Chapter 19
As the dust settles after the chaotic confrontation, Jean, Marco, and their group finally manage to track down Eren and Historia amidst the chaos of the government building. Marco's voice trembles with disbelief and accusation as he addresses them, his eyes darting between the two figures before him.
"Eren, Christa," Marco gasps, his voice tinged with a mixture of shock and anger, "what have you two done? Did you seriously overthrow the government and crown yourselves as king and queen?"
The dimly lit room echoes with tension as Historia responds, her voice cutting through the air like ice. Her usually gentle demeanor replaced by a steely resolve as she meets Marco's gaze head-on.
"It was the only way to ensure the safety of our people within Paradis Island," Historia's words are measured, each syllable carrying the weight of her newfound responsibility. "Even if I hadn't taken action, fate would have still led me to this throne. My father was the true king, but he created a puppet which would harm the nation."
Eren, standing beside Historia, steps forward, his expression hardened with determination and anger. His eyes, usually filled with a sense of longing, now burn with a fierce intensity.
"The corruption within the walls has festered for too long," Eren's voice resonates with conviction as he speaks. "It's clear that those in power turned a blind eye, allowing the Armored Titan and the Colossal Titan to breach our walls, bringing death and destruction. If we allow them to continue unchecked, Wall Sina will fall, and with it, everything we hold dear."
Jean's voice quivers with a mix of disbelief and betrayal as he continues to process the shocking revelations. His eyes narrow as he directs his question towards Eren and Historia, his voice laced with a tinge of accusation.
"Was this your plan all along? Did you join the Survey Corps just to lead us to this moment?" Jean's words hang heavy in the tense atmosphere, each syllable carrying the weight of his shattered trust. "We thought you were dead, and now you've not only returned but taken the throne as well?"
Eren meets Jean's gaze with a steady stare, his expression unwavering despite the accusation in Jean's tone. His eyes hold a glimpse of the hardships and knowledge gained over the years, a silent testament to the burdens they carry.
"We've been preparing for this for years," Eren's voice is firm, devoid of hesitation. "Long before we crossed paths with any of you, we were building our own army beyond the walls, understanding the harsh realities of our world. This wasn't a spur-of-the-moment decision; it was a calculated move to protect our home and our people."
The room falls into a heavy silence, the weight of Eren and Historia's actions sinking in among the group. Outside, the distant sounds of conflict serve as a grim reminder of the world they live in, a world where survival often demands drastic measures and difficult choices.
Jean's fists clench at his sides, his emotions a turbulent mix of anger, confusion, and a lingering sense of betrayal. The once-unbreakable bonds forged in the face of Titans now strained under the weight of political intrigue and power struggles.
Marlowe's voice carries a mix of curiosity and concern as he steps forward, his gaze shifting between Eren and Historia, searching for answers amidst the turmoil that surrounds them. His words are carefully chosen, reflecting the weight of the information he has gathered and the implications it holds.
"I've heard rumors," Marlowe begins, his tone measured yet earnest, "that you struck a deal with the military government. You were working towards disbanding the old order and forming a new military structure. And lately, more and more civilians have turned to your faction instead of ours to address their grievances. Is it because of the corruption within the walls that has pushed them towards you?"
Eren's expression remains impassive, his eyes meeting Marlowe's with a hint of understanding. He nods slowly, acknowledging the truth behind Marlowe's words.
"The corruption runs deep," Eren's voice carries a somber undertone, resonating with the weight of their shared knowledge. "We've seen firsthand how those in power prioritize their own interests over the safety and well-being of our people. It's driven many to lose faith in the old system and seek alternatives."
Historia, standing beside Eren, adds her voice to the conversation, her words echoing with a sense of determination.
"Our goal isn't just to dismantle the old military structure," Historia's voice holds a quiet strength, her gaze unwavering. "We aim to build a new order, one that prioritizes justice, transparency, and the protection of every citizen within our walls. It's a daunting task, but one we're willing to undertake for the sake of our people's future."
Jean's voice trembles with a mix of disbelief and concern as he presses for more answers, his gaze shifting between Historia and Eren. The weight of his words hangs heavy in the air, reflecting the shattered trust and uncertainties among the group.
"Okay, so what about the others in the Survey Corps?" Jean's tone is tense, his eyes narrowing as he lists their comrades' names. "Mikasa, Armin, Connie, Sasha, Reiner, Bertolt... Did they know about your plans, or were they kept in the dark like the rest of us?"
Historia's expression remains stoic, her eyes meeting Jean's with a hint of sadness before she responds in a measured tone.
"The ones you mentioned, those who chose to join the Survey Corps, are aware of everything," Historia's words hold a weight of honesty, a stark contrast to the secrets that have plagued their group. "Commander Erwin orchestrated their fake deaths to facilitate their integration into our faction of the military. As for Reiner and Bertolt..."
Her voice trails off for a moment, a shadow passing over her features as she continues, her tone colder now.
"Reiner and Bertolt met their end at our hands," Historia's admission is met with gasps of shock from the group. Macro, his eyes wide with disbelief, speaks up with a mixture of horror and confusion.
"Reiner and Bertolt are dead?" Macro's voice trembles with disbelief, struggling to grasp the magnitude of Historia's revelation. "What do you mean, revenge?"
Eren's revelation hangs heavy in the air, the weight of truth sinking in among the group as they grapple with the shocking revelations. His voice remains steady, yet filled with the gravity of the situation as he continues to unravel the secrets that have haunted them.
"Yes, Reiner and Bertolt were the Armored and Colossal Titans," Eren's words echo through the room, each syllable carrying the weight of betrayal and loss. "We overheard their conversation during the graduation ceremony, discussing their role in destroying Wall Maria and their plans to continue their assault on Wall Rose and then Wall Sina. Annie was also part of their plan, though she hesitated."
Macro's gasp cuts through the tension, his disbelief mirroring the collective shock of the group. "Reiner and Bertolt... Titans? It's unbelievable..."
Historia's voice cuts in, her tone somber yet resolute as she confirms Eren's revelation. "Unfortunately, that's the harsh truth we had to confront. We exposed their identities and took action to end their threat, aiming to reclaim their Titan powers."
Eren's gaze hardens as he addresses the group, his voice carrying a note of urgency. "We've heard about your efforts to reform the Military Police, and we believe that our goals align. Joining forces would strengthen our cause and bring us closer to creating a new order within the walls."
Hitch, however, remains skeptical, her voice tinged with defiance as she challenges Eren's proposition. "Why should we trust you or your faction? What guarantee do we have that your methods are any better than what we're striving for?"
Eren's expression softens slightly, understanding the skepticism but not wavering in his resolve. "We share a common goal of reform and justice. Together, we can hold each other accountable and work towards a future where corruption and betrayal no longer dictate our fate within these walls."
"We believe in our cause, in our ability to bring about change," Historia's voice carries a sense of conviction, her gaze sweeping over the assembled group. "No matter the challenges we face, we won't falter. We won't give up."
Her words stir something within the group, a spark of hope amidst the chaos and doubt. Marlowe, his eyes alight with newfound resolve, steps forward to voice his support, his words carrying a weight of sincerity and determination.
"I agree with Historia," Marlowe's voice rings out, his tone filled with conviction. "What you're doing, it's not wrong. If it means standing up against injustice, if it means fighting for a better world, count me in. I'll do whatever it takes to make things right."
Hitch's expression shifts from shock to a mix of confusion and concern as she addresses Marlowe. "Marlowe, what are you talking about? Have you lost your mind?"
Marlowe shakes his head, his gaze steady as he meets Hitch's incredulous stare. "No, Hitch, I haven't lost my mind. I've seen the truth, the corruption that plagues our society. If we have a chance to change things, to make a difference, then I won't stand idly by. I'll stand with Historia, with Eren, and with anyone else who shares our vision for a better future."
The atmosphere in the room shifts as Jean's muttered words break the silence, his tone tinged with a mix of resignation and begrudging acceptance. His gaze flickers towards Marlowe, a hint of admiration hidden beneath his gruff exterior.
"You've always been a reckless one," Jean mutters, a wry smile playing at the corners of his lips. "But if you're willing to throw yourself into this mess, I suppose we might as well join you. Can't let you have all the fun alone, right?"
Marlowe's eyes widen in surprise at Jean's unexpected approval, a sense of camaraderie blooming between them despite their past clashes. He nods in acknowledgment, a silent understanding passing between them.
Marco, ever the voice of reason, interjects with a thoughtful expression. "My loyalty has always been to the king, to serve and protect. With Eren and Historia assuming the mantle, it aligns with my purpose in a different way. Perhaps this is where I'm meant to be."
His words carry a sense of acceptance, a willingness to adapt to the changing circumstances and find purpose in the new order taking shape within the walls. The group exchanges looks of silent agreement, a sense of unity blossoming among them despite the challenges ahead.
Taka and the others approach Eren and Historia with a mixture of curiosity and concern, their expressions reflecting the complexities of the world they now inhabit within the walls.
Armin's voice carries a note of genuine interest as he speaks up, his eyes scanning the bustling construction efforts around them. "Eren, Historia, how are things progressing within the walls? Any challenges or concerns we should be aware of?"
Eren nods, acknowledging the underlying worry in Armin's question. "We had initial concerns about potential sabotage from within the military ranks, but so far, the construction work is proceeding smoothly. It seems our efforts are not being hindered, at least for now."
Historia, her gaze thoughtful, directs her question towards their comrades, seeking to understand their perspectives in this new era of peace. "And what about all of you? You joined the Survey Corps with the goal of defeating Titans, but now that they're no longer a threat, how are you adjusting to this new phase?"
Connie, ever the optimist, chimes in with a sense of wonder in his voice. "It's actually quite amazing. The Titans, once our enemies, are now allies, aiding us in rebuilding and protecting our home. And the people from Stammer and Valij have been surprisingly welcoming and cooperative."
Eren adds his own insights, his tone tinged with a hint of introspection. "Considering their history of internal conflict and civil war over the fate of Eldians, it's a relief to see that the peaceful factions prevailed. It gives us hope that we can move forward together, united in our efforts to build a better future within these walls."
As they stand amidst the ongoing construction, surrounded by the sounds of progress and rebuilding, a sense of optimism and determination fills the air. Despite the challenges and uncertainties that lie ahead, they find solace in the bonds they've forged and the shared goal of creating a world where peace and cooperation reign supreme.
Here is a new chapter, and in this chapter, you can see that Eren and Historia manage to persuade Jean and Macro to their side. I hope you like this chapter.
