Chapter 14
As the rest of the 104th Corps undergoes rigorous training, Eren and Historia adopt disguises to blend in seamlessly among the bustling life within the Walls. They establish a clandestine clinic, its doors quietly welcoming those bearing the wounds and scars of a world in turmoil. The motivation behind this covert endeavor is twofold: to win the favor of Eldian civilians and to surreptitiously gather intelligence on the inner workings of the government and military apparatus.
Within the confines of their makeshift sanctuary, Eren and Historia tend to the broken and battered, their hands guided by a mix of compassion and determination. Each bandage wrapped and each wound stitched serves not only as a physical mending but also as a silent testament to their resolve. The clinic becomes a beacon of hope amidst the shadows of uncertainty, a place where whispers of resistance echo softly in the air.
Despite having Annie embedded within the military ranks, Eren and Historia harbor doubts about relying solely on her insights. They understand the intricacies of power within the Military Police, recognizing the potential delays and obfuscations in receiving crucial information. Thus, their clinic becomes not only a sanctuary for the injured but also a strategic vantage point from which they can glean firsthand accounts and rumors circulating among the populace.
Marco gazes at the nearby fountain, its tranquil surface offering a stark contrast to the turbulence swirling within him. He stands alongside Jean, the early arrivals of their squad, but soon they are joined by the remaining five members. Among them are familiar faces like Jean and Annie while the names of the others have also found a place in Marco's memory.
It has been a week since Marco's induction into the Military Police, a journey that brought him and several fellow graduates from the Southern and Eastern divisions to their current assignment in Stohess.
Entering the Military Police with a forewarning of its corruption did little to prepare Marco for the blatant disregard for duty and honor that he now witnesses firsthand.
Hitch, a graduate from the Eastern division, punctuates the somber atmosphere with a weary yawn as she leans against the fountain. "The Military Police sure live up to their reputation. But I didn't realize they would dump all the work on us rookies. This stinks."
Marlowe, another Eastern division graduate, voices his frustration with a growl. "Bastards. Lazy, self-serving bastards."
Boris, the last of the Eastern division graduates, scowls at Marlowe's outburst. "Oh really? You chose to join the MPs, so it's not like you're any better."
Marlowe meets Boris's scowl with a defiant glare. "You're wrong. I'm nothing like them. I intend to clean up the MPs and restore them to the proper regiment they're supposed to be."
Marco feels a glimmer of hope spark within him at Marlowe's words. Perhaps, amidst the disillusionment and cynicism, there are allies within their ranks willing to fight for integrity and justice.
Boris raises an eyebrow skeptically. "And how exactly do you plan to achieve that?"
Marlowe's expression turns resolute as he straightens up. "It's simple. I'll climb the ranks until I reach the top. Once I have the authority, I'll ensure that those who abuse their power and misuse the people's tax funds face the consequences. The Military Police just needs a dose of discipline."
Hitch bursts into laughter, clapping her hands in amusement. "Wow, Marlowe, you're quite the dreamer! I never took you for an optimist!"
Boris shakes his head, a hint of skepticism in his tone. "That's quite the idealistic plan."
Marco interjects thoughtfully, "Perhaps, but I believe it's a goal worth striving for."
Hitch shoots him an incredulous look. "Seriously? You're on board with this too?"
Jean shrugs, chiming in, "It might not be as straightforward as Marlowe thinks, but count me in to lend a hand."
Boris regards them all with a serious gaze. "You guys are from the Southern division, right?"
Marco, Annie, and Jean nod in unison, a shared determination reflected in their eyes. Boris hesitates for a moment before continuing. "So... you witnessed the Colossal Titan, right?"
Jean's expression tightens with a grimace. "Yeah, that sight alone made me never want to encounter another Titan again. But it also served as a stark reminder that our safety hinges on the walls and the brave souls who defend them. If Wall Rose were to fall, it would be our duty to protect what little land we have left. And I don't see how we can accomplish that with a corrupt and complacent Military Police."
Hitch applauds with a playful grin. "Impressive speech, Jean. You're certainly more convincing than Marlowe."
Marlowe protests, "Hey, I can be convincing too!"
Jean shakes his head, his tone serious. "I didn't enlist in the MPs just to escape Titans like everyone else. I refuse to turn a blind eye and live comfortably in the interior while suicidal bastards risk their lives on the front lines."
Boris furrows his brow. "What do you mean by 'suicidal bastards'?"
Annie interjects with a hint of resignation in her voice, "We've had a few like that in the corps. They talk big about joining the Survey Corps from the start and they have done a lot of training, but when the walls breach, they're the ones who end up perishing."
"It's tragic... to see them rise through the ranks only to meet such a fate," Marco laments with a frown.
Marlowe scratches his head in contemplation. "Now that you mention it, aren't you three the only ones from the Southern Division who chose the Military Police?"
Marco affirms with a nod. "That's right. The others opted for the Scouts."
Reflecting on his decision, Marco acknowledges his initial surprise. While Eren's passion and charisma were undeniable, Marco hadn't expected so many to follow him into the Survey Corps, especially those with the opportunity to join the Military Police.
Although he doesn't regret his choice, knowing the potential for meaningful impact within the interior, Marco can't shake off the occasional wonder about the road not taken.
Hitch blurts out with a mix of curiosity and disbelief, "Do they all have a death wish or something?"
"Well, it's not entirely hopeless," Boris interjects optimistically. "I've heard rumors about three Titans who are aiding humanity. One of them can even control pure Titans, making them easier to defeat."
Hitch nods in agreement, adding, "And let's not forget about the Garrison and the Military Police. It's highly unlikely that Titans could cause any trouble inside the walls."
Annie, ever cautious, speaks up, "True, but as Jean pointed out, we can't afford to become complacent. We also can't assume that Titans are inherently allies, considering we know so little about them and their motives."
Letting out a sigh, Annie continues, "However, if you all are serious about reforming the MPs, count me in."
Marlowe, visibly touched by their willingness to join the cause, looks at them with gratitude. "Thank you, truly."
Boris, still skeptical, sighs, "You guys are drowning in optimism, aren't you?"
Hitch playfully claps him on the shoulder, saying, "Come on, Boris, lighten up! This could turn out to be quite an interesting endeavor."
The six of them throw themselves into their mission with unwavering determination, striving to root out corruption from within the Military Police. However, their efforts are met with resistance from certain members of the organization who view their actions as a threat to the status quo. Thinly veiled threats become a common occurrence during interactions with these dissenting officers, adding a layer of tension to their already challenging task.
Meanwhile, there are those within the Military Police who remain indifferent, dismissing the recruits' efforts as naive idealism destined to falter. Despite these discouraging attitudes, the group remains steadfast in their commitment to integrity and justice.
As they persevere, a glimmer of hope emerges. Some members of the Military Police, albeit discreetly, express gratitude for their efforts, acknowledging the need for change within their ranks. Furthermore, the citizens of Stohess, disillusioned with the Military Police's reputation, begin to rally behind the recruits, offering words of encouragement and support.
Even Commander Nile, while cautious and wary of potential repercussions, acknowledges the significance of their actions. He issues warnings and advises them to prioritize safety by returning to their quarters when situations escalate. However, his subtle support fuels their optimism, reinforcing their belief that change is not only necessary but also achievable.
As they patrol the streets of Stohess, the group comes across a long line of wounded and sick individuals. Jean furrows his brow and asks, "What's happening here?"
Marco, with a concerned expression, responds, "There are rumors circulating about a traveling doctor and nurse providing aid to those in need. They've journeyed through several districts, offering medicine and treatment, and oddly enough, their patients seem to recover fully within three days."
"Three days? That's certainly unusual... Do they have proper licenses or permits?" Hitch inquires, her skepticism evident.
Marco explains, "From what I've gathered from others, they've obtained authorization directly from the government. It's baffling how they gained entry and secured permission..."
Marlowe reflects, "Well, providing medical care to those in need is undoubtedly a noble endeavor."
Annie immediately senses that the mysterious healers must be none other than Eren and Historia, utilizing the powers of the Founding Titan to coerce the government into granting them authorization. Convinced of their presence nearby, she decides to sneak out that night to seek them out.
When they arrive at the back-alley, Annie wastes no time and demands, "What the hell are you two doing here?"
Historia meets her gaze calmly and explains, "As we mentioned before, our plan involves staging a coup in the future to ensure Paradis' safety. However, we realized that merely taking over the government won't guarantee the people's support unless we take action."
Eren interjects, elaborating further, "Given my father's background as a doctor and my inheritance of his memories by consuming him, we possess significant medical knowledge passed down through my family. We've utilized some of the Founding Titan's powers discreetly to aid us in case things spiral out of control."
He continues, "Once we assume control, our intention is to unveil the true potential of the Founding Titan to the public. We want them to see how the government had the means to improve their lives but chose not to, ultimately swaying public opinion in our favor."
Annie nods in understanding, acknowledging the strategy's cunning nature. "That sounds clever... But what about my father? Have there been any developments concerning him?"
Historia reassures her, "Don't worry about him. Armin has been looking after him diligently."
"So, any news?" Eren inquires, breaking the tension as they gather to exchange information. Some of the intel proves to be valuable, while others are less impactful. Nevertheless, they understand the importance of moving forward despite setbacks.
Eren and Historia make it clear that they don't hold Annie responsible for any perceived failures, emphasizing their friendship and camaraderie. Annie appreciates their understanding and support, grateful for their bond as allies.
With their clandestine meeting concluded, they decided it's time to depart before drawing unwanted attention. Eren and Historia start preparing for their return to the Coordinate Village, eagerly anticipating updates from the Survey Corps that could shape their next moves.
Here is a new chapter, and in this chapter, you can see the part of the military police, I have to admit that starting from here is going to be harder to write, there are too many things that I need to cover, including Erwin and the meeting with Pyxis and Zachary. I hope you like this chapter.
