it worth all the lives we lost today?" Eren growled, dropping down next to Rowan.
"I know it's not my place, but can I say something?" Rowan met each person's eyes before settling her gaze on Eld.
"Go ahead." Eld nodded.
"Commander Erwin made the decision to sacrifice a hundred rather than all of humanity. This spy…her skill is unlike any other Titan we have seen. If she continues, we will all be at risk. If the Armored and Colossal are also like the Female Titan, we could be decimated from the inside out. Commander Erwin did what he had to do for us to learn more and to have a fighting chance." She thought through everything before speaking, ensuring that what she said made sense.
"Well said Rowan." Eld nodded at her. Before Eren could reply, an ear splitting roar shook the trees around them. Rowan dug her fingers into the bark below her, her body flinching forward from the sound. She knew that sound well.
"What the hell was that?" Eren shouted. He jumped to his feet, blades at a ready.
"Calm down." Eld shouted over the noise.
"It sounds like a dying animal. It has to be the Female Titan." Rowan's eyes were wide. The screams of dying animals with no hope left were unforgettable. She often heard them in the forest around her village.
"Thank-you for learning to trust us Eren. It's because of you that we now have the identity of the Female Titan." Petra smiled, placing her hands on Eren's wrists. His blades lowered.
"You think they got her?" Eren questioned as blue smoke shot across the sky.
"If we are heading home, we definitely have her. Come on." Eld reasoned and led the way into the forest. A green smoke signal caught Rowan's eyes and she gestured to it.
"Oh! That must be Captain Levi. I'll send a signal back so we can meet up with him." Gunther smiled, sending green smoke back.
"I don't know if that's Captain Levi." Rowan muttered. Levi would have come back himself and not have expected them to find him in the forest. He knew where they were hiding.
"Of course it is! Who else would it be?" Oluo scoffed.
"Captain Levi?" Gunther shouted and everyone turned their gazes to follow his stare. Someone was flying right next to the squad, their hood covering their face. That figure was not Levi's, not even close.
"It's not!" Rowan shouted as the person swung across through the trees and sliced their blades right through Gunther, cutting his line. His body freefalled before smacking against a tree, hanging lifelessly. Rowan's eyes widened as Eren shouted. He had stopped next to Gunther, but Oluo grabbed him and pulled him forward. Gunther had to be dead. That's the only reason Eren would have reacted like that. They would all be screwed if they didn't keep moving.
"Keep moving!" Eld shouted, and Rowan gulped, following suit. The figure vanished into the forest before light shot out between the trees, steam following in every direction.
"Shit!" Eld shouted, turning to see the Female Titan sprinting right for them.
"Eren! We have to do something! Let's go!" Rowan shouted, dropping her swords to pool her energy in her hands. Eren nodded, lifting his hand to his mouth.
"No! The three of us will handle it! Get back to HQ now! That's an order!" Eld shouted at them.
"But we can help! Eren and I are strong!" Rowan shouted, pissed that he didn't trust them to help.
"Have faith in us, both of you please!" Petra. Rowan cursed under her breath as Eren swung to her and pulled her.
"Have faith in the Levi squad! Let's go!" He shouted. She nodded and reluctantly followed after him. As she looked over her shoulder, she watched as Eld distracted the Titan. Oluo and Petra cut her eyes out. Eren was right. It's not that she didn't have faith in them, she was just worried about her friends. Though, she supposed she didn't have to. After blinding her, the squad cut at her shoulders until her arms fell to her sides, her hands no longer guarding her safe spot. Rowan watched as Eld went in for the kill, but his body was cut right in half by the female's titans teeth.
"Eren! We have to go back! Now!" Rowan threw her body to change gears, altering her trajectory to head back to the squad and the Female Titan. Screw orders. Screw protecting Eren and herself. They had power and they could use it to save their friends. She picked up her momentum, going as fast as she could. They could do nothing as Oluo was smashed into the ground by the Female Titan's foot. Shit. Rowan didn't know if she was in range or not but she had to try. The Female Titan was going right for Petra, who was panicking and fleeing from the beast. The Titan lifted her hand, aimed to smack Petra down.
"PETRA!" Rowan screamed, flinging herself into the air and releasing a wave of energy directed at the Female Titan. The Titan and surrounding trees collapsed backwards, the force knocking everything in the surrounding area over. The Female Titan landed on her back and Rowan took the chance to drop down to where Petra was. She scooped Petra up, throwing both of their bodies into a tree.
"Rowan?" Petra's eyes were watery and wide with fear. Her hands were shaking and Rowan did her best to smile in hopes of calming her.
"We don't abandon our comrades. The mission isn't more important to me than you. You're one of my best friends. Eren and I are going to fight." As Rowan said that, bright light shot out in front of them. Eren's Titan form took shape in the air and he screamed as his legs hit the ground. He ran straight for the Female Titan, raising his fists to fight. The Female Titan was ready though, kicking him right in the stomach. Eren was quick to recover and hit her straight back into a tree. "I'm going to stay right here with you. I'll only leave if Eren needs help. We aren't going to let anyone else lose their lives today."
Rowan stood in front of Petra, shielding her from the fight below. Eren was on top of the Female Titan, punching holes into the ground around her head. He was screaming in her face, his hands healing above his head. Before they could heal, the Female Titan was able to kick him off of her. Eren was on his feet though right after. Throwing punch after punch. The Female Titan hit him right in the mouth, a blue crystal surrounding her fist. Ah, hell. Rowan recognized that crystal. Eren spun and punched the Female Titan right in the stomach, sending her flying. It was no use though. The Female Titan spun, using her crystal-enclosed hand to slice Eren's head clean off. She unhinged her jaw and bit right into the nape of his neck, her mouth surrounding him and ripping him from his Titan form.
"EREN NO!" Rowan knew that voice. It was Mikasa. The girl flew after the Female Titan, cutting through her limbs and dodging every attack. She cut right through the Female Titan's leg, sending her falling to her knees.
"Petra. I need to go after them. Stay here, please." Rowan pressed Petra's shoulders before flying after Mikasa. She lost sight of her though, cutting through the trees and following after the destruction the Female Titan left in her wake. Rowan shot through the forest, keeping low to better follow the trails. She kept her hood up, ensuring the debris wouldn't scratch her face or get tangled in her hair. Her eyes locked on her target and she tossed herself up, passing by two Scouts who were chasing the Female Titan as well. She screamed, expanding all of her energy out. She would take this bitch down. This Titan killed her friends and swallowed Eren whole. She would pay. The Female Titan flew forwards, rolling until her body sprawled out on the ground. Rowan skidded across the grass, her feet leaving imprints in the ground.
"Rowan?" Her whole body froze, her arms in the air above her before she could strike again.
"Levi." She turned to face the two approaching scouts. Levi and Mikasa.
"That's one hell of a distraction." He growled, flying past her as the Female Titan was getting to her feet. Levi's body dodged her outstretched hand and spun, cutting through her flesh all the way to her shoulder. He sliced down her body, making cuts at every joint, releasing the tendons so she couldn't use her limbs. The last thing he did was blind her, distancing himself as she collapsed against a tree. Before Rowan could react, Mikasa shot right towards the nape of her neck. No, the crystal. If Rowan was right, the Female Titan could do that anywhere on her body and Mikasa's blades would just break.
"Mikasa! Brace yourself!" Rowan released her energy, angling it towards Mikasa to send her friend up above the Female Titan. Before she had time to readjust her momentum, Levi sliced right through the Titan's jaws, Eren's body slipping out. He grabbed Eren and retreated to a tree, waiting for Mikasa and Rowan to be near him. Though Rowan was light-headed, she knew she had to keep going.
"He's alive. Disgusting, but alive. We all know you love him, but that doesn't give you an excuse to be reckless. You're lucky Rowan saved your ass. We got what we were after. Now get moving." Levi stated before taking off into the trees.
"I don't-" Mikasa's voice trailed off and Rowan did her best to keep up with her. When Rowan glanced over her shoulder, she noticed that the Female Titan was crying, the liquid running down past her unhinged jaw.
"Levi! I'll meet you back by the center. I have something I need to do!" Rowan immediately cut away from them, heading towards Petra.
"Rowan! Get back here!" Levi growled.
"Trust me!" She shouted, swinging out into the trees. She glided through the trees, her anxiety calmed a bit knowing it would take the Female Titan a long time to regenerate. She locked on her target and swung down, dropping onto the branch. "Petra." The woman in question was on her knees, tears flowing down her face. There was a puddle beneath her from all the tears she shed. "Petra. I'm so sorry. We have to go. We need to regroup with the others." Petra looked up at her and fell forward into her arms.
"You saved my life Rowan. I'm forever in your debt." She sobbed.
"No, no. Honestly. I'm just sorry I couldn't be here sooner." Rowan was pissed that the one time she listened to orders she didn't agree with, more of her comrades died. She refused to do it again.
"We told you to run. That was our call to make. You were following orders." Petra sniffled against her.
"What's done is done. All we can do is honor them and keep the fight alive." Rowan spoke through her teeth. In the end, it was her choice to follow the orders.
"Wait, can't you bind their souls like you did with Marco? I can keep watch!" Petra bounced to her feet, her heart quickening.
"I can check, but I think it's been too long. I don't want to get your hopes up Petra." She dropped down to the forest floor with Petra, dropping to her knees next to Oluo's bloodied body. He was killed last, so if his spirit was no longer nearby, she didn't have hope for the others. Rowan raised her hands, crystal in her right palm. She hummed before chanting in her foreign tongue. The crystal didn't even warm in her hand. She continued chanting, searching the plane where spirits walk. There was no sign of any of their souls in the nearby area. Her energy recoiled into her and she leaned forward, her body folding in on herself.
"Rowan?" Petra's voice pulled her focus and she curled in further on herself. Her energy was fading quickly and she needed time to recover.
"They're not here. I'm so sorry." She huffed, clutching her center. As she leaned forward, she caught sight of a blue shard. The crystal the Female Titan used. It was a soul crystal. It had to be. She was using the souls of their fallen comrades to build temporary armor. It was disgusting. Rowan whispered softly, taking hold of the crystal. The soul energy escaped, the crystal deteriorating through her fingers. Annie wasn't a witch…she couldn't be. So what was she?
"Rowan!" His voice. So Levi followed after her anyway. She heard him drop down nearby, Mikasa following. "Petra. You're still alive?" His voice seemed so uncertain.
"Yes Captain. Rowan saved my life, even after we all ordered her and Eren to escape. They came back for us and did the best they could." Petra responded and Levi sighed.
"Tch. What fools." He huffed. "Regardless, I am glad that you are okay."
"I'm sorry." Rowan choked out, turning her head to look at Levi. He was still holding Eren, the boy's body covered in a thick slime. Levi placed Eren on the ground and knelt next to Rowan. He wiped his hand off before brushing her hair back. "I'm so sorry that I couldn't save the others. I should've done more." Tears flowed freely from her eyes now as she shut them and turned away from Levi. Levi's fingers curled into her hair.
"You did everything you could. If you had turned back earlier for the others, you may not have survived. If the Female Titan is Annie, we know she is ruthless and she would have killed anyone who got in her way of capturing Eren. Save your regret for later, when we are safe. We need to keep moving. Can you stand?" Levi did his best to reassure her.
"She used the rest of her energy searching for the souls of our friends. I asked her to do it, I'm sorry." Petra spoke up and Rowan wanted to disagree with her, knowing she would have done it anyway. She also knew she just needed a few minutes to collect herself.
"It can't be helped now. Ackerman, can you carry Jaeger?" Levi glanced over at Mikasa. She was already at Eren's side.
"Yes sir." She didn't hesitate to scoop him into her arms. Rowan knew it would be difficult for Mikasa to use her ODM gear like that, but they didn't have a choice.
"Both of you, get moving. Now. I'll ensure that Rowan and I make it back in one piece."
Levi ordered and Rowan could hear movement as both Mikasa and Petra saluted him. Mikasa repositioned Eren before both of them deployed their ODM gear.
"What am I going to do with you?" Levi's hand gently brushed her chin, lifting her face so their gazes could meet.
"Levi…I made the wrong call. It's my fault Eld, Oluo, and Gunther lost their lives. I should never have hesitated. I could have taken Annie down or at least held her off until you got here." Tears were still streaming down her face, the image of Levi blurred. The disappointment and anger she felt towards herself settled in her core and she tried to pull her face away from him.
"Oi." Levi grumbled, tugging her face back towards him. He cupped both of her cheeks, using his thumbs to gently wipe the tears away. "You followed orders. We don't know what would have happened if you and Eren decided to disobey them. Our friends lost their lives because of Annie. She is the only one to blame for this. Do you understand me?" His gaze was locked on her watery eyes and she nodded. "Come on. We need to regroup with the others. It isn't safe out here on our own."
"Levi…" She whispered his name as he maneuvered to stand next to her. "What's the point of having these abilities if I can't use them to save those I care about most?" Levi remained silent as he gently tugged her to her feet. He pulled her in close to him, their bodies connecting as he wrapped his arms around her.
"Not everything has a simple answer, Rowan. Sometimes, it isn't even possible to find an answer. We just do the best we can with what we are given. You saved Petra and Mikasa today. You did that on your own. Don't dwell on what could have been had you made a different choice. If it can't be changed, it's not worth your time." Once he released her, he turned and lifted her legs to wrap around his center. She slipped her arms over his shoulders, securing herself to his back. "Think you can hold on until we make it back?"
"Yes." She spoke softly, lost in thought. She had saved Petra and Mikasa's lives. Despite that, she still made the wrong decision and it cost the rest of the squad their lives. How could she trust her own instincts after that? How could she trust the orders given to her after that? Levi was right in saying not everything has a simple answer. With that being true, how could she even make judgment calls anymore? How could she trust the orders she is given?
"Rowan. Listen to me." Levi huffed, his voice hardly audible as they flew through the trees. Her mind settled, the questions dispersing so she could focus. "We are soldiers. We all signed up to be here and we all know the risks. We are human and we do our best to make judgment calls for the good of humanity, rather than ourselves. Being a witch doesn't exempt you from that. It also doesn't give you additional responsibility. I put Eld in charge when I left. Eld made the decision to tell you and Eren to stand down and let the squad handle the situation. You were obeying orders. If you chose to disobey orders and fight, the others still would have given it their all too. Eld, Oluo, Gunther. They still would have fallen at the hands of Annie because they still would have fought. Having these abilities…it doesn't make you responsible for every human life around you. You can't control everything and everyone. Do you understand?" Everything Levi said made logical sense. She took her time to process it, thinking back to the fight and how it could have been different if she had stepped in sooner. Gunther was cut down before anyone knew they were being hunted. Eld was killed while he was going in for the kill. Oluo was killed while fighting. There was nothing Rowan could do to prevent any of that from happening because Levi was right. They would have fought anyway, regardless of her and Eren's involvement. She was lucky she was able to save Petra. If she had disobeyed orders, things might have ended differently and Petra may have lost her life too.
"Thank-you Levi." Rowan whispered softly, tightening her grip around him.
"Levi! Rowan! Come on! You have got to see this!" Hange sprinted towards the pair as soon as they hit the ground. Despite Rowan's attempts to stand on her own, Levi refused to set her on the ground. Rather, he followed after Hange with her on his back.
"What is it, Hange?" Levi grumbled, pausing as Hange came to a stop.
"It's a new town! We've never explored this one before! Think of all of the hidden resources! I think Erwin wants Rowan to head in first before we follow in after."
"Has Erwin lost his mind? We aren't sending Rowan in alone. We don't know if it's actually abandoned or if there are Titans hiding between buildings. We need to scout it out first before sending her in alone." Levi snapped. Rowan was too busy to listen to the rest of their argument, her eyes focused over Levi's shoulder. Stretched out in front of them was the meadow she shared with her father, the meadow that haunted her childhood memories. It was still beautiful, shades of purple, orange, pink, and blue stretching across the open field. The hundreds of flowers swayed in the breeze and Rowan gulped. This town…it was her home. Rowan wiggled out of Levi's grasp, steadying herself before walking into the meadow. Her fingertips brushed the various petals, the sweet, familiar aroma tickling her nose.
"This was my home. They must have relocated right after I left. I'd like to go alone." Rowan turned to face Hange, Levi, and the approaching scouts behind them. Commander Erwin was on his horse, towering over Levi.
"Spotters, take your positions around the town. Rowan will enter the town on her own. When she is ready, she will send a smoke signal. At her signal, we will enter the town to search for resources." Commander Erwin shouted. The spotters all saluted him before scattering to take their places. Rowan met Armin's gaze as he rode past her and she sighed in relief. Even after facing Annie head-on, he was okay.
"Rowan." She glanced over her shoulder. Levi was standing in the meadow with her, a frown on his lips. "Don't do anything stupid." He extended his smoke gun to her, canisters tucked tightly into the carrier pouches. She clasped the belt around her waist, having lost hers in the forest. She then grabbed the bag he extended to her, securing it over her shoulders.
"Aye sir." She gave him a small smile before turning away from him and the rest of the scouts. She hurried from the meadow and into the town. Most of it was still intact. Only a few buildings seemed to fall victim to the Titans or weather damages. She glanced through the window of the bakery. All the furniture was still there, coated in a thick layer of dust. Kitchen utensils and ruined goods were thrown about, as if they had left in a hurry. Rowan continued on, passing by the school, farm, butcher, and the town center. She turned the corner, letting her memory guide her. She hopped up stone steps and unlatched the door in front of her. Though musty and covered in dust, her family home seemed untouched. All of their furniture and belongings were in the places they belonged. It was as if no one in her family bothered to bring anything with them. Rowan slipped into the hallway, wandering down the stairs at the end. Her room. It looked as if she had never left. Everything was exactly as it was the day she ran from the village. Her pajamas were folded at the edge of her bed, the covers thrown about from when she woke up in a hurry. Clothes were tossed everywhere and she remembered how she didn't have time to even pack a bag. She stepped over to her nightstand, opening the drawer and pulling a necklace from where it was nestled on her journal. She clasped the silver chain around her neck, letting the onyx pendant settle at the base of her throat. Her father had retrieved it for her and she would wear it in his honor. A pile of crystals resided next to her journal and she scooped them up, tossing them into the bag Levi had given her. She also grabbed her journal and linen jacket her mother had made for her. She turned away from the remnants of her past life, knowing that she shouldn't linger in one place for too long. Her fingers brushed along the top of her clothing chest as she stepped towards the door, settling on a folded piece of paper. That hadn't been there when she left. She opened the page, her eyes widening as they scanned over the page.
My dear Rowan,
I fear that my days are limited. The village elder is not pleased with your choice and he is demanding answers, answers that I will not provide for him. I am writing to let you know that whatever happens, it is not your fault. You deserve the chance to follow your heart, wherever it may guide you. If that is to humanity, so be it. I will always support you. Please, protect yourself and find friends who can support you. You won't be able to survive this alone.
There is so much I wish I would have taught you. I am sorry that I held onto our kind's secrets for so long. I am certain they will come to the surface throughout your journey. Just know, I only ever tried to do what was best for you and your siblings. I fear Thomas has fallen victim to our kind's philosophy. He holds a deep hatred for humanity. Please don't underestimate him.
There are a few things you need to know. A human child was raised in our village and given a titan form. Her name is Ymir. If you cross paths with her, trust her. She didn't allow this village to brainwash her and she holds power that could help you.
You also need to know that your father is alive. He is still out there. He was given a titan form by the village Elder and was sent to defend the village from the humans who came too close to our barrier. He chose to exile himself instead. Please search for him. His plan was to join a village of human scavengers, but that is all I know.
I wish I had time to say more, but our village is relocating. The Elder wishes to retreat farther into the wilderness to distance us from humanity and the walls that hold them captive. I love you.
Rowan rubbed at her eyes furiously, fighting the tears that threatened to spill over. Her mother didn't blame her for running, she supported her. Not only that, but her father was still alive. He has been out there this entire time and she never knew. She had to find him. Rowan slipped the note into her bag and sprinted up the stairs and into her parents' bedroom. She dug through the drawers and cabinets, tossing the various items around the room. She knew her parents both had journals. Perhaps there were clues in them. She could figure out where her father might have gone and also more about Ymir's time here. There was a human in the village and she had no idea. What other secrets were kept from her? She knelt in front of the last cabinet, the door stuck. She tugged on it angrily. Those journals could hold the answers to so many of her questions. The latch snapped and she fell backwards onto her butt, the weight of her ODM gear throwing her backwards. Her eyes fell on the window above her parents' bed and was met with the stare of a Titan eyeball.
"Shit!" She shoved herself up and sprinted towards the door, yanking the smoke gun out and a red canister. She pushed out the door and dug her feet into the ground to stop her momentum. She was surrounded. There were at least ten Titans towering over her, circling the home. She scanned through the crowd of them, searching for a weak spot. She chose the smallest one and lifted her arms, extending her energy outward. The Titan flew backwards, crashing into another home. She took that as her chance and sprinted, firing off the red smoke as she ran. She shot her hooks out, catching the edge of a roof. She hauled herself up, navigating herself in the air, through the buildings. She could see the edge of the village, the Scouts arming themselves around the meadow. She dropped down to dodge an extended hand, but another was outstretched and ready to snatch her from the sky. She shut her eyes and pushed herself forward, hoping she could out run the Titan.
"Rowan!" Levi. Her eyes snapped open to see Levi glide across the hand, slicing through each finger. He spun his body upward, carving through the Titan's flesh before cutting right through the nape of the neck. Rowan skidded to a stop, landing on a roof. Levi stood next to her, his eyes focused on her gaze. Neither even had a chance to speak before hordes of Titans came sprinting out of the cluster of buildings. The Scouts scattered, doing their best to avoid engaging with them. While they were trying to keep their distance, Rowan noticed two figures stood on top of the buildings closest to them. They moved their hands, chanting in a foreign tongue that Rowan unfortunately recognized. Where did those witches come from? She was certain they had all abandoned her village. The horses reacted to the chanting and flailed, throwing the soldiers off their backs. Levi met Rowan's gaze and nodded before taking off in opposite directions. They all ended up divided by groups of Titans. It was as if that was the plan all along, but Titans couldn't think of a strategy like that, could they?
"Attack in pairs! Defend yourself and your comrades!" Commander Erwin shouted, raising his own blades. Rowan was too far out to connect with anyone though, so she redirected towards Armin and Christa. They were the closest and she could lend her support. She never made it there though. A lanky figure had launched themself from the nearby forest, forcing Rowan to redirect her course. She couldn't react in time and ended up smacking into a tree, rather than the figure. She rolled backwards from the impact, slightly dazed by the motion. Strong arms wrapped around her, restricting her from moving as quick fingers worked to remove her belt. Her ODM gear was yanked off of her and before she could even process what happened, Bertolt had the reins of her horse and Reiner was holding her ODM gear. Her body tumbled backwards before sprawling out on the ground. She spit clumps of dirt from her mouth before shoving herself up.
"Wait! Hold on! Why are you doing this?" She growled, her heart thundering in her chest. She could hear it throbbing in her ears and she did her best to calm it. She had to stay calm or she was screwed.
"It's nothing personal Rowan, sorry." Reiner sighed, attaching her ODM gear around his waist. That was her gear. How dare he take it from her. Anger replaced her shock and she snarled at them.
"Right. Just like it wasn't personal for Marco either? You're all monsters." Both of them paused, locking eyes with one another before glancing back at the fuming Rowan. "Yeah, I know the truth and I'm not the only one who does. I know you're the Colossal and Armored Titans. I know that Annie is also harboring a Titan form and that the three of you killed Marco because he overheard you all talking. I also know that Annie savagely murdered our comrades and most of my squad. I know you all have something to do with a witch village and I know that you're all pathetic. I hope you assholes burn in hell." She knew she was probably done for. Might as well let them have it before she became a Titan snack. There were already multiple Titans circling them and her true comrades were nowhere in sight. She growled, extending her power and using her energy to force both men back. She sent Reiner flying into the trees and then sent Bertolt flying back into the approaching horde of Titans. Then she redirected her energy and shoved all of her power at the legs of the approaching Titans. She did her best to keep her distance from the horde and bring any that got close to their knees. Without her blades, she couldn't kill them though. Her magic was already weakened as she continuously extended her life force to keep the Titans away. She hardly had any energy left to begin with. She could only think of one thing to do. It was stupid and he probably wouldn't even hear her, but she always had faith in him. "LEVI!" She screamed, using the last of her energy to send a 4-meter Titan flying. She needed to rest, unable to use her life force any more as a weapon. "LEVI!" She screamed once more before a hand slammed into her. The flesh didn't close around her quick enough though and her body was sent flying into the forest. Her body slid across the forest floor, slowing her momentum until her back hit the trunk of a tree. She gasped, the air knocked out of her. Everything hurt and her brain couldn't even process how dire her situation was. She just managed to crawl under some overgrown brush before losing consciousness.