Attack on Titan: A Wolf Among Sheep
Chapter 8: Botched Ambush, and Truth of Human Nature
…
Eren and Historia were summoned from their private conversation to the main gathering area of the cabin. The mood was tense and the expressions on everyone's faces were grim. The gravity of the atmosphere filled the room, squeezing out any levity that may have been present before.
It was Hange who broke the silence, her voice uncharacteristically somber, "We received some troubling news. Pastor Nick...he was found dead this morning in the Trost District barracks."
The news sent a shockwave through the room. Pastor Nick had been an important figure in their struggle, and to hear of his death in such a cruel manner was a bitter pill to swallow. Eren's fists clenched, the color draining from his face, while Historia gasped, her eyes wide with shock and disbelief.
Hange continued, her voice steady despite the bad news, "He was killed by the First Interior Squad of the Military Police Regiment." A murmur of surprise swept through the room at this. The First Interior Squad was known to operate primarily within the capital. Their involvement raised several disturbing questions.
"They tortured him," Hange said, the words falling heavily in the silent room, "His fingernails had all been torn out. I couldn't get more than a glance at the body, but it was enough..."
Her voice trailed off, leaving the gruesome details hanging in the air. Everyone exchanged uneasy looks, the grim reality of their situation sinking in. This was not just a war against the Titans, but a conflict that extended into the heart of their own society. Their enemy was not just the grotesque, mindless monsters beyond the wall, but also the corrupt forces within their own ranks. The reality of their situation had never felt more daunting or more dangerous.
As the unsettling discussion came to a close, the sound of hurried footsteps echoed outside, drawing everyone's attention. Nifa, breathless and alarmed, appeared at the entrance of the cabin, a folded piece of parchment clutched tightly in her hand.
"Message from Erwin," she gasped out, handing the parchment over to Levi.
Levi quickly scanned the contents, his face hardening as he read. Without wasting a second, he issued his orders. "Pack up. We're moving out. Leave no trace that we were ever here."
The room sprung into action immediately, everyone understanding the severity of the situation. As the sun began to set, the once lively cabin was emptied out. Levi, Hange, and their squads, along with Hannes, Petra, and Mitch, quickly disappeared into the sheltering cover of the woods.
However, as the cabin was swarmed by the Military Police, one figure remained - Fenrir. He stayed behind, casually leaning against a wooden pillar, his expression calm despite the menacing group of soldiers surrounding him.
Despite the bustling chaos caused by the departure of Levi's squad, one figure remained - Fenrir. His unflinching presence in the cabin was an eerie contrast to the frenzy outside. As the Military Police stormed in, they found him waiting, radiating a calm, chilling aura that instantly silenced their intrusion.
"I have a message for you," Fenrir began, his voice steady and cold. His eyes, glowing with a predatory light, flicked from one face to another. "If you prod a wolf without a good reason, beware of his bite. It's not something to be underestimated."
He paused, allowing the weight of his words to sink into the armed men. "I am not someone you want as an adversary. It would be wise to consider your actions carefully. After all, I do end up killing a god in the end. Just something for you to ponder over."
The cabin went quiet, the soldiers exchanging wary glances. Rumors about this man – this beast – had spread through their ranks like wildfire. No one knew exactly where he'd come from, but his chilling proclamation and the stories they'd heard were enough to instill a deep-rooted unease.
After a tense pause, the men nodded at each other, silently agreeing to let him go. They weren't suicidal. If the rumors were true and they were dealing with a creature capable of killing gods, provoking him wouldn't end well for them. As Fenrir departed, they watched him go, the cabin plunging into an uneasy silence.
…
As the dawn of a new day broke over Trost District, the flags of the royal family could be seen hanging from every possible corner. It was a spectacle, with the air filled with an intense mixture of reverence and forced cheer. Conny, looking up at the brightly colored banners, commented on the omnipresence of the royal insignia. "It's everywhere because of the King's coronation anniversary," he explained.
The Military Police took this as an opportune moment to distribute rations from the royal reserves. They went from door to door, ensuring every resident got their share. The move was well received, and the populace's favor towards the King seemed to grow.
Observing the proceedings from a safe distance, Levi couldn't help but express his cynicism. "This is a calculated move," he commented to the group, "The King and his court are just trying to build public favor."
Amidst this political chess game, Petra found herself more focused on her own personal revelations. With the return of her past life's memories, her connection to Fenrir had become something... deeper. She found herself recalling his gentle smile, his protective nature, and the warmth he exuded. It wasn't just stories or shared memories now. It was a personal experience, something that she had lived. Her newfound understanding of Fenrir cast him in a new light, adding a layer of depth to their relationship that she was still trying to navigate.
While the group continued to observe the Trost District from afar, Petra found herself subtly drawn towards Fenrir. A pull of familiarity and comfort had her leaning against him. Fenrir allowed it, even giving a faint smile at the contact - a smile that was warm and gentle, mirroring the one she had seen in her memories.
This intimate interaction did not go unnoticed by the group. Levi's squad, who had been keeping a close eye on both of them, exchanged glances. The change in their relationship was subtle yet palpable, and it was clear that Petra and Fenrir's bond had deepened in ways they could not fully understand.
The members of the Levi squad were not the only ones who noticed the change. Armin, Mikasa, and Eren, who had been standing a little way off, also noticed. Their eyes flicked towards the pair occasionally, curious and slightly bewildered. However, they decided not to comment, choosing to give Petra and Fenrir their space.
In the middle of all the tension and uncertainty, Petra and Fenrir's newfound closeness provided a sense of grounding - a quiet reminder of the bonds that can form even amidst the chaos.
Suddenly a wagon appears out of nowhere, barreling towards the Scouts. The people inside grab what appear to be Eren and Historia, but they are really Jean Kirschtein and Armin in disguise.
In the bustling streets of Trost District, Levi Squad weaved through the crowd, their attention riveted to a seemingly nondescript wagon. Eren and Historia, or so it seemed, were in the hands of unknown assailants. With quick planning, they had placed Jean Kirschtein and Armin in disguise, a move to distract the enemy while the real Eren and Historia were transported safely elsewhere.
Yet, as they watched the wagon, a sharp, alert gaze noticed something amiss. Peeling back the hood, the enemy realized the trickery - it wasn't Historia, it was a diversion. Outside the wagon, Mikasa quickly informed Levi of the dwindling effectiveness of their disguises. Levi, perceiving the amateurish nature of their adversaries, instructed his squad to handle the situation while he focused on Eren.
Just then, Fenrir's voice cut through the commotion. "Something's off...I can smell it, hear it...it's 3D Maneuvering Gear... but different, more advanced!" He abruptly turned to Petra and then Levi. "They know it's a diversion! They're on the roof-" His warning was cut off, a bullet making a horrifying impact on his face.
Staring at the rooftop, they saw a figure that left Levi in disbelief. "KENNNYYYY!" He yelled, activating his 3D Maneuvering Gear and propelling himself upward.
Petra was left behind, holding Fenrir's wounded form. Even though a part of her knew this wasn't enough to kill him, she felt a surge of fury towards the man responsible for his injury.
Realizing too late, Levi understood the enemy's tactic. From their high vantage point, Kenny and his men had the perfect view to tail the wagon. As Levi tried to warn Nifa, he was a moment too late. A shotgun blast, fired from a modified ODM gear, blew off part of her head. More soldiers appeared, unknown and deadly. One of them killed Abel, as Kenny himself casually strolled across the rooftop, reloading his guns.
"You haven't changed much at all," Kenny taunted. Levi's response was a roar of rage as he drew his blades, ready for a bloody retaliation.
In the midst of the city, Fenrir lay sprawled on the ground, seemingly defeated. Petra had thrown herself over him in a desperate attempt to shield him, but Kenny's men had managed to pry her away. They held her down, sneering at the seemingly easy victory over the feared beast.
But then, something uncanny happened. Fenrir's wounds began to close up, healing at a rapid pace right before their stunned eyes. In a few moments, he was back on his feet, standing tall and formidable.
With a low, guttural growl, Fenrir began to move. It was the deliberate walk of a predator, honed in on his prey. A chill ran down the spines of Kenny's men as they watched him advance.
Their shock quickly turned into panic. Without thinking, they started unloading their guns at him, filling the air with the deafening cacophony of gunfire. Bullets pierced Fenrir's flesh, causing him to stagger, but he just kept moving forward. Each bullet that struck him seemed to barely slow him down.
Despite being hit repeatedly, Fenrir just took it. The bullets lodged in his body didn't seem to faze him. Each step he took was filled with determination, his growls echoing louder, matching the deafening roar of the guns. His eyes were fixed on the men holding Petra, a terrifying promise of retribution.
In the midst of the city, Fenrir lay sprawled on the ground, seemingly defeated. Petra had thrown herself over him in a desperate attempt to shield him, but Kenny's men had managed to pry her away. They held her down, sneering at the seemingly easy victory over the feared beast.
But then, something uncanny happened. Fenrir's wounds began to close up, healing at a rapid pace right before their stunned eyes. In a few moments, he was back on his feet, standing tall and formidable.
With a low, guttural growl, Fenrir began to move. It was the deliberate walk of a predator, honed in on his prey. A chill ran down the spines of Kenny's men as they watched him advance.
Their shock quickly turned into panic. Without thinking, they started unloading their guns at him, filling the air with the deafening cacophony of gunfire. Bullets pierced Fenrir's flesh, causing him to stagger, but he just kept moving forward. Each bullet that struck him seemed to barely slow him down.
Despite being hit repeatedly, Fenrir just took it. The bullets lodged in his body didn't seem to faze him. Each step he took was filled with determination, his growls echoing louder, matching the deafening roar of the guns. His eyes were fixed on the men holding Petra, a terrifying promise of retribution.
As Fenrir advanced, an eerie transformation began to unfold. His figure started to shift and contort, growing larger, fur sprouting all over his body. Within moments, the man was replaced by a gigantic, fourteen-foot-tall, wolf-like creature, his sleek black fur reflecting the light, his eyes glowing with an intense, unyielding ferocity.
A collective gasp went through the group of men as they stumbled backwards, their eyes wide with terror. Their confident demeanor was replaced by raw fear, their hands shaking as they fumbled to reload their weapons. The sight of the hulking, wolf-like creature was unlike anything they had seen or heard of.
"Damn it! What is that thing?!" one of the men shouted, his voice echoing in the now deadly silent surroundings. But their terrified exclamations were drowned out by the deafening boom of their shotguns, which they had started firing again in a desperate attempt to bring down the monstrous beast before them. The very air seemed to tremble under the onslaught of their firepower, but the monstrous wolf-man didn't stop advancing. His threatening growl turned into a deafening roar, striking fear into the hearts of even the most hardened soldiers among them.
From their vantage points, Levi's squad, along with Armin, Jean, Sasha, Connie, and Ymir, watched the unfolding spectacle with a mix of horror and fascination. It seemed that all of their enemies had shifted their focus to Fenrir, pumping round after round into his colossal, wolf-like form.
They watched as Fenrir continued to advance, undeterred by the onslaught of bullets raining down on him. The monstrous creature seemed impervious to their attempts to halt his progress, absorbing their attacks with an unsettling calmness. If anything, they were only succeeding in making him more furious.
A chilling realization dawned upon them; they had never seen Fenrir truly enraged before. Even when fighting Titans, there was always a measure of control, a clear-headed strategy behind his actions. But now, his fury was raw and unbridled, a terrifying testament to his power and the peril that their enemies had put themselves into.
"It's like they're just... poking the wolf with a stick," Jean muttered, unable to tear his eyes away from the spectacle.
"And they have no idea how badly they're going to get bitten," Connie added, his voice filled with a mix of awe and fear.
Before the startled eyes of the squad, Fenrir lunged towards the obstacle in his path. There was no hesitation, no calculation in his movements. With a casual swat of his immense paw, he sent the cart hurtling through the air like it was made of paper. The unfortunate man who happened to be in its path was smashed aside, his body crushed by the weight of the cart as it crashed into him.
Fenrir kept moving, his form shifting seamlessly from his upright stance to a four-legged run, the transformation fluid and natural. His towering wolf form was a nightmare come to life, a creature of the legends. But this was no story, and the destruction he wrought was all too real.
One by one, members of Kenny's squad met their end under his fangs and claws. Some tried to fight, unloading their weapons in vain as their bullets did nothing more than momentarily slow him down. Others attempted to flee, but there was no escaping the monstrous beast that was Fenrir. In total, twelve men fell under his wrath, their bodies torn apart in a brutal display of primal strength and fury. All the while, the rest of the squad watched from a distance, their hearts pounding in their chests as they realized just how formidable Fenrir truly was.
As the last man standing, the lone soldier was wild-eyed and shaking, his gun pointed squarely at Petra's head. Fenrir slowed his approach, his ominous green eyes fixed on the man.
"You can't kill her with that," Fenrir's voice echoed through the tense silence, a low growl that sent shivers down their spines.
"Why the hell not?!" the man yelled back in desperation, his gaze shifting erratically between the formidable beast and the woman held at gunpoint.
"Because," Fenrir replied, the hint of a smirk playing on his lips. "You've run out of bullets."
As the reality of Fenrir's words hit, Petra seized the opportunity. In a swift motion, she thrust her head forward, connecting solidly with the man's nose. He let out a yelp, his grip loosening as he clutched at his bleeding face. Using the distraction, Petra darted away from him, rushing to Fenrir's side, leaving the man stunned and alone in the face of the looming threat that was Fenrir.
Fenrir's voice, now a low rumble, carried an ominous warning to the remaining man, "Do you really want to do this... here? Now?" His eyes flickered with a dangerous light, and the silent threat hung heavy in the air, echoing his immense power and clear advantage.
At Fenrir's words, the remaining man's courage shattered, a look of pure terror crossing his face. Without another word, he deployed his ODM gear, shooting off into the distance in a hasty, frantic retreat. The last of his bravado had dissipated, replaced by the stark reality of facing a creature out of legends.
Surrounded by the astonished patrons, Levi darted into the heart of a nearby bar, attempting to shake off Kenny and his relentless pursuit.
The doors swung open to reveal Kenny, who sauntered into the establishment with a maddening air of confidence. For a brief moment, the two old acquaintances engaged in a terse exchange, hinting at their intertwined pasts and the divergent paths that had led them to their current affiliations.
In a sudden whirl of action, Levi reached beneath the bar counter and drew out the bar owner's concealed firearm. With a swift pull of the trigger, a hail of bullets erupted, catching Kenny off guard and sending him flying out of the establishment.
"Much obliged," Levi murmured to the bar owner as he tossed a chair out the window, a decoy meant to distract Kenny's squad lying in wait outside. The ruse worked, eliciting a flurry of gunfire that tore through the air, their shots zeroing in on the seemingly vulnerable object.
Seizing the moment, Levi launched himself out the window, using his ODM gear to ensnare one of the soldiers as a makeshift shield against the oncoming barrage. Before his opponents could reload, he darted between them with lethal grace, his blades slashing through the air to cut them down in a swift, deadly dance.
The echoes of gunshots in the distance spurred Levi's squad into action, with Fenrir at their forefront, leaving no room for hesitation. Behind them, the rest of the squad - Jean, Sasha, and Connie, alongside Armin and Ymir - gave chase to the captured Eren and Historia, their urgency fueled by the rapidly escalating situation.
Surrounded by the astonished patrons, Levi darted into the heart of a nearby bar, attempting to shake off Kenny and his relentless pursuit.
The doors swung open to reveal Kenny, who sauntered into the establishment with a maddening air of confidence. For a brief moment, the two old acquaintances engaged in a terse exchange, hinting at their intertwined pasts and the divergent paths that had led them to their current affiliations.
In a sudden whirl of action, Levi reached beneath the bar counter and drew out the bar owner's concealed firearm. With a swift pull of the trigger, a hail of bullets erupted, catching Kenny off guard and sending him flying out of the establishment.
"Much obliged," Levi murmured to the bar owner as he tossed a chair out the window, a decoy meant to distract Kenny's squad lying in wait outside. The ruse worked, eliciting a flurry of gunfire that tore through the air, their shots zeroing in on the seemingly vulnerable object.
Seizing the moment, Levi launched himself out the window, using his ODM gear to ensnare one of the soldiers as a makeshift shield against the oncoming barrage. Before his opponents could reload, he darted between them with lethal grace, his blades slashing through the air to cut them down in a swift, deadly dance.
The echoes of gunshots in the distance spurred Levi's squad into action, with Fenrir at their forefront, leaving no room for hesitation. Behind them, the rest of the squad - Jean, Sasha, and Connie, alongside Armin and Ymir - gave chase to the captured Eren and Historia, their urgency fueled by the rapidly escalating situation.
Kenny watched as the man came closer, the fear in his eyes more visible now. He couldn't stand the mystery any longer and shouted out, "What the hell happened?! Why are you covered in blood?! And why are you running away like a bunch of cowards?!"
The soldier froze, his eyes wide with terror. He lifted a shaking finger and pointed behind Kenny. As if on cue, a thunderous sound echoed through the air as the massive form of Fenrir crashed onto the ground.
He wasn't as large as before, standing about 10 meters tall, but the reduction in size didn't make him any less intimidating. His black fur bristled, his green eyes glowed with a menacing intensity, and his powerful stance radiated pure danger. Kenny found himself staring at the wolf, a chill running down his spine.
"I've had my fill of violence today," Fenrir's voice boomed, echoing throughout the narrow alleyways, freezing every one of Kenny's men in their tracks. "However, if Rod Reiss, or any of you try anything like this again... especially with Petra..." He paused, his gaze fixated on Kenny, a cold and dangerous promise etched in his eyes. "A wolf must hunt from time to time."
The threat was clear, and the message was unmistakable. Even Kenny, the seasoned veteran, felt an icy shiver travel down his spine.
"Now... GO!" Fenrir roared, stepping aside to reveal an open path, an avenue for escape. No one dared to move, the tension in the air was palpable. After a moment that seemed to stretch on forever, Kenny finally mustered the courage to command his men to retreat, but not without casting one last wary glance at the towering wolf.
As they scattered, leaving the alleyway behind, the echo of Fenrir's threat lingered in the air, a clear testament to the lines drawn on this day. The message had been delivered, and the stakes were well understood. Today, they had clashed with a force they were not ready for.
Levi's squad regrouped with him, ready to take on any further challenges. "Save Eren and Historia," Levi ordered them, "Kill anyone who gets in your way." He couldn't help but notice the empty alleyway, the remnants of Kenny's men long fled. It was clear that Fenrir's display of power had been more effective than any threat he could have uttered.
The fight that ensued was chaotic. Armin and Jean managed to take control of the wagon temporarily, Armin even resorting to killing the previous driver to protect Jean. However, when more of Kenny's squad emerged from behind, Levi and Sasha had to intervene, rescuing Armin and Jean and ultimately abandoning the chase.
Just as they thought their enemies had successfully fled, an eerie green glow appeared out of nowhere. The man driving the carriage looked around in panic as the light engulfed his vehicle and suddenly, he was right back at the starting point.
"WHAT?!" He exclaimed, disoriented. Before he could react, Levi knocked him out cold. Mikasa and Ymir restrained him as Fenrir, still looming over them in his wolf form, confirmed Eren and Historia's presence in the carriage.
"We should probably get out of here," Fenrir suggested, looking at Levi, "Before the entire military shows up." Levi agreed, nodding at Fenrir's words. With the kidnapped duo safe and their pursuers held at bay, it was high time they made their escape.
…
In the gilded throne room of the royal capital, Mitras, royal officials gathered to discuss the retrieval of Eren and Historia. The room hummed with whispered strategies and conjectures; the officials gathered around the resplendent throne in earnest discussion.
"We shall handle this as we always have," one of the officials stated firmly, "We'll use the power of the law."
His words were met with nodding heads and murmurs of agreement, but the room's tension remained palpable. It was then that another official broke the silence, his voice filled with unease. "Yet, we must acknowledge a new variable in our calculations."
All eyes turned to him, awaiting his next words. "The one called Fenrir. That... beast is with them," he continued, his voice carrying a hint of fear, "His presence could complicate our plans."
A heavy silence followed his words, all too aware of the unpredictability the 'mutt', as some derogatorily called him, introduced. His immense strength and mysterious healing ability were an undeniable concern. As much as they believed in their laws and strategies, the officials couldn't deny the possible hindrance Fenrir might present. The conversation moved forward, now with a sense of foreboding. Their plan was no longer assured of success, and they knew it.
The quiet hum of conversation was abruptly shattered by the entrance of a messenger from Rod Reiss, panting and clearly out of breath. The air in the room thickened, each royal official bracing for the incoming news. The messenger stumbled out his report, his voice a hoarse whisper, "We... we failed to capture Eren and Historia."
A wave of shock and frustration rippled through the room, the veneer of calm shattered. The royal officials erupted into frantic chatter, the echoes of their distressed voices bouncing off the marble walls.
But the worst was yet to come. The messenger continued, his face pale and his voice trembling, "Also... The... The beast, Fenrir... Our men... they shot him, packed him full of lead, and he just... took it. He wiped out a whole squad."
The room fell silent. The dire report hung in the air, the words leaving a chilling impact. The royal officials exchanged worried glances. Their worst fears had come to life: Fenrir wasn't just a problem, he was a nightmare. They were dealing with a force they could not control nor predict, and it struck terror into the hearts of even the most composed officials. The once secure throne room now seemed a pit of uncertainty and fear.
The messenger gulped, struggling to maintain composure under the intense gaze of the assembly. "There's... there's more," he stammered. His next words came out in a rush, as if he feared the response they would elicit. "Kenny is outside! He insists on speaking to all of you... Now!"
A hush fell over the room. The mere mention of Kenny's name had an immediate effect. The air became heavy, the silence punctuated only by the soft, uneasy shifting of the officials.
They knew Kenny was a man of few words, preferring to communicate through his actions. The fact that he wanted to speak to them, and now, was not a good sign. It was clear he was not just displeased, but furious. They had sent him and his squad on what he now viewed as a suicide mission, and to make matters worse, they had not provided him with the necessary information or preparation.
This meeting was not going to be pleasant, they knew. But none of them had any choice but to face Kenny, a man they had underestimated, a man who was now demanding answers.
The doors to the assembly room were thrown open with a resounding thud, cutting through the somber silence. Kenny Ackerman strode into the room, the echo of his heavy boots lending a foreboding air to the moment. His typical jovial expression was replaced with a hard-set scowl, signaling his displeasure at the situation at hand.
His gaze swept across the room, causing more than a few of the officials to flinch under his ire-filled scrutiny. The infamous Kenny the Ripper was a terrifying force to reckon with on a regular day, but now, he was absolutely livid. The scene his squad had faced, the blood that had been spilled - it all bore testament to the unpreparedness they had been set up with.
Close at his heel, Traute Caven maintained her usual stoic countenance, her gaze equally as intimidating. Her posture was rigid, her eyes as cold as ice. As a woman, she had proven her mettle time and time again, and in that moment, she appeared every bit as formidable as Kenny. Together, their combined presence was an undeniable force that commanded respect and, more importantly, attention.
"Good evening, gentlemen," Kenny's voice echoed throughout the chamber, the cordial greeting sharply contrasting with the underlying rage in his eyes. He allowed a moment of silence to permeate the room before his next words resounded, carrying an unmistakable undertone of retribution. "We need to talk..."
"Let's cut the formalities," Kenny started, folding his arms across his chest. The room went silent, all eyes on the man who had walked in like a storm. "Our mission... it was a damned massacre."
A ripple of discomfort passed through the assembly. Some shifted in their seats while others shared a glance. Kenny's gaze was hard, and his tone was even harsher. "We were not adequately prepared for what we faced out there."
"And what was it that you faced, Kenny?" one of the officials finally mustered the courage to ask.
"Fenrir," Kenny spat out the name like venom. "The wolf... the monster. We were told he'd be there, but no one told us what he's capable of. We emptied round after round into him, and it was as if we were throwing pebbles into a river."
Traute added, her voice even, "He can open green rifts in space. He snatched the targets right from under our noses. That's not something we were prepared for. That's not something we can combat."
A hush fell over the assembly room. This was news. This was something they hadn't expected.
Kenny looked at each of the officials in turn. "Fenrir is a beast, a force of nature we can't combat with the resources we have. If we are to proceed with our mission, we need to change our approach."
His gaze fell on the most authoritative figure in the room. "We've lost good men out there today, men we could have saved if we'd been adequately prepared. I won't be sending more men to their death. Either we devise a new strategy, or you find someone else to do your dirty work."
The assembly room remained silent, the implications of Kenny's words lingering heavily in the air.
The room swirled into a mix of murmurs and whispers, a storm of uncertainty and fear that hung heavily over the assembly. Every face was hardened, painted with concern, yet behind their eyes burned a determined spark.
"We must find a weakness," one of the officials finally broke the silence, his voice stern and resolute. "Every creature, no matter how invincible they seem, has one. We just need to find his."
The room grew quiet again, their thoughts drawn back to the menace known as Fenrir. His power, his ferocity, his unyielding resistance were unlike anything they'd encountered.
Traute Caven, second in command to Kenny, broke the silence. "He was rather protective of the girl, Petra." Her voice was soft, yet her words carried weight. "When our man tried to apprehend her, Fenrir went ballistic. He didn't stop until she was safe."
Murmurs filled the room once again, the seed of a plan beginning to form. "If we can exploit that," one of the officials began, "use his protectiveness towards her to our advantage..."
"We might just be able to control the beast," another finished, the spark of determination in his eyes burning brighter.
The room fell into silence once again, each official mulling over the new strategy. The thought of using a girl as bait was distasteful, but they were running out of options. If this was the only way to control Fenrir, then it was a course they were willing to take.
"However," Kenny interrupted the growing enthusiasm, a stern frown etched onto his weathered face. "If this plan goes sideways...if you harm that girl, even slightly..." His voice dropped, a menacing whisper that sent shivers down the spines of everyone in the room. "Or, God forbid, kill her...then we're all dead men walking."
The room stilled, the chilling warning sinking into their bones. Each person could imagine the cataclysmic rage Fenrir would unleash if Petra were to be harmed in any way. The silence stretched on, their previous confidence wavering, replaced by a new wave of fear.
Kenny's words, grim as they were, held an unarguable truth. They were gambling with their lives, a high-stakes game that none of them could afford to lose. But what other choice did they have? They either acted and risked Fenrir's wrath or did nothing and faced an equally dire fate. It was a choice no one wanted to make, but one they couldn't avoid.
…
In the austere confines of the military barracks, an unexpected visitor arrived. It was Nile Dawk, an old comrade of Erwin's, now burdened with the task of confiscating his personal effects. As the two stood amidst the stark reality of their diverged paths, Erwin allowed his thoughts to drift back to their shared past.
"We could have switched places, Nile," he mused, stirring the stagnant air with the weight of his words. "Imagine if it was you here, and I was leading the Military Police."
Nile's expression remained guarded, a softness creeping into his eyes, betraying the depths of their shared history. The thought of what could have been lingered between them, heavy and unsettling.
Erwin then voiced his distrust in the government, their motivations, their decisions, especially their capacity to secure the future of humanity. Nile listened, his horror growing with each word. Yet, he said nothing, the silence stretching between them until he finally took his leave.
No sooner had Nile exited the room than Hange, Mitch, and Moblit appeared. The urgency in their expressions told Erwin they bore news. They informed him of the attempted capture of Eren and Historia, a chilling narrative that sent a cold prickle of dread down Erwin's spine. But the tension in the room eased when they revealed the role Fenrir had played, how his intervention had allowed Eren and Historia to escape
Despite the fear that still lingered, they couldn't help but feel a surge of relief. Their friends were safe, for now. But they all knew; this was just the beginning. They were playing a dangerous game, a game they couldn't afford to lose.
…
Outside an abandoned building that served as a makeshift stronghold for Squad Levi, Armin was grappling with an unsettling realization. He had taken a life, killed another person. He sought Mikasa's company, the young woman who had always seemed strong in the face of adversity. With a tremble in his voice, he asked her if she had faced the same turmoil when she had killed a human for the first time.
Mikasa didn't answer. Not with words. Instead, she reached out, her hand resting on Armin's shoulder in a comforting gesture. Silence wrapped them in its comforting embrace, as they processed the realities of their world.
Inside the building, Levi took his turn to console Armin. He reminded him of the harsh truth, that in this brutal world, it was kill or be killed. Jean would not be alive, he pointed out, if Armin hadn't made the difficult decision to dirty his hands.
As this somber moment passed, Levi and Mikasa turned their attention to Dimo Reeves, engaging in a tense discussion. Through shrewd negotiation and a promise to ensure the survival of the Trost District, Levi managed to convince Reeves to lend them a hand.
Meanwhile, Eren and Historia found solace in each other's company, huddled off to the side, whispering quiet reassurances. Not far from them, Fenrir, back in his human form, held Petra's hand, an unspoken vow of protection radiating from him.
Afterward, Petra moved closer to Fenrir, seeking comfort in his presence. She curled into his side, relishing the warmth he provided, which contrasted starkly with the chill of the abandoned building. Fenrir, his protective aura ever-present, wrapped an arm around her in a gentle, comforting hug. As he looked down at her, he made a silent promise, a vow visible in his eyes - he would keep her safe, now and always.
Dimo Reeves played his part well, leading two members of the Interior Squad, Ralph and Sannes, under the guise of loyalty to the MPs. He brought them to the location of Levi's hideout, a move the pair would soon regret. The hideout turned out to be a well-orchestrated trap by Levi's squad. Caught off guard, Ralph and Sannes were swiftly overpowered and taken prisoner by the Scouts.
Levi and Hange took turns interrogating Sannes, the intention clear - they wanted to know Rod Reis' hideout. Yet, no amount of physical torment seemed to crack Sannes' loyalty to the King. They resorted to brutal methods, ripping out his fingernails and pulling out his teeth. Still, he remained stubbornly silent. All they were met with was a string of curses and an unbending will. They were at a dead end, trying to extract information from a man who would rather endure the worst forms of pain than betray his King.
Seeing no other option, Levi and Hange stepped back, allowing Fenrir, who had been leaning casually nearby, to take over. The moment Ralph caught sight of the imposing figure, panic gripped him. He recognized the creature before him. Fear overcame him as he started to tremble, the room filling with his uncontrollable shivering.
Fenrir presented them with numerous chances to cooperate, his voice steady, his patience thinly veiled beneath his calm exterior. They could tell he was a creature of great power, a fact that made their eyes widen in fear. Eren, Historia, and Ymir were also in the room, adding to the tension and desperation as Ralph and Sannes strained against their restraints.
But their defiance persisted. They hurled an insult towards Petra, referring to her as a "mutt's dog". This struck a nerve with Fenrir. His patience wore thin. His posture shifted, leaning closer to the captured men, his face only inches away from theirs.
The feeling of Fenrir's hand gripping their jaws was intimidating, to say the least. He grabbed what was left of their teeth, one by one, and ripped them out. The process was excruciatingly slow, meticulous, and deliberate. He made sure they felt every moment of it, every bit of their resistance being systematically broken down. Then, he moved to the bottom teeth, repeating the same slow, torturous process.
All the while, Fenrir spoke to them, his voice a low growl. Whether they chose to talk now or not, he was going to continue. He was going to rip out all their teeth.
Then, he whispered something into their ears, something that made their blood run cold. "You should know, humanity is still alive outside the walls. Where else do you think the titans come from? They're you..." The revelation hung in the air, a chilling promise of horrors yet to come.
Fenrir paused for a moment, letting his words sink into their terrified minds. He then turned his focus to Ralph, the terrified man sweating profusely in front of him. His associate was weeping off to the side, his mouth a bloody mess after Fenrir's 'interrogation'.
Still whispering, Fenrir shared more unsettling truths with them. "Your first king knew this. That's why... he chose to do nothing about it. Don't you ever wonder why the situation hasn't changed for the past 100 years? They couldn't change it... the first king wouldn't allow it, even from beyond the grave. And if you're not careful, Rod Reiss will suffer the same fate, should you succeed..."
The horrifying implication hung in the air, thick with tension and fear. They were puppets to a dead king, mere pieces in a twisted game they didn't fully understand.
Fenrir leaned back in his chair, surveying the terrified, bloody mess of the two men in front of him. He then asked them, one more time, "Where is Rod Reiss?"
Fenrir, silent for a moment, absorbed their confession. No words of comfort or gratitude came from him. To Fenrir, these men were tools, and their purpose was served once they spilled their secrets.
"But you need to hurry... Rod Reiss will soon hear of his failure to secure Historia and Eren..." Ralph managed to get out, his voice fading into a weak whisper, eyes filled with fear.
Then, surprisingly, Fenrir recited an incantation. His hand outstretched towards the heavily injured man, a soothing glow emerged from his palm and enveloped the bloody mess that used to be his mouth. The healing magic began to work. Slowly, painstakingly, new teeth formed under Fenrir's touch. Painful moans transitioned into shocked gasps, as the man's oral cavity restored itself.
Withdrawing his hand, Fenrir surveyed his work. The man, though physically healed, was visibly shaken to his core. No gratitude was present in his eyes, only raw fear. The torture and subsequent healing by the same person left a profound impact, rendering the room in pin-drop silence.
With a sigh, Fenrir stood and began to untie the man. "In the future," he began, his voice carrying a serious undertone, "be more careful about who you follow. Next time, it may not be me who's your interrogator... And they might not be as kind." His words echoed in the room, serving as a grim reminder of the reality they were now embroiled in.
Moving to the other captive, Fenrir repeated the process. Once again, the incantation was recited, the healing magic took effect, and the man's broken mouth was restored. Stunned silence filled the room, all eyes on Fenrir, as he methodically worked through the process.
His job done, Fenrir stood tall, dusting off his hands as if he had just finished a tedious chore. Turning to the now healed and untied men, he addressed them with a calm and composed tone. "We would appreciate your discretion regarding what has transpired here," he said, meeting their wide-eyed stares with a cool, measured gaze.
It wasn't a plea, nor a request. It was an expectation, a simple statement of fact. With their freedom returned, the two men could only nod in stunned agreement, understanding the weight of Fenrir's words.
…
The quiet air of the night was punctuated by the hushed, serious voices of Dot Pyxis and Erwin Smith. Pyxis held a letter in his hands, looking slightly troubled. "Erwin, are you serious about this? You mean to tell me we need to overthrow the government to reclaim Wall Maria?" he asked, disbelief coloring his tone.
"Yes, I am," Erwin confirmed, looking as stern and steadfast as ever. "My plan doesn't require military forces to act if my guess proves correct." He paused for a moment, his gaze far-off. "While we wait for the news, let me tell you a story about my father..."
Before Erwin could dive into his narrative, Hange and Moblit Berner hurriedly entered the room, their faces grim. "Erwin, we have news. It's about Historia," Hange started, her voice grave.
Erwin's attention turned towards them immediately, listening intently as they relayed their findings. He then turned back to Pyxis, the weight of the news apparent in his eyes. "The true royal family, Pyxis, is the Reiss family. Historia is the rightful heir. Squad Levi and Fenrir managed to prevent an attempted kidnapping by Rod Reiss. And now, we have found his hiding place. We need to act swiftly." The gravity of the situation was palpable, their task monumental. But with their combined efforts, they were ready to face what was to come.
Erwin allowed the news to hang heavy in the air for a moment, then continued. "Once we have overthrown this corrupt government, we install Historia on the throne. We will force the puppet king to relinquish his crown," he declared, his voice full of steely determination.
Pyxis nodded, meeting Erwin's gaze with a resolute expression. "I agree with your plan, Erwin. We will back you," he affirmed, cementing their alliance in this crucial and audacious mission.
…
Once Pyxis was out of sight, Erwin turned his attention to Hange. He handed over a sheaf of papers, the results of his investigation into the Reiss family. Before Hange could delve into the documents, one of Erwin's soldiers burst into the room. The First Interior Squad was causing a commotion in the city, he reported, spreading rumors that Erwin had orchestrated a murder.
A grave expression settled over Erwin's face. "Get out of here, Hange," he ordered. "I'll handle this. I'll be the face of our organization."
He wasn't done, however. There was more to share, more to entrust to Hange. "If anything should happen to me," he began, his voice dropping to a whisper, "there's something you need to know. It's something Fenrir told me a while ago... a secret..."
He leaned closer, whispering into Hange's ear. The words he shared were like a bombshell, her eyes widening in shock. Erwin was telling her about the true situation beyond the walls, about their people being turned into Titans by the remaining humanity on an island.
Hange took a moment to process this revelation, then nodded, her resolve firm. As she turned to leave, Erwin's final words echoed in the room, "You are the next commander of the Scout Regiment. The Scouts are now under your command."
As the first light of dawn crept across the horizon, Erwin found himself standing before the grieving family of Dimo Reeves. His body lay still, a poignant reminder of the harsh world they lived in. A member of the Military Police stood forward, his voice loud and clear as he spun a tale of deceit and murder.
According to him, Reeves had kidnapped Eren to prevent the Scouts from turning him over to the government. However, to ensure Reeves wouldn't talk, the Scouts had supposedly killed him. The accusation was a heavy one, a violation of clause six of the Humanity Charter, which prioritized the safety and longevity of humanity over individual gain. All members of the Scout Regiment were to be apprehended.
In the ensuing chaos, Hange and Moblit managed to escape, but the remaining Scouts at the headquarters were arrested. As he was led away, Erwin found his mind wandering back to the story he had shared with Pyxis.
His father had been a teacher, and young Erwin had once asked him a question in class that he had chosen not to answer. Later, at home, his father revealed to him the inconsistencies and mysteries lurking within the government-issued history books. Erwin had shared this knowledge with his peers, a move that had drawn the attention of the Military Police. His father had met an untimely end in an 'accident' on the same day, a clear message from the government.
His father had theorized that the King had manipulated the memories of humanity when they first entered the Walls, making them easier to control. His death had been a result of getting too close to the truth. However, Erwin had come to understand that the government was less interested in protecting humanity and more invested in preserving their land and wealth. They would not hesitate to kill anyone who threatened that authority. There was no justification for his father's death except human greed.
And the revelations shared by Fenrir only served to solidify these convictions. The secrets of humanity's existence beyond the Walls, the cruel transformation of people into Titans - all of it pointed towards a government that was not only deceitful, but ruthlessly self-serving. The truth of his father's theories, mingled with the startling information from Fenrir, painted a chilling picture of their world. Erwin couldn't help but feel a bitter certainty - his father's death had been in vain, a consequence of the incessant greed of those in power.
The dark undercurrent of Fenrir's words reverberated in Erwin's mind, echoing against the walls of his own insights. The Will of the First King, the weary acceptance of the inherent wickedness of humanity, bore an uncanny resemblance to Fenrir's worldview.
'Discover, weaponize, destroy' - it was an endless, self-perpetuating cycle. A pattern etched into the very fabric of human nature, mirroring their path of technological and societal advancement, as well as their tendency towards destruction.
Erwin's thoughts were drowned in a sea of realization. Human beings, in their endless pursuit of power, had always trodden this path. It was a grim understanding, but it explained so much of their world's tragic history, and the bleak predicament they now found themselves in.
As Erwin grappled with these revelations, he couldn't help but feel a shiver of dread. If Fenrir's words held true, then the enemy they faced wasn't just a group of traitorous humans, or monstrous titans, but the very essence of humanity itself.