Attack on Titan: A Wolf Among Sheep

by abcd12344321

Fen is not what most people would call normal. He does not age, he does not stay in one place for too long, and he does not bow to anyone. But within this shell of a man is a secret, what is the answer behind his immortal existence? And more importantly why is he so dethatched from the humans around him?

6. Chapter 6

Attack on Titan: A Wolf Among Sheep

Chapter 6: Charge, Heimdall's Arrival, and, The Smiling Titan

…

The blast from the Colossal Titan sent a shockwave of heat and debris across the area. Petra found herself enveloped in a strange sort of shield as Fenrir stood before her, bearing the brunt of the steam. His body looked roasted, scorched in a painful shade of red and black, his clothes tattered and charred. The sight was horrifying, yet awe-inspiring.

His gaze never wavered, his sharp green eyes, now a striking contrast against his burnt face, held an unfathomable amount of determination. She could see the pain flickering across his face, yet he stood steadfast, protecting her from the unforgiving onslaught.

Even as he stood there, resisting the Colossal Titan's steam, something extraordinary happened. Petra could see his body, or rather his clothes, slowly knitting back together. It was a slow, yet steady process as the burnt bits were gradually replaced by new, untouched fabric.

However, despite his seeming invulnerability, Petra couldn't ignore the telltale signs of pain that he was experiencing. His jaw was clenched, his usually smooth forehead was creased with tension, and his eyes held an intensity that sent shivers down her spine.

Getting the hint from his subtle nudge of the head, Petra quickly activated her 3D maneuvering gear, launching herself into the air, and away from the direct line of the titan's steam. She watched from a distance as Fenrir stood his ground, the silhouette of his body juxtaposed against the massive form of the Colossal Titan. She couldn't help but admire the sheer strength and courage he was displaying.

As she landed on a higher perch, Petra watched Fenrir, her heart pounding in her chest. She realized then, more than ever, the enormity of the situation they were in and the true power Fenrir held within him. He was unlike anything she had seen before, a being capable of standing against Titans, protecting them, and yet, he too was vulnerable.

It was a harsh reminder of the world they lived in, and Petra found herself grappling with a newfound sense of respect and fear for Fenrir. As the battle raged on, she couldn't help but wonder what would come next, and if they would be able to face it together.

Yet, amidst all the chaos, Petra found herself inexplicably drawn to Fenrir. The warmth radiating from his green eyes, his steadfastness in the face of danger, the way he seemed to gravitate towards her—it all echoed in the back of her mind. The mention of Lilia, his lost love, and her apparent resemblance to the woman, stirred a complex whirlwind of emotions within her.

Despite the imminent danger and the uncertainty of their situation, she found herself captivated by the gentleness that lay beneath Fenrir's fearsome exterior. A kindness that wasn't just for show, but a deeply ingrained part of his being. Petra saw a protector in him, a savior who had risked his life twice for her. A sense of comfort washed over her, a feeling she had never experienced in this brutal world of theirs.

The warmth in his eyes, the protective stance he had taken, all hinted at something more, something beyond the mere necessity of the situation. It felt personal, intimate even. It tugged at her heart, a strange sensation that filled her with an uncharacteristic mix of fear and longing.

And in that moment, she realized that despite the apocalyptic backdrop of their lives, she was drawn to this enigmatic being. There was a bond forming between them, an unspoken connection that was deeper and far more profound than anything she had ever experienced. Amidst the heat, the pain, and the fear, there was a beacon of hope, and his name was Fenrir.

…

The moment was fast, yet time seemed to stretch, snapping back into full speed with a ferocity that took everyone's breath away. Reiner, having made his betrayal known, lunged for Eren, his hand encasing the young man in a vice-like grip. As Reiner pulled Eren away, the colossal titan Bertolt unleashed a wave of searing steam. The white-hot gust swept through their surroundings, an unstoppable torrent that promised nothing but obliteration.

The sudden transformation of Eren into the Attack Titan had momentarily stunned both Reiner and Bertolt. But before they could recover and launch an attack, a wet, sickening splat rang through the air. All eyes turned to see a steaming mass slide to the ground. It took a moment for them to recognize the figure amidst the tattered flesh and exposed bone.

Fenrir, once an imposing figure of black fur and power, was now a horrifying sight. His guts spilled out onto the ground, face half-destroyed, fur matted with blood and filth. His spine and ribs, stark white against the gore, poked through what was left of his skin. Despite the grotesque injuries, he stood tall, all seventeen meters of him, a testament to his indomitable will.

The grim tableau of Fenrir's injuries had a chilling effect on the field. Reiner and Bertolt, despite being titan shifters themselves, were paralyzed by the sight of the creature they had come to dread. They watched in shock as the wolf's half-destroyed face and visible spine glistened in the afternoon sun.

Eren, on the other hand, was wrestling with a cocktail of emotions. He was torn between horror at the sight of the great wolf's injuries and the resolve to fight against his betrayers. Despite his own transformation into the Attack Titan, the sight of Fenrir, a being they had all believed to be invincible, so grievously wounded was a shocking sight.

But then, something strange started to happen. Fenrir's body began to repair itself at an astonishing rate. Flesh started to knit together, obscuring the grotesque spectacle of exposed guts and bone. His injuries, ghastly a moment ago, started to heal in a matter of seconds. A renewed sense of vitality radiated from him as he straightened up, once again a formidable creature of immense power.

It was a testament to Fenrir's seemingly indomitable will. Unfazed by the grievous wounds, he merely growled at Reiner, the menace in his green eyes far from extinguished. The sound was a low rumble, echoing ominously off the walls, a clear sign that Fenrir was far from beaten.

The scene was surreal. An air of tension enveloped them, as they all realized that the creature before them was not one to fall so easily. The aura of menace he exuded, even when severely wounded, was a chilling reminder of the reality of their world and the lengths they had to go to in order to survive. Despite everything, Fenrir stood tall, a fearsome reminder that he was not going down without a fight.

…

The sight of the mighty Fenrir, downed yet defiant, had an almost reverential impact on the Scouts clinging to the Wall. In the aftermath of the blast, they took in the gruesome scene, shock etched on their faces as they registered the extent of his injuries. Petra, Eld, and Oluo could do little more than stare at the broken figure sprawled on the ground, their breaths held in a mixture of shock and awe.

Petra, in particular, felt a pang in her chest. The sight of Fenrir in such a state, after having shielded her from the colossal titan's destructive force, was deeply unsettling. The gentle warmth she had seen in his eyes earlier was replaced with an excruciating pain, yet she knew that his strength was far from depleted. She held on to the hope that his resilience would see him through.

Eld and Oluo shared similar sentiments. The image of their enigmatic ally, so fiercely protective, lying on the ground with his innards spilling out was something they had never anticipated. Despite their disbelief, they couldn't shake off the gnawing sensation of respect and admiration for the creature who had put himself in harm's way to protect their comrade.

And then, as if shattering the dread-laced silence, Fenrir began to stir. To their amazement, they saw his grievous injuries starting to heal. The sight was horrifying and awe-inspiring in equal measure. Skin knitted together over exposed bone, and the wolf god stood, seemingly unscathed.

As he growled menacingly at Reiner, his defiant spirit remained unbroken. The very air seemed to hum with his unspoken threat, his resolve clear as daylight. They all understood the depth of the creature's strength and tenacity. Fenrir was far from finished; he was just getting started.

…

Commander Erwin Smith had seen many things during his time with the Survey Corps, but none compared to the sight that unfolded before him on the Wall. The colossal titan's steam had reduced the godlike figure of Fenrir to a ravaged, bloodied mess. Erwin watched as the wolf god fell, his injuries so severe that it was a wonder he was even alive.

Yet, in the face of such extensive damage, Fenrir showed no signs of surrender. There was a certain resilience in his actions that resonated with Erwin. He had seen his fair share of battles, had witnessed humanity stand up time and again against the monstrous Titans, and yet he had never seen such steadfast determination.

He observed Fenrir, the wolf god, defy the very laws of nature, regenerating his body from catastrophic injuries that would have killed any Titan shifter instantly. His wounds healed at an astonishing rate, bringing him back from the brink of death within seconds. It was unlike anything Erwin had seen before.

Erwin found himself locked onto Fenrir's emerald eyes, now glaring daggers at Reiner, the newly revealed Armored Titan. In those eyes, he saw an ironclad resolve and an insurmountable will to fight. It was a sight that brought forth a mixture of awe and terror, a potent reminder of the powerful being they had allied themselves with.

This sight reaffirmed his belief in their ally. The sheer determination Fenrir displayed was proof of his commitment to their cause. As the wolf god rose again, now more menacing than ever, Erwin felt a surge of renewed hope. Even against the colossal titan, even against the armored titan, they were not alone. The scales of battle had tipped, and they were not on the losing side.

…

Hange Zoe, consumed by a relentless thirst for knowledge, had spent years studying the peculiar abilities of the Titans. Yet, what she witnessed with Fenrir was beyond anything she'd ever seen or studied. It was awe-inspiring, intimidating, and utterly mind-boggling.

The sight of Fenrir, the god of wolves, standing tall despite grievous wounds, struck her with a deep sense of wonder and unease. The sheer power and resilience Fenrir displayed were on a different scale altogether. His swift healing, faster and more comprehensive than any titan shifter she'd seen, was an enigma that begged further investigation.

Hange watched as Fenrir's injuries, once a horrific sight of mangled flesh and exposed bone, seemed to mend themselves. A new layer of skin and fur replaced the raw wounds, knitting him back together in a matter of seconds. A complex cocktail of horror and fascination danced in her eyes, wide with shock and wonder.

Fenrir's fierce, unwavering stare, aimed squarely at the Armored Titan, sent a shiver down her spine. His raw display of power and unyielding spirit were fearsome, yet Hange couldn't help but be drawn to the mystery he presented. Here was a being that defied all norms, a creature far beyond their current understanding.

The reality of his existence and his apparent alliance filled her with an odd sense of hope. If someone as formidable as Fenrir stood with them, they might just stand a chance against their formidable foes. Despite the intimidating spectacle, a spark of excitement ignited in her eyes. This was an enigma that captivated her scientist's mind, a puzzle she was eager to solve.

…

Ymir, despite her usually nonchalant and self-assured demeanor, was visibly taken aback. Christa, on the other hand, wore an expression of sheer horror on her face. They both stared in shock at Fenrir, who had borne the brunt of the Colossal Titan's steam, his injuries a macabre spectacle that had them both frozen in place.

Ymir's eyes were wide, her normal air of indifference replaced with surprise. She knew the power of a Titan shifter; she was one herself. However, the sight of Fenrir, a god, seriously injured was something she had not expected to see. It was a rude awakening of the terrifying reality of their situation, a stark reminder of the danger they were in. Even as she watched, however, she couldn't help but be awestruck by the swift healing process of Fenrir's wounds.

Christa, on the other hand, was filled with a potent mix of terror and concern. The sight of Fenrir, whom she'd seen as an almost invincible figure, suffering such severe injuries was deeply unsettling. She watched as Fenrir, once a mighty and majestic figure, now stood before them with his injuries horrifically exposed. Yet, even in this state, there was an undeniable strength about him, a stubborn resilience that refused to be crushed.

The fear in her heart was slightly mitigated as she watched his wounds heal rapidly, his regenerative ability far surpassing that of any Titan shifter she had ever seen. This sight sparked a tiny ember of hope within her. The grim reality of their situation seemed a bit less daunting as she witnessed the sheer determination and the powerful resilience of Fenrir. The sight of his unwavering defiance in the face of adversity was something that would remain etched in her mind.

…

Reiner was frozen in place, his gaze transfixed on the imposing form of Fenrir. The severity of Fenrir's injuries and the alarming speed at which they were healing sent a chill of dread down his spine. The realization was setting in - this creature was different from any Titan or Titan shifter he had ever encountered.

A sudden memory flashed across Reiner's mind, Fenrir's voice echoing in his head. 'Seven thousand years since I started counting again,' the Norse god had said. That meant he had existed for far longer, maybe even since the dawn of the first of humanity's civilizations themselves. The magnitude of that thought was overwhelming, rendering Reiner momentarily speechless.

He felt a wave of panic wash over him. If this beast couldn't be killed by conventional means, then what could? A surge of despair ran through him, the idea that this creature could outlast them all was terrifying.

He looked at Fenrir, now recovering rapidly, with a renewed sense of fear. This was a creature who had witnessed centuries come and go, seen civilizations rise and fall, witnessed the birth of the Titans, and yet, had remained unscathed. It was a dreadful thought, one that shook him to his core.

This realization put a new spin on their predicament. They were up against a creature that had survived millennia, a creature that defied the laws of nature itself. The enormity of their task was becoming increasingly clear to Reiner. Humanity had been living in the shadow of this ancient creature for an unfathomable amount of time. And it wasn't going anywhere. A sense of hopelessness swept over Reiner. This creature would continue to exist, to survive, to the ends of the earth and beyond. And this reality sent a cold shiver down his spine.

…

As Fenrir began to heal from his grave injuries at a remarkable pace, Levi's normally stoic face was marked by a rare show of surprise. He was well-accustomed to the brutal, unpredictable world of Titans, yet the sight of Fenrir's swift regeneration was a shock that left him momentarily taken aback.

Though the myths of monsters hiding under the bed or looming outside the window never found a believer in Levi, the formidable figure that Fenrir presented before him certainly did. The ancient, apparently invincible creature was an undeniable reality they were contending with.

Levi's sharp gaze followed Reiner as the latter, overwhelmed by the revelation of Fenrir's seemingly boundless lifespan, charged at the great wolf with a wild, desperate glint in his eyes. But Fenrir, far from showing any sign of fear or retreat, stood his ground, meeting Reiner's charge head-on. His intense green eyes held a defiant challenge, as if daring Reiner to come at him.

Levi felt an involuntary shiver of admiration and a twinge of unease. Even as Reiner confronted the gravity of their situation, Levi too realized the magnitude of the force they had on their side. They were not merely battling the Titans; they were allied with a creature far more ancient, far more powerful... and seemingly immortal.

Grasping his swords more firmly, Levi's keen eyes never left the scene before him. Despite the daunting sight of Fenrir, he knew that their ally's strength was a crucial asset in their struggle for survival. The real monster was standing right in front of them, not as an adversary, but as a formidable ally, ready to face any challenge head-on.

From Reiner's perspective, the world blurred into a frenzied rush of adrenaline as he charged at Fenrir. The despair and dread he felt towards the immortal creature fueled his desperate attack. But, rather than being toppled by the force of his titan body, Fenrir dug his massive paws into the ground, bracing himself with an immovable strength.

The next moments were a nightmarish blur. Reiner felt Fenrir's massive jaws clamp onto his shoulder, his razor-sharp teeth sinking into the hardened armor of his titan form. Then, with a swift and brutal movement, Fenrir swung Reiner off his feet and smashed him into the ground. The impact was so severe it formed a crater, and Reiner's titan body rebounded off the surface in a disoriented heap.

But the beast wasn't finished. Before Reiner could even begin to gather his senses, Fenrir was upon him, tearing into his armored titan form with an unchecked ferocity. His claws scraped against the armor, tearing through it like tissue paper. The primal, ruthless attack was unlike anything Reiner had experienced. Even in his titan form, he felt an overwhelming sense of vulnerability and fear.

He was being hunted by a predator far more terrifying than any titan. As Fenrir's savage attack continued, a dreadful realization dawned upon him: Fenrir, the ancient and seemingly invincible monster, was a far greater threat than he had ever imagined.

The brutal confrontation between Fenrir and Reiner escalated into a spectacle of unimaginable ferocity. As onlookers watched, they saw the monstrous wolf unleash an intensity that made even the mightiest Titan seem frail. Fenrir's every movement was a brutal testament to his primal force, his strikes a blend of speed and raw power.

Each blow from Fenrir was a study in unrelenting savagery. His claws ripped through Reiner's armored hide, while his massive jaws closed around limbs, shaking them violently and tossing the titan like a rag doll. Reiner's attempts to counterattack were thwarted, each of his blows meeting either the unyielding resistance of Fenrir's body or the uncanny speed of his evasion.

Yet, there was a marked difference in Fenrir's attacks. He wasn't aiming to kill. His assault was methodical and unrelenting, designed to wear down his opponent and break his spirit rather than end his life. The wolf's green eyes burned with an indescribable fury, and yet a touch of understanding too - an understanding of the role each of them was playing in this grotesque dance of survival.

As the battle raged on, Fenrir's frenzy started to reach new heights. His moves became even more erratic, his blows even more ferocious. His once calculated attacks turned to wild flurries of bites and claw strikes, his roars echoing off the nearby structures.

His savagery reached its peak when he tore through a large chunk of Reiner's titan form, throwing the mass into the air before snapping it out of existence with a swift bite. Blood and steaming titan flesh rained down, painting a macabre picture of the ferocious battle. It was a brutal display of strength and dominance - Fenrir marking his territory and asserting his position in this ruthless food chain.

As the dust settled, it was clear that the encounter had taken a heavy toll on Reiner. He lay in a steaming heap, his armored form marred with vicious wounds that were slowly regenerating. He looked up to find Fenrir's green eyes staring down at him, his massive form casting a foreboding shadow over him. The message was clear - this was a fight he couldn't win, and it was a chilling realization that made his titan heart quiver with an unfamiliar fear.

From the corner of his eye, Reiner noticed the giant silhouette of Bertolt's Colossal Titan wavering. The realization hit him - Bertolt was about to fall, using his massive form to crash down on all three of them in a desperate move. He had to act now.

Capitalizing on Fenrir's momentary distraction, Reiner mustered all his remaining strength and kicked the wolf off him. The force sent Fenrir sprawling across the ground, landing directly under the looming shadow of Bertolt's falling titan form.

Simultaneously, Reiner reached out and snagged Eren, pinning him down beneath his armored bulk. His titan fingers clamped down around the smaller titan, securing him in his grasp. The plan was clear. They would end this fight, capture Eren, and escape from this cursed island.

As Bertolt's titan form continued to descend, a shadow fell over the battlefield. The rumble of the impending impact filled the air, the ground trembling in anticipation of the Colossal Titan's fall. Reiner gritted his teeth, tightening his grip on Eren as he braced for the impact, his mind filled with the singular thought of escaping this island once and for all.

…

As the blinding steam belched forth from the Colossal Titan's fall, it sent a powerful shockwave across the battlefield. Scouts were knocked back, their anchors dislodged, forcing them to quickly retreat to avoid being swept away by the wave of intense heat and steam.

When the steam finally began to dissipate, a scene of dread unfolded before their eyes. Reiner, still in his titan form, was retreating with a severely injured Bertolt on his back and a bound and gagged Eren held tightly in his grasp. They were heading towards Wall Maria. They had managed to capture Eren and were making their escape.

The sight of their friend in enemy hands sent a wave of despair through the Scouts. But Erwin, despite his own shock, quickly assessed the situation. They had no horses on this side of the wall. Their options were limited. It was either wait for the horses to arrive, or rely on Fenrir's recovery from under the massive pile of rubble and exploded titan remains.

"We have to wait," Erwin said, his voice stern and resolute. "It's our only chance. We either wait for the horses or for Fenrir to recover. We cannot afford to act rashly."

His words hung in the air, as the grim reality of their situation settled over the Scouts. The clock was ticking, and their only hope was either their delayed reinforcements or the recovery of an ancient being who had just taken the full brunt of the Colossal Titan's fall. Their mission had just become a race against time.

…

As the minutes ticked by, an eerie silence enveloped the area around the colossal crater. Suddenly, a shuffling sound echoed, followed by the crumbling and shifting of rubble. Out of the deep crater emerged a figure, a familiar silhouette, that caused all present to gasp in shock.

It was Fenrir, or rather, his human form. The sight of him was horrific. His clothes were tattered, barely clinging to his frame, his body battered and bruised. He looked like a man who had been through the wringer of hell, his body bearing the evidence of a cataclysmic battle.

His arms were missing entirely, shredded stumps remaining in their place. His body was painfully skeletal, the outline of his ribs stark against the backdrop of his wounded torso. His face was haggard and drawn, showing the toll the recent events had taken on him.

But, as the scouts watched in astonishment, his body began to mend itself. Muscles knitted back together, his shredded limbs began to regenerate, the skeletal frame started filling out again. His wounds, horrific and life-threatening by any human standards, were healing at an astonishing pace. Within moments, he was standing tall again, albeit looking worse for wear.

The grim determination in his eyes was a testament to his indomitable spirit. The scouts watched in awe and slight trepidation as the ancient being healed before their eyes, a clear testament of his terrifying regenerative abilities. The nightmare they had just lived through was still fresh, but their determination was unwavering. They were ready to chase after their friend and their enemy.

Petra and Erwin approached Fenrir slowly, their boots crunching on the debris-littered ground. The sight of him was daunting, a testament to the vicious fight they had just witnessed. His body, though healed now, bore the signs of an arduous battle. Yet, his eyes held a resilience that was undeniable.

"Thank you," Petra finally broke the silence, her voice echoing slightly in the desolate landscape. "For protecting me."

She stood before him, a picture of gratitude and respect. Her eyes conveyed the depth of her appreciation, mirroring her sincere words. The face of the young woman was filled with sincere gratitude, her lips drawn into a soft smile. For a moment, the weight of what had just transpired seemed to lift from her shoulders.

Erwin, standing next to her, offered a silent nod of acknowledgement. The look in his eyes was analytical, but there was a hint of appreciation. In a world filled with brutality and chaos, acts of protection were a rarity. And Fenrir's heroic act, despite the severe cost to himself, was a testament to the complex being he was.

Fenrir was quiet for a moment, his gaze shifting between Erwin and Petra. The appreciation was palpable, yet he seemed somewhat distant. A flicker of something passed through his eyes as he regarded Petra, perhaps a memory of the woman he had lost.

"You're welcome," he finally said, his voice rough but steady. His gaze softened as he looked at Petra, a strange warmth creeping into his eyes. "I did what I felt was right."

…

As Reiner and Bertolt, laden with fatigue, halted their retreat within the dense, verdant expanse of the Forest of Giant Trees, an unfamiliar, almost electric, tension began to permeate the air. The typical sounds of forest life fell silent, replaced by an oppressive quiet that hinted at the presence of something...otherworldly. The scent of ozone, suggestive of an imminent storm, began to fill their nostrils.

From the concealment provided by the towering trees and dappled forest shadows, they were observed by a figure of legendary vigilance - Heimdall. Known to possess sight and hearing so acute that he could see hundreds of leagues and hear the sound of grass growing in far-off meadows, Heimdall had detected the faint yet unmistakable traces of Fenrir's chaotic energy on Reiner and Bertolt.

His appearance was far removed from the radiant, golden-armored figure often romanticized in mythology. Heimdall was more rugged, a warrior who had stood sentinel through countless battles. His armor, while still formidable, bore the scars of his eternal vigilance. His eyes, an intense sky-blue, held an unblinking, intimidating gaze, reflecting the cosmos he monitored from his post at Bifrost.

His unwavering stare was now fixed on the Armored and Colossal Titans. His expression was stoic, betraying no hint of the rising concern within him. The presence of Fenrir's chaotic essence on these humans, and the fact that the Beast of Ragnarok had been stirred into activity, were developments that Heimdall found deeply troubling. The ever-vigilant sentinel of the gods found himself drawn into a scenario where the stakes had escalated significantly, marking a new chapter in this unfolding saga.

…

Despite the tumultuous events that had just transpired, an uneasy stillness enveloped the Forest of Giant Trees. Reiner, Bertolt, and a restrained Eren found themselves in an atmosphere that was unnerving in its tranquility. They had hoped to find a moment of respite here, but the silence and the darkening clouds overhead gave the area a sense of foreboding.

"Is it just me, or is it too quiet?" Reiner asked, his voice low and wary. His keen senses, heightened further by his Titan abilities, picked up on the unnatural stillness. He glanced at Bertolt, seeking confirmation.

"You're right," Bertolt replied, looking around apprehensively. His gaze flitted across the dense foliage, noting the eerie lack of movement. "There aren't even any birds or bugs. Everything's gone silent."

Eren, bound and gagged, could do nothing but listen to their observations and share in their growing sense of unease. He too felt an inexplicable chill creeping down his spine, a feeling of dread that seemed to permeate the very air.

As the trio sat in the growing gloom, an unexpected smell of ozone hit their noses, strong and out of place. It was a scent commonly associated with an impending thunderstorm, yet the atmosphere was devoid of the usual signs of one. There was no wind, no humidity. The darkening clouds overhead were moving unnaturally fast, forming a blanket of ominous grey.

As the unsettling elements around them coalesced, the trio could shake off the feeling no longer – something was coming. Something that had managed to silence an entire forest and darken the sky in broad daylight. They could not see it, but the feeling of being watched by a formidable presence was nearly palpable.

Just as the suspense reached its zenith, a deep, rich voice resonated from the shadowy recesses of the forest. It was both commanding and eerily calm, with a hint of an accent that seemed oddly out of place.

"Quite the ruckus you've caused," the voice started, the tone laced with an unsettling mix of amusement and curiosity. "And I find it peculiar that you bear traces of Fenrir on you."

The trio stiffened at the mention of Fenrir, their attention immediately drawn towards the source of the voice. From the shadows, a figure started to materialize, moving slowly yet purposefully towards them. Despite the darkness, his presence seemed to command the light around him, as though the forest itself was keen to reveal his identity.

With every step he took, the scent of ozone intensified, a clear indicator of his origin and power. As he came into the light, they saw him clearly - a man with an aura of magnificence and an imposing demeanor that belied his seemingly simple appearance. His eyes held a spark of curiosity that was both engaging and intimidating.

"I ask again," he continued, his gaze moving over each of them. "Why do you carry Fenrir's essence on you?" The curiosity in his eyes was genuine, but there was a firm demand for answers underlying his question. The forest seemed to hold its breath, awaiting their response.

Reiner and Bertolt, still reeling from the sudden appearance of the stranger, exchanged a quick, apprehensive look. Their eyes flicked to Eren, immobilized and gagged, before snapping back to the unknown figure. A shiver of anxiety worked its way down Reiner's spine. His hand instinctively moved to shield Bertolt as he rose to his full height.

"We were... in a fight," Reiner finally admitted, his voice strained as he struggled to control his rising fear. He didn't dare mention Eren, knowing the consequences could be disastrous. The lingering scent of ozone, the unnatural silence in the forest, it all painted an ominous picture. The stranger was no ordinary being, of that he was certain.

Bertolt, meanwhile, seemed to have recovered a modicum of his usual composure. His gaze focused on the stranger with an intense, scrutinizing stare. "With Fenrir," he added tersely, acknowledging the unspoken question hanging in the air. His heart pounded in his chest like a drum, echoing his silent dread.

The stranger regarded them for a long moment, his piercing gaze sweeping over them. Despite their guarded responses, there was no denying the truth in their words.

A new realization dawned upon them. They were dealing with a creature of great power, possibly a god, and this encounter could potentially change the tide of their mission. The forest seemed to close in around them, emphasizing the gravity of their situation.

Reiner cleared his throat, trying to disperse the tension that had settled like a heavy fog. "Who are you?" He asked, his voice wavering slightly. "Are you with the Scout Regiment?"

The stranger let out a short, amused laugh at that, his eyes gleaming with something unreadable. "Hardly," he responded, his voice deep and resonant. It seemed to carry with it the echoes of countless battles and endless years, a stark contrast to his youthful appearance. "I am no soldier. Nor do I belong to your world."

He stepped forward then, out of the shadow of the trees and into the dim, filtered light. His ornate armor glinted, the intricate patterns carved into it catching the scarce sunlight. His eyes, strikingly blue, held their gaze, unblinking and unyielding. There was no doubt left in their minds. They were dealing with a being far beyond their comprehension.

"Scout Regiment?" The stranger repeated, mirth dancing in his eyes. "No. I am Heimdall, Guardian of the Bifrost and the Aesir gods. I am the one who sees and hears all. And I am here... because of Fenrir."

Heimdall's gaze sharpened as he spoke, the air becoming heavy with his earnestness. "Underestimate Fenrir at your peril," he warned them, his tone gravely serious. "He is the firstborn of Loki and fated to bring about the demise of our chief, Odin. But it is not just Odin who must beware. Fenrir's wrath would not discriminate between god or mortal. So, I need to understand what motivates him now. Why is he aiding you in your struggle?"

He let his words hang in the air, his unwavering gaze probing their faces for any hint of understanding. The gravity of his words was not lost on Reiner and Bertolt. They shifted uncomfortably, aware that the answers they provided could have far-reaching consequences.

"Well..." Reiner started, his voice unsteady. "We... we don't know everything. But, there is... a woman." He paused, glancing at Bertolt for support before continuing. "A human woman. Her name was Lilia."

"She died in Shiganshina district," Bertolt interjected, his voice barely above a whisper.

"That's not all," Reiner added quickly. "Fenrir, he... he fell in love with her. He's been living amongst the humans, disguised. He... he can look like a man."

The silence that followed was deafening. For a moment, Heimdall simply stared at them, his face unreadable. He looked taken aback, surprised by this revelation. Fenrir, the great wolf, the harbinger of Ragnarok, living amongst mortals and in love with a human woman? He didn't think Fenrir had that capability, much less the desire. But if what they said was true, this changed everything.

Heimdall stood still, his expression contemplative as he grappled with this unexpected revelation. His gaze seemed to gaze beyond the immediate, his mind undoubtedly running through countless possibilities and implications. The air around them, once teeming with an unnerving calmness, now crackled with a growing tension.

"Fenrir appears to have inherited more than we initially thought from his father, Loki," he muttered more to himself than anyone else, his tone filled with an unexpected mix of surprise and concern. Fenrir's capability for shapeshifting, a skill synonymous with Loki, brought a new, complex layer to the ongoing situation.

The nature of Fenrir, a being born of chaos and destruction, suddenly took on a new dimension. A connection with the human world, through love no less, was an unprecedented change in his behavior. It was a significant revelation, even for Heimdall, who had seen countless epochs unfold.

Slowly, the guardian of the gods turned his focus back onto Reiner and Bertolt, his eyes, old as time itself, reflecting a resolute determination. "Keep a close watch on Fenrir. If he truly has changed, it is of utmost importance for us, the Aesir, to understand why," Heimdall commanded, his voice resonating with the authority inherent to him.

Just as abruptly as he had made his presence known, Heimdall started to dissolve into nothingness. The ominous clouds that had gathered began to scatter, letting the sun's rays filter through the treetops once more. The familiar sounds of the forest returned, filling the eerie silence left in Heimdall's wake. Despite his departure, the words he had spoken lingered, leaving Reiner and Bertolt grappling with the enormous gravity of their situation.

…

"Reiner... Reiner?" Bertolt's voice echoed in the suddenly mundane atmosphere of the forest, the strange, electric tension dissipating with Heimdall's departure. Reiner, however, appeared to be stuck in a state of paralyzed shock. His wide, disbelieving eyes were fixed on the spot where the god had stood moments before.

Reiner didn't respond. He just kept staring into the empty space, his mind racing, trying to make sense of the events that had just transpired. Gods and monsters that were once the stuff of myths and legends were now their harsh reality. They had just conversed with Heimdall, the guardian of the gods himself, who had imparted knowledge and warnings about Fenrir, the creature they'd clashed with only hours earlier.

"Reiner!" Bertolt shook his friend slightly, his voice more urgent now. The sight of the normally composed and determined Reiner, reduced to such a state, was an unsettling sight. They needed to move, to plan their next steps, but they also needed Reiner's tactical mind for that.

The spell seemed to break, and Reiner shook his head as if to clear it, his gaze finally shifting from the spot where Heimdall had been. A long, heavy sigh escaped his lips before he turned to Bertolt, a grave look on his face. The impact of their encounter was written clearly in his features.

"That... just happened," he managed to confirm, his voice low and shaky, "We need to get moving. We have a mission to complete... and a new reality to contend with."

Their conversation with Heimdall had changed the landscape of their struggle, the stakes had risen higher than they could have ever imagined. The weight of this revelation rested heavily on their shoulders, leaving them with more questions than answers as they prepared to venture forth into this new, terrifying reality.

As the early rays of morning pierced through the canopy of trees, coloring the sky with hues of pink and orange, Reiner and Bertolt snapped to attention at the sight of the Scout's flares streaking across the dawn-lit sky. The ethereal glow of the flares stood in stark contrast to the serenity of the morning, injecting a jolt of adrenaline into the pair.

"Scouts are closing in," Bertolt said, his voice barely above a whisper, eyes fixed on the fading smoke trails of the flares. The tendrils of morning fog twisted around them, adding to the surreal situation they found themselves in.

Reiner nodded, his muscles tensing with the realization that they were running out of time. His heart hammered against his ribs at the thought of what—or who—might be trailing the Scouts. If Fenrir was as close as he feared, they needed to move. Now.

"We need to get moving," Reiner stated, the urgency clear in his voice. His gaze fell upon Eren's unconscious form. He hauled the limp body onto his back with renewed determination. "We have to get as far away from them as possible."

The urgency of their situation forced them to spring into action, pushing their tired bodies beyond their limits. Leaving behind the spot where they had an unexpected encounter with a god, they plunged deeper into the forest. The noise of their frantic escape was muffled by the dense forest, their fading footfalls seeming to signal the calm before the storm.

As dawn began to break, Reiner, in his colossal armored Titan form, charged across the verdant fields. His colossal hands were clasped firmly to his chest, right next to his neck, acting as an impervious fortress. Nestled within this protective enclosure was the immobilized Eren, bound and gagged. Bertolt was also within this makeshift safehouse, his eyes wide with fear and anticipation, carefully cradled within the unyielding grip of Reiner's armored fingers. The explosive whir of 3D maneuvering gear resonated in the air, with iconic blades of the scouts flashing in the nascent sunlight.

The situation was dire. The Scout Regiment was closing in, their presence announced by the distant flare's smoke ascending into the morning sky. Mikasa, the embodiment of ferocity, was the first to reach the Titan duo. With steely determination, she tried to sever Reiner's fingers, only to have her blades shatter upon contact with the armor. The shocking failure of the attack sent a shudder through Bertolt, especially when he dared to peek out from the safety of Reiner's grasp, meeting Mikasa's icy glare. The silent rage in her eyes was a chilling reminder of the cost of their actions.

Behind her, the other scouts caught up. Jean, his face hardened by betrayal and anger, called out to them, "How could you sleep so peacefully beside the very people you intended to kill?" His words hung heavily in the air, a testament to the depth of their betrayal. Sasha and Connie chimed in, their voices choked with disbelief and hurt. They reminisced about the future they had all imagined together, growing old and reminiscing over drinks. Was it all a lie?

In response, Mikasa's voice cut through the air, cold and unyielding. "The choice was yours. You chose to do this." Her words, while simple, held a chilling finality. The uncomfortable silence was shattered by Bertolt's anguished cry. "Who in their right mind would want to commit such mass murder? To be proud of it?" His voice trembled with a mix of fear, frustration, and regret. "But…someone must bear the burden. Someone must stain their hands with blood!"

Mikasa's reply was a curt demand, "Hand over Eren. Now." But Bertolt refused, his resolve echoing in his firm words. "We must fulfill our duty."

As if on cue, Hannes' voice warned them of an impending onslaught. Ahead, the scouts led by Erwin were charging at them, guiding a horde of Titans. But it was the sight at the forefront of the charge that sent a ripple of terror through Reiner and Bertolt. Emanating from a rift that seemed to tear through the very fabric of reality, a massive form appeared. The form of Fenrir, standing taller than any of them at a daunting 17 meters. The same Fenrir who had survived the collapse of the Colossal Titan and the ensuing explosion.

He hit the ground running, his feral roar echoed across the field, a savage challenge to his opponents. And as the distance closed, it was clear that Fenrir was prepared to take them head-on. Their blood ran cold at the sight, and they knew that a fierce confrontation was inevitable. The stakes had never been higher.

…

As the snarling Fenrir bolted towards them followed by the horde of titans, the blood-drained faces of Reiner and Bertolt were starkly illuminated. The sight of Fenrir, charging at them with unbridled ferocity, shook them to their very cores. The last time they had seen the beast, Bertolt himself had transformed into the Colossal Titan, letting his massive form plummet onto the wolfish titan in a desperate bid to obliterate him once and for all.

The echo of that moment was still etched vividly into their minds. The enormous figure of the Colossal Titan descending rapidly onto Fenrir, who had positioned himself right beneath the falling titan. The ground-shattering impact and ensuing explosion had decimated everything in its immediate radius, leaving a scene of utter destruction. Even from their considerable distance, the tremors had knocked them off their balance.

But now, defying all conceivable logic, Fenrir stood before them, seemingly unscathed. His presence was more terrifying than ever—a nightmarish apparition that sent chills running down their spines. The sight of Fenrir, intact and radiating an intense, wild anger, froze them with a terror they had never known before.

Bertolt's grip on his gear tightened involuntarily, his knuckles turning a ghostly white. Reiner, in his Armored Titan form, appeared to tremble, his voice barely audible as he whispered, "That... that's impossible..."

But the monstrous roar from the charging wolf-monster left no room for denial or doubt. It echoed through the morning air, a bone-chilling war cry that multiplied their dread. The earth quivered with each stride that Fenrir took, his murderous intent as clear as day in his fiery eyes.

The sight of him, untouched and filled with rage, instilled a terrifying realization in them—Fenrir had survived, and he was coming for them. This haunting reality hung over them like a heavy cloud, growing denser with each moment that brought Fenrir closer.

Enclosed within Reiner's armored grasp, Bertolt could feel the cold, titan fingers squeeze him and Eren tighter. A whirlpool of fear, guilt, and foreboding swirled within them, creating a dangerous emotional cocktail. They had awakened this monstrosity—and now they had to face him. If he could survive an attack from the Colossal Titan, what hope did they stand against such a formidable enemy?

A terrifying amalgamation of confusion, horror, and desperation finally pushed Reiner to his breaking point. This wasn't what he signed up for. He was a warrior, a defender, not some mythical beast hunter! The thought of what they were up against – an ancient being that had been coexisting with humans for a millennium, and moreover, a being they had unknowingly antagonized – was too much to bear.

Tightly clutching Bertolt and Eren within the armored fortress of his hands, Reiner surged forward. His colossal form cut a daunting figure against the morning sun, casting a monstrous silhouette on the trembling ground beneath him. The tension in the air was palpable as every soul on the battlefield held their breath, the grim prelude to the cataclysmic confrontation about to unfold.

Matching Reiner's fury, Fenrir threw back his massive head and roared in defiance. He was a nightmare made flesh, a monstrous beast from a time long past, his grotesque maw bristling with razor-sharp fangs. His eyes, emerald green and wild, shone with an intense, intelligent gleam, a window to the beast's calculating mind that contradicted the feral exterior.

As the Armored Titan closed the distance, Fenrir made his move. With a powerful lunge, he fastened his tremendous jaws around Reiner's charging arm. The impact was thunderous, an unyielding force meeting an immovable object, the sound of their collision reverberating through the field. Yet, in all his ferocity, Fenrir was careful, his grip tight but restrained to ensure the safety of the human cargo within Reiner's hand.

The battle of Titans had commenced. The blood-curdling roars of these god-like beings echoed far and wide, weaving a haunting chorus with the rallying cries of the advancing Scouts, their signal flares piercing the dawn sky. It was a grim spectacle to behold, the Armored Titan grappling with the monstrous Fenrir, the fate of Eren Jaeger hanging precariously in the balance.

Reiner summoned every ounce of his strength and with a swift, brutal swing, he managed to dislodge Fenrir from his arm. His blow sent the wolf skidding across the battlefield, carving a furrow into the earth. A cloud of dust enveloped Fenrir momentarily, obscuring him from view. Reiner watched, heart pounding, as Fenrir emerged from the dust cloud unscathed. The sight of the wolf's menacing grin sent a cold shiver down Reiner's spine. There was a hint of something unsettling in Fenrir's gaze, a knowing glint that spelled imminent danger.

"Should have watched the horde," Fenrir drawled, his voice dripping with mockery. A chill ran down Reiner's spine as the horrifying realization hit him. He was so focused on Fenrir, he'd forgotten about the horde of Titans trailing behind the Scouts.

Before Reiner could react, he was engulfed by the grotesque Titans, an overwhelming tide of monstrous bodies that clambered over his armored form. Reiner let out a guttural roar of frustration and terror. Desperately, he tried to shield Bertolt and Eren with his hands, feeling the Titans clawing, tugging and gnashing at his armor-plated exterior. His mind raced, his heart pounded in his chest. This was a nightmare.

His muscles strained under the relentless assault, his armor groaning under the constant pressure. It was like being trapped in a pit of vipers, each one more desperate than the last to sink its fangs into him. The armor held firm, for now, but Reiner knew it was only a matter of time before the Titans would find a weak spot.

All the while, Fenrir watched from afar, his green eyes shimmering in the morning light, his wolfish grin etched into Reiner's memory as the battle raged on. A grave error had been made and now, the consequences had to be faced. Reiner could only grit his teeth, hold on to his precious cargo and pray for a miracle.

Erwin's voice cut through the air like a sharp blade, barely audible amidst the din of the battle. "Now!" he shouted, signalling Fenrir to make his move. As if on cue, Fenrir turned his chilling green eyes towards Bertolt, a malicious grin curling his lips.

"Did you know that we've captured Annie?" Fenrir called out, his voice dripping with cruel satisfaction. Bertolt's heart skipped a beat. "Yes, your dear comrade... the female titan. Quite an interesting creature, wouldn't you say?" He moved closer, stalking towards the Armored Titan with a predator's grace.

"Oh, the fun we had... and will continue to have," Fenrir continued, his tone chillingly nonchalant. "Have you heard of the Blood Eagle? An old ritual, perfected by Odin's followers. They'd open up the back, stretch out the ribs... An incredibly gruesome sight."

The mental image Fenrir painted was horrifying, even for someone used to the brutal world of the Titans. His words hung in the air like a curse, an insidious echo that threatened to shatter Bertolt's resolve. Reiner, despite his own struggle with the Titan horde, felt a chill course through him at Fenrir's words.

"YOU SPAWN OF THE DEVIL!" Bertolt screamed, his voice breaking through the chaos. His rage was palpable, filling the air with an electrifying tension. Just as he was about to respond, Erwin swooped in, his blade slashing across Bertolt's chest.

The sudden assault caught Bertolt off guard. His grip on Eren slackened, giving the Scout regiment the opportunity they had been waiting for. In that split-second, the Scouts seized Eren and quickly retreated, leaving Bertolt and Reiner to deal with the consequences of Fenrir's revelation. The battle raged on, but for a fleeting moment, everything seemed to freeze in place - the fear, the anger, the regret, all crystal clear in the face of the monstrous wolf and the armored titan.

Reiner's mind whirred into action as he watched the Scouts retreat, hauling Eren away from the pandemonium. His heart hammered against his chest, blood pumping furiously through his veins. A surge of desperation swept over him, along with a fresh wave of determination. They couldn't afford to lose Eren. Not when they were so close...

Rearing back, Reiner hoisted the nearest Titan by its leg. With a mighty swing, he hurled the creature directly into the path of the retreating Scouts. It sailed through the air, arms flailing, a grotesque projectile that landed with a bone-shattering crash, throwing up a cloud of dust and debris.

Taken by surprise, the Scouts veered off course, scrambling to dodge the incoming Titans. Mikasa was the first to react, her blades flashing in the morning light as she swung around the airborne Titan, her agility unmatched even amidst the escalating chaos.

Bertolt watched, his heart in his throat, as Reiner continued to fling Titans in their direction. One after another, the Titans sailed through the air, their massive bodies causing tremors as they hit the ground, like a macabre rain of grotesque giants.

They needed Eren. He was crucial to their mission. To their survival. And they'd be damned if they let a monstrous wolf and a bunch of humans get in their way.

In the midst of the chaos and the raining titans, Fenrir's pointed ears perked up. Amidst the roaring titans and the distant shouts of human voices, he heard a familiar voice cut through, its high pitch barely audible over the tumult.

His heart throbbed at the recognition. Petra. His gaze whirled around, landing on the distant form of the red-haired scout. Petra, along with the rest of Levi's squad, sans Gunther who was noticeably absent, were in a perilous situation.

A towering, fifteen-meter Titan was closing in on them, its grotesque mouth twisted in a disturbing grin. One of the members of the squad was already on the ground, knocked out or worse. They were getting cornered.

Fenrir's heart tightened. Without a second thought, he leapt forward, his powerful hind legs pushing him off the ground. His lean muscles rippled under his pelt as he weaved through the chaos, his mind singularly focused.

He had to reach Petra. He had to protect her. And nothing, not even a hulking titan or a desperate Reiner, would stand in his way.

Fenrir's focused gaze quickly scanned the dangerous situation unfolding before him - Petra and the others trapped against the tree with a lumbering 15-meter Titan advancing on them. Eld was unconscious, leaving the others to desperately pull him out of harm's way.

A fierce protectiveness welled up inside Fenrir. He wouldn't allow them to fall here. Inhaling deeply, he called forth a rarely used power, one he had inherited from his brother, Sleipnir. His voice rang out, steady and commanding, as he uttered the ancient incantation, "Með ótemdum byrjum sem bera Sleipnis skref, ek kalla á þinna fljóttleika!"

Time seemed to slow down around him, his surroundings becoming nothing but a blur. The power to move at an inconceivable speed, coupled with immense strength, coursed through his veins, sharpening his senses to a razor's edge.

He launched himself at the Titan, his body becoming a blurred streak as he propelled himself forward. The impact was catastrophic, like a comet crashing into the earth. His claws tore through the Titan's upper half with such force it was essentially obliterated on the spot. The lower half teetered for a moment before collapsing into a lifeless heap.

Stunned silence followed his swift action, the remaining Titans pausing in their onslaught. He stood among the remains, his chest heaving as his green eyes flared with a primal ferocity. The clear message he broadcast was not lost on those observing: No harm would come to those under his protection.

The sheer force of Fenrir's lightning-fast assault had yet to take full effect on the surroundings. Moments later, a deafening sonic boom ripped through the battlefield. The shockwave exploded outwards in a radial pattern from the point of impact, shattering the temporary stillness and shocking everyone present. The immediate force was so powerful that it popped everyone's ears, the pressure change instantly causing pain and disorientation.

The nearest Titans were literally blown off their feet by the explosive force, their enormous bodies flung like rag dolls through the air, before slamming back onto the ground. The earth quaked with each massive thud, causing the ground beneath them to tremble and ripple. Dust and debris were flung high into the sky, blanketing the area in a dense cloud that momentarily obscured the vision.

Once the dust settled, the aftermath of Fenrir's incredible speed and power was evident for all to witness - the massive clearing in the horde, the disarray of the Titans, and the annihilation of the one that had threatened Levi's squad.

…

A palpable shock reverberated across the battlefield as the devastating sonic boom resonated from Fenrir's unimaginable acceleration. The shockwave was a sheer force that exploded in all directions, disrupting the temporary tranquility of the grim tableau. Instantaneously, everyone's ears popped from the abrupt pressure change, inducing disorientating pain.

Titans in the vicinity were unexpectedly flung through the air like inconsequential rag dolls from the overwhelming force, their colossal bodies landing with thuds that shook the earth beneath them. The soil vibrated, rippling as though struck by a massive hammer. Dust and fragments of debris were thrown into the air, forming a thick veil that momentarily obscured the scene from view.

As the swirling dust gradually descended, revealing the extent of the chaos, the impact of Fenrir's unparalleled speed and power was laid bare for all to see. There lay a sizeable gap amidst the Titan horde, scattered and disoriented from the sonic onslaught. The behemoth that had posed a deadly threat to Levi's squad had been eradicated, leaving no traces of its former existence.

In the midst of the pandemonium, Reiner and Bertolt watched, frozen, as the spectacle unfolded. Reiner's mind raced, struggling to process what had just transpired. His eyes, wide with disbelief, were locked on the massive clearing where a Titan once stood. The sight of Fenrir's devastating might struck terror in his heart. It was an ominous reminder of the supernatural entity they were up against. Their mission to capture Eren, which already seemed fraught with danger, had now escalated into a confrontation with a literal deity.

Bertolt, equally stunned, clung onto Reiner's armoured hands, his knuckles turning white from the force of his grip. His heart pounded heavily against his chest, the adrenaline amplifying his fear and anxiety. He had witnessed firsthand the terrifying capabilities of Fenrir, the ancient god who had effortlessly dispatched a Titan that towered over them. It was a sight that shook him to his core and forced him to reassess their chances of survival.

Together, they realized the grim reality of their situation. This was no longer a covert operation, a simple mission to capture Eren. They were now trapped in a monstrous dance with a formidable entity whose powers transcended human comprehension. They were in the clutches of a divine game, against an adversary who was as unpredictable as he was lethal. With the echo of Fenrir's monstrous roar still ringing in their ears, Reiner and Bertolt could only gaze at the unfolding chaos in disbelief, their minds whirling with fear, uncertainty, and an ominous sense of impending doom.

…

On a separate part of the battlefield, Ymir and Christa, flanked by Jean, Connie, and Sasha, were engaged in their own battle against the Titans. The shockwave from Fenrir's sonic boom rippled through their battleground, causing a momentary pause in the chaos as they reeled from the pressure change.

Their ears rang from the sudden shift in pressure, disorientation momentarily flashing across their faces. But it was the sight that left them momentarily stunned. The giant clearing, the Titans thrown haphazardly in every direction, the epicenter of the blast where Fenrir stood, a chillingly formidable figure among the ruins.

Ymir's eyes widened, a mixture of awe and fear gleaming in her gaze. The sight of Fenrir ripping through the Titans with such tremendous force and speed was a stark reminder of the extent of his power, the sheer magnitude of the ancient deity's abilities. Despite her own abilities as a Titan shifter, she was acutely aware that they were all mere mortals playing a dangerous game against such an otherworldly force.

Beside her, Christa was equally awestruck, her heart pounding in her chest. Her blue eyes stared, wide and unblinking, at the cataclysmic scene unfolding in front of her. The Titans, the sworn enemies they had been fighting against, had been dismissed like rag dolls, tossed aside by a single entity, a being who held so much power that it seemed incomprehensible.

…

Jean, Connie, and Sasha, too, shared their shock. Their adrenaline-fueled fight momentarily paused as they watched the display of power that shook the battlefield. Their breath hitched in their throats, their hearts pounded in their chests, and a sense of dread washed over them. If Fenrir could unleash such destruction, what hope did they have against him, should he ever turn against them?

The battlefield was eerily silent for a moment, the only sound being the harsh breathing of the soldiers and the distant groaning of the Titans. Every pair of eyes was fixed on Fenrir, the god who had chosen to fight alongside them, his power far surpassing anything they could have imagined. It was a sight that etched itself deep into their minds, a chilling testament to the raw, unbridled power of a god.

…

Levi, Hange, Erwin, and Mitch were a fair distance away when Fenrir unleashed his sonic boom. Even at their distance, the shockwave was so powerful that it sent them stumbling back, the abrupt shift in pressure causing a brief moment of disorientation and physical discomfort. The ringing in their ears was nearly deafening.

They regained their footing just in time to witness the aftermath of Fenrir's sonic onslaught. A plume of dust and debris billowed high into the sky from the point of impact, obscuring their view momentarily. As the dust settled, the image that emerged was nothing short of jaw-dropping.

Levi's usually impassive face hardened, his steel-gray eyes narrowing at the sight before him. He had witnessed the raw power of the Titans, but the destruction wrought by Fenrir was on another level. Despite himself, he felt a surge of respect for the ancient deity who was proving to be a formidable ally in this fight. But along with respect, a sense of caution flickered in his gaze. A being of such power was an unpredictable variable, a potential threat they couldn't afford to underestimate.

Next to him, Hange's eyes were wide and sparkling, despite the dangerous situation. Her scientific mind was ablaze with the incredible display of power. She was acutely aware of the danger they were in, but she couldn't help but marvel at the sheer magnitude of Fenrir's abilities. Her heart pounded in her chest with excitement, fear, and an insatiable curiosity.

Erwin, ever the stoic leader, watched the scene unfold with a grim expression. He felt a cold dread settle in his stomach. The reminder of Fenrir's godly power was a sobering realization of what they were truly up against. Erwin had been aware of Fenrir's power, but witnessing it in such a tangible, destructive way was a harsh reality check.

Beside Erwin, Mitch was silent, his gaze unblinkingly fixed on the devastation ahead. As a seasoned Scout, he had seen a fair share of Titans and their destructive capabilities. But the display of raw power by Fenrir surpassed anything he had ever witnessed. Despite his hardened exterior, he could not help but feel a wave of fear wash over him.

The scene before them served as a potent reminder of the raw, terrifying power they had allied themselves with. While Fenrir's intervention was currently in their favor, it was a stark reminder of the potential danger they could face should the ancient deity ever turn against them. Each of them, in their own way, grappled with the reality of their alliance with such a potent entity.

A deafening sound ripped through the eerie silence that followed Fenrir's sonic boom, jolting Mikasa and Eren from their dazed thoughts. The cause of the sudden noise quickly became evident: the Smiling Titan, the very same creature responsible for Eren's mother's death, was lumbering towards them.

As the grotesque figure loomed closer, Eren felt something inside him snap. Rage, grief, and sheer determination warred within him, casting a dark and menacing look over his face. The Smiling Titan reached out, its grotesque hand aiming to pick up Eren.

But in that moment, Eren's mental state fractured, giving birth to a power previously untapped. With a defiant roar, he threw his fist against the titan's palm. The moment his fist made contact, time seemed to freeze.

A shockwave exploded outwards from the point of contact, visibly jolting all the titan shifters present. The other Titans, previously engaged in their own battles, stopped in their tracks. Their focus shifted to the spectacle unfolding before them.

Suddenly, an angry-looking Titan, momentarily stunned from the shockwave, regained its footing. With a mighty roar, it lunged at the Smiling Titan, tackling it head-on. In that moment, something even more extraordinary happened.

All the other Titans stopped what they were doing, their gazes fixed on the spectacle. One by one, they broke rank and charged towards the Smiling Titan. They descended upon it like a horde of angry bees, tearing it apart with ruthless ferocity. As if driven by a primal, shared instinct, the Titans turned on one of their own, ripping it to shreds in a display of raw, unrestrained power.

…

As the Titans set upon one of their own, Erwin's mind was flooded with the words Fenrir had spoken to him privately not long ago. The powerful Norse creature had voiced his curiosity about a particular event, one that had remained unsolved and largely untouched due to the calamities that befell Shiganshina.

"Fenrir continued, 'I wonder if you've ever thought about why Eren's father, Grisha, went to the capital before he disappeared. It's an intriguing detail, isn't it? And even more so when you consider what happened thereafter.'"

"He handed something down to Eren, something of great importance. The question is, what exactly was it? And perhaps more importantly, why? What was Grisha's endgame in doing so?"

Those words echoed hauntingly in Erwin's mind, adding another layer of complexity to the mystery they were all entwined in. Suddenly, the sight of Eren punching the titan's hand, the shockwave that followed, and the ensuing attack on the Smiling Titan, all started making a chilling kind of sense.

What if Grisha had indeed passed on something to Eren, something that could potentially control or command the Titans? The implications of that possibility were vast and frightening. And Erwin found himself trapped in a whirlwind of speculation, even as the battle raged on around him.

As the tumultuous scene continued to unfold, Erwin's mind started to piece together the fragments of the grand puzzle that was their world. Fenrir's words echoed ominously in his thoughts, a discussion they had shared regarding the First King.

"Fenrir had spoken extensively about the First King, who was a Titan Shifter himself. He had the power to alter memories, to change the world around him, yet he chose not to. He chose to maintain the status quo under a veil of perceived peace," Erwin recalled, his heart pounding with realization.

Suddenly, the chaotic events of the present - Eren's unexpected control over the Titans, the grotesque spectacle of the Titans attacking their own kind - seemed to fit into an even larger and more complicated tapestry of power and history.

What if the power that the First King held, the ability to manipulate memories, and perhaps even more, had been passed down through generations, and eventually into Eren? What if Grisha Yeager, understanding the potential of this power, had entrusted it to his son? And what if, just maybe, this power was the key to their survival, their victory?

The potential implications were staggering, shaking Erwin to his core. It was a chilling prospect, one that held both the promise of hope and the danger of destruction. But the more he considered it, the more it seemed to be their grim reality.

As he stared at the frenzied scene of Titans, his eyes inevitably landed on Eren. The boy who had lost so much, the boy who held so much power. A pawn and a king all at once. What was his role in this intricate game? Erwin didn't have the answers. Not yet. But he was more determined than ever to find them.

This was a battle of many fronts, and understanding the secrets of their world, was just as crucial as fighting the Titans themselves. He owed it to humanity, he owed it to his fallen comrades, and he owed it to himself.

…

Reiner's mind was in a whirl, thoughts flying around like leaves in a storm. The world seemed to spin, yet stay painfully still at the same time. His heart pounded in his chest as his gaze fixed on Eren, the newfound menace in the battlefield.

'Why him?! Of all the people, why does it have to be him?!' he raged in his mind. 'There's no one worse... Eren, you're the last person who should have that power!'

Meanwhile, Ymir had been observing the unfolding events from the sidelines, her mind racing at a million miles a minute. She had always known that Eren was important - that he held a significant role in this war of giants. But the extent of his power was something she hadn't fully grasped until this very moment.

Her eyes widened in realization, and a lump formed in her throat. 'So this is it...' she thought, feeling the weight of her understanding. 'This is why Bertolt and Reiner were so hell-bent on capturing Eren. He's not just another Titan Shifter... He's more. So much more.'

And amidst the chaos, the terror, and the bloodshed, a sliver of hope began to bud in her heart. The presence of Fenrir, the Wolf who had been hidden among them all this time, had initially filled her with a deep sense of dread. But now... Now she was starting to see that maybe, just maybe, he represented something else.

'Maybe...' she thought, her heart fluttering with a newfound determination, 'Maybe even within these Walls, we have hope. Real, tangible hope.'

It was a fragile thing, that hope. But it was something. And in their world of Titans and terror, sometimes, something was all they needed.

…

With a chilling grace and an audacity that was almost comical, Fenrir stepped into Reiner's path, halting his manic rush. The powerful wolf figure towered menacingly, all gnashing teeth and rippling muscle. He looked more like a primeval force of nature than any mortal beast.

His green eyes, which radiated an eerie, otherworldly light, bore into Reiner's. No words passed between them, but the silent exchange was as potent as a verbal spat. It was a challenge, an unspoken dare hanging heavy in the air between them.

Fenrir's face was contorted into a lupine grin that was all teeth and gleaming eyes, a nightmare made flesh. It was a chilling sight, a grin not of mirth but of a primal hunger, of anticipation for the fight to come. It was a grin that said, "Come on. I dare you. Try your luck."

It was a challenge, a threat, and an invitation all rolled into one. And it was directed at Reiner, taunting him, pushing his buttons. The message was clear: "Do you really want to pursue this? You know you can't win."

And that made Reiner's blood boil.

A tumultuous mix of emotions raged within him. Disdain, defiance, a burning rage that made his vision blur... And beneath it all, a trembling fear that shook him to his core. His fists clenched tightly, and he met Fenrir's gaze head-on, a savage determination burning in his eyes.

The sight of Fenrir expanding a further ten meters in size was an act of blatant intimidation. It was a demonstration of raw, unfiltered power that left Reiner and Bertolt feeling puny and insignificant. Fenrir now towered over them, casting a massive shadow that covered them both.

Their eyes were drawn upwards, towards the eerie green fire dancing in Fenrir's eyes. The dancing flames were mesmerizing, but the message they conveyed was unmistakable: "You are outmatched."

And that realization struck Reiner and Bertolt with a force stronger than any physical blow. They understood now, with a painful clarity, that they couldn't win this fight. This creature was beyond anything they had ever encountered, a monster that could annihilate their world if not stopped.

Reiner felt a chilling sensation creeping up his spine. Fenrir would likely outlive them all, and unless the entire world united against this monstrosity, they were all living on borrowed time. They were dead men walking. This realization was reflected in Bertolt's wide-eyed stare, the sudden understanding mirrored in his haunted expression.

The crushing weight of this revelation shattered Bertolt's resolve. He felt his sanity fraying at the edges, and the overwhelming fear caused his mind to break. As if on cue, Reiner, with Bertolt still on his shoulder, made a sharp about-turn and bolted in the opposite direction. The decision was made: they had to flee.

Fenrir's keen ears picked up the panicked screams of Bertolt, his voice hoarse and filled with terror, "FASTER REINER! FASTER! HURRY HURRY HURRY! FASTER!" Their desperate retreat grew fainter and fainter until they finally disappeared into the distance, swallowed by the vast expanse of the fields.

…

Fenrir's gaze, still locked onto the vanishing figures of Reiner and Bertolt, gradually shifted back towards his human companions. His message was conveyed through a slight tilt of his head and the direction of his monstrous gaze. No words were uttered, yet the intent was clear as day.

His towering figure began to move, heading back towards the safety of the wall. The titans, in the meantime, were preoccupied with their latest victim, their voracious hunger momentarily sated. Their distraction provided a much-needed window for the soldiers to regroup and retreat.

It was a silent command, yet it echoed louder than any verbal order. Fenrir's intent was clear and it was hard to argue with the monster's wisdom, no matter how reluctant some might be to admit it. The battlefield was left behind, but the lessons learned from this encounter were deeply ingrained in the minds of every soldier. Their return journey to the wall was filled with an eerie silence, each individual lost in their thoughts.

…

Upon reaching the safety of the wall, Fenrir, now back in his human form, was met with a mixture of reactions. Most were a combination of relief, shock, and awe, but Levi's squad was notably different.

Levi's squad was buzzing with gratitude, each member expressing their thanks in their own way. Amidst the chatter and congratulations, Fenrir noticed a particular figure standing out from the group. It was Petra, her usually calm and composed demeanor noticeably absent. She looked slightly flustered, her cheeks tinged with a light blush that only accentuated her overall appearance.

This was the third time Fenrir had come to her rescue, and the second time that day alone. Petra was clearly affected by the close encounters, and she struggled to keep her emotions in check. An unfamiliar warmth was brewing in her chest, a strange sensation she couldn't quite decipher.

She felt a compelling pull towards Fenrir, a sensation that she couldn't put into words. It was as if her heart recognized him from a past she couldn't recall, a mysterious connection that added another layer of complexity to their relationship. The gentle tug in her heart whenever she looked at him was both intriguing and confusing, leaving her in a state of emotional disarray.

Petra wasn't sure what this all meant, but one thing was clear - the bond that was forming between them was undeniably strong, and it was only growing with each passing moment.

While the joyful commotion continued amongst the soldiers, two pairs of discerning eyes were focused on a singular point of interest. Levi and Hange had been observing the interaction between Petra and Fenrir with sharp and analytical gazes.

Levi, usually indifferent to emotional dynamics, found himself surprised by the palpable chemistry between Petra and the newcomer. A hint of curiosity flitted across his usual stony expression as he studied them. However, Levi was a man of few words, and even fewer personal interjections, so he chose to keep his observations to himself. His gaze merely lingered on the pair a moment longer before he turned away, redirecting his attention to other pressing matters.

Hange, on the other hand, was less subtle about her observations. An enthusiastic gleam sparkled in her eyes as she watched the pair, a sly grin spreading across her face. The lively scientist had always been one for relationships and emotional connections, and the potential budding romance between Petra and Fenrir piqued her interest. Nevertheless, she too kept her thoughts to herself, if only because the circumstances were not ideal for such discussions.

Despite their individual reactions, both Levi and Hange had reached a mutual understanding. Petra's reaction to Fenrir was something they hadn't seen before, a unique dynamic that was worth keeping an eye on. And so, amidst the celebrations and relief that filled the air, the two leaders silently agreed to continue observing this development.

…

In the privacy of a quiet meeting room, Erwin opened the floor to the burning question that hung heavily over everyone's heads - where had the Titans come from if there was no breach in the Wall?

The Commanding Officer already had an inkling about the possible answer, thanks to the information Fenrir had shared about their past, but he needed to confirm his suspicions.

Hange was the one who broke the silence.

"From all the evidence we've gathered," she began, her voice ringing clear and steady in the room. "The Titans inside Wall Rose were... the citizens of Ragako village."

A hush fell upon the room, as everyone absorbed the horrifying implication of Hange's words.

All eyes inadvertently turned towards Fenrir, whose expression had darkened considerably upon hearing her conclusion. The look on his face was grim, a stark contrast to the normally aloof demeanor he displayed. It was an expression of profound regret, of a burden that had weighed heavily on him for far too long. It was a silent confirmation of the horrid truth that they had all feared.

…

The room fell silent, filled with a chilling realization. The Titans were not external invaders, but their own people, transformed into monsters. It was a bitter pill to swallow, a haunting revelation that forever altered their perception of the world they lived in.

On the rooftop of the building, away from the murmurs and prying eyes, Fenrir found a moment of solitude. His gaze was lost in the twilight sky, the sprawling cityscape beneath him appearing like a sea of muted hues. A quiet rustle of clothing announced Petra's presence as she approached and sat beside him.

For a moment, they just sat there in companionable silence, the world around them falling into a serene stillness that stood in stark contrast to the recent chaos. But Petra was not here to enjoy the quiet. She wanted to understand, to bridge the gap between the man that Fenrir was and the mythical creature he embodied.

She glanced at him, taking in his contemplative expression. Almost subconsciously, her hand inched towards his, as if yearning for a tangible connection to share in his solitude.

Fenrir broke the silence, his voice low yet clear. "It's all the same, Petra," he began, "Humans, Titans, Æsir... we all have those black sheep." He paused, then added with a melancholic grin, "Or in my case, wolf."

The pain was evident in his voice as he continued to unravel his past. His father, his imprisonment at a tender age when he was barely more than a pup, the bitterness and fear that came with being shunned and chained by those who feared him.

As she listened, Petra felt an inexplicable connection with him. Here was Fenrir, a being of legend, yet bearing the weight of a life filled with trials and tribulations. He was just like them, a being trying to navigate through the world, burdened by the chains of societal expectations and fear.

It was a simple yet profound realization. Despite their vastly different origins and lives, they shared the same struggle, the same desire for freedom, and the same longing to be understood. Petra felt a profound sense of empathy for Fenrir, and in that moment, she felt an inexplicable bond with this ancient being.

Petra, mustering the courage, finally voiced the question that was hovering between them. "Where is your father now?"

Fenrir's expression seemed to close off for a moment as he took a deep breath, staring at the city lights below. Then, he began to speak, his voice steady but laced with an underlying current of sorrow.

"The Æsir, they did something truly heinous," he began, his gaze distant as he recalled the past. "They transformed one of my brothers into a wolf and set him against his own kin, against our youngest brother who was also a wolf. In his maddened state, he... he attacked him, tearing him apart."

His fingers tightened around the edge of the roof, knuckles turning white under the strain. "They used his entrails - the guts of my own brother - to bind my father to a rock. As if that wasn't enough, they suspended a serpent above him, its venom dripping onto his face eternally, every drop a torturous sting."

Fenrir fell silent for a moment, the anguish in his eyes replaced by a resigned sadness. "A cruel fate, indeed," he continued, his voice now a quiet whisper against the gentle hum of the city. "But that seems to be the destiny for all my family... In the end, we all face cruel fates."

"If there's one thing I've learned," Fenrir began, his voice carrying a note of conviction that riveted Petra's attention to him, "it's that compassion and wisdom can act as powerful checks against paranoia, and the perils of a boundless pursuit of knowledge."

His eyes reflected the wisdom of ages as they met Petra's. "To seek knowledge endlessly without direction or restraint, it's dangerous. It can become a vice, consuming you, distorting your values. Like a sharp sword, knowledge is a tool that must be wielded with care and purpose."

Fenrir's words hung in the air between them, resonating with a timeless truth that Petra found herself drawn towards. His experience and wisdom were like a beacon, guiding her through a world that was becoming increasingly complex and fraught with challenges.

As Petra listened to Fenrir's words, a wellspring of emotions bubbled up inside her. She was moved by his wisdom, his strength, and most of all, his vulnerability. In that moment, she saw the entity before her not as the monstrous titan of legends, but as a being who had faced adversity and bore its scars with dignity.

Without a second thought, Petra moved towards Fenrir, her arms reaching out to encircle him in a gentle hug. He stiffened at first, a clear sign of his surprise at her sudden action, but he did not pull away. Instead, he allowed her warmth to seep into him, a rare show of acceptance from the solitary creature.

"You're not a monster, Fenrir..." Petra began, her voice muffled slightly as she buried her face into his shoulder. "You're here, helping us when you could have easily turned a blind eye. You're far more than just a creature of myths... You're our hero."

She pulled back slightly, allowing herself to look directly into his eyes. A soft but unwavering conviction radiated from her gaze as she added, "A hero that we needed... and one that I needed." The sincerity of her words was palpable, leaving no room for doubt that Petra truly viewed Fenrir as a beacon of hope in their troubled times.

…

As Zeke, in his Beast Titan form, loomed over the broken form of Reiner's Armored Titan, the air was filled with tension and the unspoken understanding of defeat. The towering figure stared down at his battered compatriot, his deep, resonating voice echoing around them.

"We failed, Reiner," Zeke declared, a note of disappointment, but not surprise, evident in his tone. "Our mission...was a disaster."

Reiner, though physically crushed, was not yet defeated. He struggled to his feet, his determination evident despite the odds. "We were so close... We had him..."

But Zeke cut him off, a note of urgency entering his voice. "Enough about that! What about that... wolf creature? That changes everything. Do you have any information?"

There was a pause as Reiner processed Zeke's words. He swallowed, knowing that the consequences of their failed mission would be dire, especially with this unexpected variable. He also knew that his life, or at least his existence as a Titan shifter, was on the line now.

"All I know is... it's called Fenrir," Reiner admitted. "It seems to have allied itself with the humans within the walls. It's powerful... more than any of us. It even... towers over me."

A heavy silence fell over them at Reiner's revelation. The implications of such a powerful entity siding with their enemies were not lost on either of them.

Zeke took a moment to process the information, his gaze fixed on the horizon. "We need to report this to Marley immediately. Our plan... it needs to change."

His voice hardened with newfound determination. "This Fenrir... we cannot underestimate it. It's not just a wolf, it's a monster. And if we don't tread carefully... we could all end up its prey."

Reiner, looking up at Zeke from his battered position, began to recount what they had seen of Fenrir, his voice gaining a touch of tremor as he remembered the ordeal.

"He doesn't look like a monster... not in his human form," he began, trying to put his terrifying encounters with Fenrir into words. "He looks just like any other human, save for his unnaturally green eyes. But in an instant, he can morph into that monstrous wolf, a creature beyond anything we've ever faced."

His eyes met Zeke's, the fear within them starkly apparent. "It commands an unknown form of power, it... it uses words, incantations... And with each utterance, reality itself seems to bend to its will."

He took a shaky breath before continuing, "We saw it open rifts, Zeke. Actual rifts in space, moving from one place to another instantly... There were times it made spectral copies of itself during the 57th expedition beyond the walls, fought titans from multiple angles. It's like fighting a legion instead of a single beast."

A shudder ran through Reiner's frame as he remembered the most terrifying encounter. "Then there was that time with Bertolt's Colossal Titan. We thought we had it... Bertolt transformed and fell on him, engulfing him in the blast. But... but it emerged, Zeke. Despite being in the center of the explosion, it emerged, covered in burns, but very much alive and still fighting."

A chill ran through Zeke as he absorbed the information. It was beyond anything he had expected. The world was no longer just humans and Titans, there was now a wolf-god to contend with, a seemingly unstoppable force that challenged their very understanding of power.

The implications were clear. The balance of power had shifted. The world they knew was changing, and they had to adapt if they were to survive. This was no longer just a fight for survival, it was a fight against a foe that seemed as ancient and unstoppable as the world itself.

Reiner's voice broke, his words coming out in a torrent as he gripped his head, his eyes wild with the realization of what they had done. "He said... he said he's been free among humans for about 7000 years... Maybe even longer... He lost track of time, Zeke. He's been walking among us, living as one of us, for millennia!"

The desperation in his voice grew, reaching a fevered pitch. "AND WE SET HIM OFF!" he screamed, his voice echoing off the surrounding ruins. "HE WAS IN LOVE WITH A WOMAN FROM SHIGANSHINA DISTRICT, AND SHE...SHE WAS CRUSHED WHEN WE BROKE DOWN THE GATE! WE... WE PROVOKED HIM!"

The realization was like a punch to the gut, leaving him breathless and shaking. His usually stoic facade shattered, exposing the raw fear and regret underneath. "We didn't just provoke a monster, Zeke," he whimpered, his voice dropping to a whisper. "We provoked a god."

The silence that followed was deafening, with Reiner's revelation hanging heavily in the air. The implications were staggering, the weight of their actions falling on them like a ton of bricks. They hadn't just declared war on the people behind the walls, but on a being that had existed long before they had, a being of unimaginable power. And they had given him a personal reason to fight back.