Reviews:

Darkscythe Drake: Welcome home, indeed!

culpeuslylcal: Thanks! I hope it continues to live up to the excitement. Big reunions happening this time around.

PaperbackAlloy: Thank you! There's still lots to learn about what's been going on, and more about the Paradis Treaty will hopefully flesh that out more.

Tenma Kirin: Here's the newest chapter.

blahblahblech: Yeah, the ending certainly did feel rushed with several plot points feeling extremely underserved or abandoned. I'm of the opinion that there were things going on behind the scenes with Isayama and the editors, but until the anime officially ends and if Isayama speaks out more, it's really just speculation. But I aim to stay as true as possible to the core themes and flesh out the world and characters a bit more.

SkyChaser17: No blame at all, no worries. No, Harry's Titan won't have the Attack Titan abilities, his is entirely original, and a name for it will be given this chapter as well. As for Levi and a tea shop, I based that off an old interview Isayama gave when asked what Levi would do if he wasn't a soldier (but, yes, he does have a shotgun and more stored away just in case). With Mikasa, she'll still be quiet and reserved around certain people, but there are those she's more open with, plus her new role does require her to be a bit more social. Sorry about the wait after that cliffhanger, hope this is worth it.

N9s: Some more perspectives will be shown here as well. That future remains unseen to all except the Attack Titan.

Wika0304: Yeah, Eren never died in this story. Still alive, same with the other Shifters.

CharmanderUsedRazorLeaf: Glad to hear it!

CrowdnonPleaser: Well, here's the next one!

corvi1718: Sorry this one wasn't as quick. Still, hope you love it all the same.

Winterfell: Good question. For this AU, it happens around chapter 137 of the manga, so any character before that is still unfortunately past. Still, that won't stop name drops from happening, especially in Hange's regard. As for Voldemort, I had plans for him to have a unique dynamic/parallel later on.

Shinkai Sei-kan: I'm very pleased to hear it!

Guest: Here it is.

Vigriff: I aimed to portray Dumbledore as someone who cares, but still has secrets that he won't reveal for personal/selfish reasons. At the end, he still wants to do good by those he's wronged.

gollum48: Yes. Historia will be filling that role with Mikasa as a godmother.

main882: Yes, home at long last.

Deathreaper355: Yes, she does know that they're in different worlds.

RubixJr: Thank you, will do.

Guest: Here it is.

VIBING RED: Here's the newest one.

greentea4062: I've come across a few different translations of the name and went with the one I've seen the most of. As for magic, the whole Titanization is a mystical element in of itself so the idea of magic may not be too far off select people.

Guest: It may have been longer than usual, but here is the newest chapter.

gollum48: Right now

thomquiri: Yes, monke, indeed.

Guest: I know, it's been long. Things have been difficult.

Winterfell: Thank you. I hope to not discontinue, writing just hasn't been as frequent due to other things.

phangchoonkiat: That'll be this chapter.

solarium2: Spanish isn't my native language, sorry if I don't know how to respond.

Disclaimer- Harry Potter is owned by J. K. Rowling and Shingeki no Kyojin/ Attack on Titan is owned by Hajime Isayama. I own nothing.

Chapter 18: Eldian Queen, King of Titans

It was on nights like tonight that served as a reminder that the Military Police brigade used to have it easy.

Wake up later than permitted, wait for an assignment, do said assignment (or not), go on patrol to give the people a sense of security, return to post and end the day with some high-quality drinks. It had been rather ideal, aside from the corruption; but what wasn't corrupt in one way or another? It had been fine for a while. A senior officer might have given a chewing to the new recruits, but that wasn't applicable to her anymore.

Now, she was one of those senior officers that the newbies reported and saluted. Not a bad idea on paper, if it wasn't for those added responsibilities. She had been at it long enough to know the ins and outs of the position, but when orders were coming directly from the queen herself... goodbye to sleeping in.

Still, Hitch supposed in this case... she'd be acting very much the same.

"Captain Dreyse!" a fellow MP gave her a salute.

While his station was obvious by the green unicorn emblazed on his uniform, Hitch couldn't place his face or name. A newbie, no doubt.

She gave a half-hearted salute back. "Yes?"

The newbie stood at attention. "It appears that certain members of the press have gathered outside of the headquarters building here at Shighanshina. The Queen's arrival didn't go unnoticed."

"Of course, it didn't," Hitch gave a small roll of her eyes. "Preparations couldn't have been made on such short notice." And how could they be?

Just as she and the other senior officers had been getting ready to retire for the night, the order was given by Queen Historia herself to gather a brigade of MP's and to secure the next available train to the southernmost town where the walls once stood. Along the way, Hitch learned that this was due to a message delivered earlier from the most infamous man in the world.

"Tell the press that they're not permitted entry into military premises," Hitch instructed. "They'll have to wait on a story." So will the whole world if who I think is in this building now.

But really, what else could it be?

The queen gets a message from him telling her to come here. The princess is present as well, and so is Mikasa Ackerman. It had to be. Here after all these years. Hitch turned to face the ascending stairs. Being an MP also granted access to the palace at Mitras. She had watched over that nursey on occasion. Perhaps if she had been stationed there on that day, she might have been able to fend off the abductor. If she was able to get the jump on Annie of all people, what was a baby snatcher in comparison.

Then again, perhaps it was for the best that she hadn't.

The outrage from the people, the usually sympathetic queen, and Yeager had been a thing to behold. Hitch, and many others, thought that the war would instantly resume, and with the rest of the outside world, still majorly crippled, it wouldn't have been much of a fight. But, thankfully, that had not been the case.

No country or individual ever made any claims of a ransom, no note or trace was left at the scene of the crime, no leads, no nothing. Until now.

Once news officially got out, perhaps that would help to relieve the world tension. That is if no nation is responsible for the disappearance in the first place. Oh, there wasn't a doubt in Hitch's mind that this would be front-page news all over Paradis. Hell, this was international news right here!

Hitch might not be as much of gossip now as when she was a greenhorn teenager, but she still took satisfaction in putting two and two together before the rumors could start circulating. A sigh slipped between her teeth. Not that there was anyone to really tell or lord it over these days. Maybe Commander Kirstein was around here somewhere.

Still, it was late enough. Probably best to retire for the night now unless something else changed. Maybe I'll be watching over you again soon, kid.

For all the various times' Harry had played over arriving back, he didn't envision something quite along the lines of... this.

First, there was Ymir. The girl who had been just a voice in his head for the better part of a year, a girl that had become his first-ever friend, and until recently doubted if he would ever get to see her in person. She was here. He was here now. They were sitting together at a rectangular table and... neither of them were saying anything. If Harry was unaware of the circumstances, he would have assumed that they were seated for a scolding.

Several times he would look over to her, to see his eyes reflected in her own. She would give him a closed-lipped smile before opening her mouth and then closing it. Whatever she had to say, dying before it could exit her mouth. He didn't like that.

They were reunited at last. This was supposed to be a happy moment! What would Ymir have to be anxious about? They had long since agreed that there would be no secrets between them (an easy thing when they could read the other's thoughts). Even if some things were left undiscussed, there was always the promise that it would come in time.

Mikasa was not seated alongside them, either. Instead, she stood neatly by the only door in and out of this meeting room. Other guards had been in here before, but they all seemed to believe that Mikasa would be able to handle whatever on her own.

Based on their first encounter and from what Harry had seen from the memories within dreams, Mikasa did strike him as being socially awkward and aloof but still personable. Now, she seemed to have dropped those personality traits and appeared far more robotic than anything. Harry didn't think it was fear that gripped her, but... he had a suspicion.

Sitting on the left hand near the head of the table, was the same man that Harry had dreamt of the most. The man who had spoken the words "welcome home." The man whose eyes appeared far duller than Ymir's and his own.

His hair was long and dark, most of it flowing freely, but some contained by a band in a messy bun. A small mustache and beard grew on his rather stoic face. The casual grey tunic and dark coat were a far cry from the uniformed military presence in most of the headquarters, but Harry doubted a single soul would criticize this man for his regard for dress code. The scrawny teenage frame Harry had glimpsed from memory had filled out nicely into the man that was Eren Yeager.

He wasn't talking, either. Should he be? Should it be Harry that has to initiate first? He didn't know. Maybe it wouldn't matter either way. But if there was some silent agreement amongst all present, it was that the one to speak first would be the fifth individual.

When she had first entered, Harry instantly saw the resemblance Ymir shared with her. She had long, golden blonde hair, a heart-shaped face to compliment her rather short and petite build, as well as a pair of haunting large blue eyes. If angels could take on human forms, there was no doubt that this woman could pass for one. The dress of red and white only furthered that appearance.

And yet, for all that beauty, there seemed to be a cloud of sorts that lingered over those deep ocean eyes. A cloud that parted when she got her first true look at the boy who had just recently returned. She appeared to have seen a ghost, one that had returned to life in a cruel mockery of death.

In a voice seemingly as angelic as her appearance, she spoke. "You're back."

And that was it. No doubt, no judgment, no apprehension in what she did next.

Neglecting the seat at the head of the table, the queen meandered around and over to where he and Ymir sat. One of her dainty, soft hands was reaching out toward him. He didn't mean to, but an involuntary flinch of sorts leaned him back. Her hand stopped. Instead of reaching for his face, she lowered it to where his hand rested. Cupping it in her own, Harry felt the cool warmth that radiated from her skin. Looking at where they were clasped, Harry saw her hand in comparison to his own. Undoubtedly, his would eclipse hers within a few years.

Even though the queen was far from being considered tall, she still knelt down a fraction to put her at eye level of Harry's seat. Her eyes never strayed from his own, basking, taking in every molecule of his being. The longer that she stared into his emerald depths, the more the pure blue of her eyes melted away, giving life to small orbs near the corners.

Without even thinking, the digits of his hand slowly encased hers in return. It seemed to be more than enough.

"Your hand has gotten so much bigger, but you still feel the same as you did since that day."

It wasn't much. It really didn't sound that way, but if Harry was expected to speak, to address her in return, he knew that he would be unable to. The only thing he could do was meet her gaze and give a sincere nod of his head. That seemed more than enough to satisfy the royal presence before him.

Her free hand came up to caress the side of his face; gaining an observation that her eyes could not. She lightly ruffled his already messy tangle of dark locks, feeling the soft texture that it held.

"The same shade as my sister's," she quietly muttered. "You look exactly how I always thought you'd be. You're..." She paused in her assessment of his appearance, her hand brushing aside the hair that covered his forehead, noticing the lightning bolt scar that marred the flesh of his forehead. She didn't say anything upon seeing it, but Harry felt her hand entwined with his own tighten; her angelic eyes showing hints of shattering.

"It, uh, it doesn't hurt," Harry thought to reassure her. "I've had it since I was a baby, ever since-,"

"-Since you were taken and nearly killed." All sets of eyes were drawn over to where Eren sat. His pale, green gaze met Harry's more vibrant stare before he directed it at the table. "Ymir told us."

The attention was drawn to the other blonde girl in the room who appeared rooted to her seat. "Uh... yeah, that was me," Ymir admitted. "But you already knew I was telling them all the important stuff."

"Yeah... you mentioned something like that before," Harry seemed to recall. "How much did you tell?"

"Enough to be concerned," Queen Historia stated. "Where you were, who had taken you, some of how you managed to get back here from another world." She listed it off so casually, but with each one, a darker cloud appeared before her eyes. "And that it was the work of a maniac that did that to you."

"..." Harry kept silent. Everything she listed off had been correct. So why did he not say anything? Was it fear? Was he afraid? Afraid of what? The thought seemed almost absurd to him. This is what he had wanted, this is everything that he had been striving for. Did he maybe fear that he would be disappointing these people?

His internal dilemma was in part answered when he cast a stray look over to where Mikasa stood at attention near the door. If she had any reaction to these revelations, she was keeping a good poker face about her. Seemingly sensing his gaze on her, Mikasa's eyes shifted over to where he was seated. There didn't seem to be any judgment or shame in her look, just a similar somber longing that the queen carried. She held his gaze before briefly flickering over to where Eren sat, and then remained set ahead. She spoke.

"Is he still in danger?"

The queen didn't fully turn her head to address the taller woman. "For someone's sake, he better not be. He's here now. That's what matters. If something like this is to happen again-,"

"Don't worry about it." Eren's voice was quiet but held enough tone to dispel whatever the Eldian Queen was about to say. "The present is where our focus is needed."

Unlike with Mikasa, the queen fully turned to face the tallest among them. But whatever retort she had planned was silenced when she met his gaze. A spark seemed to have shone in those far-distant orbs; like a green ember that longed to ignite a far mightier inferno. And it was gone as fast as it had appeared.

"...I suppose there is no refuting that." The queen turned away and back over to Harry. Her hand gave a comforting squeeze. "I know that it's late, but would you like anything to eat?" she asked him. "It would be no trouble, none at all. Anything that we - that I can do, please; you've but to ask."

It had been a while since he had last broken his fast, but with his ultimate arrival and meeting with the people he had been longing for the most, the basic need felt secondary.

Harry shook his head. "That's fine. I'm, uh, I'm fine - really!" he added upon seeing the concerned look in the queen's eyes. "I haven't really given too much thought to food. Sorry. I just..." he looked over to where Ymir sat, a meek smile forming on her features. "I'm just really glad that I'm here now."

Queen Historia made no direct comment on that. This whole impromptu meeting was not what Harry had in mind, and based on her demeanor, neither did she. But the promise of a shared sentiment seemed to carry far more weight than a fake extension of resources. It was then that Harry got a genuine smile from the Eldian Queen. It was as radiant as the rest of her; warm, comforting, and so much more.

"He's tired." Again, it was Eren's quiet voice. "We should all probably get some rest while we can. It'll be a busy day tomorrow." His eyes briefly glowing when speaking that last. The queen seemed to begrudgingly mull that thought over in her head.

"Perhaps the hour is later than usual, but not without good cause. However... I've waited years just to see you. I can wait a few hours to speak on other matters. If you wish to retire for the night, I will understand."

"Um, I suppose so," Harry agreed. Perhaps a bit more time would allow him to get his thoughts in order.

The queen nodded. "I'll see to it that space officers' quarters are outfitted for you."

"I'll bunk with him!" Ymir leaned forward on her chair. The focus shifted to the girl. "What? We're all looking to make up for lost time, and I'm not about to let him get snatched in the night."

"We'll have MP's stationed outside, and I'll be next door, as well," the monarch proposed.

"If it pleases you, Your Highness, I'll volunteer myself as well," Mikasa offered. The smaller Eldian regarded her.

"I had figured that you would, Madam Ackerman, orders or not."

"Of course, your Highness," Mikasa agreed. She cast a subtle stare over towards Harry, giving him a small nod.

"So... are we all set then?" Ymir openly asked.

The queen regarded her daughter. "I suppose we are, unless anyone wishes to speak of anything present now. Anything to add, Eren?"

The man who held the Attack Titan was focused on his hands and the table. "No. Nothing now. We'll talk more tomorrow morning on the way back to Mitras." No one made any comment on that. The finality of his tone brokered none.

"Very well then." Queen Historia straightened herself. "Madam Mikasa, would you accompany me in escorting these two to their room for the night?"

Mikasa gave a formal nod. "Of course."

"And, Mikasa," the queen spoke before either of them had moved.

"Yes?" the dark-haired woman asked.

In place of an answer, the queen reached out and took one of Mikasa's larger hands. "Thank you. For all that it is worth. Thank you for helping to get him here."

In turn, Mikasa placed a hand over the queens. "I know. And you don't ever have to thank me for doing so."

The two women held their miniature embrace for a few more seconds before the queen pulled away. The smaller blonde then offered a warming smile, one which the taller ravenette offered a far smaller one in return. Mikasa's smile did not last too long, not once the man in the room came over to face her.

And it was back. The same indistinguishable emotion that had plagued Mikasa before was present once again in the presence of Eren Yeager. To Harry, it seemed the physical embodiment of everything he had felt just earlier tonight - no, things that he was still feeling even now. It worried him. For all he had seen of Mikasa through memory and even in person, this was a look that did not suit her in the slightest.

Eren seemed entirely unbothered standing across from her, his face deep and impassive as an ocean wave. His arm was outstretched and wrapped around behind her shoulders in a single unwavering motion. It wasn't sudden by any means, but the mere act of a single hug seemed to snap Mikasa out of whatever trance she had been in. She appeared almost stunned at first, her arms coming out before stopping, but then wrapping around the Titan shifter to return the embrace.

After a few seconds, Eren stepped back. "Thank you, Mikasa. For what it's worth, I mean it."

"I..." Mikasa began, seemingly at a loss for words. "You don't have to thank me, Eren." She settles with. "He's here. He's safe. Finally."

Eren's face was hard to read, but he seemed to give her an understanding look. "Come on," he then said. "The two of them should get some sleep. Tomorrow is going to be busy, but we'll have the time." Time for what? Harry couldn't help but to wonder.

"If... that is really for the best," Queen Historia reluctantly agreed. "But I'd like for us to be up early to catch the first train back to Mitras. You do plan on accompanying us, don't you, Mikasa?"

"For as long as you'll have me," Mikasa agreed.

The queen nodded. "I see. Now, why don't we get situated for the night?"

With no objections or complaints, the Eldian Queen beckoned for all to follow. The MP's who had been stationed outside of the meeting room instantly took to trailing alongside the formed party as an escort. They didn't walk for too long in the military headquarters, just down the hall and around a bend before arriving at the residency wing.

"The two of you will be all set?" the queen asked when Ymir opened the door to a basic room inside.

"Uh-huh!" Ymir instantly agreed.

"For the both of you?"

"Oh!" Harry felt embarrassed. The inside was basic. It had beds and dressers, simple, but enough for members of the military. It was bigger than Dudley's spare bedroom and seemed roughly the size of the one back in Gryffindor House. "Yeah, this is fine. Perfectly fine."

"Positive?" she asked. "It'd be no trouble to find other arrangments."

"I'm good - really!" Harry soothed her concern. "Just... just being here is more than enough, honestly." He felt the ends of his ears warm up a bit.

"If you say," the queen seemed to relent. "I'll only be a room away and Mikasa will be right outside. If you need anything or - or anyone." Harry nodded, the implication not lost on him. "Very well. Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Mom!" Ymir expressed before receiving a lasting hug and a peck on her cheek. Harry considered teasing her later about it; before he got the same treatment.

Her arms, while petite and dainty, held him with a gentle strength. And she was warm. Warmer than Mrs. Weasley had been when he had met her in Diagon Alley. Maybe even warmer than being inside the body of a Titan. And when she kissed the side of his head, the warmth was only amplified by the sensation of electricity coursing through his body as she whispered the word: "Goodnight."

"Y-yeah," Harry said, still in the queen's embrace. "Goodnight..."

"Did I upset you?" she asked, near instantly.

"No!" Harr quickly denied it. "I just... wasn't expecting that."

"Oh." She slowly withdrew her arms. "I see."

"B-but, I will tomorrow." That gave her pause. "And however many nights after."

Queen Historia regarded him in silent acceptance. Only then did Harry see a true smile grace her angelic features. Seeing that look on her face helped to relieve more of the lingering anxiety he might've been feeling.

"I'm pleased to hear," Queen Historia said, running a hand through his mess of dark locks. She moved to the side, giving Harry the chance to see Eren standing against the wall. His darkened eyes, so serious and strained, softened when Harry met his gaze. Their look didn't last long before Eren turned and began walking down the opposite end of the hall.

"Uh, are you leaving for bed?" Harry asked, abruptly. His simple question halting the shifter in his tracks. Eren turned to face him.

"Me? No. I will, eventually. I just wanted to walk a bit more. It helps to clear my mind sometimes."

"Oh. Alright." Harry didn't really know what to expect when he had asked. Was Eren upset? He sounded calm when answering but...

Harry was snatched out his musings when Ymir grabbed his wrist. "Goodnight, Eren!" she cheerfully called.

A small grin started to etch its way onto his once-sullen-looking face. "Goodnight. To the both of you." He turned, and in a few paces, he was gone.

Ymir turned to him. "Ready to turn in for the night?"

"Sure."

With Mikasa at attendance at the door behind them, she closed it once they had both gotten inside. Neither of them spoke at first. Not until Harry opted to break the silence.

"Just so you know, I don't plan on going to bed right away."

Ymir gave a suppressed snort of a laugh. "Yeah. That makes two of us." She plopped herself down on the edge of one of the beds, turning her body to where she was hanging upside down.

"Is that some sort of pre-bedtime routine?" Harry asked.

"We just agreed that we aren't going to sleep yet," Ymir countered. "I'm just trying to imagine doing this with a bunk bed."

"You think you'd get the top bunk?" Harry asked, not bothering to fight the grin off of his face.

"I know I'd get the top bunk."

"If that's what you'd like to believe." Harry sat on the bed opposite her.

"I'm sure I can use my natural charm to make that happen," Ymir smiled to herself, sitting back up straight. "But I'm not the only one with a little charm, am I?"

"Very funny. You already told them?"

"I did. Did you want to be the one to tell them that?"

"No." Especially after that awkwardness. "It was probably for the better. Can anyone here do magic? Not counting Titan stuff."

"Not unless you brought any back with you," Ymir replied. "You didn't, did you?"

"I don't even know how I brought myself here," Harry retorted. "And I know, I know, my Titan did it."

"Yeah, your Titan did do it," Ymir agreed. "That must be its ability."

"What? Leaping between worlds?"

"Or some kind of influence over space," Ymir suggested. "Pretty nifty, huh? I mean, Eren's Titan deals with time, so space jumping isn't too hard to believe."

Yeah, Harry supposed it was possible. But there was something nagging him. "You call him Eren."

"Eh?"

"You call him by his first name," Harry stated. "Why?"

"He told me I could," Ymir simply put. "I don't always call him that. It just feels natural at times. And just between you and me, I think he feels a little guilty."

"For what?"

"For stuff that happened during the war," Ymir answered. "Stuff that he did but isn't proud of. And with Paradis more involved in the larger world now, he probably wanted there to be a distance in his relationships. I've never been judged by it, well, not openly I hope."

"And do you think that's what he's doing now? Creating distance?" Harry asked.

"What? No." Ymir looked perplexed.

"He didn't seem too excited to see me," Harry kicked his feet from the side of the bed. "He barely said anything. And he seems... upset."

"Well, I can tell you that you couldn't be more wrong on the first part," Ymir told him. "When I told him you had gotten back to the island, he instantly brought us here to where we knew you'd be. He didn't even wait for an escort, I thought he might actually need me to give him his Titan form if he could outpace the train. He's glad you're back, believe me."

"So... he's always so... like that?"

"Eh... some of the time, but not always, he usually lightens up when it's just him and I. And if he seemed upset, it's probably because he was thinking of you being gone and how you were treated before. But more than any of that, I think he's just nervous."

"Nervous?" it sounded silly out loud. "He has multiple Titan powers, and he's nervous around me?"

"I think you're missing the point," Ymir suggested. "Yeah, he has a lot of Titan power, one of those involves being able to see the future. Any new experience to him isn't really new, because in some way he's already seen it happen. See what I mean?"

Harry pondered her words. "I... I think."

"Hm. And I think that when it comes to you, he wants to experience everything as it is, good and bad."

"Did you have to say that last part so ominous?" Harry asked.

"Eh. I can't help it."

"Sure," Harry sarcastically agreed. "Just like I can't help attracting trouble."

"Yeah, just like that!" Ymir jokingly agreed. Harry tossed a pillow at her. "Oh, so that's how it is."

"Might as well now," Harry shrugged. "If your serious about a bunk." He dodged the second one that was thrown his way. And up to the point where both of them eventually fell asleep, they had created their first good memory together.

Morning came, and so did the train. It wasn't nearly as grand or extravagant as the Hogwarts Express had been, but it seemed more spacious. It was probably because the five of them were the only ones occupying a compartment, and no students were shuffling about the hall. Instead, MPs stood at attention outside, as well as throughout the rest of the train cars.

The sight had attracted attention on the way to the station, no doubt the Queen of Paradis paying a visit had made quite the impression. Harry saw the numerous gazes directed their way as the train pulled away from the station. Memories of the sorting ceremony at Hogwarts, but unlike then, Harry didn't know if those stares were completely directed at him.

"Is it going to be like that where we're going?" Harry asked as the train continued underway.

"A carriage will be meeting us at the station," Queen Historia answered. "Hopefully, we can avoid any complications that way."

"Word will have gotten back there by now," Eren spoke, his gaze directed out the window. "It'll be crowded." His words elicited a moment of silence. "But, it would've been like that either way." He briefly looked across to where Harry was seated. His face softened ever so slightly.

"Do you think Mister Jean will be meeting us there?" Ymir asked.

"Commander Kirstein," Queen Historia corrected. "And yes, I imagine he would be."

From past memories, Harry could get a good picture of the man in his mind. "Uh, he's the tall guy with the long face, right?"

"Kh!" Harry looked over to where Eren sat across from him. It sounded as if he had failed to suppress a laugh. "Yeah. That's him."

"He's a great man," Mikasa added. "And an even greater friend." Eren's gaze drifted back to Harry, and then out the window.

"He is," Eren agreed. "He'll be happy to see you. And you as well." Harry knew that last part was meant for him.

"He will?"

"Of course," Ymir answered before anyone else could. "He's always been kind to me, and before any of us knew where you were, he was one of the first to volunteer to try and find you."

"Oh." Harry felt the need to add, "That was nice of him. I mean, I was only a baby when it happened."

"All the more reason to," Queen Historia said. "You know of Mikasa's relation to you."

"Yeah, Ymir told me she's our godmother."

"She is. And Commander Kirstein was named your godfather after an agreement," she added.

"An agreement?" Harry noted.

"Jean is a good man," Eren's voice carried. "He and I may have acted like jerks to each other, but it was also for our own benefit as well. He's not someone who gives up, even on people he thinks are in the wrong. And even if he hated how things turned out during the war, he could see why they were done." An uneasy silence followed. "Whatever he may feel towards me now, that won't affect you."

Harry didn't respond. Eren sounded sincere, but when he mentioned Jean, Harry couldn't help but feel there was someone else missing from the picture. Someone only seen from memory.

"Was Jean always meant to be godfather? Was that part of the agreement?" Harry tentatively asked.

Eren continued watching the passing landscape. "Well... there was Armin."

The only sound in their compartment was the sound of the wheels grinding against the track. Mikasa briefly gave Eren a glance, Queen Historia bit the inside of her bottom lip, Ymir glanced from one face to another, and Harry sat there wondering if it was better he not said anything at all.

"Sorry," Harry quickly offered.

"You don't have to be," Eren offered distant assurance. "Armin was my best friend at one point, he would have always been my first choice. I can't blame him for refusing. Not like I can for other things."

"Can we not discuss that matter of the past, please?" Queen Historia asked, sounding tired. "If it is all the same to everyone present, I'd rather us focus on the path ahead of us, rather than behind."

"Hey!" Ymir cut in. "Why don't you tell Harry that one thing I know you wanted to say?"

"What thing?" Harry looked to his half.

"You," Ymir said.

"Yeah, what about me?"

"She means your name," Queen Historia clarified.

"Harry?" he asked.

"Yes. I merely wanted to ask you if you'd like to know your other name. The name you were called here for a time before you were missing."

A new name? No, an old name. A name he didn't even know that he had until now. "Uh, yeah. Yeah! That'd be great. What name did I have here?"

Queen Historia smiled. "The name you were given was chosen as each part has some connection to both sides. You were named Ziegfried."

"Ziegfried?" he repeated. It was too hard to believe that he would actually be named Harry here as well.

"It's a combination of the names of our half-siblings," she explained. "My late sister Frieda and his brother Zeke. Both were far from perfect, but we believe you can live a better life than either of them got to experience."

"I... I see." Did he?

"Is it not to your liking?" she asked.

"My liking?" Only then did it really occur to him that this would be a name that he would be stuck with and called. "I mean, you like the name since you gave it to me."

"It's just a simple question if you like it or not," Ymir hid her grin behind her hand. The other blonde clearly knew that tactic.

"Don't laugh, young lady."

"I wasn't!" Ymir put her hand at her side. Very quietly, she muttered, "Old lady."

Before any ire was aimed at Ymir, he spoke. "Honestly, I kinda figured Harry wasn't my first name. I don't have anything against Ziegfried, I think it's nice that it honors an aunt and uncle. I've just... always been used to being called Harry. I didn't really think a new name would be lasting."

The Reiss Queen's eyes softened. "I see. A name can seem simple when spoken, but the weight behind it is undeniable. While I would love to call you by the name chosen here, I can understand your reluctance to fully let go just yet. So, If calling you Harry is what you prefer for now, I'm sure it won't be an issue."

That certainly softened the load a ton. "Thank you. I, er, I think I'll come around to Ziegfried eventually, I'll just have to get used to seeing me use it."

"That's good," Ymir softly sighed. "I've honestly gotten used to calling you Harry that I'd get tripped up, too, if I had to switch."

"So, It's good for you?" Harry gave a rhetoric droll.

"What's good for me is good for you and so on and so forth," Ymir proudly stated.

And what was good for the people of Paradis was not always good for him as Harry soon found out.

Their train had since passed the scenic rolling green hills of the lush countryside and had passed through a small village, then another town, again, surrounded by a large ditch, before slowing down as it entered a more metropolitan setting. The buildings were large, grand, and built on sturdy foundations. It seemed a mix of late colonial and early 20th-century design between the lavish, yet, industrial style.

The building they were arriving at was not too different from King's Cross back in England, but Harry figured this was closer to an older model of the station before years of renovation. Everything seemed very Victorian, almost how the Wizarding World seemed to be partially stuck in. And that same style bled into the wardrobe of the populace.

Men were wearing fashions of tailcoats, vests, cardigans, even a mix of traditional robes and garb. Women primarily stuck to simple or even more elaborate dresses, and of course the occasional robe as well. And Harry saw this because the platform on which their train had stopped was already swarmed with them. A line of military members wearing white trousers and tan jackets stood with rifles between the people and the train.

"It would seem word arrived before we did." Queen Historia stifled a sigh. "Perhaps introducing telegraphs to the island wasn't such a good idea."

Harry's eyes scanned the crowd. "Is the capital usually like this?"

"Well..." Ymir tried to think up an answer.

"...This is because of me." No point in phrasing it as a question.

"Pretty much," she answered. "I know you probably hate that. I remember how you felt about your fame elsewhere."

She wasn't wrong. "One place I'm famous for something I don't remember, and here it's just from birth." What were the odds?

Noticing his discomfort, Queen Historia placed a hand over his. "It is overwhelming, I know. This day... this is a day that has been awaited by all of Paradis - all of the world, and by us most of all. We will be out there no longer than we need to, I promise." And Harry believed her. "And there are ways to move about to where crowds won't notice, but that can wait until a later time."

From outside, two soldiers moved to the door directly outside of their train car. From the row of assembled soldiers, the head of a tall figure was visible above the crowd. A word was given and the soldiers opened the door. The noise that had been quite palpable before doubled. Voices from the young, the old, men, women, the rich, and the poor, all blended as one.

And yet, there was a voice that sounded far more commanding than the others.

"Back behind the line, people!" the man's voice directed. "Don't ruin your good mood by getting shot! C'mon, clear the way!"

It seemed to have an effect as one of the soldiers stepped in and announced it was safe to exit. The queen stood, and the others did the same.

"That would be our cue." She offered her right hand to Harry. "You're not alone in this."

Harry took her hand, Ymir took her other. The three of them approached the threshold of this old new world.

And it was bright. Not just from the sun, which was hardly a bother, but rather, from the flash. Flashes. Cameras. Pictures were being taken in the same manner that one Gryffindor boy, Colin had done so. And much like the boy, the photographers were smiling. And not just them, but the other people as well.

Men were happily shouting, some holding notebooks and quills, others stuck their hands up, waving them in the air. Some fathers were hoisting their children in their arms or allowing them to crawl on their shoulders for a better view, their eyes bright and full of wonder. The women were much the same, huddled together as they cried out; some even just flat-out crying with smiles on their faces.

It was impossible to tell exactly what any of them were actually saying, but the emotion was clear. Joy. Relief. All of it. It would've been too much, had Historia not beckoned them to walk with her down the row of soldiers to where a carriage awaited them.

Harry did his best to just look forward when walking, it would have been embarrassing if he were to trip. And if he did look, it was behind him to where Mikasa followed. Her presence garnered attention as well, but nowhere near what had come before. And lastly, there was Eren. When he came out, it actually seemed that a hush was about to fall over the crowd. It didn't, but the volume did noticeably decrease. Photos were still being flashed, probably trying to get their little party all in one shot.

When the carriage drew nearer, Harry saw the man he had briefed before from the train waiting for them. He was tall, and wearing a green military coat with a shield emblem emblazed on the back, shoulders, and left breast. His ashen brown hair appeared windswept and traces of a scruffy beard could be seen growing on his longer face. His brown eyes watched them approach, widening slightly at the sight of him.

"Commander Kirstein," Historia addressed through the tide of the crowd. "Our thanks for making these arrangements on such short notice."

"No problem at all." He stood at attention. "When we were told to expect a gathering, I figured that - C'mon, people! Get them off the street! This thing is going to be leaving soon!" he called out for soldiers to clear the road. He sighed. "Sorry. Even if we expected this it's-,"

Historia gave an understanding nod. "I understand. Even if they seem restless, they know, too."

That put him more at ease. "Understood." He opened the carriage door for them.

Historia freed both their hands. Ymir was the first to move. "Glad to see me again, Mister Jean?"

A toothy grin worked its way to the edge of his long face. "Not one bit."

Ymir playfully pouted as Jean lent her his hand and helped her climb inside. Following her lead, Harry approached next. Jean's grin was still present, but almost frozen. His eyes looked like they were trying to decipher some untold lie.

Before the moment of silence could become fully awkward, Jean blinked a few times. "...Like looking back in time," he said to himself. He held a hand out to Harry. He shook it. "Of course, last time I saw you, you could only grip a finger."

"Commander Jean Kirstein, I believe you know who this is," Historia moved next to him. "This is Ymir's twin brother. You may know him as Ziegfried, but he also goes by Harry for the time being."

"Harry, huh?" Jean rubbed at his chin. "I can actually kinda see it."

"That's what I've been told," Harry semi-agreed. "It's uh, nice to see you in person."

"Oh, you've heard about me already?"

"Sort of." Mostly through memory.

Jean allowed a brief smile. "Well, there'll be plenty of time for all that later. I can only imagine what you and the other hell-raiser are going to do to my wallet." He offered Harry his hand once again and helped him with the step into the carriage where he sat next to Ymir.

Historia was next, seating herself next to both of them. From outside, Jean paused as he greeted Mikasa.

"You're letting your hair grow out more," he commented.

"I did miss having it."

They shared a hug, Mikasa being the one to pull away for respect while it looked like Jean would have liked it to linger for just a little longer. As before, He offered his hand to her and she boarded and sat opposite to them.

There was only one person left, and he was just outside.

The two men regarded one another in what looked to be a standoff before both offered the other a hand to shake.

"Hello, Eren," Jean greeted.

"Hello yourself, Jean," Eren greeted back. Neither broke the handshake yet.

"Congratulations," Jean continued. "It'll be good that he's back."

"Thank you," Eren said. "It's been too long."

Jean ended the shake and gave Eren a weak pat on the shoulder. "Then best to just get out of here for now."

Eren nodded and stepped in without guidance. Jean followed soon after, shutting the door and taking a seat next to Mikasa. Rasping his knuckles on the wall behind him, a panel slid to reveal the driver. "Stright to the palace," Jean directed.

They were moving again. Being situated close to a window, Harry was able to see that even along the roads leading away from the station, the crowds of people were still present. Jean let out a low whistle.

"I still remember your coronation," the tallest of them spoke. "I gotta say, this has that beat."

"Our population was more confined back then," Historia reminded. "But accepting Eldians from outside nations to live here would have that effect."

"True," Jean agreed as he stretched his long legs out some. "And from those outside nations, where exactly...?"

"Something else," Mikasa answered.

Jean observed her. "I see. Sorry for asking. I figured everyone here already knows the full story, I just wanted to know before the papers start running their mouths about stuff they don't understand."

"Let me handle the press," Historia decided. "Coming from me, It'll address the rest of the world leaders as well."

Jean nodded. "Hey, uh, Zi- er, Harry. I didn't mean to try and pry for info. I'm glad you're back, honest."

"Oh. Uh, no, you didn't offend me. I have a lot of unanswered questions, too." To that, Jean smiled.

"Heh! What're the odds? You may look like Eren, but you've got the patience of our queen."

"What about me?" Ymir leaned forward with a wide smile, batting her eyes.

"Complete opposite, you little spitfire." Jean rubbed the top of her blonde head. Ymir swatted his hand away and began patting her head down. "So, if you don't mind me asking then...?"

"Harry told me when I found him," Mikasa spoke again. "I can tell you about it later if you'd like."

"Sure thing," Jean easily agreed.

Mikasa nodded and sent a subtle look over to Harry which he figured meant: "Your secret is safe with me." But if Jean was as trustworthy as they all claimed, he'd probably figure out eventually about his Titan.

"Any plans on making today a national holiday?" Jean changed the topic. "Just by the state of Mitras alone, the people are probably going to request it. Hell, make it a global one at that."

"One step at a time," Historia dismissed. "For as relieved as we are all, I don't plan on overwhelming Harry."

"Sorry, sorry," Jean put his hands up. "It's just that, this is all stuff I've been thinking about for the past... what? Eleven years? Wow, we've gotten old."

"Being a year or two past thirty doesn't constitute as such," Historia stated.

"Not when we were teens," Jean countered. "Still hard to believe Captain Levi was thirty when we all met him. How is he doing anyway?"

"He's mellowed out," Mikasa supplied. "But I know he keeps a shotgun hidden in his shop."

"Ah, figures." Jean looked out the opposing window, just as Harry had done. "With any luck, he won't have to use it." And very briefly, his eyes flickered across, right to where Eren sat.

The Attack Titan paid no mind. His gaze was elsewhere, neither at Jean, Mikasa, Historia, nor even him and Ymir. They very well could have been in their own separate time.

Halloween was an important time for the Wizarding World. Not only was it when magic was at its strongest, but it also served as a holiday for when You-Know-Who was defeated. So it was a shame that the night had to end how it did.

There was no grant return of Harry, as many of them had been waiting. It looked like Luna's guess was wrong. He was still missing somewhere and no one had a clue as to where he could be. World had finally gotten out to the papers and none of them were happy about it. The Prophet was by far the worst in its theories. Ginny tried to pay them no mind, it was still her first year at Hogwarts, but it was impossible not to hear crazy rumors.

Pavarti and Lavender were the two biggest gossips, but even they didn't seem to know what to make of anything. She had tried asking Ron, but even he didn't know. Percy just told her to be positive and to not worry too much. Even the twins seemed stumped and less eager to play pranks. And after tonight, Ginny feared the worst might've actually happened; that Harry had been kidnapped.

Not even an hour ago, after the feast had ended, the whole school had been in for a shock. Mrs. Norris, Filch's cat was found petrified and hung from her tail in a corridor. Worse still, was what was next to her.

Written in bright red letters was: The Chamber of Secrets has been Opened. Enemies of the Heir, Beware!

This was beyond a prank from Peeves, it would take a sick freak to attack an animal and write something like that! But just those last few words, Beware! it made Ginny shudder even as she sat next to the common room fire.

"Remain calm everyone!" Percy assured the assembled Gryffindors in his "Prefect" voice as Fred and George called it. "Professor Dumbledore has the situation under control. Classes will still be held tomorrow." Aside from Hermione, no one really looked too eager for that.

But how could Ginny remain calm? Just earlier today, she felt as if she had blacked out or fallen asleep somewhere. Eating with everyone in the great hall had almost been like sleepwalking. Not that she ever did, but she could imagine.

If they weren't confined to the common room, she would have asked a few friends she had made in other houses what they thought. Then, it hit her. She did have a friend she could talk with! It wasn't conventional, but this was someone who was at her call whenever she needed.

Going up to her dorm, Ginny rifled through her bag until she pulled out Tom Riddle's diary. She still had no idea how she got it, but Tom proved to be a good listener and even better council.

Tom, are you there?

'Of course, I am. Is something wrong, Ginny?'

It feels like everything is wrong. There's still no sign of Harry and someone wrote a threat on a wall. It looked like it was written in blood.

'My, that is concerning,' Riddle wrote back. 'What was written?'

Something about the Chamber of Secrets being opened. But Mrs. Norris was petrified, too. Everyone thought she was dead until Dumbledore said no.

'I see. The Chamber of Secrets, that's not something I've heard about since my time at Hogwarts.'

You know about it?

'Yes. The last time it was opened, a girl was killed. The school was going to be shut down unless the attacks stopped. The monster fled after I deduced the culprit. There hasn't been an attack since. Until now.'

Reading that made Ginny's blood turn to ice. This girl... did she go missing before she was killed?

'No.' Riddle's reply eased her worries. 'You're worried for that boy you've mentioned many times before. Harry. Yes?'

Yes.

'I wouldn't worry about him.'

Why not?

'From everything you've told me, he seems quite the extraordinary individual. Defeating the Dark Lord as a mere baby is to be admired. I would certainly like to meet him if I got the chance.'

Ginny pondered what to write next. She drew a blank, her mind going elsewhere. Wherever it was Harry was, she hoped that he was safe.

Safe and Returned.

That was the headline plastered across the front of the paper. And not just this one, all of them.

It had been but a day, but word traveled quickly. And how could it not? This was the biggest piece of news to come from Paradis since the end of the war twelve years ago and the subsequent signing of the Treaty of Paradis. A treaty that had, so far, not been violated.

"So, the lost prince has been returned." A puff of smoke followed the statement. "Who'dve thought?"

Armin set his focus on the representative of the Marley government. "It would seem so, Premiere Giovanni. And please, we have a room dedicated to smoking just outside in the hall."

The older Marleyian man biffed away a few ashes from the end of his cigarette. "Apologises, Ambassador Arlert. But I wouldn't want to miss this discussion."

"That is... fair," Armin conceited. "I do ask you to try and keep it to a minimum." He received a half-dismissive wave.

"I believe it is to help calm the nerves, Ambassador," the representative for the Mid-Eastern Alliance spoke. "We could all benefit as such."

"Too true," Armin agreed, his eyes drifting down to the paper and photo before him. Even if he had not been there in person, Armin could get a good read of what was going on.

The newly reunited royal family. Queen Historia looked regal as always, but it seemed that she was holding back a true smile she showed to only her closest of friends. Little Ymir looked chipper, as always from the times he had seen her. And then there was the third amongst them. Looking at him through the picture at last, Armin was amazed to see just how much of a resemblance he carried with him. The thin build, the messy hair, the shape of his face. And even though it was in black and white, Armin just knew those eyes were the same shade from a friend from long ago. Eyes that shone with amazement at the idea of a world beyond walls. Eyes that he missed.

"Erm!" Armin cleared his own throat to knock him out of his trance. "If it is any consolation, Queen Historia did issue a public statement announcing that the prince is unharmed and his kidnapping was an act of rogue individuals not affiliated with any nation." It was impossible to miss the breath of relief shared throughout the room.

The Mid-East seemed satisfied, and the Diplomat from Hizuru looked equally pleased, especially considering Mikasa's relation to Paradis. Many of the others seemed appeased as well, but Marley seemed anxious, still.

"And for curiosity's sake, which nations did these rogue abductors originate?" Giovanni pressed further. "Even if they claim to have no allegiance, can we really be so naive as to believe retaliation won't befall whatever nation they hailed from?"

"Again, Queen Historia has stated that the prince was able to return home after he escaped. The kidnappers apparently were never caught so it is impossible to say."

"All the more reason to proceed with caution. If these individuals strike again and decide to frame another nation for their actions, we all know what that would entail."

Silence filled the circular room. On the wall behind the main podium hung the original signed copy of the Treaty of Paradis.

Entailed the following for the end terms of the war: The nation of Marley must decommission its army by half and will not remilitarize for fifty years. Any remaining Eldian within the Warrior Program is to be honorably discharged from service. Any Eldian living under oppression from any nation is offered refuge on Paradis. Any child or family seeking refuge from any non-Eldian nation regardless of birth is offered refuge on Paradis Island and will not tolerate discrimination. Any nation outside of Paradis must cease Eldian discrimination and eliminate the need for blood and genealogy testing. Paradis Island will lend supplies and crops for construction and fertilization to any nation that accepts. The true history of the Eldian and Marley tribes will no longer be skewed and will be openly shared and taught to new generations. Zeke Yeager is to remain prisoner within Marley's jurisdiction for his crimes against the state. Eren Yeager is to remain stationed on Paradis Island, with the exception of negotiation purposes. The power of Titans has been removed from all Eldians and confined to Eren Yeager. Should the peace be threatened, the war shall resume once more.

It was surprisingly beneficial in some regards, but Armin knew that was more Historia's doing than Eren's. Even if she was open about the true events that transpired over 2000 years ago, Armin knew most remaining Marley schools taught it with a grain of salt. The idea that Ymir Fritz, the first Titan was not actually a full Eldian, but a girl from ancient Marley did not sit well with many of them. And even if seeds were supplied to cultivate, most of the fertile land had been ravished during the war and would be unfit for crops for years to come.

But it was the last that stuck out to everyone. And based on Armin's previous dream, he questioned how true it could be.

"The Eldian Queen has been straightforward, but we all know where Yeager's intentions lie," Giovanni brought attention back to himself. "If he had it his way, none of us would be sitting here right now. Maybe he was just biding his time. Now that they have their prince back, what's stopping him from picking up where he left off?" Silence. "As compassionate as that woman is, can she really-,"

"Careful what you say, Premiere. You wouldn't want word getting back to Paradis that you said that."

Armin turned to the other blonde man seated at his right.

"Of course not, Chief Braun," Giovanni restrained himself.

"You have something to add, Reiner?" Armin asked the larger man. Even if he was technically freed from the Marley's service, he still offered to stay on as an advisor of sorts. Much like everything Reiner did, Armin suspected it was to atone for his previous sins. The same could be said for Pieck, seated next to him. Connie's seat remained open, but he would be informed if he wasn't already.

Reiner stood up. He was tall as ever and still broad. His golden hair was kept neat, same with the small beard he had allowed his scruff to grow into. "It's been eleven years since the Prince of Paradis was abducted. In that time, the abductors had ample time to frame any nation of their choosing. They did not. Whoever they were, and whatever they wanted with him, they must have been denied. Queen Historia has never given any reason as to doubt her integrity. She has been far more beneficial on her end than any victor nation of previous wars."

Giovanni folded his arms. "You sound quite convinced, Chief Braun. Hopefully, the time you spent disguised has not influenced any personal feelings you may have."

Reiner's sharp jaw tightened. "No, sir."

"If it is that much of a concern, perhaps a party should be sent to Paradis to inquire more." The suggestion came from Pieck seated next to Reiner. "Hearing news from a paper is little more than gossip. If it would settle our Premire's worries, an assurance from Queen Historia would go further."

It was a sound suggestion, but the way Pieck looked past Reiner and to him, Armin deciphered her hidden meaning. "I second that motion," Armin decided. "Would that suit Marley's needs?"

"I take it would consist of your little alliance? Does any other nation wish to offer up their services?"

"The Nation of Hizuru stands by Ambassador Arlert's decision," the Daimyo, Shirahoshi spoke. "Our Hime Mikasa Ackerman is already on the island.

"..." Giovanni kept quiet. Hizuru had not been as badly affected as some of the other nations had, and with more military presence as well as Mikasa's position, snide comments would not befit him. "Very well."

"Then we are dismissed." Armin gave a light bang with his gavel. The diplomats filed out of the circular council room, some looking more joyed than others. A day like this was cause for celebration in more ways than one.

Finally, the only ones left were Armin, Reiner, Pieck, and Annie, who while not on the council, was allowed a seat to the side. Half of their original impromptu alliance was here, and all holders of Titans, as well.

"Thank you for that suggestion, Pieck," Armin began. "I've already spoken with Annie, but I take it the both of you...?"

"We have," Reiner nodded. "I thought it was a nightmare at first, but then... I remembered what it felt like."

Pieck picked up the copy of the paper. "Not a doubt in my mind that's the boy I saw."

"Far too convenient to be a coincidence," Annie leaned against one of the marble columns. "And we all know the other thing that we saw."

"How could that even be possible?" Reiner asked. "There were only ever nine Titans. We all have one, Falo has one, same with Zeke, and Eren has three. And what about the curse? If the power of Titans has returned, how are we still alive? We're all past our expiration date."

"All good questions," Armin agreed. "I can't answer all of it, but chances are Eren wasn't entirely truthful about what he said about the power being gone for good." It wouldn't be the first time he's hidden secrets.

"Maybe. Maybe not." Pieck held out her pinkie finger. A small cut had already begun to scab.

"When you'd do that?" Annie asked. "Trying to transform during a boring meeting?"

Pieck licked her wound. "Basically when I woke up from that dream. I went somewhere secluded. Nothing happened."

"But... this kid, is it possible he..." Reiner left off. "If he was held hostage somewhere for that long, maybe he just found out he could do that. But how?"

"I was thinking the same thing," Armin agreed with the larger blonde. "We keep this amongst ourselves, but the likelihood of the prince holding a Titan is next to undeniable. Whatever it is his Titan can do, it must've helped him to escape. That, coupled with our shared dream, it's likely that it has some connection to the Paths as well." None of them said anything. "Whatever this... Mystic Titan might be, but it's clear that there's more going on than what we were led to believe. By tomorrow, we make plans to depart to Paradis."

Reiner regarded him. "We'll be seeing Eren, too. Are you ready for what he has to say?"

Armin had wondered the same. After the war, they didn't speak much at all. With Eren confined to the island and Armin working to fix his mess, they hardly ever saw one another save for at peace summits, but even then they never engaged one-on-one. He doubted Eren would even listen.

"...I am," Armin answered. "One way or another, Eren does have a lot to answer. And it's time to finally learn the truth."

Sorry for the long wait. Things have been busy and not so good. I still write when I can, but between this and an original story of mine, one does take precedence over the other. Anyway, Thank you for reading. Next chapter, with the Alliance en route for Paradis, Harry learns greater control over his Titan form and abilities, but an even greater truth is still out of his grasp. Chapter 19: The Mystic Titan.