Cyberpunk: Titan Smashers

by DMtotheAAFan

When an experimental emergency teleport sends a recently beaten Adam Smasher to the Attack on Titan universe, the murderous cyborg finds himself reluctantly assisting the human meat bags against the uglier more disgusting meat bags trying to eat him. Ymir willing, he'll be changing the course of Paradis, and perhaps the world, before he knows it. Settle in for a ride chooms!

20. The Enemy At The Gates

"Stop it." Adam said.

"Huh?" Eren looked to the metal man, tearing his attention away from Armin who was just coming to a stop with his horse, standing in formation with over just over ninety Scout's present, all awaiting for the gates of Karanese to open.

"Stop looking at Armin like you're expecting him to shatter like porcelain, it's annoying." Adam chastised, checking his ammo counter. Lacking a horse, he was almost head to head with Eren, allowing the boy to look right into his white mask of a face.

"Well, I can't help it. Been thinking of his cybernetics running hot, and that metal heating up inside of him…" Eren frowned. "I know you said you'd keep an eye out, but what exactly can you do if something happens? Would you… cut Armin open?" Eren grimaced, the horrible thought of his best friend being splayed open, his skeleton ripped out with Adam standing over him…

"Okay, whatever image you're picturing right now, stop." Adam interrupted, reaching out to pull Eren in close to him, the boy awkwardly kept in a position were if his horse chose to move right now, he'd be falling. "He's not going to spontaneously combust, he's not going to melt, fire is not involved in any way. The only thing you have to worry about is his mind, and trust me, I'm taking care of it."

"…How?" Eren inquired, content for the moment to let Adam support his weight. It wasn't quite being dangled in mid-air with his lower half still resting on his horse, but it was close.

"Looking into preparing some medicine for starters. I've made some requests, asking for some chems that I was hoping you people would have on hand or could at least synthesize, but it's been a bit slow going. So in the meantime, I made sure the little squirt had a good support network." Adam relayed, waiting for Eren to process what he was saying.

It didn't take long, as Eren's eyes lit up in understanding. "Right! You said having friends would help him! So all he needs is Mikasa and me close by and he'll be fine?"

"That would certainly help. Cyberpsychosis studies have shown friends and family make a huge difference in someone losing their mind to their implants. But really the biggest help would be Armin getting laid."

If the Scout's weren't looking at Adam and Eren before, they certainly were now at Eren's sudden coughing fit, which looked like a cross between him genuinely choking on something and a seizure. Mercifully, Adam had let go, allowing the Titan in waiting free reign to splutter at his leisure.

"Ack! What the fuck- where did that come from!?" Eren gasped, his cheeks turning warm.

"Science. Having a, ugh, lover, has shown to make world of difference in fool's who take more metal into their meat than they can handle." Adam relayed, in a tone that quite clearly conveyed his feelings on the matter. "It's gross, it's squishy, it's so human, but it works."

Eren scrunched his face, not wanting to continue this topic all of a sudden… but out of concern for his friend, he pressed on. Bracing himself for this to get awkward, Eren said, "So then… did Armin…"

"According to KIPO, no, they just became a couple. And that's all I need to know, he's got a girlfriend, wherever it goes from there, I don't care, the bare minimum has been met, he's safe and secure." Adam stated.

"Wait, Armin has a girlfriend?" Eren looked back to stare at Armin, who was chatting with Hange before noticing the green eyes boy looking back at him. He offered a wave which Eren returned. His curiosity having replaced his embarrassment, Eren asked the question. "Who is it? Anyone I'd know?"

"Do you know Annie Leonhart?"

And just like that, a puzzle came beautifully together. "No way! For real?!" Eren looked back with an open mouthed smile, to Armin's confusion as his best friend gave him a thumb's up. "How?! When!?"

"Few nights ago. Going by KIPO's incessant blathering, those two are just being sickeningly sweet with each other."

"Nice." Eren nodded his head in approval. He was definitely gonna have to ask Armin for details later, and offer a high five in congratulations. "So then we're all good? Armin doesn't have to worry about cybersynthesis?"

"Cyberpsychosis. And no, he doesn't, like I've been saying. He's honestly showed no signs of any symptoms, but it doesn't hurt to be prepared. Now he can partake in the one pleasure of the flesh that isn't entirely obsolete, and I don't have watch him dance around hooking up like a flustered schoolboy." Adam stated. "Honestly, this was a two birds, one stone deal for me. Being around people who are clearly attracted to each other is infinitely more painful than being stuck with an actual couple, take my word on that."

"I… see." Eren didn't, not really, but he wasn't going to ask for Adam to explain any of that. Honestly it was reminding Eren of some of the adults he'd listen to babbling on as a kid. Best to just agree and accept the good news Armin was both safe and in love.

"Oye, what are you two talking about over there? You're not plotting on making a break for it once the gates are open, are ya?" A sudden voice interrupted, causing Adam and Eren to look back as Oluo and Petra maneuvered through the gathered horses to stop side by side with the Scout's biggest weapons. All four of them were ready and waiting at the front now, the first to exit into hostile territory.

"Don't go thinking just because we became buddy buddy I'm letting my guard down. Either of you try and run and I'll have you cut down and hauled back to base before you can blink." Oluo continued, trying to go for his most best impression of Levi patented intimidation.

"Lay off them Oluo." Petra chastised. "They've got enough to worry about, they don't need you to put the fear of Bozado in them."

That had Oluo smirking. "Oh? Fear of Bozado eh? Is my reputation so fierce I've earned a phrase for it?"

Eren and Petra looked to each other, similar thoughts racing through their minds.

"Kind of?" Eren offered.

"It's not quite what you're thinking…" Petra tried.

"Certainly is related to your reputation!" Eren explained.

"And it does inspire fear, no doubt." Petra nodded.

Now Oluo was frowning. "Okay, I'm not an idiot despite what you two may low key think. How am I misunderstanding the situation and why aren't you telling me?"

"The "Fear of Bozado" is everyone being terrified you'll bite your own tongue off and bleed out while yapping one day." Adam offered.

Both Eren and Petra winced, then hung their heads in shame when Adam's words registered and Oluo naturally spluttered in indignation.

"The hell you guys!" The curly brown haired man focused his ire on his fellow Scouts. "Is that seriously all you think of me?! I bite my tongue just a few times and you have me pegged for dying that way?!"

"Oh nonononono!" Petra assured her comrade. "Not… entirely. But it is a bit of a concern, with the biting and the crunch sound and quite a bite of blood splurging out…"

"What, do you think paper cuts are possibly fatal too? Some soldiers, a little boo boo and you thin-"

As if the heavens themselves were conspiring against him, Oluo's horse took that time to rear it's head up at such an angle it bumped it's rider's lower jaw, causing the man to once again, bite his own tongue.

"…Okay, that one didn't sound so bad." Eren noted over Oluo's cursing.

"Not so much blood either. Maybe he's run the well dry?" Petra noted. "…Hey Eren, I just want to say, I'm really sorry."

"Huh? For what?"

"For driving my blades into you. I know… I know you said it was okay and that it didn't really hurt, but… I'm sorry." Petra's eyes conveyed her sincerity, this had clearly been bothering her. "It's not right, using my weapons on a comrade."

"Oh Petra, don't go on like that. Kid's a soldier, he knows to offer up life and limb in service to the Regiment is expected of him." Oluo interjected, rubbing at his jaw. "If his Titan ass getting carved up a bit means less casualties for the rest of us, I think he'll agree to let you cut him to pieces as many times as it takes. Ain't that right Eren?"

"Yeah, that's right." Eren nodded. While it could have been phrased less callously, Oluo was speaking the truth. "Petra, you don't have to worry or feel bad. I'd let you practice maneuvers on me all day if I could. If it'll help you, don't hesitate to ask!"

"Careful you don't let her hear you say that." Adam interjected, not even flinching as Mikasa rode on up, coming to a halt in front of all the Scout's gathered. Amazingly, she only spared a quick glance at Eren who had turned to face her.

Instead, she was directing her attention to Adam Smasher. "KIPO." She gestured to the projector orb on Adam's waist.

"Hmm?"

"KIPO, give her to me. We're heading out into hostile territory, and the Section Commander informed me you and Eren are being placed on the frontlines to intercept any Titans that make their way to us." Mikasa elaborated. "It would be much more efficient to keep her out of harm's way, and I can protect her."

Adam said nothing, merely stared up at the demanding girl who held her gaze, even as Eren spoke up.

"Hey Mikasa, don't you think you could have phrased that better? I get where you're coming from, but-"

"But nothing. Don't care if she did or did not say please and thank you, that's not your call to make missy." Oluo interrupted. "You want the princess, you go to Captain Levi or the Commander with your request, then they talk to Adam about it! There's a protocol for things for a reason, we can't just-"

"Here, take her." Now it was Adam's turn to interrupt, grabbing the projector orb and holding it up for Mikasa to take.

"Ah…what?" Oluo mercifully did not bite his tongue again at his whole argument being shoot down, but he was still confused. "That's… that's just okay?"

"It's as she says. Eren and I will be at the front in the thick of it. Best to leave KIPO in… capable hands for her protection." Adam gestured with his hand that was holding the orb. "I trust you can keep her safe?"

"I can." Mikasa affirmed, reaching to take the orb from Adam's mitt. When she encountered no resistance, she carefully pulled it free. Only to realize it would be a tight fit in her pockets, most likely to fall out when she went sailing through the sky. As she was considering putting it in her horses satchel…

"KIPO, come out." Adam spoke. Just like that, the orb came to life and hovered just off the ground, with KIPO appearing like wise, standing head to head with Mikasa as she floated there.

"Hello Mikasa, how are you today?" KIPO innocently asked.

"Fine, thank you KIPO." Mikasa offered a small smile, before a quizzical look came across her face. "KIPO, do you have to go outside with us?"

"Well that's kind of unavoidable as I'm technically hosted by Armin." KIPO offered, looking to the rear of the formation where Armin was still conversing with Section Commander Hange. "But if you're asking if my projector could stay behind… I would much rather observe you all. Even if this is not a full Expedition and activate combat encounters are hoping to be avoided, I would like to witness more ODM maneuvers if possible. Captain Mike was very helpful, but I'm still lacking data."

"So you can better protect Armin?" Mikasa asked.

"So that I can better protect Armin. As we discussed, in an emergency, it might help if Armin was able to pull off the advanced maneuvers you and Captain Levi are capable of." KIPO answered with a smile.

"Yeah, I don't see that happening…" Oluo couldn't help but utter, and silently all present were in agreement. "I know you said you made the kid stronger and everything, but there are no shortcuts to mastering ODM gear, you have to build up your body for the strain. Kid might have graduated and be fit for duty, but there's no way he wouldn't snap his spine trying to copy the Captain. Or… you copying him using the kid's body, geez this is weird…"

"He's got a point KIPO." Petra offered. "I mean, certainly you should observe the best of the Scout Regiment, but maybe start a bit smaller if you're going to put Armin through the paces."

"I see… I have made a note based on your recommendations, thank you Oluo, Petra." KIPO offered a nod, before turning to Mikasa. "Never the less, I hope to properly observe you Mikasa, and I'm willing to trust this aspect of myself in your care. I trust you will keep my best link to the outside world secure."

Mikasa nodded. "You have my word."

"Try not to leave her twisting in the wind. The orb isn't designed for speed." Adam intoned.

"I'll keep that in mind." Mikasa coldly replied, before making to return to her assigned formation. Before she left, she looked to Eren. "…You ready for this?"

Eren nodded, swallowing. "I am… Do you think I'm ready?"

Mikasa smiled. "I do. I think we both are."

"Then you'll stick to your formation and watch your own ass, right?"

"Tact, Eren, tact…" Petra sighed.

Mikasa just kept smiling, understanding the concern in Eren's tone. "Yes. I'll do my duty, trusting you to do the same."

"Good… that's good." Eren nodded, finding it very difficult to convey what he really wanted to say.

Adam, however, had no such problems. "Okay, save this kind of crap for after the mission and where I don't have to see it, alright? Find a shack or something and work out your feelings on your own time."

Mikasa's smile immediately disappeared to be replaced with a glower that would melt lead. To her disappointment, Adam was not turning into a puddle of slag on the spot. To her lesser disappointment, Eren wasn't taking nearly as much issue with Adam's barbarism as she was, though he was a bit frustrated.

"What's your problem, we're just talking?" Eren asked, a hint of embarrassment in his voice. "It's not like it's going to distract us or anything, we're just speaking as soldiers. And even if we were talking as anything but, I thought you said… that, was good for your health?"

"No, I said that was good for Armin's mental health, and I only indulge that because his fate is related to my ease of life here. I don't give a damn about your state of mind, that's on you." Adam explained. "Put this all on the back burner and let's focus on what's important, a whole lot of killing."

"Ugh, fine." Eren rolled his eyes. Looking to Mikasa, he continued. "Sorry Mikasa, let's… let's continue this after the mission, alright? Watch your back out there."

"Will do." Mikasa offered one last smile, then rode off to get in her assigned formation.

With that done, everyone stared forward as Erwin Smith rode into view, getting ready to address the troops. Everyone ignored Adam's mutterings of ""Watch your back out there," ugh…"

---

"The mission is simple! Today is about resource gathering!" Erwin bellowed at the front of the gathered Scout's, Eren, Adam, Oluo, and Petra having front row seats to the blonde commander's decree. "We are to gather all the scrap and metal we can from the village just beyond the gate, and retreat back into the Wall's within an hour! Combat is not a priority!"

That certainly came as a relief to many. Even though it was practically guaranteed Titans would show up, the fact the Scout's wouldn't be deliberately seeking them out was already putting minds at ease.

"To reiterate, your objective is to search the homes and buildings of any useful material you can find for Specter to break down. Ideally metals, but clay, stone, wood will do as well. Use the axes and hammers supplied to you, and try to have everything gathered on the main road." Erwin continued, as the Scout's looked to their waists and horse satchels for the aforementioned tools they'd been provided. "Our supply carts will ride out to clear the village, then ride back when they have the space to turn around and park in the centre of the road. Load up as much as you can that the carts can hold, and ignore everything else. Adam and Eren will be our defense, leave the fighting to them. Once the hour is up, we return to the safety of the Walls!"

"Oh, to witness our juggernauts in action against the hordes that have plagued us for so long!" Hange squealed while wriggling in their stirrups. "I'm so glad I lived long enough to see this day!"

"Section Commander, you would get just as good a view from atop the Walls with the look outs…" Moblit tried, ever concerned for his superior.

"Not a chance! This is the turning point for humanity and I refuse to miss even a second of it!" Hange rejected with the delighted smile of a child playing with a new toy. "Eren fighting his brethren, Adam unleashed, Armin directing Specter to undo years of hard work in the blink of an eye!"

"Could you not phrase it like that? I feel bad enough destroying someone's home and reducing it to a pile of bullets…" Armin moaned, observing his hand as Specter playfully fluttered out and back into his palm.

"Worry not Armin! I'm sure once we have retrieved Wall Maria good and proper, the citizens will be so grateful they'll be happy to have traded the remnants of their livelihood's to the cause!" Hange assured the boy. "And besides, if Specter can taketh, it stands to reason it can also giveth away. Rebuilding a home or an entire village should be no problem!"

'That is not inaccurate. Should it be required, we certainly could take the time to rebuild anything we deconstruct, provided the materials are present of course.' KIPO offered from within Armin's mind. 'Although, if I may, I certainly think it would be a wasted opportunity to simply restore what existed before.'

'Always looking to improve us, eh?' Armin chuckled. He'd come to find KIPO's offers to improve the people of the Wall's lives both amusing and intriguing. While he couldn't exactly see anyone really jumping at the chance to have a metal arm, for instance, he couldn't deny KIPO had presented it in such a way he'd stayed up some nights pondering it.

'I only desire to help. And I think this improvement would go over a lot better! Everyone has been so hesitant to improve their bodies, but what of their livelihood? Surely they wouldn't protest an upgraded living facility with tools to make their day to day activities easier? No invasive procedures, simply an adjustment to the comforts of home.'

'Your home, that is.' Armin pointed out. '…It actually might go over well. Certainly wouldn't hurt that you and Adam are responsible for taking back our land. You'd be seen as heroes, the masses would be willing to listen to you, as long as you don't open up with-'

"What's she saying?" Hange's voice interrupted, the goggles wearing Scout peering inquisitively at Armin's lit up eyes.

"Hmm? Oh, just going over what you said, rebuilding the village. KIPO's actually thinking we could do that, and more. Replace the buidlings with one's from her homeland, bring us closer to their level of technology."

Hange's glee ramped up to 11 as they envisioned the tall "skyscrapers" peeking up over the Walls! Just as they were about to launch into a tirade of praise and want, Moblit interrupted.

"Let us not forget, the King would never agree to such a thing. As fantastic and amazing as that sounds, I think we have to curb our expectations a little." He sadly but firmly pointed out. Literally, as he gestured to four arrivals from the Interior, the green horse with a sword emerging from it's forehead (almost making it look like the mythical unicorn) displayed prominently on their backs.

"Ahhhhhhh…" Hange deflated, following Moblit's finger to observe their guests standing off to the side, patiently waiting for Erwin to finish his speech. "Of all the days the King decides to pay attention to us… when exactly did they arrive?"

"Just this morning, the sun hadn't even peeked out over horizon. Made a beeline straight for the Commander's office." Moblit reported, as always observing all. "As I understand it, they are here simply to observe."

"Ugh, no doubt looking for the slightest excuse to take Eren and Adam away from us! The moment anything goes wrong, that'll be all they need to go to the King and say this is a waste of time." Hange spat. They then perked up, as a devious look came across their face. "Armin, I don't suppose you would be a dear and let Specter out? Just a little bit?"

"…May I ask why?" Armin asked, not sure he'd like the answer.

"Just thinking if our guests ODM gear was sabotaged and they couldn't go to the top of the Walls to observe us, then we could all breathe a lot easier." Hange causally replied. "Just fly in there and punch some holes in their tanks or snip their ODM cords, them being none the wiser…"

"No Section Commander." Moblit admonished. "Much as that would make our lives easier, the Commander himself made it quite clear the he want's them to see everything."

"Phooey." Hange sighed.

Armin offered his apologies for being unable to help with his superiors plan, before turning to look at the four Military Police. Unlike the officers from Stohess, who'd been lazing about the whole time he and Adam had been there, these four… they actually loooked like soldiers. Three men, and a woman. The men were all staring straight ahead, most likely eager for Erwin's speech to finish and to finally be able to proceed up top, but the woman…

Something about her seemed familiar. Her blonde hair and blue eyes, not to mention her expressionless face…

'Ah! The trial! She was there!' Armin remembered, the woman he'd wondered if she was related to Annie. 'Huh, she's been looking at nothing but Adam the whole time, even this far away from him. Guess the King is prioritizing him?'

As if he'd said that out loud, the woman suddenly turned to look right at Armin, making eye contact immediately. Armin fought the urge to look away, as she observed him. Something about her gaze… there was no change in her expression, nothing at all…

But Armin was feeling very exposed right now.

A cry from up top the Walls mercifully ended the stare-down, as the look outs gave the all clear.

'This is it. No Titans in sight, Eren and Adam as our primary defence, and right up against the gates… yeah, we can do this!' Armin nodded to himself.

From ahead, the gates began to open. Erwin unsheathed his blade and held it high. "Soldiers! With me! This is the first step to reclaiming our home! FORWARD!"

And with that, the mission began.

---

"Look at them go. Still a majestic sight, even if they're only going a mile out at best." Reggie remarked, watching as nearly a hundred Scout's left the safety of the Wall's to effectively raid the village just outside Karanese.

"You talk like you've sat out Expeditions before." Reiner inquired, spy glass clutched in his mitt as he kept an eye out for the enemy, ready to fire a flare at the first sign of trouble. The advantage of having a wide open field, you could spot the Titans from miles away. The downside, little to no grappling points for the Scout's, forcing them to stay close to the buildings to have a better fighting chance.

"Well it's not like we all head out for every Expedition. Need some soldiers left in reserve, some people get their very well deserved days off, and there's the fact more bodies means bigger chance of attracting Titans." Reggie explained. "It's a tricky thing, finding the right amount of manpower for the duration of the mission. The Falling Star, that was about… just over a hundred."

"Huh." Was all Reiner could say. Taking a chance to stop staring behind the tree line, Reiner looked down to watch as the Scout's flanked out. They spread out like a colony of ants, heading down the various roads and splits between building while the center line of empty wagons went straight ahead, escorted by Levi. "Any reason the wagons have to keep on going?"

"Simple. Easier to make a turn in the open field clear of the village and come right back then turn in the street."

"Ah, makes sense." Reiner nodded. He took a chance to look down and try and spot Eren and Adam… yep, there they were, right there alongside the wagons. Eren riding in formation, while Adam was amazingly keeping good pace on foot, til he took to leaping atop the rooftops of the nearest buidlings. They both reached the village lines, then split off, Eren going right and Adam left, to stop at the midway points of the permitter. Reiner had a bead right on Eren, and kept watch for any sign he'd transform.

"Brace yourself for when he changes, it's. LOUD. You'd think distance would lessen the noise, but not so, apparently not so." Reggie made to clean out his ears with his index finger, wincing at the recollection of previous transformations. "I swear, he actually gets louder every time."

"Will he be okay?" Reiner inquired, partially sincere while probing to gauge his fellow Shifter's abilities. "This is is first time fighting Titans since Trost, right?"

"I want to say yes, he has back-up and time on his side." Reggie reasoned, trying not to let his nervousness show, despite being in the safest spot right now. "Judging when Titans will pick up the scent and converge isn't an exact science, but we should have at least five minutes before they come a calling. At that point, we pop our smoke and give everyone the head's up."

"Just five, wow…" Reiner grimaced.

"Yeah, wow. It's really going to be a matter of how effective Eren's training with Adam really was."

"Oh? The big galoot was teaching him something?" That was honestly surprising, and somewhat difficult to picture. Not just because Adam did not give off that vibe, but the scale…

"If by teaching, you mean taking huge chunks out of Eren's body while taking every hit the kid was able to land, sure. Honestly I have no real idea if it made Eren ready to fight Titans like the Captain said, but Jaeger does seem to be more confident in his Titan body, so there's that." Reggie explained.

"And you consider that to be a good thing?" A new voice broke out, causing both Reiner and Reggie to jump. Thankfully not off the Wall, they had ODM gear but that would have been all kinds of embarrassing.

Turning their heads, they were greeted by the sight of a tall man with black hair and even blacker eyes, with accompanying shadows around them to match. He carried the air of someone who people got out of the way for least they be trampled under foot, and his voice carried with it a hint of loathing and disgust.

What got Reiner's attention more than that though, was the insignia on his jacket. Military Police…

"Ah, excuse me, sir?" Reggie got out, still a little surprised at being suddenly addressed.

"I ask of you, do you really consider it a good thing that this boy has learnt to control this unknown power? That he has acquired the strength of the Titans and made it his own? Has the thought of him turning against you and your comrades never occurred to you?" The man continued, his eyes unblinking and his voice level, but the deepness of it had both boys sweating.

"Well, no-" Reggie began, only to be interrupted.

"And the invader, Adam Smasher. You say he was able to take the blows of a Titan. Was able to deal blows to a Titan. Does that not worry you? That this outsider who sneers at us, sees us as nothing, is more powerful than our hated enemy." The man was practically chest to chest with them now, he could very easily push them off the Walls. "Tell me true, do you Scout's have any hope of stopping either of them should they turn their eye to the King? Can all the Scout's numbers combined make even the slightest difference?"

"That's enough Sannes." A calm but firm voice spoke up, and immediate the man backed off. "We're here to observe for his majesty, not question the Scout's. Leave them alone."

"As you wish, Section Commander Caven." The now identified Sannes turned and saluted the owner of the voice, a blue eyed blonde woman who hadn't even turned her head to address them, more focused on observing the Scout's and their protectors through her own spyglass. The man followed her lead, stepping away to make his own observations alongside his compatriots.

With Sannes attention now away from them, both boys breathed a sigh of relief as if a weight had been lifted. Looking to each other and giving a simultaneous shrug, Reggie went back to keeping an eye out for any incoming Titans, with Reiner doing the same.

Right after he gave his appreciation.

"Thanks for that." Reiner said, approaching Caven at her spot on the Wall, who didn't even turn to face him. "I, uh… I take it the Military Police are still on the fence about Adam and Eren?"

"The King is "still on the fence." What the Military Police think doesn't matter, in the end it all comes down to his will." Was the reply, flat and controlled and just bordering on rehearsed, as if the woman before Reiner didn't quite believe or care what she was saying.

"…Is that so." Reiner couldn't help but feel a sense of familiarity about this woman. "Then… should we suppose the King will… get off the fence?"

That actually got Caven to look at Reiner, and yep, she was a dead ringer for being a taller, cooler, and more mature Annie.

'If I met her in Liberio, I'd swear she was Annie's mother.'

"Stop right there."

"Huh?" Reiner frowned in confusion at Caven's sudden order.

"You were thinking something rude right now, weren't you? Stop it." Caven repeated, her expression never changing. "You could at least think I was an older sister."

'….The fuuuuuuck?' Reiner could only stare in shock, suddenly very concerned if his thoughts were being heard right now.

"No, I can't read your mind." Caven continued. "It was just obvious what you were thinking, Reiner Braun."

"The fuck?!" Reiner actually jumped back, to the confusion of the others on the Wall. "How the fuck do you know my name?"

"It's not everyday we get a transfer from the Military Police to the Scout's. I saw the transfer papers before I arrived here." Caven explained, unbothered by Reiner's outburst and frankly uninterested. "And to make things clear, I figured you were comparing me to one of the others in your regiment. One Annie Leonhart, correct? You were thinking I was her…"

The trail off was deliberate, inviting Reiner to finish the sentence. Her expression hadn't changed one bit, but somehow Reiner suspected the scarily insightful woman was somewhat angry at him.

Or… teasing him?

"…Sister. Definitely was thinking you might be her older sister. Not that much older sister, obviously!" Reiner managed to get out.

"I'm flattered. But no, no relations to her, or the other graduates from the 104 Cadet Corp." Caven replied. Honestly Reiner wasn't sure she had even blinked yet.

"Ah… well. It was probably a long shot anyway." Reiner tried to laugh off, finding his feet pulling back towards Reggie.

"Yes, you probably would have seen me around your village at least once."

Suddenly Reiner's feet couldn't move an inch, his half turn halted and the faint feeling of dread working it's way up Reiner's spine.

"I read your file. You, Annie Leonhart, and a Mr. Bertolt Hoover, all came from the same village. Remind me, which one was it again?" Caven continued, her voice unchanging, but damn if it didn't sound accusatory.

"…Iredamun. It's… it was located in the southwest region."

"Iredamun… that's the one that supported itself mostly on lumber and fishing, correct?"

"Yeah… I think the lake was what saved us, Titans fumbled inside and bought us some time before they got out to give chase…" Reiner uttered the lie he and his comrades had crafted for themselves. It had been forever since he had to draw it up, almost like a lifetime ago…

'Is it really going to happen now? Is my cover going to be blown, here?' Reiner couldn't help but think, just something about this woman, the way she was talking…

"And after all that, managing to survive Trost, make it into the safety of the Interior, you chose to join the Scout's." Caven finished, finally taking a step forward, the sounds of her boots forcing Reiner to turn and face her. He didn't know what to expect, a blade drawn, an accusatory stare, maybe just a fist as she tried to wrestle him to the ground…

No, it was none of that. Just Caven standing there, with her hand out to shake. He looked down at the extended limb, then back up in surprise.

"I have to say, it's a real shame you didn't stick around with the Military Police. We could have used you in the First Interior. That feeling of responsibility, it would have been of great service to the King."

"…Oh, really?" Reiner shook her hand on reflex, his mind just catching up to him this wasn't his cover being blown. "Well uh, I hope I can still be of service here."

"I doubt it, but good luck to you anyway." Caven gave a firm shake (geez, her grip was like iron!) and with that, turned back to where things would undoubtedly heat up real soon.

Reiner soon found himself being dragged away by his shoulders from behind, but fortunately he didn't lash out thinking it was an attack. No, it was just Reggie, who was hurriedly getting him away from the dethroner of Annie's place as the Ice Queen.

'With Annie, she actually shows emotions. Glares, scowls, something. But her… she didn't show anything, not once.' Reiner observed.

"Oh Walls… did that seriously just happen?" Reggie exhaled in bewilderment.

"You mean me talking to Section Commander Caven there?" Reiner was brought to a halt, then forcibly turned around to stare into one Scout's very terrified eyes.

"Yeah, I'm talking about you talking to THE Traute Caven! One of the highest decorated MP's in Mitras! She served for twenty years right out the Cadets, made hundred of arrests!" Reggie semi hyper ventilated. "She's known for being able to read your mind!"

"No… no, I don't think she can do that, it's just… really good intuition." Reiner looked back to see that Caven wasn't paying them any attention, still looking out to the village below.

"Well whatever it is, the fact your deepest darkest secrets weren't exposed is nothing short of a miracle. Heard she still makes the rounds in the farther districts, it's the only time the MP's shape up to avoid getting sniffed out." Reggie patted Reiner's back. "Not that I think you have anything really to hide, but even if it was just taking a little off the top after a raid on a warehouse? She'd find out, and you could kiss your ass goodbye."

"If you're trying to make me feel better about the prospects of going up against Titans again then seeing her… you're doing a damn good job." Reiner honestly replied. 'Am I cursed to surrounded by stoic badass women all my life?'

"That's what I'm here for, making sure the newbies don't regret their life decisions." Reggie chuckled. Reiner found himself laughing as well, until a sudden "Hurrpmh!" from the ever disapproving Sannes got the boys to return to their look out duties. Reggie helpfully pointed out the different coloured flares available to Reiner, naturally red would be the one they'd most likely to use, but it helped to know the others.

It wouldn't be much longer now.

Beside them, fellow Scout and lookout Ilse Langnar looked on, very focused on Armin and his guards.

---

For a Scout, there was always pressure. Riding out into Titan territory, how could there not be? The pressure was always there, and it never lessened. Not when riding out with no Titans in sight and the anticipation of when they'd arrive was hanging over your head. Nor when a Titan was spotted and you went off to bring it down, whether it be your first or your twentieth, that pressure was always there. No amount of booze, smokes, or distance behind the safety of the Walls once again removed that pressure.

But a good Scout gets that pressure under control, and powers on through anyway.

The wagons raced forward with their escort, while the others split off and got to work effectively raiding the village. Hammers, shovels, and pick axes were unstrapped and brought down, smashing into the tiled ceilings and stone, while others stopped in to see what precious minerals could be found on the inside.

"Man, first mission with the Scout's, and we're pretty much just robbing a place." Connie shook his head, landing on the roof of what had been the local tavern and starting to work on taking out what chunk's that he could. "Didn't have this pegged as my official Scout duties."

"Really? I did." Sasha offered, already working on prying the hanging sign off the entrance to the same tavern, the metal holding up the wooden plank a very tempting target. "I mean, I figured we'd be setting up bases and trying to find supplies while on the run to extend our time outside. Canned foods and all that."

"Seriously? Is food all you think about? And food that's been left outside for over five years at that, have some standards Sasha!" Connie brought down his pick axe with a hard strike, several tiles freed and sliding down to the ground.

"Hey, don't be like that! I'm just talking strategy, on the off chance we found ourselves in a sticky situation. Stranded outside, like Lieutenant Langnar was." Sasha defended, while at the same time wrenching free the sign from its place in the stone above the door with a cry of triumph! "The preserved stuff would still be good, and we'd need our strength. Remember that if we ever get stuck outside the Walls."

"Huh… alright, I'll keep that in mind." Connie relented, seeing the logic in Sasha's words.

"Great! Then as payment for my advice saving your life, I'll only request half your rations at mealtime!" The 104th's and now the Scout's resident foodie declared, only to get a loose tile tossed at her head.

Down below a short distance away in front of the mayor's house, Jean shook his head. "They seem to be having fun as always. Wish I could be as carefree."

"Feeling nervous soldier?" A commanding but at the same time kind voice rang out, which Jean immediately turned to salute.

"Negative Lieutenant Nanaba!" Jean replied to the light bang haired Scout. "I'm ready and raring to go!"

"Glad to hear it." Nanaba smiled. "But feel free to ease up a bit there. Right now, Armin's the one doing all the heavy lifting here." She gestured to the blonde, who was bracing himself as he shook his arms and brought them to bear. "Armin, do you have any idea how long this will take? Will it… will Specter be able to finish the job?"

"KIPO tells me she can convert the entire structure to metal bars or ammo in thirty minutes." Armin turned his head to offer a reassuring smile. Nanaba couldn't help but be bemused, a fresh faced Scout trying to comfort her. "But she also says if she uses some of the resources to make more nanites, then she can reduce the time to convert another building."

"By how much?

"Down to… fourteen minutes. Then eight. Then four." Armin relayed, to the stunned silence of his protectors. "…Ah, we're ready to go!"

Armin held out his palms, and a familiar flurry of swarming metal raced out of his hands to begin it's assault on what used to be a home for a family of five and a respected office, but now was fuel to fire. Before Jean, Nanaba, and any Scout's in the area's eyes, the building was slowly being… consumed, for lack of a better word. Like a swarm of flies devouring a carcass, the building was starting to disappear.

"…By the Gods…" Nanaba whispered, utterly transfixed. She snapped out of it pretty fast though, upon realizing she was not hearing the sounds of work being done around her. Bringing her fingers up to her lips, a sharp whistle rang out and snapped her fellow Scout's out of their similar trances. "Everyone, get back to work! This isn't anything we haven't seen before! We have to pull our weight too!"

"Yes ma'am!" With that, everyone got back to work.

"Should I get to work too ma'am?" Jean inquired. "It should be some time before the Titans show up, right? I can help out at least a little."

"I'm afraid not soldier. Our orders are to be combat ready and to protect Armin Arlert. We can't afford to waste any energy tearing down buildings." Nanaba shook her head.

Jean sighed. "It's not like I'm a vet. How much danger can Armin be if I'm assigned to guard him?"

"If you're wanting to trade, feel free to tag out with me!" Ymir's familiar voice rang out, accompanied by grunts of exertion and… the sound of something rolling? All three turned their heads to see the lightly tanned girl rounding the corner, accompanied by Krista and three other Scout's pushing the town bell towards Armin. "Come on guys, just a little further! Put your back's into it!"

Ymir's verbal encouragement seemed to do the trick, as the bell was soon deposited before the impressed Nanaba. "Ah… hah… will this do for resource gathering?"

"How did you even get this, and so soon? I didn't hear anything hitting the ground." Jean asked, offering his canteen to Ymir who took a swig before passing it on.

"Found it already on the ground, guessing either a Titan knocked it down or a cannonball missed and hit the tower it was in. Either way, figured it was close enough to Armin he could do his thing and turn it to scrap, and we wouldn't have to leave behind a hefty prize." Ymir grinned.

"Good work soldier." Nanaba approved. "Take two minutes to collect yourself, then head on back to see what else you can find. Try to bring it to the main road to load it onto the wagons from now on, Armin needs to concentrate with his current task here."

Ymir's grin faltered a bit as she exhaled and slumped in exhaustion, but she nodded her acknowledgment. "Ugh, yes sir. Freaking slave drivers, can't we just have Eren transform and smash up the building instead? Open the gates as he shoves all the debris through? I've seen him do the same on cleaning duty, sweeping dust under the rug."

"No can do, even if we're only out here for an hour, we want Eren to have as much time transformed as possible. That means he only turns when the Titans are in sight, and we do our jobs while he keeps them off us." Nanaba replied, before she offered a reassuring smile. "But I'm sure the Commander would consider the idea, if he hasn't already thought of it for future missions already. Once this is over, I'll bring it up with him and see if we could try that next time."

"Better late than never I suppose…" Ymir groaned, before rising to her feet. "Whelp, won't do us any good to just sit around. C'mon guys, let's defile that church some more! What do you say Krista, want to get married there?… Krista?"

The blonde in question had approached Nanaba, looking unexpectedly nervous, and it didn't seem like it had anything to do with being in Titan territory. "Um, if I may ask… where's Captain Levi?"

Nanaba tilted her head, but answered. "He's out riding with the wagons on the off chance an Abnormal arrives despite the all clear. Once the wagons have circled back any second now, he'll be at the permitter by the town entrance, ready to head to Eren or Adam should they require back up."

"Oh. Okay, thank you." Krista nodded, looking out as if she could spot the diminutive Captain from her current position. "How much back up do Eren and Adam have again?"

"Ten soldiers each, some of our best. They're only to engage if things look dicey, the brunt of the fighting is on our resident Titan killers."

"You think the two of them can take it?" One of the other's who helped pushed the bell asked, a veteran of at least a year.

"I believe they are a force to be reckoned with and will do their utmost to protect us." Nanaba replied. "But I am also worried if just the two of them can keep the Titans at bay. So save some of your strength, just in case." With that, she sent the other's on their way.

"Sure taking the wagons a bit longer than I expected to come on back." Jean thought aloud. "Shouldn't they have cleared the village and been able to use all that open space to turn around by now?"

"There were a lot of wagons assembled for this operation." Armin offered, making his way to the neighbouring buildings. Now that Specter was unleashed, his hands were free, and he chose to be proactive. Finding the ideal next target would at contribute some effort, more than him picking up what minuscule bits he could find (which he was doing, having identified some bits of scrap on the ground, utensils, work tools, even a steel serving tray). "They would need more than a good bit of distance to all turn without running into each other. I'd say they should be coming back… now."

At Armin's proclamation, the sounds of hoof beats and wooden wheels rolling in reached their ears. From their position just a block away from main road, they could see the riders dismounting to aid in the recovery process. Not long after, the sound of ODM gear being used and the sight of Captain Levi and his fellow soldiers lifting off to head for the front lines.

"Dang, I forgot how smart you are sometimes." Jean remarked. "How long do you figure we have before the Titans show up?"

"Not long. Flares should be due any minute now." Armin grimaced, before coming to a stop in front of the local blacksmiths. "But I do think we'll get out of here with zero casualties today."

"You trust those two to do that good a job?"

"I do." Armin nodded, those two words leaving no room for doubt. "Today… toady's going to be a win for us, I know it."

---

'And now Connie has come across a usually hard surface of clay tile… he's trying to hit it harder to break it free.' KIPO informed over the comms, as Adam kept a lookout from his perch atop a somewhat lightly damaged house. Below, inside the smashed roof to the dining room long abandoned, was a destroyed table with a crushed wheelchair. Judging from the blood splatter, it could be safely assumed the owner had been left behind to a terrible fate.

'Which was one Connie again? Not the guy with the bandanna and the bald spot, right?' Adam conversed, bringing up the display of all the personal he'd met and built profiles for. With the slightest mental command, dozen's of faces appeared before him.

'No, that was Dita. This is Connie.' KIPO corrected, bringing up a video feed courtesy of her link to Armin's optics, showing a boy with a shaved head bringing his pick axe right down on a spot he'd been evidently banging away at for a good minute.

Unfortunately it was the spot he'd planted his feet on either side of, the idiot was literally hitting the ground right under him. The ceiling tiles broke off, but so did the wooden roof underneath him! With a cry of shock, Connie went right through!

'Whelp, he's dead. Kinda surprised he died by something other than a Titan but I've seen dumber…' Adam made to mark Connie's profile as KIA (it was a rather small profile but it was there), when KIPO interrupted.

'No wait! Sasha is checking in on him!' Indeed, the brown haired girl used her ODM gear to land atop the roof and look down the hole. There was a baited breath, the sound of Armin asking if Connie was okay, and Sasha turning around looking…crestfallen… before a smile and a thumb's up, yeah he was fine!

'Okay, so not that delicate.' Adam observed. 'I forget how sturdy the human body can manage to be.'

'If it helps, there were at least three different ways he could have landed that would have been fatal.' KIPO offered, a sensation of relief slightly tingling Adam as Connie exited through the tavern's ruined front door, dusting himself off. The A.I. had taken it upon herself to keep tabs on the Scout's and Armin's friends, whether it be out of concern or intrigue, and had shared her near contact observations with Adam at seemingly every given moment. As he was currently without anything to do except stand around, he was willing to indulge her, especially as it provided a distraction from Hange who was babbling a mile a minute trying to gain Adam's attention.

'Hope Krista's friend isn't nearly as moronic.' Adam remarked, before looking back to the Wall, silently praying for a flare to launch and his anticipation to stop building. '…This operation, what are we looking at in terms of salvage? Now that you have a proper look and have started to work, how much ammunition are we looking at?'

'Our stores will be 100% filled, with enough left over to resupply at least once.'

'Anything left over?'

'Even with the resupply, we're looking at 27% of material to use.' KIPO informed. 'I've compiled the options for what combination of bullets, grenades, and missiles you could chose from.' Another display came up in Adam's optics, this time of the afore mentioned choices. 'Although, there are other options we take.'

'Like comms equipment?' Adam guessed what his partner was proposing. 'Give the Scout's an easier time to relay information, tell us where the monsters are more accurately, thus hopefully not dying so easily on us?'

'Yes, exactly! With the additional 27%, we could supply multiple Scout's with wireless transceivers, easily applied to the ear. Even if we just make ten of them and use the rest on constructing different equipment, their communication abilities would be far more efficient.' KIPO showed the construction of said devices being applied to ten blank figure's, who spread out into multiple groups of unlinked individuals, showing everyone being connected. 'That would leave us with about 16% left.'

'Which you would use to build…?'

'Grenades. I think that we could construct sticky grenades, one for each squad, if we dip into the resupply for an additional 20%. That way, they would have something in case of an emergency, which could help turn the tide, and make our mission much easier.' KIPO finished.

'…You've really put a lot of thought into this.' Adam noted. 'Really want to keep these people safe, huh?'

'I do. Though I promise my calculations and proposals in no way undermine our own chances of success or survival! I've made to sure to balance my own… want's, with tactical efficiency.'

'Of course. Useful backup is better than dead weight.' Adam waved off, unconcerned by KIPO's desires. '…Will have to run them through a training course on how to use the grenades, don't want them blowing themselves to hell. Could use the Braindance to sped up the process, and save on using the grenades.'

'Which might be necessary with how the King has stonewalled us.' KIPO noted. 'Do you think he's coming to a decision soon?'

'He'd better. Erwin swears he's making progress on that front, but if this goes on much longer I'm thinking we just take what we want and head out ourselves. It'll take longer, but we'd probably finish off the Titans by the time this "King" makes up his mind.'

'I calculated our odd's of success doing that. Even if we are not bogged down by Titans every step of the way and have moment soft rest in between, and assuming we bring Armin with us and can keep him safe at all times, we're still looking at multiple trips back to the safety of Wall Rose, and a mission duration of at least a year.'

'Yeah, that's how long I'm figuring the King will take at this point, fucking hell…' Adam sighed. 'Of course, at this point the Titans might have him beat. Jesus, did they all conveniently move to the west side? How long does it take for them to show up?'

As if his silent pleas for the slaughter to begin were being answered, a red flare was shot into the air! Immediately Adam's mood brightened, as he searched for any signs of the giants to appear!

'C'mon c'mon c'mon, let's go for round two you sacks of meat…'

"Titans spotted! Coming in at 10 o'clock!" A Scout behind Adam so helpfully provided, as one was just coming into view

'Huh. Actually forgot they were back there…' Adam noted, taking a glance at his back-up standing three houses back. 'Well, let's not give them a reason to join me.'

He brought his HMG to bear, right as the distinct sound and flash of Eren's lighting came down a short distance away.

---

To everyone's surprise, Eren wasn't actually that upset he didn't get the first kill.

Or the second.

Or the third.

The forth, fifth, and the sixth, that was where Eren got upset.

'Damn cheating gun that's way too big to be a gun, stop hogging all the Titans and let me get one already!' Eren growled, annoyed that every Titan he'd run up to smash its stupid ugly face in, had been picked off by Adam's precision strikes from afar. Even the one's that were on Eren's side of the perimeter! If Eren didn't know better, he'd swear Adam was doing it on purpose to make fun of him!

'…Maybe if I move out further, catch them before they get into his range…' He had just taken a step forward to do just that when…

"Oye, Jaeger." Eren's now pointy ears picked up as the familiar bored tone of the Captain graced them. "Don't go heading out there where our lines won't find decent purchase. I appreciate you keeping them off us, or at least wanting to, but don't forget we're here to back you up if things go south."

Levi stood there, on top of the highest point available at the every edge of town, looking at Eren with a calm, but commanding look. It was enough to simmer down the frustration Eren was feeling and take the drive out of his step. Slowly, he retracted his foot back.

"I get you're eager, and yeah, we do need to see if you can handle combat, but don't go taking unnecessary risks." Levi spared a glance in Adam's direction, watching as two more Titans came into range. "Don't worry, I'm sure you'll get your chance. It's only been ten minutes at best, I doubt he's got enough bullets to last the full hour."

All Eren could say to that was a huff in response. Levi raised an eyebrow, then took note of their surroundings.

"…You were practicing knife throwing with the metal bastard, correct?" A turn of the Titan to look back at him and offer a nod was his answer. "…It probably won't kill them, unless you find something really heavy and are lucky, but it might fuck them up enough killing them becomes easier."

Eren tilted his head, trying to follow. He followed the Captains gaze to the houses, houses of stone, and wood…

Slowly, Eren pointed to the houses, then to himself. He repeated the action a couple of times, before making a throwing gesture. 'Do you… do you want me to…'

"I mean, I figured that was why he was having you do it, long range strikes against the enemy." Levi shrugged. "You have my permission, if you think it'll do any good. Find a decent projectile, and try to land a hit on the enemy. And be quick about it, we might be getting the slow ones now, but that's liable to change."

For the Scout's farther back, it was certainly amusing sight to see a Titan looking flabbergasted. Which quickly became a Titan looking contemplative as he look around at the various houses.

'…Well, if it's for the good of the mission, and it's not like anyone's using it… hope nobody freaks out seeing me do this.' Eren braced himself, then approached a house whose walls were made of stone instead of wood. He really shouldn't be nervous over this, he'd pulled trees out and boulders during his training in full view of the Scout's, but people could be weird sometimes. Seeing him demolish a house like it was made out of paper might make some observers nervous.

Regardless, Eren got to work. Giving an experimental tap to see how sturdy it still was, Eren got to work clearly off the wooden roof then liberating one of the walls. It was amazing how easy it came off in his hands! Bits of it fell off at the edges, but Eren was able to have a decent sized slab about the size of his chest in his grip!

Testing the weight a little, Eren was feeling invigorated again! He turned to scan the horizon, already forming thoughts of how to bring his new weapon down on a Titans head…

There! A fifteen meter, real chunky one too! Perfect!

Wanting to make sure his spotted target was his and his alone, Eren turned to look at Adam, who seemed to be looking his way. A bit of non verbal communication followed, with Eren using his free hand to gesture.

"Hey, back off! That one's mine! See this? I'm gonna hit it with this, let me do that!" His Titan pointed with force to himself, Adam, and the Titan.

To which Adam slung his weapon in his shoulder and waved his hand as if to say, "Go right ahead, it's all yours."

A nod from Eren, "Thank you." before he grinned and got ready. The wall section he was holding was admittedly bigger than a knife, but he was sure he could manage. Getting into position, Eren's Titan stepped forward, rolling his neck to loosen up, before he held his improvised projectile in both hands, lifted his arms, and let it fly!

Spinning through the air, bits of stone flying off (thankfully not hitting any Scout's), it sailed true to the Titan. It was good! It was good! It… impacted in it's left side, causing it to spin and fall face first to the ground in an awkward tumble.

'…Okay, so not quite a kill shot, but that wasn't bad for a first try, right?' Eren turned to look at Levi, then Adam, hoping for approval.

"…Honestly that went better than I expected." Levi observed. "Definitely need to look into something harder to throw though, something to really penetrate the skin. Oh, and you have my permission to head out and finish that one off, but come back straight away, you hear?"

That was all Eren needed to hear, as he immediately set off to claim his first kill of the day! His thunderous stomps echoed throughout the plains, as he run up to the Titan as if it was a long lost friend he was hoping to embrace!

How unfortunate for the Titan that wasn't the case. A fist crashing into its rising face that set it back down into the dirt, followed by a well place stomp on its nape. A good three following kick's to make sure it was dead, followed by a victory roar!

'Oh, I've missed this!'

---

'And that's another he's missed, but… oh, follow up with a tree, not bad.' Adam observed.

He had to admit, when the kid got going, he got going! Eren had found himself gaining more than his fair share of Titans to smush, and the time to experiment in how he dealt with them. Of course the nape was the definitive way to ending a Titans life, but it didn't hurt to see if he could expand his methods in fighting them, to Adam's silent approval.

Projectiles had been a mix of being a hit or a miss, literally. Rocks, debris, a pillar throw like a javelin… if it didn't fail to hit it's target the Titan was either knocked down or one time impaled and forced to drag it's extra burden a few feet before Eren finished the job. Still room for improvement, but least now they knew. If Eren kept it up, he might just find himself taking the head off a faraway Titan who was about to devour it's helpless prey, wouldn't that be something?

Now handheld weapons, those were working better. Had a few good tree's in the area, just the right size that they worked well as a club. One well placed strike to knock them down or take their feet out, and a Titan was an open target!

'Defintely could use something sturdier, something that could actually take the heads off, like a giant ass sledgehammer or a sword… energy sword? Could we give him a giant handle with an energy weapon that comes out?… nah, something tells me the power source would cost more than these people can afford… although maybe…' Adam pondered, images of Eren mowing through Titan's like butter and clearing out the Walls in less than a week dancing through his mind. Adam snapped out of it quickly enough, around the time Eren shoved a tree right down a Titans throat and keeping it trapped, holding the tree with one hand just outside the Titans mouth, while circling around to gripe its nape and tear it out.

Or tried to. His fingers were slippery with the blood of his latest kill, and after two attempts Eren shrugged and proceeded to ripe out his opponents nape with his teeth. The squelch and crunching of flesh being torn was mesmerizing, and the spitting out of the tainted meat and Eren wiping his mouth with the back of his hand was the icing in the bloody cake.

Not one to be outdone, Adam leaped up to impale his hands right into a four meter's eyeballs, coming down on the ground and bringing his new dance partner face first into the dirt. He flicked up his hands as if he was trying to shake the dirt off a welcome mat, and the Titan amusingly followed the movement, it's whole body moving like a whip to crash on the ground.

Again and again until it's insides started to come to the outside, the skin of the Titan pulverized and turned paper thin. Seeing that he'd softened it up enough, Adam proceeded to tear his next kill right down the middle, it's left separated from it's right right up to the nape, which evidently counted as a kill.

'Okay, that worked. But definitely more style than substance, can't waste this much time killing just one of them.' Adam noted, already ready for another lumbering giant taking up the place of its predecessor.

The Titan's had been stepping up their game, round the thirty minute mark, with plenty more bodies heading into the meat grinder, and some that were actually picking up the pace. More than a few had been straight up running, and Adam had to wonder if every single thing about these giant's was designed to be just plain bizarre. Never did they run like a person would run, it was always something weird. One was power walking with it's arm's swinging back and forth at it's sides, another had been been charging with it's spine bent at a 270 degree angle (like it's feet were outrunning it's body, the torso and arms just flapping in the wind), another had it's hands in prayer, swinging it's arms back and forth from side to side with a creepy grin like it was eager to get it's din-dins.

And then there were the other oddball's. Running on all fours, rolling in a cartwheel, one had even used its own kind as a meat shield, amazingly. Always something new.

But of course, they died all the same. Between Adam and Eren, not a single Titan had managed to cross the line in the sand, cross over into the village and reach any of the Scout's who were ever hard at work, gathering what they could and loading them into the cart's. At least half had been filled to the brim, KIPO helpfully appearing using the projector orb to point out what was and what wasn't the most useful, while simultaneously moving on with Specter from what had been the mayor's house to the blacksmith's, a target scouted out by Armin.

But anyways, back to the killing.

Adam had certainly his fair share for the day, total of forty to Eren's twenty-nine, and thanks to being fully informed about the enemy this time he didn't waste a single bullet. He'd eased up on using his HMG to bring in the Titan's closer, getting in close range kills with his knife and shotgun when it looked like he could spare the time, or if he was feeling fancy, do shit like with the eyeball's and the whipping, and see how attentive the Scout's were to his work.

It was impressive, they didn't throw up or shy away even once. Probably expected when your main enemy killed you by devouring you whole, but still, Adam expected to see some measure of horror. Instead, they looked amazed, even… pleased.

Ducking under a swipe of a mid-sized Titan, about six meters, Adam struck out his foot to his target's knee. A sickening crunch as the limb bent in a way it wasn't supposed to, the Titan fell down, right into Adam's fist, a quick uppercut than left hook that dislocated it's lower jaw from it's face.

"You don't feel this? At all?" Adam inquired, as he held his newest makeshift weapon in his hands, the blood dripping from the jawbone accompanied by steam and either healing or disintegrating flesh, it was too early to tell. Didn't seem to bother its previous owner at all, it had the same glassy eyed stare looking down at him, what remained of it!s mouth still held in a grin. Not a word of pain or any sign any of this was registering. "You chunks of meats are taking all the fun out of this." Adam lamented, as he swiped the jaw bone in one quick slice, taking off a chunk of the Titan's face that sent it reeling from the impact, enough Adam could circle around and use his improvised weapon one more time.

Tossing what had rapidly become lighter than a helium ballon away, Adam made his way to two more Titan's, one ten meters the other a good eight, both slowly approaching, though it seemed they were more interested in the Scout's behind him, right up until they got within a certain range of him.

"…That weirdo was talking about how I might not even register as a snack to you freaks… hmmm…" Adam mulled an idea over in his head, before he brought up his launcher and ended both Titans with a single missile strike. Seeing the coast was clear for the moment, he turned to his escort, scanning the rooftops for… ah, there he was.

With a burst from his Sandevistan, Adam practically teleported right beside Erwin Smith, who impressively didn't even flinch at the cyborg appearing right in his personal space, instead looking onwards to the horizon where even now, four more Titans were coming into view.

"You know, where I come from, the leader usually doesn't place himself on the frontlines where he's most likely to die." Adam causally stated.

"That certainly is a valid strategy, and in most cases I would agree. Unfortunately, as our means of communication and surveillance are limited, as I'm sure you've noticed, I need to be where I can gather and assess all data as quickly as possible. Which in this case, means being with the first line of defence." Erwin explained.

"So it's not just because you feel the need to be in as much danger as the rest of your men?"

"It's not just because of that, no. But what kind of a leader would ask his men to risk their lives if he was not willing to do the same?"

"A lot, there's a lot who would do that." Adam immediately answered. "Not saying I don't respect your courage, but can you not just hang back? Be free of the splash zone?" Adam gestured to Eren, who was just moping up the last two Titans in the immediate area.

Kid was just facing off against two fifteen meters, both of whom actually looked pissed to see Eren. Eren for his part was grinning like a loon (it was hard to see but that toothy grin did have different degrees of smiles), holding a remarkably sturdy chimney in his hands. The closest Titan made to take a swipe, but one dodge to the side had it overtake Eren, who brought the chimney around in a masterful swing to the back of the Titan's head that… OH! Beautiful! Popped the Titan's eyes right out of their sockets! They were just hanging there by the stalk's, swinging around as their owner tried to gather it's bearings, this one actually reacting badly to it's disoriented vision.

(It was always random if blinding a Titan would actually do anything. Sometimes they kept on going without slowing down, other times they acted like anything else would losing their eyes, even temporarily.)

Its partner did not react well to Eren's little stunt, as it actually made to tackle the kid from behind around his waist and bring him down! Or at least it tried to, but in a remarkable display of strength and speed, Eren managed to rotate in midair with his attacker, causing the Titan to land under him instead! The crash knocked over some nearby buildings, just one row away from where his emergency back-up had taken root. Some had made to step in and help, but Levi ordered them to hold, watching as Eren wiggled out of his stunned opponents hold to bring the chimney down on its face, over and over again!

Quite a few splatters of blood actually did burst out and land just a few feet away from Erwin and Adam. A ghost of a smile touched the man's lips, and Erwin deemed to face his ally. "Might I presume you are actually concerned with my well-being?"

"A tad, yes. It's been hard enough establishing working relations with you in charge, I don't need you dying and your replacement deciding to be difficult with me." Adam looked up to take in the other's close by. "Speaking of, who would be taking over?"

"The lines of succession were decided upon after much deliberation. I determined that Hange Zoe would take my place should anything happen to me."

…

"If that's your idea of a joke, it's not funny." Adam said, turning to observe the bane of his existence here observing Eren with unbridled enthusiasm, only held back from getting closer by Moblit's arms around their middle and Levi's glare braking no room for argument. "Seriously, you don't have anyone better? What about that guy who keeps looking like he smelt something rotten, Mike? Isn't he your second best soldier?"

"He is, and he's a capable leader directing the troops. But he made a strong case why he shouldn't be chosen, saying he'd have no patience for politics, the double crossing's, or complex strategies. He prefers things to be simple and having immediate control." Erwin replied, mercifully not mentioning how Mike only got that look when Adam entered the room.

"Fine, then what about the ru- Levi? Humanities Strongest, isn't that his title?"

"More or less the same issue. He prefers someone giving him a task and given the freedom to carry it out how he see's fit."

"…Okay, then, who takes over after Hange?" Adam tried.

"That's for them to determine. And if you're thinking you could just move down the lines of succession to find someone more agreeable…" Erwin trailed off.

"Just a thought." Adam turned to look back at Eren, who'd finished his facial reconstruction project and had moved to finish off the remaining Titan, who'd just managed to get its eyeballs back into their sockets. It looked up just in time to see Eren bringing the chimney down on it's head, utterly obliterating it this time and sending bits flying everywhere.

A triumphant roar left Eren's mouth, as he screamed to the heavens with exuberant cheer! No doubt the Scout's deeper in the village were a bit startled, maybe even worried. But as long as all they saw was their resident pointy eared monster and nothing else, they could breath a sigh of relief and work with impunity.

Eren looked back to see Adam standing with Erwin, and tilted his head quizzically. Adam for his part held up one finger, then gestured to Erwin to communicate they were talking, just needed a minute. Eren frowned a little, but a quick glance around indicated there were no Titans in striking range yet, so he guessed it wouldn't hurt. And even if he wasn't exactly feeling tired, a breather would be nice. Eren's fists had been reduced to nubs from so many punches and caving in Titan skulls, the constant regeneration did seem to be taking a bit out of him. Even though he didn't really need it, the subconscious desire to take a load off his feet took over, and Eren found himself sitting down with a mighty thud, causing many to jump.

A sudden light weight on his shoulder alerted him to the fact he had company, as Levi and his squad approached, Petra landing on him while the others took position along the debris around him.

"How are you feeling Eren? Feeling tired at all?" Petra asked, where a little shake of his head and a thumb's up was her answer.

"You're doing great Eren!" Eld cheered, taking in the multiple disintegrating corpses with nod of approval. "They haven't even gotten close to us. If you and Adam can do this every day… shit, we might actually get rid of all the Titans before the year ends. Hell, before the summer ends!"

"Don't go counting your chickens before they're hatched Eld." Levi instructed. "Today's turning out pretty good, but we've still got thirty minutes on the clock. Plenty of time for a horde too big for our Titan killers to handle on their own."

"Don't worry Captain, we're fully aware of how things could take a turn." Oluo assured their leader, before looking to Eren. "That last one was a little too close for comfort by the way. You're lucky that thing tackled you instead of trying to bite your neck, you left yourself open there. Try not to leave your back exposed, yeah?"

A quick nod was Oluo's answer, which seemed to satisfy the man. Really, everyone had been worried Eren had made a critical mistake when that moment had happened, but Levi had judged Eren had things under control. The kid was nothing if not a master of violence.

Eren's Titan wiggled his toes before he took a glance behind him. The newly arriving Titans were at the halfway mark before Eren would have them in projectile range, and were fortunately the normal slow ones. A thought occurring to him, Eren looked back towards the Walls, specially to the left and right of them, and pointed.

"What is it Eren?" Petra made to follow Eren's giant finger, as he traced along the Wall. "…Oh, the sides? Are you worried about Titans coming along from the sides?"

A quick nod that had her bracing herself, Petra smiled as she gently patted the side of Eren's face. "Don't worry, the Commander thought of that. We have Scout's along the Walls for up to a mile, if any Titans are walking along it in our direction, flares will go off."

"Still, kid might be on to something." Gunther had also turned his gaze. "Along the South of Wall Rose to here, it's a clear view, you look down and can see everything below you. But along the North there's a forest that's right up agains the Wall. Could actually give the Titan's some cover, delay anyone spotting them…"

"I'm sure the spotters will keep an eye out. Even if they fail to notice the sounds of Titans stomping or the tree's shifting, I don't think we have to worry about an ambush from the side catching us completely off guard." Eld reassured. "Don't forget it's our fellow Scout's up there. They know what to look out for."

---

"Man, should have made a betting pool on who'd get more kills." Reggie remarked in awe, for once, actually sitting back and feeling relaxed while watching his comrades in Titan territory. "And for once, the Captain isn't a part of it. Never thought I'd see the day."

"Hmph." Sannes scowled, clearly unimpressed, though whether that was Reggie's praise or him sitting on his ass while on duty, who's to say. "Didn't expect a Scout to be so eager to pass off his responsibilities on another. And here I thought you were supposed to be different from the Garrison."

"Hey man, I'd wiling to accept anyone who can kill the Titans better and quicker, whether that be Eren, Adam, the Captain, or hell, even the other two Titans!" Reggie laughed. "If the Colossal or Armoured killed all the bastards, I would walk up and kiss their big smelly feet!"

"Idiotic. You'd be turned to a smear in the ground, and I'd say you'd deserve such a fate, cozying up to humanities enemies." Sannes spat. "Is this what I'm to tell the King? That the Scout's are so desperate they'd just forget what humanity has suffered the last five years?"

"Okay, bad example." Reggie groaned, his good cheer struggling to contend with Sannes evidently eternal need to make others feel miserable. "The point remains, this mission is going great, and I'm sure the King will be very eager to sign off on whatever the Commander asks, yeah?"

"Tch. Don't be so sure of yourself. You'll find the King takes into account all of the people of the Wall's, not just your glorified regiment. He's not a fool, and won't be swayed by honeyed words or intimidation."

"Would he at least be swayed by results or facts?" Reggie mumbled, which Reiner overheard and bent down to offer a comforting pat on the shoulder.

"Let it go. Let that headache be the Commander's job, it's not worth it." The newest Scout advised.

"Yeah, you're right." Reggie sighed, before getting to his feet and resuming his observations. "…Ah, I see Armin and KIPO are almost done with another building!… Man, Specter's pretty big now, huh?"

"Oh yeah." Reiner agreed. "Pretty big."

The swarm of metal was now visible from their perch, looking like an enormous insect gathering. Those gathered knew it was beneficial, that it was helping humanity.

But still, the sight of it reducing a house to nothing… some got chills, wondering if the same could happen to a person, or a whole group of people. And that wasn't even mentioning the weird pink light that Reiner occasionally spotted. It was hard to make out for some reason, a combination of the light and the spyglasses range, but it almost looked like the Scout's below were… talking to it?

The whole time, Ilse Langnar kept observing her fellow Scout's below. One set in particular, she never took her spyglass off. What she was hoping to see, even she couldn't say. What she did see, was Krista Lenz and Ymir hard at work, having managed to recover the coffer from the local church, along with the silver candlesticks and the long deceased priests more expensive ornaments. Ilse did note Ymir pocketing a jewel she'd managed to pry free from the priests necklace, only to somewhat reprimanded by Krista. Looked like… Ymir thought the issue was that she wasn't going to share? Judging by how Ymir called over the other's in their group and gesturing to their haul, the freckled girl was more than willing to divide the spoils, let everyone have something nice.

'Is our enemy concerned with material wealth or not at all? Her feelings for Krista are very apparent, but what does that mean exactly? And does she actually need money, or is it just personal taste? And her willingness to share… must ponder this further.'

Ilse wouldn't take her eyes off, but for now… maybe they wouldn't have to fear the Colossal breaching another Wall today.

A sudden pop of a flare being fired had everyone's heads snap up, and everyone turned to look down the Wall to the North side, where the unmistakable sight of a red flare raced into the sky.

"…Oh shit." Reggie cursed. "Okay, we should-"

Before he had a chance to finish, two sets of ODM gear activated and sped off, one Traute Caven and Reiner Braun, both racing to the source of the flare. Wasn't long before two more set off, streaks of red racing into the sky.

Both blondes landed before a Scout was just getting set to fire their own flare. "Report. Where is the enemy?" Caven ordered.

"We've got movement from the tree's ma'am." The Scout pointed down below to the mass of forest below them, while simultaneously popping a red flare into the sky. Indeed, the sight of tree's jostling from side to side and bird's flying into the air became apparent, as was the sound of oh so familiar footsteps.

'No, wait. Not quite familiar… something's… off." Reiner frowned. He wasn't sure what, but… something sounded different.

"…That's pretty close, was there no sign of them earlier?" Reiner inquired.

"None that we could see. Don't know what to tell you, one second it's all quiet, not a sight or sound of any Titans in the area. The next? Suddenly it's loud, and really obvious we have Titans moving in." A particular heavy STOMP sound punctuated the Scout's sentence.

"Why now? I thought Titans this close would be futility trying to get to the humans in the other side of the Wall's." Caven noted. "One huge cluster of humans is just as good as another. Isn't that what you were hoping for, the villages that were safe would draw them away?"

"Yeah, that was our hope. But Titans are unpredictable even at the best of times. It might be they caught the scent of everyone on the outside and that registered as an easier meal."

"Or maybe it's from all the killing." Reiner suggested. "Could be the spilt blood attracted them."

"Oh geez, is it really that bad?!" The Scout turned white as a sheet, they'd prepared for the worst but they'd dared hoped…

"Spilt Titan blood." Caven intercepted. "Things are actually going surprisingly well. But that might be liable to change with a bunch of Titans coming from a new direction."

"Think the Commander has enough time to prepare?" The Scout looked down to where lied the gate and the village with their comrades.

"He's got as much as he can hope for." Caven replied, honestly. "…They're close to the forest exit. Let's see what we're dealing with…"

They waited. The stomp's of the Titans was coming closer and closer, and from the sound of it, it wasn't just one or two of the damn things. But still, the Scout's had time, they were close to safety, and they had Eren and Adam. Just had to get a good look, and they could hopefully give Erwin a more detailed assessment of the situation.

Ah, here was one now. Was it a regular one or a…

…

…

"Flare." Caven ordered.

"Wh… what?" The Scout stammered, transfixed by what they were seeing.

"Flare." Caven repeated. "You Scout's have different coloured flares. Green was all clear, red was for Titans spotted, correct? What do you have to report… that?"

"We don't… we don't…" The Scout was panicking, they were safe atop the Wall and they were as scared as they were the first day they'd gone on a Expedition. "…We don't have anything for something like this!"

"Yes you do." Reiner cut in, startling the Scout. With a deep breath as he loaded up his own flare gun, triple checking he'd loaded up the right one, Reiner fired a black smoke signal into the sky.

Black. Abnormals.

"That won't cut it." Caven followed the smoke as it reached its ascent and the projectile fluttered into the wind back down to the ground. "He'll be expecting something he's already encountered. This will catch him completely off guard."

Despite the urgency of the situation, her face remained as calm and devoid of emotion as ever, cold as steel. But the sincerity in her tone, that held some emotion. And right now, it was one of concern. "You have to go to him. Tell him exactly what we're seeing right now. We don't have time to see how many are coming," As she spoke, two more exited the tree's, following close in step, "but he needs to know what's coming."

"Right, on it!" Reiner leapt off the Wall and shot off towards the village, so painfully close to what was coming. Behind him, Caven looked down, her eyes never straying as the forest produced more and more.

"Assemble the cannons."

---

The sight of a black flare being fired from the North was unexpected, and a bit concerning. Though it had only been forty minutes, the Scout's had actually been feeling like today could be "taken easy." They had started to hope they wouldn't have to break out their ODM gear at all, just simply wait out the clock and ride back in with their spoils (of which they had done remarkably well, the wagons were halfway filled!) while Eren and Adam did everything.

So it didn't really help morale much when Reiner Braun came racing in, speeding past everyone over their heads as he made a beeline straight for the Commander.

Ahead, Eren was just bringing one Titan down in a pile drive, smashing its head directly into the ground. It was at the right velocity and force to ensure that meat lost to the rock hard ground, and the entire head collapsed and splattered like an overripe tomato. Around him, three more smoking Titan corpses lay rotting in the sun, yet more kills added to Eren's score. Rising to his feet, he made to retrieve a sharpened piece of lumber that he'd evidently used as a shiv, yanking out of the neck of one of the dead Titans and twirling it in his hands in an obvious display of showing off.

"Commander Erwin!" Reiner called out as he spotted the man, and made to land before him, many heads turning to face the new arrival, including Eren. The green eyed Titan's ears perked up and a delighted expression overtook his face, but Reiner didn't have time to appreciate Eren's fondness for him. Taking a deep breath, he made to speak. "Reiner Braun, positioned on lookout duty! I have news from the Walls, specially the North side!"

"Yes, we spotted the black signal flare. Abnormals are incoming, correct?" Erwin asked.

"Not exactly sir." Reiner reported. "It's not just Abnormal Titans. We spotted several Titans that can only be described as armoured."

Crack

The sound of Eren's makeshift shiv breaking in his hands got everyone's attention, as a surprised look graced his Titans features. His eyes were wide, and a cacophony of sounds exited his mouth, as Eren attempted to communicate.

How? Where? When? Are you sure? What do you mean several?

"Calm down kid." Adam's voice interrupted Eren, who looked down to see Adam looking up by his foot. "Let Reiner say his piece."

Oh. Right. Looking back to Reiner, Eren gestured for his friend to please continue.

"I think the brat speaks for all of us right now. You, newbie. What's this about the Armoured Titan?" Levi inquired, having moved to join Erwin on the roof.

"Titans, sir. Plural." Reiner corrected. "It's not just one. We saw several along the North side, exiting the forest. And they… they were all equipped with armour."

"Equipped?" Erwin inquired. "How do you mean?"

"I mean the Titans we saw had giant steel plates attached to them, like makeshift armour."

…

"How is that possible?" For the first time in a long time, Levi's eyes were wide in shock. "Soldier, you're absolutely sure what you saw?"

"I am sir. They looked like regular Titans, except there were steel plates covering up their bodies. Torsos, arms, legs, even their faces… I've never seen anything like it." Reiner answered semi-honestly. Sure, Pieck may have her own gear back home, but this… and for Mindless? 'Just what's going on?'

"That sounds a bit different from the description we've received about the Armoured Titan." Erwin held his chin in thought, before looking up. "How long before they arrive here?"

"Hard to say. Maybe three minutes? Four?"

"And how many were there?" Levi asked.

"I left before we could see all of them, but there were at least three coming out from the tree's."

"I see. Thank you soldier, you've done well." Erwin nodded. "Head down to the main road and inform the Scout's the enemy is approaching from our left flank and soon. Then help load up what supplies have yet to be gathered into the wagons."

"Yes sir!" Reiner saluted, then headed off.

"Hange, Darius, Klaus, follow him and get the word out." Erwin ordered. "Eren, Adam, I need you to proceed to the left flank and hold off the enemy."

"Yes sir!" The Scout's replied, while Eren nodded before picking up Adam like a toy and running off, the cyborg amazingly not protesting.

"Figures things wouldn't go exactly according to plan, but I don't think anyone saw this coming." Levi grumbled. "I'll cover the retreat with Eren and Adam. Hopefully we'll be able to buy enough time for everyone to get behind the Wall. With luck we won't have to abandon too much of our hard earned gains-"

"Negative. We still have eighteen minutes left for the operation." Erwin's voice interrupted, as he produced a pocket watch. "Stand here and hold off any Titans that attempt to attack from the front. Adam and Eren will deal with this new enemy."

"…Are you sure that's wise?" Levi frowned, not liking what he was hearing. "We've got quite the haul, and we've seen how effective Adam and Eren are, and we've got plenty of dead Titans with no casualties. You really want to ruin that?"

"The plan was for a full hour of gathering supplies and reducing the enemy numbers. If we retreat now, that will alter how we proceed with the 57th Expedition." Erwin replied. "We need everything we can possibly get from today, not just resources, but a true test of Adam, Eren, and even Armin's abilities. And the moment we're about to achieve that, suddenly a new enemy appears."

Erwin turned to face Levi head on. "Something tells me, it's not just a coincidence these armoured Titans appeared today. The exact day we ventured outside with Adam and Eren. I believe someone is deliberately attacking us, perhaps testing us."

"Who? The actual Armoured?"

"Hard to say. That certainly is a terrifying thought." Erwin turned his gaze to where this wrench in his plans was due to arrive. "It's also a terrifying thought that should these creatures escape into the wide expanse of Maria's territory, more than likely we'd suffer more casualties than normal when we encounter them again. That's assuming they don't try to breach the gates if they are capable of that. If this is all of their numbers or even just a significant amount, I believe it would be better to cut them all down here and now, least they give us trouble in the future."

"Assuming we can cut them down. If it's armour for Titans, it's got to be some kind of durable." Levi pointed out. "You sure the brat and the brute can do it?"

"I do. I have to, because there's no means of victory if they can't."

"Delightful." Levi sighed. "Great, so eighteen minutes of holding the line from two fronts now, one side being assaulted by something that only Eren and Adam have a hope of bringing down. And you still want everyone to be ready to beat a hasty retreat at the last possible moment."

"I am. Thank you Levi, for doing this."

"You can thank me by giving me your best tea stock. Saw some fine brands in your cupboard, thrifty bastard." Levi groused. "I'll also need replacements up here to fill in for Eren and Adam."

"I wouldn't leave you short handed. Gelgar, find Mikasa Ackerman!"

---

"Whoa boy, that's not good." Connie noted, spotting Eren running in the distance. "Did the Titans really sneak up on us from the sides?"

"Evidently, if the signal flares were any indication." Jean mumbled. "C'mon, help me load this stuff up!"

"Whoa Jean, hold up! Aren't you supposed to be saving your strength for fighting?" Sasha asked, moving to help him lift up a crate full of scavenged door hinges into the nearest wagon.

"Yeah, that was before we got word Titans were closer than we realized. Orders to pull back are probably gonna come any second now, we've got to get everything loaded pronto!" Jean reasoned.

"Yeah, what he said." A familiar voice spoke up, and all heads turned to see Reiner in all his glory, touching down and already moving to heft whatever he could into the wagons.

"Reiner, good to see ya man! Guess Ymir wasn't just talking shit, how have you been?" Connie beamed, momentarily forgetting how bad things were looking.

"Great, but now's really not the time to chat Connie. Order's are to load everything onto the wagons while Eren and Adam hold the line."

"Uh, yeah? That's literally what the Commander said before we headed out." Sasha replied.

"Well he's saying it with slightly more urgency. Seriously guys, we've got to move. There's something head this way from the left side, and I don't know if Eren and Adam can hold them all off." Reiner said. "So let's get moving, alright?"

"Right!" Connie and Sasha doubled their efforts, working together to lift the heavier loads together.

"Is Eren going to be alright?" Another familiar voice spoke up, and Reiner almost jumped before realizing it was Mikasa. How he'd failed to notice her when she was lifting up three crates like it was nothing, he had no idea. "I heard we have some unusual Titans headed our way, armoured? Did they look… did they look strong?"

"…I won't lie, I seriously doubt any of us could take them down." Reiner hurried to explain, not questioning how Mikasa got her intel. "But for Eren and Adam… they'll be fine. Honestly the biggest worry I have is they won't be able to stop them all from reaching us, but the two of them should be okay. Really Mikasa, Eren's going to be alright."

"I see… thank you Reiner." Mikasa smiled. She dropped the crates on the wagon, finally filling it to capacity. Beside her, KIPO floated into view. "KIPO, what's next? Pick out the best items."

"There were three chandeliers retrieved that have yet to be loaded up, we should go there. One moment please." KIPO smiled before floating up to a wide eyed Reiner. "Reiner, it's so good to meet you! I realize this is a bit much, but please, try to save all your questions and focusing on getting to safety, I promise we'll have our long overdue meeting!"

Reiner blinked before shaking his head and slapping himself in the face. "Right, right. Good to finally meet you KIPO, looking forward to it!" He gave a shaky thumb's up before getting back to work, pushing all his thought's down in favour of the tangible and understandable.

"Great!" KIPO cheered, before turning back to Mikasa. "Now that that's settled, how about we-"

"MIKASA ACKERMAN! I NEED A MIKASA ACKERMAN!" A new voice called out.

"Find out what that's about?" KIPO trailed off, floating on high to flag whoever that was over. "I do hope Adam get's a good view of the enemy. Armoured Titans, how fascinating…"

---

"…That's new." Adam remarked, to which Eren had to agree, holding his passenger up in one hand.

In front of them was an absolute mob of Titans, roughly thirty in total. They all lumbered forward, stumbling and dragging their feet like the undead in zombie movies, instead of the (mostly) typical stomping walk of a Titan. The reason quite apparent, judging from their attire.

"Reiner wasn't kidding, they really are armoured… how is it nobody spotted them earlier? You can certainly hear them."

Indeed, it wasn't just the heavier than normal footsteps, the sound of metal grinding against metal was very noticeable, magnified by it being shared by thirty giant bodies fully decked out in plates of steel armour. It was intriguing craftsmen-ship, not just for the scale of the design but also for the fact it was successfully applied to a Titan at all! Giant metal plates attached to the Titans, covering them from head to toe. There were certainly spots where the flesh was still visible, but for the most part, these may have well be iron giants.

"Looks like someone ripped the armour plating off a WW2 tank or ship and bolted onto them, literally." Adam observed, noting the giant bolts at key points. Six of them seemed to be going through the plate covering the Titans faces, did they go right through the skull? "Probably operating by smell and sound, I'm not seeing any eyeholes. Honestly can't say if that would make things easier for the boys behind us, and I'm not curious enough to find out."

Raising his HMG, Adam pulled the trigger. A quick three bullet burst saw the lead Titan's face plate be struck true. There was a temporary moment of its head snapping back, before its brethren at its back pushed it forward. The Titan managed to not fall flat on its face and instead continue walking, as it's head rolled forward to reveal the dented metal.

"Sturdy. It's not quite as soft as I was expecting but not as durable as armour plating from my neck of the woods, good to know. Still, this might be a bit tricky."

Eren took that moment to point up, where some soldiers had made to bring the Walls cannons around and launch a volley at the horde. An explosion of smoke and thunder burst forth, followed by a hail of cannonballs that bounced off the Titans armour. Some Titans did stumble slightly, tilting to the side, but for the most part the attack was ineffective.

"Least they're trying. But it really does look like it's up to us." Adam took in the Titans once more, noting the openings, their plating, this pace… years upon years of fighting experience helping him come up with a strategy for this foe.

"…Okay. Eren, I'm gonna need you to throw me."

Eren startled, then rotated his hand to have Adam look at him, silently asking for more clarification.

"It's a theory Hange had, about the Titans not seeing me as a person. The idea is, with other more meaty people around, a whole group of them in the wind, my lack of meat will make me somewhat invisible to them." Adam explained. "Now, it was a mixed bag at Trost, I'll admit. Had some Titans ignore me, others attacked. But I figure with these blind bastards, it might go a lot better. So throw me behind them, and I'll pick them off from behind while you do what you can from up front. My advice? Twist off one of their heads, and use the helmet to bash in the others."

Eren nodded, gave a thumb's up, then brought his arm back, ready to get Adam into the fray. Honestly if they had more time he'd be protesting a bit more, the thought of throwing one of his allies, even a sturdy one like Adam didn't sit right with Eren. But for the Scout's safety, he had to trust Adam knew what he was asking. With a silent prayer, Eren sent Adam sailing through the air.

It was a good throw, and thankfully it didn't have Adam ending up in the middle of the horde, or smacking into the Wall, or flung over the Wall, or any number of ways it could have been embarrassing. Nope, Adam found himself going right over the enemies heads, landing with a sizeable tear through the dirt and ground, rising to his feet and taking aim. Up ahead, the sound of Eren's roaring and lighter, quicker foot-stomps as he charged forward to meet the enemy.

Deciding to have faith the kid had the brains not to die so close to the finishing line, Adam fired right into the back of a Titans knee, continuing until it noticeably severed, twisted away in an L shaped that causes the burdened behemoth to fall backwards, by luck one of it's flailing arms snagging on another Titan's leg plating and weighing down. The still standing Titan found itself falling behind the others, slowly trying to drag its passenger with it, who was unable to rise.

Approaching them, Adam leapt up to land on the still lying down Titan, his feet denting the chest armour inwards. By reflex, the Titan tried to swat him away with its free hand, but Adam batted it away before aiming down where its nape awaited on the other side. Opening fire, a flurry of sparks sprang up where his bullets met metal, before transitioning to blood as he punched through to reach his true target. The Titan twitched violently as it met it's demise, before slumping over, dead.

It's demise did nothing for it's travel buddy, who was still weighed down and falling further behind. It's nape was covered by a sheen of metal, naturally, but that did little to deter Adam.

'If I pull that off, will it die?' Adam wondered as he leapt atop it, the impact less damaging to the Titans protection due to lack of momentum, but that didn't really matter as Adam got a solid grip and pulled. There was a great strain of metal as he twisted it away like a sheet of tinfoil, but sadly no squelch of flesh being ripped away. Whoever had attached this had the foresight not to compromise the weak spot in any way.

'But they didn't account for me.' Adam surmised, as the freed sheet of metal made for the most delightful blade/shovel combo, using it to rip the flesh of the nape out like one would scoop out some ice cream. 'Heh, metal beats meat, every time.'

---

Up ahead, Eren was having a tougher time of it. His initial charge and subsequent slamming into the Titans had proven less than effective, as the Titans were like an impenetrable and moving wall! Their armoured bodies being so closely grouped together made them a solid and unrelenting mass of steel, which just kept moving forward despite Eren's attempt to hold them back, or even chip away at them. He'd found himself sliding back, his feet digging into the ground and leaving deep groves in the earth, as he pressed against them.

'Okay, so this isn't working.' Eren relented, his dreams of causing all the Titans to topple like that game with the white rectangle pieces KIPO had showed him dashed so utterly. 'Guess we're going to have to do this one at a time.' Leaping backwards to get his footing, Eren quickly leaped forwards to land right on top of the nearest Titan at the front.

Eren's whole body slammed into the Titan, his arms wrapped around its head as his feet scrambled to climb on, resting his whole body weight on his opponents head. Amazingly, the Titan didn't fall over, but it did stop in its tracks, the surprise attack and additional weight catching it off guard. That was enough, as its brethren at its back were less than inclined to halt their advancement. They pushed forward, and kept pushing until Eren and his target fell to the ground. And then they continued walking.

With a yelp, Eren rolled away to avoid being trampled underfoot by dozens of Titan feet made much heavier than normal, the added steel tearing up the ground in great patches. The toppled Titan that was in their way was not so fortunate as Eren, as its legs, then torso, and finally its head was crushed into the dirt. Its armour offered some protection, but after the fifth set of feet walking over it, something had to give. Like an unopened soup can, the armour dented, concaved, and flattened, with the contents of its owner being spilled out in a gooey pulpy mess. Even if by some miracle it's nape had been spared (and it hadn't), there was no way it would possibly be able to regenerate with the remains of it's body trapped like that, what wasn't flowing out of the cracks that was.

Even Eren who relished slaughtering the Titans with glee would admit, that was pretty gross.

The Titans kept marching, Eren tearing his eyes away from his kill (still his, even if the Titans were the ones to finish it off) to get back on his feet, only to flinch as one of the ones in the back row exploded! One second it's head was there, the next, gone!

Oh wait, there it was, the helmet having launched off into the air and was now coming back down. Adam's words coming back to him, Eren followed his instinct to catch it, the act the human equivalent to catching a cannonball tossed by a person.

The sound of a gun firing and metal colliding with metal snapped Eren's head up, as he spotted Adam on the back of another Titan in the second last row and working his way through it's back armour to sever it's spine. Seemed he was successful as the Titan flopped backwards, it's feet still planted but it's upper half falling to the ground, the back of its head crashing into another behind it, denting the helmet and sending that Titan to the ground completely.

Adam swung out from under the shadow of the Titan he'd crippled, spotting Eren and the soon to be improvised weapon in his hands.

"Try to use them against each other!" He bellowed. "Trip them up, bring them to their knees, use the armour against them! At the rate we're going they'll be on the Scout's before we can finish them all off, we have to buy them time!" As he spoke, his missile launcher took aim and fired, one directly into the nape of the Titan he crippled, five for the one knocked to the ground.

Eren nodded, and ran forward to the front of the group. He came in from the side, placed the helmet atop his own head (what may have been a Titans brains still occupying it if the squelch was any indication), and head butted the nearest target right in the side.

"…And I'm being lumped in the same category as him." Adam couldn't help but say aloud from his perch on his next victims shoulder. "I don't know why I bother."

---

"Holy shit…" Ymir couldn't help but say, as the first armoured Titan came into view. She only paused for a moment in her work as a state of shock overtook her, but it was enough for someone to run into her.

"Hey, move your ass soldier! We ain't got time to lolly gag here!" Ymir grunted, but got back to work, trying to ignore the rapidly approaching enemy baring down on them.

It couldn't be more than thirty feet out from the village border, thirty Titan feet mercifully but still, way too close for comfort. The sounds of cannon fire graced everyone's ears, seemed the guards had managed to bring them around for another volley, and had brought them as close to the Scout's line to form a protective last wave of defence.

'Not that it seems to be doing much good.' Ymir cursed, watching as the cannonballs bounced off the target like pellets, barely noticeable dents forming. 'Fucking hell, when the fuck did Marley start doing shit like that?! Are they trying to play catch up with Adam? Where is Adam? Where's Eren?'

Just as she thought that, and the horrible thought the two of them had already fallen in battle, the sight of Eren's Titan came into view, running up right to the back of the enemy and taking down with a tackle to the back of it's head, locking his arms around it's neck. Both of them fell out of view, the distance and buildings obstructing everyone's vision.

'…Right, I should just let them work.' Ymir declared, stepping up to the nearest pile of pots and pans and looking for room to load them. Not like there was anything else she could do.

'That's not exactly true though, is it?' Ymir briefly thought, before shaking her head. 'Stop, don't go there. A Titan suddenly appearing in the middle of all this would be more distracting than helpful, they'd most likely try to kill you in a panic, and we are so close to the end here! If they can't handle this, what hope do they have in a real fight?'

The Jaw Shifter paused in her self assurances long enough to see Eren rise back up with the helmeted head of his opponent coming up with him, and nothing else. The ichor dripped from the hidden neck stump out of the metal, which Eren clutched in his hands like a ball and headed off to engage the other armoured Titans that were coming into view now.

'Geez, have my standards for a real fight shifted so much?'

Chancing a glance down the road, Ymir was greeted by the sight of a non decked out Titan collapsing, just at the entrance to the village. It figured the moment Eren and Adam left, the Titans would swarm the area. Well, maybe swarm was a bit of an exaggeration, but there were certainly enough of them that every one of Eren and Adam's backup could no longer just stand around.

Had to give them credit, they didn't give the Titans an inch of ground. They worked off each other, years of experience allowing them to coordinate, to dance around the Titans while another struck the killing blow.

And then there were the freaks like Levi and Mikasa, who took down their opponents solo with a speed and accuracy it was only when the Titan fell you registered it was dead.

(The other vets had tried to reign her in, before deciding it was much more efficient to just let Mikasa work and stay out of her way. It did help KIPO had taken to creating holograms of the Scouts, trying to buy time. While the lack of smell was an issue, Titans still used sight, and found themselves reaching for the wrong target more than once, allowing the real Scout a chance to retreat or retaliate)

Ymir brought up another pot, heavy bastard that could fit a whole person, and exhaled as she managed to get it loaded. 'Just got to hang in there, we're so close…'

"For god's sake, what's the Commander waiting for!? Signal the retreat already!" A Scout opposite of Ymir cursed, struggling to shove a barrel of nails into a wagon. "We've got enough, we're running out of room, the Titans are right there! Is he greedy or something?!"

"Come on man, there's still plenty of stuff we can load." Another chastised. "Don't lose your nerve yet, we're almost done here. Just need to get everything we can loaded up."

"But why? Why not just leave what we can't take now on the side of the road and come back for it later? Who does the Commander think is gonna take it, the Titans?"

"I don't know, but I'm sure there's a good reason." The second Scout answered, blind faith leading him. "I have no reason to think otherwise. And I know you don't either. If you can just hold it together for another… eight minutes? Five? We'll be out of here before you know it, just hang in there."

"…FUCK!" The Scout declared, as he shoved with all his might and got the barrel wedged nice and firm. "Okay, anyone need help?"

"Got me some cooking pots here I could use a hand with." Ymir called out.

"On it!"

The two of them got the rest loaded in no time, then moved on to tie everything down.

'So close…'

---

It spoke well of Eren and Adam, despite the overwhelming odds, they had managed to delay the armoured Titans advance. By the time they were taking their first steps into the village, the last three minutes of the operation were about to occur, and a majority of the enemy had been dispatched.

That wasn't to say there wasn't a problem though. Even with their number's depleted and hobbled, there were still ten armoured Titan's making their way to the Scout's, who were all gathering up on the main road anxiously awaiting for the order to retreat any second now.

The wagon drivers were focused front and center, ready to snap the reins and go roaring through the gates the moment they opened. The ones assigned to keeping the horses gathered, they handing off reins in pairs to the assigned Scout's, getting them into position and calling for every Scout to do the same. First went the scavengers, who had capped off the last wagon and were now mounting up, eager to leave. Next would be the Scout's who'd taken defensive positions on the rooftops, holding back but ready to jump in should the Titans make it to the main road, their horses unoccupied and being attached to another. If the worse happened and they missed the chance to mount up, they could retreat over the Wall with their ODM gear and fully stocked gas tanks.

Behind them, Levi and the rest of the rear line of defence had just felled their last Titan, any more incoming too far away to cause any problems by the time they made it behind the Walls.

"Please tell me we're actually leaving now, sir." Levi growled, his faith in Erwin and his logic being severely tested right now, as another armoured Titan who hadn't had it's legs blown off or was being dragged down by Eren was steadily approaching, crushing houses underfoot and just plowing through a church. Even worse, the damn thing was on fire, the result of Adam's last missile barrage sadly making the situation worse instead of better!

(Though to be fair when Adam fired that barrage there were three Titan's, now just one, so he'd call that a win.)

Erwin said nothing, merely withdrew his flare gun, and loaded up a special round.

"…Finally." Levi covered his ears, as Erwin pulled the trigger.

The acoustic round went off, and the sonic explosion caused everyone's ears to ring, even all the way to the Wall. There was a moment of silence, before to everyone's relief, the gates started to open.

"SOLDIERS!" Erwin bellowed, at the rear of the column but heard by all. "FORWARD!"

With the snap of their reins and the thundering of hooves, the Scout's all took off straight for the gates! It was a miracle the current Garrison troops at it's controls weren't the sort to leave nearly a hundred soldiers at the mercy of the Titans, had there been any delay in following Erwin's commands, things might have gotten ugly. As it were, the Scout's were unimpeded as they tore through the entrance to Karanese district.

"Fuck yeah, we're outta here!" Connie cheered, taking the moment to taunt the big uglies in the distance behind them. "Smell you later losers!"

"Eyes on the road!" A hand clamped down on his head and forced him forward. "In case you hadn't noticed, we've got a big flaming ugly coming up from the side!" Reiner swore, having taken Mikasa's horse as she remained as emergency support.

"Oh crap, here it comes!" A Scout swore, as the ignited Titan in question was just two houses away from the main road. Part of it's front face covering had been smashed off, and it's grinning bloody teeth surrounded flame was a picture straight out of hell.

"Keep going, don't let it-" Someone called out, only for the Titan to lurch forward, then… be lifted into the sky?

At the last second, Eren had managed to wrap his arms around the Titan's middle, and was in the process of forming a suplex! 'Shit, this actually hurts!' Eren cursed, the flames actually managing to cause him pain as they seared his flesh. But he powered on through, and brought the Titan down on it's head, right into the ground.

Getting up and turning around, Eren grinned in satisfaction… only to curse as the Titan rose, lifting its head out of the imprint in the ground and grinning that sickly grin.

'Well, least the flames are gone, that should-' Eren didn't get to finish that thought, as the Titan suddenly rushed forward in a burst of speed to take a swing at him! He ducked under the initial strike, but then the Titan followed up with a back hand that sent Eren flying.

Flying in the direction of the Scout's who scrambled to halt their horses in time!

The resulting crash cut off the last third of the Scout's, and Eren was splayed out right in the middle. He shook his head to gather his bearings, only to spot a bunch of Scout's blocked off by his body. Startling up, he quickly checked under him, a brief moment of panic as he spotted a woman clutching her arm next to her crushed horse. By some miracle, she was the only one hit, and hadn't suffered a terrible fate courtesy of Eren's backside.

"Shit!" A Scout cursed, dismounting his horse to tend to the wounded. He scooped the woman in his arms, ignoring her cries of pain. "Don't just stand there Jaeger, clear some of this fucking debris already! The wagons can't get through!"

Eren quickly hopped to his feet, and taking only a second to make sure there were no other bodies, brought his hands down to shove everything he could to one side, quick as he could with his sparring partner approaching. Its feet were kicking up building with every step, raining down debris that was starting to clog up the road and undo Eren's efforts. Just as he was tempted to say 'Good enough,' and take care of this immediate threat, a flurry of shimmering metal rose into the sky, and made a beeline straight for the armoured Titan.

"Eren!" Eren turned his head away from the practically solid mass that collided with the Titan at the voice of his friend, who was swooping in to land on his shoulder. "KIPO says she can help, says she can give you a weapon and make an opening for you! If you can hold it down she can get to work!"

Didn't need to tell Eren twice, if Armin told him to do it then he was going to do it, you could always trust he had a plan! Leaping forward, he rushed through the Specter swarm and grabbed the sides of its helmet, the plates making excellent handles that he used to wrench the Titans head to the ground. Sadly Eren wasn't able to wrench the head off like he'd done earlier a couple of times, but that was okay, he had it pinned and KIPO was hard at work, digging into the Titans armour and disintegrating it at the seams. It started to come off a bit at a time, then bigger bits, and then…

With a start, Eren managed to pull the face plate of the Titan right off, an explosion of steam bursting forth and causing some of the Specter swarm to fall to the ground. Eren stumbled back a bit but regained his footing, crushing some ruined houses into dust. Looking down at the face plate, he slowly looked up, as the Titan regained its sight.

Seems Eren had taken a bit more than just the face plate, as he tilted it in his hands to get a quick look, noting the dripping blood and chunks of meat still attached. The Titans face was steaming closed, but the sight of its peeled off exposed muscle would honestly stick with Eren for some time. As would the giant steel screws that had been impaled through its noggin, connected to the back of the armoured helmet to better keep it in place. It kept grinning, utterly oblivious or impervious to the pain.

"Eren, it's ready." Armin silently said, to which Eren turned to look to his friend who hoped back up on his shoulder, then down to his hand as the weight of the face plate shifted. To his amazement, as the Specter swarm retreated, what lay in his hands wasn't a piece of busted armour, but a hammer! It was small (by fifteen meter tall Titan standards), the design based off one used for household repairs, but damn if KIPO hadn't buffed it! A multitude of spikes, just perfect for tearing off flesh and delivering the perfect combination of bludgeoning and tearing, lined the weapon!

"KIPO apologizes for taking so long to make something like this, she says she needed a lot more of Specter to have this ready by the time the mission ended, and to also make it this fast…" Armin began, only for Eren to wave away his concerns, as he brought up his new toy. The Titan who'd been giving him so much trouble, it had just lumbered forth, only to receive a hammer to its brow for its troubles.

In just three strikes Eren broke in its skull, removing a sizeable chunk with every swing and pull, until with a final blow, the entire head was gone, as was naturally its nape. Excessive? Probably. Cathartic? Absolutely.

---

The way had been cleared, and Eren was back on his feet holding the enemy back, but there was still a bit of distance to go for the last of the Scout's. So close, and yet so far…

They rode on, pushing their mounts forward for all they were worth, the home stretch a literal straight line! Or at least it was for few seconds, before one of the armoured Titans forced to a crawl by Eren and Adam burst out of the houses onto the main road.

"Fuck! How'd that one get so close without anyone seeing it!?" A wagon driver cursed, as he attempted to steer away! "Shit, it's blocking the road, I can't avoid it!"

"Fucking bullshit!" With a start, the wagon driver jumped back as a Scout shot forward, right into the Titans face! He landed with both feet propping him up against the metal, and beat his sword handles down, over and over again.

"Hey ugly! You like that! Yeah, I'm on your face and giving you the headache of a lifetime! C'mon, this has to be pretty annoying! One swipe, that's all it'll take to get me off" Jean cried out, fear and bravery compelling him in equal measure, his face a distorted grin only the terrified were capable of.

The terrified, and the truly brave.

The Titan evidently did not like having Jean on it's face, or rather face plate, as it blindly swiped at were it thought the annoying echo was coming from. Jean just managed to dodge, dislodging one of his hooks to do so only to fire it again and regain his footing, still perched on the Titan.

"Missed me asshole! Come on, I'm over here! Follow the sound of my voice, idiot!"

The Titan did just that, crawling forward as it incorrectly determined Jean was flying away. The majority of its bulk leaned away from the main road, not entirely, but there was enough that the wagon could squeeze through. It, and the Scout's escorting it, filed on through, so close to the Titan they could have brushed against its still healing legs, the steam encasing them.

But they pushed through, and soon, they emerged on the other side.

"Jean, we're good! You can make a break for it now!" Sasha cried out, her stomach clenching as the Titan tried to smash it's face into the ground, Jean barely managing to dismount.

"I'm trying, but this. Thing. Won't. Fucking. Quit!" Jean cursed, narrowly dodging blind strike after blind strike, for a thing that couldn't see it was doing remarkably well at keeping Jean from getting away, seems he'd done too good a job pissing it off.

"Ah shit, we've gotta help him!" Connie cried, making to take his feet out of his stirrups when Reiner's voice cut in, along with his reins.

"Take this, and get through the gate. I'll get Jean out of there!" Reiner declared, jetting off before Connie could protest. He landed right where the Titans ear should be, and copying Jean's strategy, banged his sword handles down. "Hey, c'mon ugly! I know you can hear this!"

Indeed it did, as it made to bat away at the annoyance at it's ear.

"What the hell, are you a complete idiot?! Get the hell outta here Reiner!" Jean bellowed, his chance to escape present but his friend in danger stopping him from taking his chance.

"Sorry Jean, I WHOA!," Reiner just barely avoided the slam from its metal covered forearm, landing back in the space behind its head, right over it's nape, "I couldn't help myself!"

"Fucking hell…" Jean cursed, then quickly formed a plan. 'Eren's outta range, can't spot Adam, everyone's gotten through but if I leave now… Fuck, what can I do?'

"Jean!" Mikasa's sudden voice graced Jean's ears, and he was blessed by the sight of her, and Captain Levi, coming up on their ODM gear. "I'll distract the Titan, you just get Reiner out of there!"

"Belay that." Levi's voice interrupted. "I'll distract it, you two go help the new guy. Work fast, you hear?"

"Yessir!" They both acknowledged, then shot down right to where Reiner was. Jean honestly figured he and Mikasa would simultaneously cause noise that would give Reiner the opening he needed, but when they arrived.

"Are you serious?"

"You want to just watch, or are you willing to help me?" Reiner grunted, trying with all his might to pry the covering off the Titan's nape. Mikasa and Jean both looked to each other, before hoping down and getting to work. The plating was solid, but between the abuse it had taken arriving here, Mikasa and Reiner's strength, and all three of them working together, the armour was pried away just enough for Mikasa to deliver a perfect killing blow.

They held on as the Titan suddenly stiffened, then fell to the ground in a mighty crash. Coughing as the dust settled in around the, they were greeted by the sight of Levi staring them down.

"When I said help the new guy, I was talking about you pulling his fat out of the fire." Levi commented. "Still got gas to spare?"

"Uh… yes sir." Jean confirmed, rapping his knuckles agains this tank, and upon confirming the sound of it being half way full with Mikasa and Reiner, gave an affirmative nod. "We're all good here."

"Then let's get going. Horses have all made it through, only way is up and over." Levi gestured with his head. "Good work, by the way."

"Thank you sir."

"Try not to take such a risk again."

"Believe me, I don't plan to. Sir." Jean answered, with Reiner nodding. Mikasa merely smiled, relieved her friends were okay.

With that, all four of them, along with the rest of the rear guard who Levi and Mikasa had just left in the wind, sailed over the Walls. They looked back to see the signs of Eren and Adam mopping up. Eight Titans had become five, then three, then finally one…

With the last one being decapitated by its own pried off chest armour in a combination of Eren and Adam's strength, it was over. The corpses lay there, steaming, the armour littering the area in a trail from the forest all the way to the village. Straight ahead, the first steps of a regular Titan could be heard, through the haze of steam as it entered the area, the lingering scent of all the human's it had missed out on drawing it in.

But it would find no prey to consume here.

Eren had run up to the gate and presented his nape, where Levi had swooped down to cut him out and hoist him to safety. Adam for his part had been granted a lift used for horses in the event a gate wasn't available.

The operation was over, and it was safe to say, the Scout's had won.

---

A sight the people of the districts of Wall Rose were very familiar with, Scout's returning from beyond the Wall's. On the side's of the road, the citizens watched those who sported the Wings of Freedom on their person riding on horseback or on fully loaded carts full of who knows what. Already snorts of contempt were being muttered, sighs of resignation at yet another failure to fight the Titan's occurred, clearly.

"Look at this. Our taxes go to support these bums, and for what? Them to play soldier just outside our door only to come scurrying back with their tails between their legs?" Someone cursed from the crowd, though not quite loud enough he could be overheard.

"I thought they were supposed to have some kind of new weapon? What was all that about? Did they manage anything or not?" Another muttered.

"So now they can't even get far enough we don't have to hear them die? Fucking great, this districts gonna fall any day now, isn't it?" Was the last.

But to the more observant and less bitter amongst the crowd, some took notice of the Scout's demeanour. Without exception, Scout's always came back looking beaten, exhausted, broken. Some held it together better, merely appearing sullen, but there was never a doubt, they had seen friends die today. Friends they had left in the belly of a Titan, or by some miracle, managed to retrieve the body or at least a limb to be given a burial.

So why wasn't that the case today?

They weren't exactly all smiling, but they weren't looking… well, like living death either. Mostly they appeared confused, like they couldn't believe what was happening or had happened. Other's looked exhausted, but in a way they also looked alive, like one who worked a full days shift and was ready to enjoy their day off would. The few that were smiling, dare the people say it, it looked like they had actual hope!

A quick peek at the carts by a few brave souls revealed that amazingly, there were no bodies! Well, surely that just meant the Titans had devoured their victims whole, everyone knew it was impossible for there to be zero casualties! Well okay, not impossible, but you could count on one hand the number of times that had happened! And yet, no one here looked mournful or vengeful, at all…

People were starting to stare at Adam Smasher now, how he marched in tune with the Scout's steeds. He didn't spare a glance at anyone, but he certainly was a focus of attention. Riding on either side of him, were Mikasa Ackerman and Eren Jaeger, who blearily looked through the crowd. He spotted two children staring at him in awe, mouth's wide and hero worship in their eyes.

"Do you see that?! The Scout's are back!"

"Look at them! They keep getting back up to fight over and over again!"

"Look at the metal knight that's with them! They say he's a hero from the lands beyond sent to help us!"

"Where's the friendly Titan? Is he outside? Do you think he's cold out there? Maybe we should give him a blanket to keep warm for the night, I'll ask my mom if we can borrow dad's!"

Eren couldn't help it, the edges of his mouth lifted up in a smile. 'Today… today was a victory. We won today…' He blearily thought, before exhaustion overtook him.

"Whoa, easy there boy." Adam caught Eren before he could fall off his horse. "Guess that full hour of non stop fighting did it for you, huh?"

"Is Eren alright?" Mikasa asked, her concern overriding her need to let her distrust of Adam show.

"He's fine, just spent. Tell you what, we can trade. I'll give you one tuckered out meat-bag for my projector orb back, fair?"

Mikasa nodded, and retrieved the orb from her horses satchel which Adam quickly took, before carefully removing Eren from his stirrups and hoisting on the back of Mikasa's horse.

"Ride carefully now, wouldn't do much for morale if he fell off and cracked his skull after all that." Adam took the reigns of Eren's now riderless horse.

"I'll make sure he gets back safe." Mikasa assured, herself as much as Adam.

"See that he gets some grub too. He may have chomped a lot of Titans but I doubt that was appetizing or filling in any way for him."

Mikasa didn't even respond, merely looking over her shoulder to the sleeping boy.

Up ahead of them, Levi was riding alongside Armin. "So, did we get what we needed?"

"KIPO says we have more than enough, and that's not including the Titan's armour waiting outside!" Armin happily relayed. "If we send Specter out to collect all that… she says she could grant the Scout's long range weapons of our own!"

"Keep that on the down low brat, we have the King's men waiting for us." Levi scowled. "…Let me know when and how we can make that happen. I'll find a way to hide anything she makes from the King's eyes, but she better take into account our methods of fighting. Need something light enough to work with our ODM gear."

"She says she has some idea's, perhaps a possible modification to replace our swords with-"

"Excuse me, Captain Levi!" Krista's voice interrupted, as the girl in question rode up right alongside them. "Um, I have something to say."

"Yeah? Don't keep me in suspense, what is it?"

"Well…" Krista looked like she wanted to be anywhere else right now, but with the strength and determination of someone approaching their execution, she took a deep gulp of air, then spoke. "You know Captain, every year of my life I see that the wise and the beautiful, bring out the best and the pure in us."

"…" Levi said, confused.

"…" Armin said, equally confused.

"…Heeheehee, BWAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!" Adam said, howling with laughter, his horrible voice causing several Scout's to pull their horses away out of reflex.

But then… another voice joined in, laughing as well. It was a Scout, just a one year vet by the name of Killa, who'd mistaken Adam's laughter for some kind of cheer, a cry of victory over the overwhelming odds. That got another to laugh, then another, til eventually the whole column of Scout's marching down the street's erupted into cheers and laughter and declarations of victory!

"We did it!"

"That'll show those bastards!"

"We can do this, we can do this!"

"Our hearts and lives for the cause!"

"Long live Eren Jaeger! Long live Adam Smasher!"

On and on it went, to the surprise of the citizens. Never had they witnessed the Scout Regiment in such spirits, ever! Was it really that grand a win for them? Had they really accomplished something?

It wasn't long before Erwin and Hange caught up, both bemused by the attitude of their soldiers. Even more bemusing was Levi staring down Krista Lenz who was as bright red as a tomato.

"Spill, brat. What was with that corny line? Did that metal prick put you up to this?"

"I uh, I can neither confirm nor deny that sir…"

"So he did do it, lovely." Levi scowled. "Just what is that walking scrap pile playing at?"

"Ease up Levi, sounds like you were just the victim of a harmless prank. Or maybe, Krista here was…" Hange smirked. "What'd I miss? Sounds like a hilarious joke of the laughter is anything to go by."

"No, it wasn't funny in the slightest. It was… I don't know what, but I'm going to have some words later with Mr. Smasher back there." Levi was just about to pull his reins back to ride the two rows down to make good on his threat, when a hand held up by Erwin stopped him.

"Belay that Captain. The soldiers morale has never been higher, let this slight slide for now. You can interrogate him at your leisure when we have all had a good rest and a fest." Erwin offered. "I think today we can afford to spring for a little more than rations and water."

"Better not think about opening your private stores to everyone, that tea is mine." Levi declared. He was still a little pissed at how much danger Erwin had put everyone in, but he honestly couldn't argue with the man's logic, those things needed to die.

Still, didn't mean he wasn't upset about it.

"Perish the thought. But Armin and KIPO did offer a creative solution with the Scout's finances. I think we can break the seal on our savings a few months early, to keep everyone's spirits up." Erwin smiled. As stretched thin as the Scout's were in terms in lavish spendings, even they could afford to have a grand fest once in a while. Erwin made it a point to save up for such a day as much as possible, it certainly came across as one's last meal, but for soldiers who risked everything on a constant basis, they certainly deserved it and more. "Yes, I think we've more than earned it."

"…Well, certainly couldn't hurt, we've got a couple weeks to work off any weight gain from pigging out." Levi relented, before turning his gaze to a slowly edging away Krista. "Don't think you're off the hook. Whatever that was, I expect a rational explanation for why that was so funny."

"Eep!" Krista jumped in her saddle, before collecting herself. "Um… is that wise? After all, if one has to explain a joke, then there is no joke…"

"Don't get smart with me. You and me, we're having a chat with Adam. Be up bright and early first thing in the morning, understood?" Levi's tone broke no room for argument, which Krista gave in to miserably.

"…Yes sir." With a groan and a pout, the 104th's goddess sounded off to her place in the column, where a bewildered Ymir awaited her.

"Um, in Krista's defence, she doesn't have a mean spirited bone in her body. I'm positive she's just a victim in all this." Armin tried, ever the peace maker.

"Duly noted. I expect to see you first thing in the morning too, since you can apparently track him down I'll need you to make sure he doesn't evade me."

"…Yes sir." Armin sighed. But he had to admit, now he was kinda curious what was so funny about what Krista said. 'The wise and the beautiful? Is that code for something?'

"…Anyways, just so you know, our guests were quite pleased with our performance! Standing our ground, taking down the enemy, suffering no casualties! They had tears of joy in their eye, a real appreciation for the Survey Corp blossoming in their hearts!" Hange change the subject, flinging their arms in the air to reinforce their story.

"Sure that wasn't the stench of the dead Titans wafting up to them?" Levi questioned.

"Nope!" Hange grinned. "Heard it from the ice woman herself. "What you have done here will change everything. I'll be sure to let the King know exactly what occurred, in full detail. My, how beautiful you are Section Commander Hange. If anyone was lucky enough to catch your eye, they would be a fool not to see how blessed they are.""

"…"

"Yes yes, I was struck speechless too by her flattery. But fortunately the Commander and I were able to get the topic back on track, and turn matters back to the Titans armour. As it happens, we were able to get the Garrison deployed to keep a watch over the bodies and all that metal lying with them. Just need a little prep time, we should have Armin all set to take it all apart over the upcoming days, and really give ourselves a boost! Ohhhhh, I have quite the shopping list I want to share!" Hange gushed with excitement.

"As do I. I plan to have KIPO offer me her suggestions for weapons and equipment in addition to using the Braindance to fully see for myself how effective they are. It'll take some time and training to fully use them, but if we can take even approach even a tenth of the power Adam displayed today…"

"…We just might make it to Shinganshina and seal Wall Maria before winter arrives." Levi finished, his fingers twitching the only sign he was actually excited. "Dang, I may owe an apology to Eld."

"I'm sure he'll forgive you." Hange patted his back, which Levi shrugged off. "Now, what say we get home and go over all the goodies we acquired? I was so focused on Adam and Eren I missed out on seeing Specter at work! Armin, give me a show!"

---

The sight of their current headquarters was a welcome sight to all the Scout's. With the afternoon sun beating down on them from the sky, the exhaustion from all the menial labour they'd performed creeping up on them, and the absolute madness the final minutes of the operation had been, many were ready to collapse in their own beds, maybe partake in a bath if enough water was collected and heated up.

"Well, guess you're due for a grand tour of the Scout's current home. Yeah, it may not be as glamorous as the Interior I'm sure, but it's still a freaking castle!" Sasha beamed.

"Yeah man, just wait til you see the inside! There's a banquet hall and everything! Pretty sure we could dig up a fancy chair somewhere, get Armin to make a crown, you could be king for a day!" Connie joined in, just pleased to have their friend with them.

"Ah, thanks guys, but I really don't think I need to be arrested for treason on my first day…" Reiner laughed.

"Hey, after what you did, you deserve it! You and Jean both, you guys really saved our bacon." Connie declared, turning to Jean, who was trying very hard to hide how much the praise was stroking his ego. "Seriously, thank you."

"Ah, don't be like that. We just got lucky is all, there were so many different ways they could have fallen." Jean couldn't help the smug look that overcame him. "But if it means that much to you, how about you toss a bit of actual bacon our way. You know, when Reggie hands em out?"

"Whoa now, let's not get crazy!" Sasha blanched. "Save us three more times and then we'll see."

"Seriously? How stingy can you get?" Jean grumbled. "Some thank you."

"Hey now, she's got a point. Not like you can enjoy the stuff everyday like in the Interio- oops." Reiner flinched at his mistake, and at the three sets of glaring eyes directed at him.

"On second thought, maybe Reiner should give up his share for a while." Sasha declared.

"Saw him getting awful chummy with Reggie. Can't even go one day without the good stuff, while we're lucky to get any meat at all." Connie accused. "

"Whoa whoa, calm down guys." Reiner waved his hands in front of him. "I'm the same as you all now, remember? Yeah I got a taste of luxury but I'm roughing it with the rest of you as a Scout!"

"Oh? So you're saying it's harder for you because you got a taste of paradise and actually know what you've given up compared to us ignorant savages?" Sasha turned her nose up at Reiner, with Connie following the action.

"What? No, I just- Jean, help me out here!" Reiner pleaded.

"You're on your own, pal." Jean coldly stated. "See if anyone makes you a crown now."

"I didn't even want a crown!" Reiner protested. "Come on guys!"

Jean turned away at that, only because he was about to burst into laughter! His shoulders were shaking, but hopefully Reiner would believe it was from barely contained rage. Sasha and Connie would probably let him off the hook in a few minutes, but for now, Jean was just enjoying the moment. It almost felt like the 104th was back together again.

They just made it through the gates, Sasha giving Reiner some mercy by making him promise never to flaunt his status over them again (which Reiner confusedly but immediately agreed to), and Jean just dismounting his horse when a voice rang out.

"Mail call! If anyone here has the energy to check, we just got our parcels delivered today! All needing signatures, got us a new girl who's very strict about protocol and won't bend the rules like the regulars, so don't go thinking she's just gonna dump them on the ground and move on!" A Scout by the name of Juergen called out. Jean sighed, caught between his desire to just flop into a mattress and sleep the rest of the day away, or to see if his mom or Pieck had written to him. He was still struggling with the decision when another voice graced his ears.

"Hey now, don't say it like that. I'd carefully and respectfully stack everything neat and orderly on a clean surface for you all. One day. But until then, signatures are required, please! Especially from Commander Erwin, if someone could send for him?" The voice of an absolute angel just ensnared Jean, and he peeked over his horse to lock eyes with the love of his life, waiting by her cart.

"Pieck…" He whispered, while she smiled and waved enthusiastically.

"Hey Jean!" She greeted. "Anything interesting happen to you today?"

---

Traute Caven approached the father of the local church with a single gold coin in her palm and the smell of gunpowder sticking to her skin. She'd sent away her three escorts back to the safety and sanctity of Wall Sina not long ago, who were no doubt going to have very interesting reports to give to the King and his court. Sannes was certainly going to ignore all the good Adam and Eren had accomplished, so resolute in his service to the King. The others might be a little more lenient, though they would most likely defer to Sannes lead. And for the armoured Titans… they'd ignore that, as they should.

After all, the King had commanded it.

"Blessed be, my child. What services can these holy grounds offer you?" The father approached, as if he didn't know what Caven was here for.

"Confessional, ideally. Somewhere my sins won't be overheard." Caven held up the coin, which the father plucked out of her fingers with practiced ease. "I presume he's waiting for me?"

"Indeed he is, and has been helping himself to our stock. Drinks like a fish, and yet shows no signs of intoxication." The father chuckled. "Of course, his attitude and language are so crude I doubt I could tell."

"I'll be sure to pass that along." Caven remarked, which the father only smiled at as she proceeded to the cellar. She opens the door, to indeed find Kenny emptying yet another bottle, his forth.

"I don't know what it is about religious types, but somehow, the booze they make is always the best stuff." Kenny belched, slunk back in his chair and looking quite pleased with himself. "Think that's the trick? To have such a delightful temptation in arms reach but never partake? Have a sin right there but resist the urge to be more holy or something?"

"Careful Kenny, you almost sound insightful there." Caven sat down across from him, crossing her legs and her arms.

"Whoops, can't have that." Kenny chuckled, before setting the bottle down upside down to be upheld by the first three empties, nestled perfectly in the middle of them up high. He cracked his neck, before leaning forward with obvious eagerness. "So, how did it go?"

"Better than we could have hoped, and worse than we feared." Caven reported, before giving a full recount of the days events, from the Scout's salvaging operations to Adam and Eren brining down the last armoured Titan. "By the end, all targets had been routed, and the Scout's succeeded with no casualties."

"Bet that was quite a shock." Kenny laughed. "Titans geared up and coming in like weapons of war, bet even the runt was flabbergasted."

"Nobody was prepared for the sight of them. Despite that, Eren and Adam quickly moved to intercept them, and by the skin of their teeth, bring them down before any human casualties could occur."

"Nice. Bet they'll be pondering over that for a good while, wondering where they came from." Kenny laughed. "Think any of those so called Warriors got a good look? There had to be at least one of them in the crowd. Wonder what they're thinking, if their homeland is invading or something, wouldn't that be a riot!"

"I'm confident at least one of them was present. Both Eren and Adam are primarily with the Scout's, they'd have to be remarkably poor tacticians not to keep tabs on them." Caven uncrossed her arms and legs, and rested her hands in her lap. "Speaking of… was sacrificing all of them really the best play?"

"What, did you actually get attached to the things?" Kenny chuckled.

"It just seems like such a waste. All the effort of capturing them and bolting that armour onto them, the trial and effort… surely we could have used them in a trap of some sort to bring down the others?"

"Hey, you heard the boss man. Their sole purpose was to see how modifications to Titans would go, how their healing would fight against it. After that, they were an uncontrollable force that had to be disposed of. So why not let the Scout's and their heavy hitters deal with them, put on a show at the same time?"

"Still, all that steel gone to waste…"

"I wouldn't worry too much about that. Recycling is a big part of our guests way of life, and as a result, ours too." Kenny patted Caven's shoulder. "Trust me, all that armour? It'll be back in our hands before you know it, and used to make something even better. Got a good look at what your favourite person in our little club house is making next, and let me tell you, it's the stuff of nightmares!"

"I still don't like him. Slinking away without telling anyone, the King just taking him at his word, naming him his Advisor, and these… enhancements he's shown us…" Caven actually frowned, her discomfort clear. "Can we really trust him?"

"Probably not, even if we have at literally everything he's said so far. But it's either this, or wait for the outside world to slaughter us which is evidently any day now." Kenny shrugged, utterly indifferent. "Least this way we'll go down swinging at worst, and have ourselves a free ride and the power to make the world our bitch at best."

A smile came across Kenny's face. "And I can't help but really, REALLY want to see our new toys in action. Like the thing our friend brought back that reminded you of Adam Smasher, what were they called?"

"Robots?" Caven recalled. "The… Dragoon robots?"

"Nah, not them, the other thing… ah right! DaiOni! Just love that name, has the word "Die" in it. But yeah, love those Dragoon's too, the way they talk," Kenny shivered in delight, "Woof, I'm having fun picturing the Titans encountering them, and the rest of the cool shit we're getting ready to unleash! It's gonna be absolute HELL!" Kenny gave a holler at the thought, the urge to take off his hat and slap his knee coming to him, so he did just that! Caven only stared, as the only person she had any care for looked more alive than he'd ever been in all the years she'd known him. It was an energy that quelled any doubts and just pulled her in, taking her along with him on this road that would absolutely end in disaster…

But like Kenny said, it was also going to be fun.

"…All right." Caven nodded, before straightening up, reaching into her breast pocket for a small pocket book, opening it. "Then I suppose you'd like that list of recommendations you asked me to put together?"

"Oh yeah!" Kenny clapped, as if he'd actually forgotten. "Let's hear who you think would be up for willingly giving up their meat while they're still alive! Come on, tell me whose wanting to be one of the cool kids?"

"Well to start with, got a Captain Kitz Weilman, who's become something of a pariah for almost killing humanities new hope Eren Jaeger. He frequents a bar and has become distant from his wife and kid's…"

The meeting ended not long after, the last name on the list supplied by Kenny (which Caven had to raise an eyebrow at, but the man swore up and down this one was absolutely necessary, Advisor's orders, and yes, she'd have to drop by Stohess at this exact date), and the plan of attack, I.e. bringing in everyone on the list worked out. With that, the two of them exited the church, Kenny whistling a merry tune.

Least the next ones would be relatively simple, a reprieve from the was fast approaching.

After all, how exciting could a recruitment drive be?

---

"So the King is sending out his royal decree by the common courier service now?" Levi frowned at the fancy envelope in Erwin's hands, embroidered with golden lettering on a fine red paper with a very perfectly place red wax seal, sporting the King's emblem clear as day.

'Fuck, that envelope is probably worth more than a month's pay. The Interior just throws money on the fireplace, doesn't it?' Levi scowled.

"More likely, the official courier didn't want to degrade themselves coming out here so they passed it on to another. Who passed it on to someone else, and possibly it exchanged hands three more times before eventually it wound up in the hands of the people's delivery service." Erwin made to procure his letter opener. "We're fortunate it ended up in the hands of someone who takes their work seriously. This could have been lost in all sorts of ways."

"Yeah, like winding up under a meat order. Couldn't help but notice she wasn't just delivering mail there." Levi wrinkled his nose at the smell coming from the envelope. It seems it, and by extension everyone else's mail, had been riding along with the food stuff's. Mostly baked good's, but there was some fish and produce in the mix… "Well anyway, anything of actual interest or is his majesty just offering useless platitudes again?"

Erwin said nothing, merely opened up the envelope and perused its contents. His face didn't change at all, but the atmosphere certainly had.

"We must give our thanks to the young miss who so diligently delivered this to us. A day later and we would have missed our appointed date." Erwin remarked, before turning to Levi. "Call Adam Smasher, and begin preparations. Even if the Interior has no respect for us, it wouldn't do to not put on our best behaviour."

"Are you saying what I think you're saying?"

"I am. We have been summoned by the King."