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Chapter Text

"First row, turn your faces to me!" Keith Shadis's voice booms through lined up crowd of cadets in training, whether to join Scout Regiment, Garrison or Military Police is up to them.

Instructor's job is simple, be imitating and scary to the cadets, shape them up so that they're suited and courageous enough to fight the titans. A rite of passage.

First row: Louise Lane, Floch Forster, Ilse Langnar, Thomas Wagner, and Mina Carolina.

"Second row, turn!"

Second row: Gordon Friman, Sandra Korsa, Marlowe Freudenberg, Hitch Dreyse, and Boris Feulner.

"Third row, turn!"

Third row: Samuel Linke-Jackson, Daz Phobos, Hannah Diamant, Franz Kefka, and Ymir Freckles.

"Fourth row!"

Fourth row: Krista Lenz, Sasha Blouse, Connie Springer, Marco Bott, and Jean Kirstein.

"Last row!"

Fifth and last row, are the remaining cadets: Eren Yeager, Mikasa Ackerman, Armin Arlert, Reiner Braun, Bertolt Hoover, Annie Leonhart, and finally Marcel Galliard.

When the passage was done with rest of the recruits, Shadis began writing his notebook, his notes for most of the cadets.

"For those who want to contribute of saving humanity from titans are Louise Lane, Thomas Wagner, Mina Carolina, Samuel Linke-Jackson, and Armin Arlert."

"Beginning from the first row, Floch Forster's motivation to join scouts is both honoring his sister "Nifa Forster" who's been serving the regiment for a long time. And him gaining inspiration from Commander Erwin as he looked up to him since he was a child... Ilse Langnar is more of a strange case, always writing her notebook of what's going on even during her introduction or when she's not looking to her notebook, she's brave yet emotional."

"Second row, Gordon Friman and Sandra Korsa. Both are childhood friends of Floch so it seems they're here for the same reason or another. Friman is interesting case as he's mute according to Sandra, so he can't speak but I can read his expressions either way. Hitch Dreyse and Boris Feulner seem to have same goal, join the Military Police and slack off. But Marlowe Freudenberg is specialty, get rid of MP's corruption and change it for the better. I appreciate his goal but I told him that it will never be easy."

"Third row, Daz Phobos is scared out of his mind even when he's waiting for his introduction. And I caught Hannah Diamant and Franz Kefka gossiping, giving me idea that these two have alot more going on..."

"Fourth row was somewhat of a disaster, more so with Connie Springer (Mispositioning his salute) and Sasha Blouse (Possibly stealing a steamed potato and eating it now when I was scolding Springer) When I recognized Blouse's love for food, I gave her penalty to running exercise until she's exhausted, otherwise no food for her. Jean Kirstein and Marco Bott were spared from my wrath, both seemingly plan to join MPs, one living in interior and other serving the king."

"From Ymir Freckles, Krista Lenz and Fifth row of cadets. I can tell from their faces that they don't need to go through the treatment I gave to the other cadets (Minus Armin Arlert) as they witnessed the fall of Wall Maria 2 years ago."

"Eren Yeager is from the fifth row... knowing what happened to Carla and Grisha, I can't let the same thing happen to him... but how?"

"You saw it right?!" Thomas asked.

"Yeah, I've seen it with my very own eyes."

A crowd of cadets in cafeteria listening to Eren's perspective when Shiganshina District fell, gasping and murmur. Others are still sitting in their tables but listening to Eren regardless.

"I-I've heard that thing s-stepped over the wall didn't it?!" Daz asked to Eren.

Hannah: Me too!

Franz: My village thought of it too.

Eren lightly smiled to ease their worries. "Eh no, even if it's little bit taller than the walls it can't climb over them. From what I can tell it merely kicked the wall which opened an entrance for all titans."

"What did it looked like?" Mina asked.

Armin answered who's sitting right beside Eren. "It didn't have any human skin, so it's mostly flesh and muscles. It also produced alot of smoke the moment it loomed over us."

...

Samuel asks "What about the Armored Titan that crashed through Wall Maria? Or the Jaw Titan?

Connie's eyes widen "Wait, there's "Jaw" Titan?"

Casually, Eren answers "Never seen the Jaw Titan, and the Armored? It looks like a normal titan to me."

Away from the crowd, Marcel and Reiner eyed one and another, with the latter lightly smirking and turning to the crowd "They say the Armored Titan is called like that because the cannons that Garrison use have no effect on it."

Eren was slightly taken aback and looked at Reiner with curiosity "Really? How do you-"

Jean cut Eren's sentence "Forget that, the fact that you have concrete knowledge of these titans tells me you're gonna join the scouts no?"

"Tch, of course I will! I will do my best... to wipe out. Every. Single. One... and what about you Kirstein? Joining the no talent MPs to live in the interior walls?"

Jean's smirk widens "I'm no liar, I'm not a kid that will spout about killing all titans but the moment you see one upclose? You'll piss yourself!"

Marlowe and Boris beside Jean sarcastically coughing, not believing shit what Jean says.

Eren got up from his chair, glaring at Jean with disdain. "You're talking about me aren't you?"

The crowd slowly dispersed, watching closely of Eren & Jean upcoming showdown.

Armin: E-Eren wait!

Marco: H-Hey!

Bertolt stepped into the crowd "Come on guys, it's literally the first day..."

Far away from the crowd, Floch, Sandra, Gordon watched while Ilse is taking notes of what's going on.

Floch leaned to Sandra "First day and there's already a fight? Amusing if you ask me."

"Boys will be boys." Sandra shook her head while Gordon nodded.

Just before anything can get worse, a bell rang, signalling all cadets move to their dorms. Jean and Eren stood still awkwardly, before Jean apologizes for his behavior and offered a handshake of peace to Eren. Eren accepts and all cadets left, "Night everyone!" Connie shouted, some trainees noticed Hannah and Franz hand holding just before they disconnect. Causing some mischievous murmurs amongst the cadets.

Huff... Huff... Huff...

Sasha Blouse after hours of running is exhausted, and with no thinking she drops down to the ground of opting to sleep here. She hears someone approaching but doesn't mind it... until one sniff.

Bread.

Pouncing at the smell like a rabid animal, she caught it.

"This is... Bread!" Sasha exclaims loudly.

"Ah! Sorry, this is the only food I can get... but, you should drink some water first!" The person is the sweet all-goddess Krista, Sasha freaks out with eating the bread before fainting to sleep. Two other cadets arrive the strange scene.

"I see you're doing a good deed." Ymir (And Louise from behind) says with unreadable expression on her face.

Krista stammered "Oh! I... Well, she was running for whole day so, I had to-"

Ymir dismissively cut her off "Yeah, yeah I get it. Here I'll do a good deed then." Ymir then carries Sasha to the dorms where rest of the female cadets stayed. With Krista and Louise following her.

"If you think I'm doing a good deed then you're wrong, I’m doing her a favor so she’ll owe me. Infact! I’m looking forward to a lot of fun from this idiot." Krista let out "hmpf" in response.

"Hey!" From the entrance of the dorms is Hitch waving at them. "Mina's in a braiding session with us! She's so good at it! You don't wanna miss it!"

Chapter Text

The next day is the Omni-Directional Mobility training, basically keeping yourself steady and balanced as a rock. Most of cadets struggled but passed nicely, others meanwhile such as Mikasa, Boris, Annie, Bertolt and Reiner seemingly have talent and kept themselves balanced... Eren on the other hand, not so much. Flipped upside down in his first and second try and an accident occured with slamming his head to flat surface in his third/last try. Leading to Mikasa and Armin taking him to infirmary to bandage his head. Following the unfortunate accident, Eren sought out advices and tricks from his peers but no success.

Hannah and Franz were the first but no advices or tricks, other than them being lovebirds 24/7 and mentioning how they balanced at the same time next to each other...

Floch and Sandra don't know what to say other than they struggled a bit on the moment they were in the air. Ilse was too busy taking notes, Gordon is obvious no, Annie didn't give a shit...

Marlowe did gave Eren an advice. "Try steadying yourself while holding your breath, I did it on my first try." Eren thought about it and thanking Marlowe for advice, with Boris sarcastically saying "Good Luck."

In the male cadet dorms...

"Please! Is there any tricks I can use so that I won't fail next time? I heard you three are really good! Reiner! Bertolt! Marcel!"

Reiner sadly shook his head "I'm sorry, but I don't think we're able to provide any tricks. We just did what everyone else did."

Eren sighed "This was a waste of time, I'm sorry for bothering you."

Before Eren could leave out of their bunk bed however, Bertolt asks "You and Armin are from Shiganshina right? Then... you should know how terrifying the titans are right?"

"I doubt Armin saw a titan upclose... but me, him and Mikasa. Just us three surviving when Wall Maria fell and... saw the failed "retake titan territory" operation that left 100 people returning."

...

"What about you three?"

Marcel spoke up "Us and Annie come from small village in the mountains of southeast Wall Maria, as kids."

Eren's eye widen "Wait, isn't that?"

Marcel's eyes averted to the ground, looking almost shameful "Yeah, the news reached out to us was too late... the titans got here first." Marcel continued.

"It was dawn. The animals were unusually restless, and we heard a rumbling we’d never heard before. Eventually, as it got louder, we realized it was the sound of footsteps. And when I rushed to open the window..."

Reiner placed his hand on Marcel's shoulder "Hey now, no need to remember. What's important that all of us survived."

Bertolt hummed while Marcel nodded.

Reiner focused on Eren "What my friends are saying, is that you aren't like the others. Those here who don’t understand how truly terrifying the Titans really are."

Moment of silence... before Reiner got off the bunk bed and gestured Eren, Bertolt and Marcel to follow him.

"Come on, let's take a walk."

Eren, Bertolt and Marcel got off the bunk bed, silently grabbing some hoodies and light sources, and they exited the dorms. Most of the cadets are asleep so no one really noticed them or didn't mind.

Marlowe in his bunk bed with Boris, staring at the ceiling and fidgeting his thumbs, possibly an anxiety issue?

"Having trouble sleeping?"

The voice beside Marlowe is Floch with Gordon sleeping up in their bunk bed.

Marlowe answers "Y-Yes, just... thinking about my future. What about you?"

Floch shifts his body to the center, like he's staring stars in the night sky. "Daydreaming."

"Right then... Floch, why join the Scout Regiment?"

... "My sister, Nifa has been serving the regiment for few years. I couldn't join her back then since I was... a crybaby. And she took care of me when our parents were a bit busy. Now it's my chance... but I don't want to die without seeing her."

Marlowe nods in acknowledgement.

"Not only that, but another reason to join the scouts is... Commander Erwin." This single reason seems to get Marlowe perked up with more interest.

"That guy? Is amazing! As a young man, each time I see him my heart strangely gets excited. His roaring commanding voice booms the whole army of scouts just before they leave for their expedition, he's practically my role model and idol at that point!"

...

"I wanna be a leader just like him." Floch averted his eyes to Marlowe, seeing him with a genuine smile on his face.

"It's... really admirable, Floch."

...

Now it's Floch's turn for asking questions.

"So then, Marlowe. Why join the Military Police?"

Taking a deep breath... "I'm not like Jean, Marco, Hitch or Boris, my goal is far more ambitious yet good one. Getting rid of Military Police's corruption and reforming it."

"Marlowe! That's gonna take years to accomplish. Everyone is pretty much used to this system." Floch shifted his body to the opposite side, avoiding Marlowe.

"I don't care, I'll do whatever it takes... even if I have to betray my morals to do it."

...

"Marlowe... do you mean-"

"Can you shut up you two? People are trying to sleep."

Marlowe and Floch's eyes widen, that they must've woken up Boris from his sleep.

"S-Sorry Boris." Marlowe apologizes.

"Pff, no problem."

This is Eren's last chance to complete the ODM balancing training, otherwise he will be shipped to the landfills. The first try was a 99% win, he maintained like everyone else. The crowd of his peers and friends began to cheer... before flipping over, just before he can loath about loss. Shadis noticed that the belt for the contraption was defective so he brought in a replacement. Still, everyone else was quite impressed that he kept himself steady even with the broken gear. The second try is a success, Eren screams of victory, and so does the crowd.

Armin: He did it!

Connie: WAY TO GO MY MAN!

Jean: Ugh.

Hitch: Not bad!

Mikasa smiles, Reiner clapping his hands, Marcel giving thumbs up. Ilse writing notes of Eren's success.

Looks like the future is not very bleak after all.

Chapter Text

Keith Shadis's notes through out the years...

"Year 847. Majority of cadets did well in their first training session with ODM Gear, slicing the nape targets while maneuvering through the forest. Mikasa Ackerman is easily the top of her class, swiftly dodging the trees, and perfectly slicing the napes of her targets and moving on to the next. Compared to Annie Leonhart or Boris Feulner who are somewhat at Mikasa's performance, yet they're actively loners, Mikasa on the other hand prominently stays at Eren's side. Trainees that are expert with vertical maneuvering gear are Jean Kirstein, Connie Springer, Sasha Blouse, Bertolt Hoover, and Hitch Dreyse. But each expertise has their own weaknesses. Frequent Conflict, Slowness, No-Seriousness, Lack of Decisions and Teasing. Those with some kind of leadership skill are Armin Arlert (More on the tactician side) Marco Bott, Marlowe Freudenberg and Floch Forster. They're capable of leading and directing their comrades. Last notable cadets with traits is the mental strength of both Reiner Braun and Marcel Galliard. Other cadets, Eren Yeager, Krista Lenz, Ymir Freckles, Thomas Wagner, Mina Carolina, Samuel Linke-Jackson, Daz Phobos, Hannah Diamant, Franz Kefka, Sandra Korsa, Gordon Friman, Louise Lane, and Ilse Langnar, all did well."

"Now we moved on to sparring sessions where they can use hands/fists, wooden knives or rifle melee fighting style to spar. I was the overseer, watching over cadets and "check" if they're goofing around... which happened with Connie Springer and Sasha Blouse. The most interesting session I watched was between Eren and Annie. Before, Eren was against Reiner and Marcel but surprisingly he bested them. That's when they spotted Annie talking to Mina and Hitch, the three seemingly slacking around when they should spar... so Reiner approached, and dared Annie to spar against Eren. From there Annie uses lots of techniques that I have never seen before, she said she learned them from her father... if he's still around, maybe I could ask him where he learned those moves? Agh, I'm getting sidetracked. Annie won alot while Eren was... not having a good time. Even Reiner and Marcel got pummeled when Eren forced insisted them to spar her. In the end Eren was out of her league... but from what I heard, Annie is willing to teach Eren those same exact moves... and several hours later, Annie got Mikasa's attention, both were about to have a duel with even majority of cadets watching and betting who's going to win... but the sparring session was about to be over, so I stopped the duel before they lay a finger one and another."

"Year 848. Next was the endurance session, setting in a rainy environment with mud and cadets will run laps with heavy equipment and keep up with me. Some were... left behind but retrieved when the session was over, others were struggling but Eren, Marco (He fell asleep during the session. Jean went to his location and retrieved him) Reiner, Marcel and Marlowe all helped out and encouraged their comrades to keep moving forward. A week after the last session, snowstorm has arrived which elected to initiate an additional part of endurance training, Me and cadets will reach a base at the foot of a mountain in the deadly cold environment which is a long way. All they need to do is stay in groups and take breaks for once in a while. We've reached our destination, however Ymir, Krista and Daz took long to arrive. At first we thought they were left behind but Ymir arrived with unconscious Daz and Krista... Freckles said that they were lost in the forest but they found the base."

"Year 849. Last but not least is Wasteland Excursion session, cadets are split into three groups (First is Marco, Eren, Jean, Mikasa, Armin, Connie, Sasha, Mina, Thomas, Krista) (Second is Marlowe, Boris, Hitch, Annie, Ymir, Louise, Franz, Hannah, Floch) (Third is Reiner, Bertolt, Marcel, Ilse, Daz, Samuel, Sandra, Gordon) each group will make a round trip throughout the wasteland, and they'll stay in the wilderness only 1 night before returning to the training base. But unexpected events occured in Marco's group, apparently bunch of bandits kidnapped Krista Lenz and her group weren't able to save her. Fortunately they found Marlowe's group, planning to rescue their comrade from her kidnappers. And they did, with Reiner's group arriving with the Military Police, arresting the bandits and the session is complete."

"And now... Year 850, their graduation... I have nothing to say other than I'm very proud of them. I just hope my efforts won't be in vain when an inevitable titan attack occurs inside the walls."

Behind The Scenes

Inside of the cafeteria crowded with trainees, after the sparring sessions were done. Jean is seen talking to Armin, Marco, Marlowe and Floch. While being watched by Eren, Connie, Thomas and Mikasa.

Armin: It's kind of natural, before the fall of Wall Maria only 50% of Scout Regiment soldiers were able to use ODM Gear nicely and dicely.

Marlowe: And I assume those from Garrison and MP Brigade couldn't use it properly, resulting in crash landing or stuck in the air?

Armin: I say probably.

Jean: I suggest rev it up hard, only just for a sec. And if anyone asks, try to use my style of ODM Gear usage, it's less gas consumption. Though medium speed.

Floch: You make it sound simple man!

Jean: It's a technique worth using if you want to get to the Military Police! What do you think Marco?

Marco: I... think it's good! Though I'm not all in for action, all I want is to just serve the king.

Jean: Naaaah, stop being a goody-two shoes and stay with me! You and I will have a good time living a comfortable life in the interior.

Marco: J-Jean! That's-

Armin: JEAN, we're literally right infront of you.

Marlowe: Persuasion is a dishonorable trait in your humanity, Kirstein.

Floch: Horseface! Are you gonna use that scooching closer tactic to Mikasa?

The conversation ended with Jean and Marco being a blushing mess, Armin and Marlowe have the faces indicating they're done with their shit, and Floch is so smugly now that he witnessed all of it and thinks about gossiping to others about Jeanmarco quarrel...

From the side of the watchers, watching the debacle, they voice their thoughts... minus Eren.

Connie: Seriously? That was cheap tactic.

Thomas: You see how too carefree he is only when Marco's around? Something tells me there's something going on between them. What do you think Mikasa?

Mikasa: To answer Birdnest's question, no I won't be persuaded by him.

Connie: Hah! Fat chance for Jean Boy-

Eren gets up and approaches Jean's group, things are about to get real bad.

"Oh Jean, how fallen you've become."

Jean turns his back, already having a scowl on his face the moment he hears Eren's voice. "Ugh, the hell do you want now Suicidal Blockhead?"

"Jean, I despise your goal and opinion of my choice, but I respected you for not bragging to all your friends of how they should get in to the Military Police and live like bunch of livestock slackers... BUT THIS IS NEW LOW YOU DIPSHIT!"

"What the FUCK is that supposed to mean?!" Now Jean got up angrily, face to face with Eren glaring intensely. All cadets are watching, some murmur, some stay silent.

Louise: They started again? Bloody hell.

Boris: How entertaining.

"You're plaguing Marco's goal! He just wants to serve the king yet you remove his choice with your damn interior propaganda!"

"THIS. DOES NOT. CONCERN YOU."

"YES IT DOES! You remove Marco's freedom!"

Jean had enough, he grabs Eren's collar. Alerting Marco and Armin to stop them.

"I'LL SHOW YOU FREEDOM-"

"ENOUGH."

The voice that booms the entire mess hall is Mikasa... with a very scary face... before soften up to break up the fight.

"That's enough, both of you."

Eren and Jean look down on the ground in shame, but Mikasa puts her hand on Eren's shoulder in a reassuring gesture... this uh... got Jean jealous... absolutely. And immediately he prepares a punch but Eren was swift, he immediately dodged Jean's punch and toppled him to the ground with the move Annie taught him. Everyone was at awe, even Annie rids of her cold demeanor with a smile on her face.

Jean groaning. "What... what was that?"

Eren repositions his posture by putting his hand on his hip and his lips drawn to be arrogant, smugly-like. "That was a move while you were slacking off, I suggest take some lessons from-"

Floch: THAT WAS AMAZING! Can you teach me that move too?!

Eren: What? I was about to say-

Boris: Yo Eren! That was sweet kick-ass move you did there.

Eren: G-Guys!

Ilse: Are you open for teaching?

Louise: Did Mikasa taught you that move?

Sandra: Teach me that move too!

Sasha: Me too!

Connie: Me too!

Daz: ME TOO-

...

Uh oh.

Keith: I hear some loud commotion going on... anyone dare to enlighten me of what the hell's going on?

...

Mikasa: That was Sasha's loud fart that caused the whole ruckus.

Sasha: M-MIKASA?

Keith: Fuck, that was you?

Sasha: I...

Keith: Please Blouse, learn some modesty.

During endurance session, Marco was left behind for unknown reason. Jean volunteered to find him in a rainy forest environment full of mud.

Jean's walking through the forest, looking for Marco... frantically.

"Where the hell are you Marco?! I swear I wouldn't be in this situation if you kept up with us! But lucky for you, I volunteered to save your-"

Jean hears faint snoring... and it's Marco! He's...

"HE'S FUCKING SLEEPING? RESTING ON A TREE?"

"Marco! Wake up!"

No response... light slap.

"Marco, come on!"

Still no response... light slap again.

...

BIG SLAP

"MARCO WAKE THE FUCK UP!"

Marco groggily opens his eyes, lots of eyebags in them. "Oof... Hey Jean..."

"Why- How are you sleeping in the middle of the storm?!"

"Eh couldn't sleep last night, the snoring of my friends kept my eyes open."

Jean facepalms... "Can you walk on your own?"

Marco giving Jean a nervous smile, "Eh I'd get dizzy alot, we could wait for help-"

With no time to waste, Jean carries sleepy Marco piggy-back style. While Jean is having a hellish time, Marco in the back sleeps peacefully. Jean's rescue is complete as he arrives to the place where the rest cadets are at.

Reiner: Hey! They've arrived!

Krista: Thank goodness! I was so worried.

Ymir: Who would've thought horseface gaining a bride?.

Jean: Shut it Freckles!

During endurance training, the snowstorm event. Daz lost his consciousness to the cold, Krista and Ymir wrapping and dragging him to the base but... they get lost in the cold forest.

They're continuing on... but Ymir has doubts.

"Krista, you know where are we going right?"

"Yeah? To the base where the rest of our friends are at?"

"My dear, we're in the middle of a forest and soon we're gonna die from the cold, I suggest we leave Daz and we have better chance of surviving."

"No way Ymir! Three of us are gonna make it! Whether you like it or not!"

"Krista, you have two choices, either you let go of Daz and the two of us will make it to the base, or the three of us can die trying."

"Well I choose the third choice! No one will be left behind... then how about this? Go on ahead without me, I'll try to keep up with you."

...

Ymir stops in her tracks, gaining a reaction from Krista.

"Ymir, what are you doing?"

"What does it look like?"

"Ymir! You can't just stop dead in your tracks! Go on without me!"

"Have you ever asked for my help then? Your body is almost same physique as Armin's! Won't be it faster and easier if I'm the one to drag him?"

"No no it's totally okay! I won't be a burden to you, I'm Krista Lenz after all! Everyone's goddess."

...

Out of the blue, Ymir chuckles.

"Alright, no more games."

Ymir gets closer to Krista's face, giving her a grave stare.

"Your plan is not to save Daz at all isn't it?"

...

"If I chosen your suggestion, you'd die. Or if I didn't you'd still die in someway. But if I helped and dragged Daz to the base... you'd still die, it's the same thing isn't it? That you'll return to the darkness and die all alone thinking you're a burden?"

...

"Tell me Krista, what are you trying to do? You're a good girl so you'll tell me right? But bad girls won't tell anything about their personal problems... right?"

...

"You know if I voiced my opinion, me and Daz wouldn't have made it. You brought us to this forest after all-"

"Can you just be quiet?"

Historia Krista audibly gasped right when she harshly demanded to Ymir, Ymir on the other hand slightly widened her eyes.

Krista: I'm- I'm so sorry!

Ymir: Don't be, I should be the one apologizing.

Krista: But still...

...

Ymir: You're the girl right? The mistress's daughter that was... banished from her family.

Krista: ...Yes

...

Krista: How did you know?

Ymir began taking the job of dragging Daz and lead the front, while Krista follows her behind.

Ymir: Some heretics from the church. They talk too loud, back then I was a street rat and I've done some... trouble-making and "borrowing" things to survive.

Krista: Then... what did they say?

Ymir: Heh, lots of bullshit. Apparently you were descendant by blood and you were in line to inherit a real high-up position. Buuuut, there was a dispute over whether an illegitimate child could be an heir.

Krista: Something like that, yes.

Ymir: And they say that killing you would've solved everything.

Krista clenched her fists in response.

Ymir: However, instead they sent you away living in a humble life under a fake name... like you got a second chance... and I assume you were driven to join the cadet corps?

...

Krista: You're correct... but what about you Ymir? Why did you join with the trainees in order to find me?

Ymir: To be honest I... haven't been able to settle a full concrete answer. Maybe we're quite alike?

Krista: Alike?

Ymir: In general.

...

A small pink tint appears in Krista's cheeks. "Did you... want to be friends? With me?"

Ymir stops in her tracks, laughing hysterically. "In your dreams goddess of 104th!"

Now Ymir and Krista are face to face.

"If you think you and I are on the same level of trauma? Then you're wrong, I happened to get a second chance at life after being exploited as an orphan! But now I'm reborn as a new person! A person that's selfish and will retaliate if the world is up in arms against me! And I'm not like you that tries to hide their real name! I'm Ymir! And I'll make sure the world will REMEMBER THAT."

Ymir's speech left Krista speechless! (Hah, get it?)

"But what about you Krista? The fact that your plan was to die all alone in this environment because you're a burden? I never said that! Fuck, I never even thought of the fact that you're a burden! Everyone in the 104th cares about you, loves you. So why are insistent on killing yourself?"

"BECAUSE THE WORLD HATES ME JUST BECAUSE I EXISTED!" Historia Krista's eyes are filled with tears and they fall as she sobs and hiccups. Ymir wipes them with her glove softly.

"The moment I was born, everybody was against me... it's like I'm a curse. My father dismissed me like trash and my mother... well I think there's a part of her that she didn't want me... you don't get it Ymir, I just... I just can't take it anymore!"

"THEN FIGHT BACK! If the world hates you then you spit at them! Kick them! Beat the shit out of them... that's what I taught myself to do, that's what Eren taught himself to do! Even Annie herself... knows and she will do whatever it means to fight back."

...

"Fight. Krista."

"You... have you spoke to Eren and Annie?"

"Couple of times actually, one is stupid and one is antisocial... but hey, they answered my questions and I consider them good people... not sure why I felt weird around them though."

...

After a long-ass argument, they spot a light. They're so close but they're at the edge of a cliff.

Ymir: Okay... here's the plan. I'm gonna throw you and Daz and by some miracle, you'll survive thanks to the snow below us.

Krista: Wha- ARE YOU INSANE?

Ymir: I am! ONE TWO THREE GO!

Ymir throws Krista first, then Daz, and then finally herself... while falling Krista screams Ymir's name, Daz meanwhile is still... unconscious. Ymir on other hand?

"You know... I think I have a full concrete answer. Not only we're hated by the world for just existing, but also... we have both have secrets... for better or worse."

Ymir positions her thumb to her teeth, bites it with blood spurting out... and then...

Yellow Lightning Strike.

"Wake up." Ymir nudges Krista to wake up from her sleep.

"Wha? What happened? Where's... where's Daz?!"

Ymir brings Krista to the base where Daz is resting, he's tended by Samuel, Franz and Hannah. He spots the duo and thanks them for saving his life. In response, Krista says "No problem!" while Ymir shrugs.

They exited the base. Watching and expecting the view of sunrise.

Krista: We survived? By a miracle?

...

Ymir: Not really my beloved! it's one of my... secrets.

Krista: Oh... I see!

Both chuckle... then Ymir grabs Krista's shoulders. With the sun rising with pink hue.

"My dearest Krista... promise me... promise me that once I reveal my secret."

The pink tint on Krista's cheeks are more visible...

...

"Promise me that you go back to living with your old name."

"I got caught."

One day before the cadets graduation, Reiner, Annie, Marcel and Bertolt met up outside in the night, with Annie giving them a "report"

"It was some guy, fairly old, has formal clothes with a black tie and a hat... he chased me down but I escaped."

Marcel perks up "Wait, isn't the description matches with the urban legend Kenny The Ripper?"

Reiner snorts "Marcel come on now, are you scared of a bedtime horror story told by Jean?"

Marcel scoffs with a chuckle.

...

Annie looking away shamefully, which prompts Reiner to crouch down and place his hand on her shoulder in a comforting gesture.

"I should've done better, I escaped through a hole that lead to sewers... I probably smell like shit right now-"

"Don't belittle yourself, you've done enough. I should be the one apologizing for getting you in that situation, I was the one who insisted you finding the real king didn't I? Hell I even wasted Mina's braiding efforts now that you're back to your own hairstyle."

Annie nods with a smile on her face. The four hear shouting afar, it's Mina calling them to the cafeteria.

"Let's go, we'll discuss what to do afterwards." With that, all four have got up and walk to Mina's direction...

But Bertolt stops in his tracks.

Reiner: Bertolt?

...

Bertolt: I keep having the same dream, about the man who hung himself in the fields. Why do you think he told us his story before he hung himself?

...

Bertolt: I think... what the old man wanted... was to be judged... by someone.

"Eren?"

Chapter Text

Top 20 is settled, graduation celebration begins, and all cadets are relocated to Trost's Military HQ where they all discuss of their accomplishments in the cafeteria, much larger than the last one they've stayed. Majority of cadets are talking to each other or enjoying their meal in peace.

Many applaud for their accomplishments... or others drown in failure.

Connie: Hell yeah! I can join the Military Police now!

Sasha: Imagine the food service they have in there!

Marco: Guess my dream is about to come true.

Jean: Can't believe I fell behind Eren... ugh, oh well.

Ymir: Whatever regiment you join Krista... I join with you too.

Krista: Oh, hush Ymir! What about you Louise?

Louise: Still haven't settled... and you Ilse?

Ilse: ...Huh? Sorry, I was writing notes.

Mina giggly kicking her legs in the air.

Hitch and Boris are talking to Annie and Marcel.

"So have you considered which regiment you're joining Annie?" Hitch asked.

"I think MPs is gonna be my suite."

"Yes, yes, yes! Good choice sweetie. You and I are gonna be roommates from now on!"

"...Yaaaay."

Boris chimes in "Haha, very funny girls. What about you Marcel?"

"Oh, I think same as Annie's."

"Huh, right... what about Braun and Hoover?" Boris pointing at Reiner and Bertolt's direction.

"They're going to join the scouts from what they told me."

Hitch gasped "The scouts? Don't tell me Eren persuaded them to-"

Boris cuts her off "I don't think so, but it makes sense since Reiner has that soldier boy persona going on, and Bertolt... what about him?"

"Mmmm, the two are close. Like best friends overall." Marcel answered for Boris.

"Huh, good for them."

Daz drowns in his misery as he chugs his mug. "My efforts were for nothing! I couldn't even make it to top scores!"

Samuel puts his hand in Daz's shoulder in a comforting gesture, "It's okay man! Some are considering to join Garrison, wanna join the ranks?"

"Eh, why not."

In a corner of the cafeteria, Floch leans back on a wall while Sandra and Gordon are sitting back in the ground.

Sandra: Congratulations Floch! You've made it to Top 20. Which means you're eligible to join the Military Police! But... I doubt you-

Floch: Nope, my mind is still set on joining the scouts.

Sandra: Right. Seeing your sister again and Commander Erwin...

Floch: I think it's best that you two join the Garrison, it's much safer-

Gordon got up and cuts Floch off by putting his palm in his mouth.

In response, Sandra gets up and putting a confident look on her face. "No way, we three cannot be separated. Wherever you go? We go too. Right Gordon?"

Gordon's answer is giving her a thumbs up.

Floch sighs with a fond smile on his lips.

"O-Okay, but you two... promise me we'll stick together."

Sandra and Gordon nod.

Now for the last conversation entry...

Eren with Armin, Mikasa, Reiner and Bertolt, talking to Thomas, Marlowe, Hannah and Franz.

Eren looks up to Reiner and Bertolt with his green eyes sparkling...

"You two... you two are going to join Survey Corps?"

"Damn right you are! While Annie and Marcel are gonna join the MPs, me and Bertolt will join the brave soldiers to wipe out titans with an iron fist! With alongside you... Eren."

"It's true." Bertolt spoke as additional confirmation of their choice.

Eren blinks excessively yet is undeniably happy. "I'm... so glad, and we have Floch, Sandra and Gordon coming along with us as well. Armin? Mikasa?"

Armin: Eh, I think Scout Regiment can use another tactician strategist like me.

Mikasa: I'll join the recon guys too, I've heard there's a veteran scout that's dubbed "The Strongest Soldier of Humanity."

Eren: Huh, let's if you can reach their level!

Mikasa: Right... oh and... Eren?

Eren: Hm?

...

Mikasa holding a pinky promise gesture to Eren.

"Together... until the end?" Mikasa says first...

...

Then Eren finishes with accepting pinky promise.

"Until the end."

Both Franz and Hannah "awwww'ed" at them. And in-response Eren and Mikasa's cheeks reddened.

Eren sighs. "What about you two?"

"Me and Hannah thought we'd join the Garrison, since it's not only safe but it means we can still stay together as long as possible!" When Franz finished his statement, Hannah nuzzled her face to Franz's arm.

Eren scoffs "Good for you two, but try not drink anything that your Garrison colleagues gives you. Otherwise you two would be in a passionate kissing and smooching session without knowing."

...

WHAT THE FUCK?

The couple's faces are fully red, Kefka and Diamant have distinct reaction to Eren's bluntness.

The former stammers. "E-Eren?!"

"S-SHUT IT, YEAGER!" The latter yells.

"Eren..." Even Mikasa disapproves.

"What? Just letting them know!" Armin giggles as Eren finishes his defendant sentence. Reiner shakes his head though in a more amused manner and Bertolt scratches his back of his hair, not knowing what to say about all this.

"Relationships aside..." Marlowe chimed in "I can't help but be admired by your determination of your goal, Eren."

Eren's taken aback. "Oh... thank you Marlowe, what about you? I heard you have an ambition."

"Indeed."

Marlowe cleared his throat... loudly. Which, it caught everyone's attention to him.

"I too set my sights on joining the Military Police, but not for the reason like Mr.Horseface or Hitch, Marco and Boris have... I have an ambition, by getting rid of the corruption that infected the regiment for many years! I may have to do this alone as some of them have better business to do or lack the courage to do what needs to be done. But that's okay! I'll do whatever it takes to cleanse it... even if I have to stain my hands with blood."

...

With that the crowd erupts in clapping their hands, Marlowe saluted Eren. And in return Eren saluted Marlowe.

...

"I don't get it."

Then Thomas spoke, very down for some reason?

Eren: What... what is it Thomas?

Thomas: Have you forgotten four years ago? That 250.000 Civvies and Soldiers were sent out to retake Wall Maria? And only less than 200 returned? Eren, it feels like you're missing something.

Eren: Wha- What "something" Thomas! TELL ME!

Thomas: There's no way you can possibly win!

...

Thomas: You speech about how you will exterminate all titans and free mankind from the walls, but we lost half of population because we don't know anything about them! Lots of people were eaten and because of this... mankind doesn't stand a chance.

...

Thomas: Eren- I'm... I'm so-

Eren: No.

Thomas: What?

Eren: You're right, we did hardly know anything about them... but you forgot to point one crucial detail!

Now the crowd's attention is towards Eren.

Eren: The biggest flaw is that we mankind attack the titans in sheer numbers! And that's why we suffered defeats and losses... but the knowledge we gain from the battles is the guiding beacon of our hope. When we gain good info of how to battle the titans, we will gain our finest victories! I will kill them and destroy the walls, so that you all can truly experience how freedom feels!

Tears appear in Eren's eyes.

Eren: You all matter to me... I don't care if you join Garrison or MPs. If it's for good intentions then I'm glad. If you join the scouts because of me or... again, good intentions... I will sacrifice everything to protect you.

The crowd... they didn't know what to say, they're left speechless. Some were quietly crying because of him, and some... were embraced with a new feeling in their heart.

Eren wipes his tears away. "I'll get going, thank you for listening to my ted talk..."

Eren storms out of the cafeteria, Armin and Mikasa following behind, then Reiner and Bertolt, and more. Louise, Ilse, Mina, Floch, Sandra and Gordon.

The room was quiet after this.

The next day, all cadets are designated in Trost where they will receive their first duties. But first! The cadets are invited to see the Scout Regiment soldiers leaving for a quick expedition.

And here they are, passing along while riding horses. And the citizens cheer them on while cadets look at them in awe, mostly the veterans.

Commander Erwin Smith caught the most attention at first, with Eren, Armin, Floch, staring at him with sparkling eyes and their mouths stuck open. Erwin notices them and gives them a small smile.

Next is Squad Mike, with the Squad Leader Mike Zacharias and his sister, Nanaba Zacharias. Gelgar Saufer, Lynne Lichtenberg and Henning Graz. The cadets were surprised of Mike's buffed physical body, noticeable from his chest.

Next up is Squad Hange, with Section Commander Hange Zoe and their assistant Moblit Berner, Nifa Forster, Keiji Cage and Abel Shephard...

"NIFAAAAA!"

Nifa heard a voice, a voice she hasn't heard for a long long time.

"Floch?"

Nifa turned and she sees Floch alongside Sandra and Gordon waving at her happily. And in response, Nifa covers her mouth and her eyes getting watery...

"Floch... my goodness, look at how much you've grown!"

"Nifa? Who's that guy that shouted your name?" Keiji asked.

"O-Oh! That's my little brother."

Abel joined the conversation. "Really? The crybaby you always yapped about?"

"Oh shush Abel!" Nifa giggled

Last but not least, Squad Levi. It includes the famous strongest soldier, Captain Levi Ackerman. And side by side with Levi are Furlan Church and Isabel Magnolia. In the back are Levi's other squadmates. Eld Jinn in front and the rest follow are Petra Ral, Oluo Bozado and finally Gunther Schultz.

While Levi's squadmates are pleased with the crowd cheering them, with Isabel waving everyone and Oluo bowing them in respect, Levi on the other hand...

"Good grief, can they shut up?"

Eren, Connie, Sasha, Thomas, Mina, Samuel and Daz are stationed at atop of the Wall of Trost. Maintenance job with checking and manning the upgraded cannons. And carrying crates that contain goods... like meat.

Eren with Mina beside gets surprising news from Connie.

Eren: Wait... Connie, you're gonna enlist for Scouts?

Connie: Yep.

Eren: But, you were going on and on about joining the Military Police and... why change your mind?

Mina: Seems like he was listening to your speech in the cafeteria.

Eren: Well, I mean everyone did listen but I didn't think it would change their mind-

Connie: Pffft, what are you talking about?! I did with my own choice-

"You're not the only one."

The voice is from Thomas Wagner himself, now the confidence burns hotter than the downer we saw last time.

Eren: Thomas?

Thomas: Hey... I wanted to say, I'm sorry for not having faith in you back in-

Eren puts his hand on Thomas' shoulder, reassuring gesture.

"No, it's okay. We're past that. What matters is we're together! And... Connie, Thomas... I swore to protect-"

Connie cuts him off "C'mon Eren, have a bit self-preservation for yourself! Otherwise Mikasa would be upset! Hehe."

Eren frowns of the mention of Mikasa being upset... perhaps he could convince her to protect the people they matter to him?

Oh well, "What about you two?" Eren asked to Samuel and Daz.

"Oh, me and Daz settled for Garrison. And I'm gonna look after him for a while since he's a bit down in past days." Samuel answered.

Daz scoffs while manning a cannon. "Bagh, don't worry Samuel. Once I gain my bravery and courage... me and my friends I known for will reign terror on the titans!"

Then he got up, screamed to the horizon infront of him!

"YOU HEAR ME TITANS?! I'LL FIND YOU AND SLICE AND DICE YOUR WRETCHED NAPES LIKE ANIMALS!" Finishing it with a maniacal laughter.

All others were taken aback with Daz's sudden outrage...

"Hey y'all!"

That's Sasha voice and... why does she have meat?

Connie: WHAT THE FUCK?

Samuel: Sasha have you gone mad?!

Daz: You're screwed Potato girl!

Sasha: Calm down guys! We'll split it and share it, with bread and potatoes!

Eren: Sasha just... put those back in the crate.

Mina: Yeah! Meat is rare nowadays since we lost so much land!

Sasha: Alright! Alright!

...

Sasha: But hey, mark my words! Once we retake the land, we'll get to raise and keep cows and sheep again... still though, who wants some?

...

Connie: Argh! Leave some for me!

Mina: Me too!

Daz: One bite please!

Samuel: Haha! Come on guys, let's not slack around and finish the maintenance on the cannons.

All lads returned to their duty, Eren taking a great far look in to the horizon.

"Five years have passed... and mankind has regained their dignity again... and my speech, Connie, Thomas... can't believe it inspired them."

"I wonder if others have considered to join Survey Regiment? Louise? Ilse? Krista? Ymir?"

Now, looking back at the Trost District.

"This is it... humanity's counterattack begins no-"

OUT OF NOWHERE! The Colossal Titan appears! With a small yellow lightning strike and a menacing stare down at Eren's group...

None of them spoke as they stay still in shock... except Daz.

"What... the fuck?"

...

"WHAT. THE. FUUUUUU-"

Poor bastard couldn't finish his sentence as steam erupts from Colossal's body, knocking back the cadets away.

This is where the fun begins.

Chapter Text

Encounter with the Colossal went so bad so fast. Not only it broke the wall which leads to Titans invading Trost, but also destroyed several cannons atop of the wall. Guess the Maintenance Crew's hard work is for nothing. But they did gain confirmation that yes! Colossal is intelligent! Eren fought it fiercely, dodging incoming attacks from the beast. Each time he tried to perform a fatal nape slice however, the Colossal would emit a steam blast from behind which gave Eren a disadvantage... but something weird happened in few minutes. The Colossal started to collapse and fall to the surface, making a humanoid shaped crater outside of Trost's walls.

Eren and others (Connie, Sasha, Mina, Thomas, Daz, Samuel) were severely confused. Even if Eren couldn't slice the nape, how did it die then? They noticed the Colossal's body disintegrate but they couldn't see it clearly because of the huge amount of steam and smoke. A Garrison Soldier arrived to the scene, telling rest of the crew to return to Trost HQ to gear up, he'll send to the Colossal Encounter report to higher-ups... but first.

They need to get rid of the titans.

Evacuation Order has settled and immediately, Trost District is crowded as hell. But the Garrison lads are doing their best to keep civilians calm, not repeat of what happened in five years ago.

The Cadets are all settled and prepared, but not without directives. All of them are lined up in Trost HQ Courtyard, where they first time see one of the prominent squad leaders and captains of Garrison Regiment... Rico Brzenska.

Her voice booms throughout the courtyard.

"Alright, Listen up recruits! We received a word that vanguard has been deserviced and the outer gate has been destroyed, which leads to titans entering the city! So we're going to split into squadrons with three purposes. Offense Squadrons are the first line of defense and the frontline unit, killing all titans wandering in the district. Second line of squadrons are under Garrison command. And rearguard will be with the Garrison's elites!"

"I know this is gonna alot to take in and process, given how the attack was sudden and you all haven't seen a titan in action yet... but remember your three years of training! Remember what you're fighting for! Dedicate your hearts!"

All Cadets and Garrison Soldiers present with Rico salute.

"Our primary objective is to secure civilians evacuating while defending Wall Rose. So do your best and try not to die."

...

"And one more thing, even if Colossal seemingly "died" during it's appearance. We must anticipate the arrival of Armored Titan, and we assume that it will break the inner gate... dismissed!"

Rico left the courtyard, and all cadets disperse while waiting for squad assignments... but they're not taking things well.

Daz: Fuck! FUCK! WE'RE SO DEAD!

Floch: Get your shit together Daz!

Hitch: How did the Colossal die anyway?

Boris: Oh shit, Oh shit man... Oh shit!

Jean? Well he has his own problem.

"Dammit at all Colossal! I was supposed to enter the interior tomorrow! Yet your attack ruined that chance!" Jean storms out of the courtyard, but not without someone going after him.

"Jean! Wait!" It's Marco.

"What is it Marco? I don't have time to chit chat!"

"We're... assigned with Eren."

...

"I'm sorry. What?"

"You heard that right horseface." Jean and Marco turned to see Eren, Mikasa and Armin standing in the corner.

"You've gotta be kidding me... first I had to comprehend Potato Hunter and Stupid Baldie with a cooking competition led by Commander Pixis, then today Colossal shows up and ruins my chance to enter the interior... and now? I'M BEING SELECTED FOR THE FRONTLINES WITH. YOU?!"

Eren was not intimidated by Jean's scary raging expression, as he smugly relaxed with crossing his arms. "Sorry Jean-Boy... but orders are orders."

"DAMN YOU-" Jean was about to punch Eren but stopped himself from doing it, instead he covers his face with his hands and sits down backed against the wall, looking utterly destroyed.

Eren paid no mind and others (Marco, Armin and Mikasa) were busy talking to each other...

...

That is he heard sniffling coming from... Jean?

Eren: J-Jean?

Jean: All I ever done through three years is nothing but brag on joining the interior and push away from my mom when she came to visit me several times! So much for a piece of shit like me...And now? I'm gonna fucking die to a titan! And so will my mom too!

That's when Eren sees dropping tears from Jean's covered face... Jean, the bastard who Eren and him bickered over three years, set his eyes on becoming an MP... going on a breakdown like this? Hell. no.

"Who the hell are you belittling yourself!" Eren grabs Jean's collar and shoves him to a nearby wall, getting attention from others, interfering the scene before them.

Armin: Eren! What are you-

Marco: Woah! Woah! Take it easy!

Jean shakes his head (Motherfucker shoved him too hard) still having bits of tears in his eyes. Staring at Eren's angry face... well it is angry, but there is some reassurance behind it.

"Jean, you worked your way to Top 20 and surpassed all others like Marco! Sure you may have fallen behind me and Armin but that doesn't matter! What matters is your ODM skill and some leader-"

"My ODM Skill?! What if a titan grabs and my skill is all for nothing?!" Jean refutes.

"Then we'll be there for you! Saving you as fast as we can."

"We?"

"Me as Squad Leader, Armin, You, Marco and other two squadmates that I'm still waiting for."

...

"And besides!" Eren letting go of Jean's collar and putting arm over Jean's left shoulder "Once this is all over, you can enter the interior! And your mom? I'm sure she's already evacuated! So she won't suffer the fate like my... my-"

Marco: Eren, that's enough. Listen to Eren, Jean! If you're in trouble, shout loudly as you can. Say something like "Horseface is in trouble!"

"Oh quit it Marco..." Finish it with a facepalm, covering his red tinted cheeks... he can feel Eren and Armin giggling.

"Cadet Yeager?"

A Garrison Squad Leader arrives the scene addressing Eren. It's...

Eren Saluting, "Ian Dietrich Sir!"

Dietrich saluting in response. "Last two squadmate picks are Mina Carolina and Thomas Wagner, your squad is full set. Ready up and follow me to the frontlines."

Eren, Armin, Jean, Marco: Yes sir!

"Good. Oh and, Cadet Ackerman."

...

"You assigned to the rearguard with elites."

Mikasa blinked twice... "W-Wait, why am I not in the frontlines?"

"I'm sorry, but they need you the most. Now come on, let's go." Ian left the scene with Armin, Jean and Marco following suite. Leaving only Eren and Mikasa.

...

Eren: Mikasa-

Mikasa: I can't- I can't just let you go and fight out in the field, we're supposed to be together and Armin!

Eren: I know, but it'll be just this once-

Mikasa: What happens when you're in grave danger and I can't save you?

Eren: Don't worry I got others with me-

Mikasa: I just- I don't want to lose you! I can't lose more! Not Aunt Carla. Not my parents... I don't want to-

Eren stopped Mikasa's downward spiral with forehead-to-forehead touch...

...

Eren with a serene tone of his voice... "Let's hope we'll meet each other again unharmed... okay?"

...

"Y-Yeah, okay."