Chapter 12
Eren, Historia, Dina, Erwin, and Mikasa sit around the table, their expressions a mix of tension and anticipation. Beyond the closed doors, the rest of their comrades wait, their murmurs barely audible in the background.
"Why did you choose only the two of us for this meeting? What's your motive?" Erwin's voice cuts through the silence, his gaze fixed on Eren.
"It's a matter that should stay between us," Eren replies cryptically, his eyes flickering with intensity. "Let's start by delving into the history of Eldia."
Historia leans forward, her voice carrying the weight of centuries past. "Long ago, the Titans' power rested within the Eldian Empire. These powers were harnessed for the greater good—cultivating lands, constructing bridges, and defending against threats. With the Titans, Eldia thrived, but its prosperity drew envy from neighboring nations. Wars were waged in a bid to claim that power for themselves, even at the cost of millions of lives."
"Exactly a century ago," Eren interjects, his tone solemn, "the 145th king of Eldia, Karl Fritz, faced betrayal from within. The Tybur family orchestrated the Great Titan War, relinquishing seven of the nine Titan powers to Marley. Forced to retreat to Paradis Island, Eldia's final bastion, the king used the Founding Titan's might to erect colossal walls, behind which the remaining Eldians sought refuge."
Erwin's eyes widen in realization. "You're suggesting..."
"Yes," Dina confirms, her voice steady. "Within these very walls, countless Titans slumber, remnants of a bygone era. The king transformed Paradis into an isolated realm, issuing a chilling ultimatum to the world: disturb our peace, and face the unleashing of the Wall Titans—the Rumbling."
Erwin's voice lowers to a hushed tone. "So, we're not the last remnants of humanity."
"No, not even close. We represent just a fraction, a mere 10% of the global population," Eren reveals, his expression reflecting a mix of resignation and determination.
"These other nations perceive us as a threat due to the king's warning a century ago," Erwin muses, his mind working through the implications. "But why risk provoking the descendants of the king if it could lead to catastrophic consequences?"
"There are multiple reasons at play here," Historia explains, her voice tinged with a hint of sorrow. "Firstly, they view Paradis as a looming danger, a potential trigger for the release of the Wall Titans. Their objective is to neutralize this perceived threat. Additionally, the allure of reclaiming the Founding Titan drives them. While Marley has clung to global dominance through Titan powers, the world is evolving. Conventional weaponry is advancing rapidly, threatening to surpass Titan abilities. To maintain their supremacy, they must seize control of the Founding Titan."
"And if the king possesses such immense power, why hasn't he eradicated the Titans beyond the walls?" Erwin probes further, seeking clarity amidst the complexities.
Dina's voice enters the conversation, carrying a weight of history. "The king, wounded by betrayal, chose to erase the memories of those within this island, shielding them from the harsh truths of the world. His aim was to preserve a fragile peace. He bound the Founding Titan's abilities with a vow, restricting their use to those of royal blood. However, my husband, Grisha Yeager, broke that vow, unleashing a chain of events."
Erwin turns his attention to Historia, his eyes searching for answers. "So, you are the bearer of the Founding Titan, the Royal Blood?"
"Yes," Historia confirms, her gaze unwavering. "My father sits on the throne, and I've lived in shadows, hidden behind a false identity to safeguard myself from political machinations."
Mikasa's voice carries a mix of hurt and confusion. "But why keep us in the dark all this time? You've been hiding the truth from us for years, haven't you?"
Eren exhales heavily, the weight of his decisions evident in his expression. "We kept you uninformed because what we're planning is both dreadful and necessary. It's a path we must tread to safeguard our fellow Eldians. Knowing your opposition to our military involvement, we couldn't risk involving you."
Historia interjects with a somber tone, "Eren possesses the power of the Attack Titan, bestowed upon him by his father. This Titan's unique ability allows him to manipulate time. Both Eren and I have glimpses of our future selves in our minds, aware of what is to come and what must be averted."
Eren's demeanor turns colder as he continues, "That's precisely why we must take matters into our own hands. Commander Erwin, I regret to say this, but in our future visions, due to the actions of Reiner, Bertolt, and Annie, the Survey Corps suffers catastrophic losses, leaving only nine survivors. We aim to prevent that fate by intercepting them swiftly and consuming their powers."
Historia's voice carries a hint of determination. "Our aim extends beyond just confronting the Titans. We intend to initiate a coup against both the military and the royal government. Trust in their institutions has been shattered, and we refuse to submit to their control if we seek true freedom."
Erwin's expression shifts, curiosity and concern mingling in his gaze. "And what drives you to take such drastic measures?"
"Five years ago, when I first glimpsed the future's memories, I revealed my Titan-shifter identity to the military," Eren reveals, his voice tinged with bitterness. "While it led to the reclamation of Wall Maria and our first step into the outside world, the military's response was tepid. They feared retaliation from a world that despises us. Instead of acting to protect our people, they sought to confine and control me, hunting for someone to devour me and claim my power. Their self-preservation came at the cost of our freedom."
Historia interjects, her tone somber yet resolute. "We were left with no choice but to take drastic actions, actions that led to their downfall. But that future is bleak, and we've been striving to alter its course. We seek a coup that can be executed without unnecessary bloodshed."
Mikasa's shock is palpable. "Eren, Historia... you two can't be serious..."
"Eren," Erwin addresses him directly, his voice calm yet probing, "what do you expect the Survey Corps to do in this situation? Will we stand aside and watch, join your cause, or side with the military?"
Eren's gaze hardens as he faces Erwin. "That depends on where your loyalties lie, Commander. The choice is yours. However, in the future memories I saw 5 years ago, the Survey Corps, now led by Hange Zoe, stood by the side of the military, and when the Rumbling was activated, they also stood by the enemies who want our demise because they think 'The Rumbling' is wrong in the first place."
Historia's voice carries a weight of resignation. "Considering our future memories, especially revealing ourselves during the Trost breach, it's inevitable that my father will dispatch the First Interior Squad to track us down. This will undoubtedly lead to more casualties among the Survey Corps members. What are your thoughts on this?"
Erwin's expression remains thoughtful as he ponders the implications. "Before I make a decision, I need to understand your intentions regarding the military once the coup is successful."
"We intend to offer them a choice," Dina replies with a hint of determination. "They can join us, provided they prove their loyalty. Alternatively, they can renounce their military roles and become ordinary citizens. Those who prioritize self-interest over protecting the people have no place in our ranks. The government's suppression of truth-seekers is evidence of their corruption."
Erwin nods in understanding. "I see. And what about your plans for the outside world once you establish a new government?"
Eren's tone turns resolute. "Marley must be dealt with decisively. We'll unleash the Wall Titans to crush them. Peace has never been an option with a nation that has repeatedly betrayed us throughout history."
"As for other nations," Historia adds, her voice tinged with sorrow, "we'll attempt negotiations. If that fails, we'll have no choice but to eliminate any threats. Their advanced technologies make Titans less formidable to them. In this cruel world, achieving peace often requires shedding blood."
The room falls silent, the gravity of their choices and the stark reality they confront weighing heavily on everyone present. Erwin breaks the silence, his voice carrying a hint of cautious optimism. "This is a risky gamble, but I've always been one for taking calculated risks. I'll place my trust in you and your team. Just know that if things spiral out of control, I may have to take matters into my own hands."
"We understand," Eren acknowledges with a nod of respect. He then turns his attention to Mikasa, seeking her input. "And what about you, Mikasa? Where do you stand in all of this?"
Mikasa hesitates, her thoughts racing. Before she can respond, Eren steps in, his voice gentle yet firm. "You need to understand, Mikasa. The Ackermanns were a product of Eldian experiments, designed to safeguard the royal family. Their unique physiology renders them immune to the Founding Titan's influence and the memory manipulation that affects other Eldians."
Historia's revelation adds a layer of complexity to the already tense atmosphere. "Once we take control, Eren and I will assume the roles of king and queen. With my royal lineage, it will legitimize our authority. Alternatively, I could marry Eren, cementing his claim to the throne. This isn't just political maneuvering; it's about securing our future and safeguarding our people. And yes, Eren and I are already in a relationship."
Mikasa is visibly shocked by this revelation. She has observed the deep bond between Historia and Eren as they've spent increasing amounts of time together. Her internal turmoil becomes palpable as she speaks, her voice tinged with conflict. "I... I made a promise to your mother, Eren. I vowed to protect you no matter what happens. That promise won't change."
Eren's expression softens, understanding the weight of Mikasa's commitment. "I know, Mikasa. And your dedication means everything to me. But our choices are driven by the need to protect not just ourselves but all Eldians. We must do what's necessary for our survival, even if it means facing difficult truths. Our conversation today must remain confidential. We cannot afford leaks or interference that could hinder our plans."
Erwin and Mikasa nod before the meeting ends, as Eren and Historia are going to visit the prisoners.
In the dimly lit dungeon, a gasp breaks the heavy silence as Annie is thrown in, her eyes widening in surprise at the unexpected presence of Zeke and Pieck.
"Annie! You're safe!" Pieck's voice carries a mix of relief and concern.
Annie's expression reflects her disbelief as she processes the situation. "Did both of you get captured as well?"
Zeke's tone is grave as he responds, "By the time reinforcements arrived, they were already positioned at the beach, armed with the powers of the Founding Titan and the Jaws Titan taken from Marcel. Our comrades were swiftly eliminated."
Pieck's concern deepens as she inquires, "What about Reiner and Bertolt? Why aren't they here with you?"
Annie's voice carries a hint of sorrow as she recounts the grim truth. "I was fortunate enough to continue living when they took my power away, but Reiner and Bertolt... they were devoured by Eren and Christa..." Annie's tone softens, understanding the depth of their actions. "I won't blame them, considering those two are the major ones who killed Eren's mother. I would've done the same if they killed my father..."
Pieck's frown deepens at the news, her thoughts drifting to Gabi. "Gabi is going to be devastated when she learns that her cousin won't be returning..."
Annie's curiosity prompts her to ask Zeke, "So, Zeke, you're related to them, right? I mean, Eren and that Dina Yeager..."
"Dina Yeager is my mother, whom I ultimately betrayed because of her involvement with the Eldian Restorationists," Zeke admits with a hint of remorse. "And Eren appears to be my brother, born here on this island, following in the footsteps of my deceased father." He pauses, a shadow of uncertainty clouding his expression. "I'm not sure what their intentions are toward me... But I found a small measure of solace in my mother's apology..."
Pieck, contemplating their dire circumstances, raises an important question. "Do you think it would be wiser for us to surrender to Eldia? Marley has been our home, but with eight of the nine Titan powers back in Eldian hands, Marley's chances of victory seem slim..."
As they ponder their options, the unexpected appearance of Eren and Historia startles them. The two approach with a mixture of determination and curiosity, prompting Zeke, Annie, and Pieck to brace themselves for the forthcoming conversation.
I'll end the chapter right here, you can see that Eren and Historia reveal everything to Mikasa and Erwin, which turns out to be better than expected. The next chapter will be the deal with the Marleyan Warriors.
