52

Eren Yeager

As the hands of the clock continued their relentless march, unyielding to the passage of time, three hours slipped away unnoticed. Yet, the echoes of Reiner's words reverberated within the depths of his consciousness. Consumed by a tumultuous storm of emotions, Eren found solace in the tight grip of his hands upon his knees, his fingers digging into his skin with a desperate intensity. The clenching of his teeth served as a physical manifestation of the seething rage that coursed through his veins while his rapid, shallow breaths mirrored the rapid-fire thoughts that raced through his mind.

Heat radiated from his flushed face as if his very being was set ablaze by the inferno of anger that consumed him. The words spoken by Reiner, like an endless refrain, played on an eternal loop within the recesses of his mind, etching themselves deeper with each repetition. In the depths of his being, a primal urge surged forth, an unyielding desire to channel his fury into a physical manifestation, to pummel Reiner once more with unrelenting force.

As Eren sat there, he couldn't help but replay those haunting words in his mind: "'It was my fault your mother got eaten by a Titan.'" In the depths of his thoughts, he found himself transported back to that fateful day when the air was thick with a mixture of terror and despair. The vivid memories flooded back, engulfing his senses— the coppery scent of blood, the chilling sight of droplets soaring through the air like twisted dancers. Eren's chest tightened, his heart racing, but he knew he had to regain control. Taking slow, deliberate breaths, he willed himself to find solace in the storm raging within, reminding himself of the necessity to maintain a calm and composed demeanor.

Eren remembered the days he spent with Reiner, how often Reiner would laugh and instruct fellow cadets on how to do things right, how everyone looked up to him, yet all that had been a lie. All his smiles and jokes had been nothing but a sick lie. A man who had no problems lying to people, acting like their friends, and then killing them later.

As Eren found himself caught in a whirlwind of emotions, he instinctively closed his eyes, seeking solace while perched on the edge of his bed. With each passing second, his fingers weaved through his tousled, dark hair, a visual representation of the frustration simmering within him. In the midst of this internal turmoil, an unexpected sensation rippled through the air, causing the bed beneath him to tremble imperceptibly. Without the need to turn around or unveil his eyes, Eren recognized the familiar presence that now enveloped him from behind. It was Mikasa who embraced him in a tender, vulnerable moment. Her bare skin pressed gently against his back, offering a sense of comfort and understanding that transcended words.

After the talk with Reiner, Eren had asked if he could talk with Bertholdt, but Levi told him that Bertholdt's cell was much further away and it would take time to get there, the time they didn't have; after returning back to his bedroom, Mikasa had followed Eren, asking him if he was alright.

In an eruption of pent-up frustration and deep-seated anger, Eren unleashed a torrent of emotions, allowing his raw passion to consume him entirely. It was as if every ounce of what he felt, and even more, surged forth from within. Sensing his turmoil, Mikasa enveloped him in a tender embrace, her soothing words caressing his battered soul, a gentle reminder that he need not bear the burden alone. In that fleeting moment of vulnerability, Eren found solace in the warmth of Mikasa's lips against his own.

The outside world faded into insignificance as their surroundings became nothing more than a blur, their garments discarded haphazardly within the confines of the room. As their bodies entwined, their passion ignited, and the room itself became a mere witness, reverberating with the symphony of Mikasa's unabashed pleasure, their unyielding union unapologetically echoing through the walls, unbound by the fear of prying ears.

In the aftermath of their passionate lovemaking session, their bodies intertwined like puzzle pieces, they succumbed to the blissful embrace of slumber. However, the tranquility of their sleep proved fleeting, as Eren's senses gradually stirred him awake from the depths of his dreams. Mikasa nestled herself behind him, her lips embarking on a tantalizing journey, planting tender kisses along the delicate curve of his neck. Stirred by her affectionate touch, Eren instinctively turned his face towards her, their lips meeting in a fervent union.

Eren's voice, brimming with a deep affection that resonated in his every syllable, broke the silence. "I'm so happy to have you, Mikasa," he whispered softly, his hand tenderly grazing her delicate cheek, eliciting a rush of warmth that bloomed on her fair complexion. Astonished by the intensity of his words and the raw tenderness in his touch, Mikasa's cheeks flushed a deep shade of crimson, resembling the petals of a rose in full bloom.

Suddenly feeling vulnerable and exposed without her signature scarf adorning her slender neck, she instinctively sought solace, her gaze momentarily flickering, searching for refuge. With the absence of her cherished accessory, she swiftly seized the nearest refuge, a soft, comforting blanket. She draped it gently over her face, akin to a fragile shield protecting her from the waves of emotions crashing against her. Eren's hearty laughter, dancing with mirth and amusement, filled the air, intertwining with the whispers of a gentle breeze as he savored the sight of Mikasa's adorable shyness.

With gentle precision, Eren delicately lifted the soft blanket that had been shielding Mikasa's face, revealing her captivating eyes to his adoring gaze. His voice, barely above a whisper, carried an unspoken reassurance as he said, "You don't have to hide from me, you can always tell me everything." A warm smile graced his lips as he closed the distance between them, their connection intensifying.

In the midst of their passion, Mikasa's moans of pleasure filled the air as Eren found himself atop her, his hands instinctively embracing the tender curves of her naked breasts, his fingertips delicately teasing her rosy nipple. Their lips locked in a fervent kiss, a symphony of desire and longing. The anticipation grew, Mikasa's body already responding eagerly to his touch, her desire evident in the wetness that enveloped her.

However, fate intervened just as their desires threatened to consume them completely. A knock on the door shattered the intense atmosphere, forcing them to abruptly break apart, their faces flushed with a mixture of embarrassment and desire. Both of them were left breathless, their hearts pounding in their chests as they turned to face the unexpected visitor on the other side of the door.

"Eren, Mikasa, don't forget you're to meet with Levi at the gate, can I come in?" Eren and Mikasa, their bodies still tangled in the warmth of their shared bed, were abruptly interrupted by the resonant voice of Hange, echoing through the door like a mischievous melody. Startled, both Eren and Mikasa sprang to their feet, their hearts racing in sync with the moment's urgency.

As they frantically searched for their garments, strewn carelessly across the floor, time seemed to slip through their fingers like grains of sand. Eren, on the verge of uttering his plea for Hange's patience, was abruptly silenced by the unmistakable sound of the latch clicking and the door creaking open, revealing Hange standing there, a mischievous grin stretching across their face like a playful cat that had caught its prey.

"Hange!" Eren's voice echoed through the room, his face flushed with embarrassment as he hastily wrapped himself in a cozy blanket, desperately searching for his misplaced boxers amidst the chaotic mess. Meanwhile, Mikasa's piercing gaze burned with righteous fury, directed squarely at Hange, who had brazenly intruded upon their intimate moment, catching them both in a state of undress that left them vulnerable and exposed.

In a fit of frustration and disbelief, Mikasa's voice erupted with a fiery intensity, reverberating through the room as she vehemently exclaimed, "What the hell do you want? Get Out." She hastily retrieved her discarded undergarment from the disheveled floor with a swift and purposeful motion. Meanwhile, Hange, a mischievous glimmer dancing in their eyes, couldn't help but unleash a whimsical giggle, their hands instinctively rising in mock surrender, a playful gesture that only further fueled the intensity of Mikasa's gaze, which could easily be mistaken for a deadly, piercing glare.

Hange stood there, wide-eyed and astounded. Her lips curled into a mischievous grin as she playfully remarked, "Jeez, you two are like wild rabbits, it has been only thirty minutes, and you were already ready to go again," Ignoring Mikasa's words, Hange unleashed an impressed whistle that reverberated through the room. With a swift motion, she turned her head to face Mikasa, who stood there with a piercing glare, her hands occupied with adjusting her crumpled shirt.

Usually, Hange was smart and knew when not to do something too stupid; she knew when she was in danger and knew when she was going a little too far, but it seemed she didn't understand this time as she giggled with a strange, weird look on her face while looking at Mikasa, drool coming from Hange's lips.

"Tell me, Mikasa, is he really-" "OUT!" Hange's sentence was abruptly cut short by a thunderous eruption of sound. Mikasa's voice pierced through the silence, laced with a potent mix of frustration and determination, as she shouted at Hange right in her face. The force of her words pushed Hange back, like an invisible barrier, shoving her forcefully outside of the room. The abruptness of the interruption left Hange startled, her mouth slightly agape, as Mikasa swiftly slammed the door shut, leaving her standing alone, the weight of the door pressed against her face.

As Mikasa closed the door, Eren was dressing in his cadet uniform; he couldn't help but comment, "No wonder everyone calls her 'Crazy woman," Mikasa, standing nearby, chose not to respond verbally but instead approached Eren with a gentle grace, assisting him in donning his uniform with meticulous care. Once the task was complete, a sense of warmth enveloped the room as Mikasa, leaning in closer, tenderly placed her lips upon his.

With an unwavering determination etched into her voice, Mikasa pledged, "I will never let you go," her words echoing through the room as Eren's face lit up, a radiant smile of gratitude and love blossoming across his features. Side by side, they walked towards the door, their steps synchronized as they abandoned the sanctuary of their bedroom, knowing that Captain Levi, notorious for his lack of patience, awaited them with his piercing gaze.

Within a short span of time, the group steadily approached the towering gates of the revered Survey Corps, which stood before them as two imposing metallic doors, sturdy and forbidding in appearance. As Eren and Mikasa drew nearer, they caught sight of Levi, positioned near the entrance. He leaned casually against the gate, his back propped against it, emanating an air of irritation as his gaze met the two newcomers. Levi's mouth parted as if about to utter some words of admonishment, yet he swiftly shut it, his facial expression transforming into one of contemplation. It seemed that he wrestled with deciding the appropriate words to convey, savoring a pensive moment before finally finding his voice once more and addressing them.

"Once we return, you two will clean your bedrooms, and then you will clean the kitchen until I can see my reflection in every piece of surface," He declared. Eren let out a deep sigh of annoyance, clearly not thrilled about the additional chores awaiting him. On the other hand, Mikasa's eyes narrowed into a sharp glare directed at Levi, clearly displeased with his attitude toward Eren. However, Levi paid her no mind as he nonchalantly released a short whistle. Miraculously, the three horses standing nearby instantly responded to his signal, obediently trotting over to his side.

Time was of the essence, so once the trio mounted their trusty steeds, they swiftly concealed their identities by donning their cloaks, skillfully obscuring their faces from prying eyes. With each of them thoroughly hidden, they set off towards their destination - Trost.

.

After an invigorating half an hour of riding their majestic horses through the picturesque landscape, Eren, Mikasa, and Levi finally arrived at the towering open gate that served as the grand entrance to the City of Trost. However, what caught their attention immediately was the conspicuous display of heightened security within the vicinity. Normally, the number of Garrison and Military Police soldiers stationed at the gate would be limited to a mere four Garrison soldiers, diligently ensuring the safety of the entrance.

However, on this particular day, the scene before them showcased an unmistakable shift in the status quo. A total of twenty diligent Garrison soldiers, all resplendent in their gleaming ODM, stood at their posts, exhibiting a level of vigilance that surpassed the usual protocols. Additionally, mirroring the Garrison's expanded presence, an equal number of twenty formidable Military Police soldiers lined the surroundings, their authoritative presence casting an air of imposition over the scene.

As Eren's gaze wandered across the landscape, a sprawling multitude of tents caught their attention, scattered in abundance near the towering gate - a sight that stretched as far as the eye could see. The sheer magnitude of the spectacle hinted at a staggering number as if hundreds upon hundreds of these makeshift shelters had been carefully arranged around the gate. Each tent housed the resilient souls who had managed to survive the devastating turmoil that had befallen the City of Trost.

Eren's eyes swept over the multitude of faces as they navigated through the sprawling camp, a mosaic of emotions etched across every visage. Despair seemed to permeate the air, reflected in the downcast expressions and sorrowful eyes that met his gaze. The overwhelming sense of hopelessness weighed heavily upon the inhabitants, evident in the sight of many diligently scrubbing their garments with bare hands, crude buckets, and worn-out brushes in an attempt to maintain a semblance of cleanliness amidst dire circumstances. Yet, their efforts to distract themselves from the persistent pangs of hunger were palpable, as some fervently engaged in various tasks, eagerly seeking solace in mere distraction from their gnawing stomachs.

"I'm hungry!" A child, barely reaching the age of seven, cried out in a mixture of desperation and despair as he desperately tried to convince the indifferent Military Police soldier standing before him. The kid's small frame was noticeable against his torn shirt, and his face was covered in dirt, a startling contrast to the pristine uniforms of those enforcing the law.

Eren, observing the scene with a heavy heart, watched as one of the Military Police soldiers raised his rifle, ready to strike the defenseless boy in the face with the back of it. However, a glimmer of humanity flashed in the eyes of another soldier who swiftly intervened, preventing the brutal act.

The soldier, harboring a rare sense of compassion amidst the detachment, turned towards the hungry child before rummaging through his supplies. Moments later, he extended a simple yet momentous offering to the famished child - a loaf of bread.

The boy's tired, dirt-streaked face instantly transformed as a radiant smile spread across his lips, conveying his immense gratitude and joy. With a swift yet careful motion, the boy snatched the nourishing bread and swiftly darted back to the relative safety of his meager tent; his hunger momentarily appeased.

Eren stood at a distance and observed the heartbreaking scene unfold before him. With a heavy heart, he watched as the boy selflessly divided the meager portion of bread between his two little sisters and weary mother. As his eyes traced the actions of the boy's selflessness, a bittersweet smile formed on Eren's face, betraying his efforts to conceal the sadness within. The weight of the cries of hunger that echoed throughout the camp was impossible for Eren to ignore, haunting his every thought.

While it had been two days since the last corpse was solemnly laid to rest and touched by the cleansing flames, signs of destruction still littered the city. Despite their tireless efforts, the military toiled ceaselessly to clear the rubble that had cascaded onto the once vibrant houses. Only once every fragment had been removed, could the city be deemed safe enough for its desperate and weary inhabitants to enter.

"Mom, where's Father? He told us he would return?" The tearful child's voice trembled as they called out to their mother. Burdened by an indescribable pain, Eren averted their gaze from the heart-wrenching scene, unable to bear witness to the agony etched upon their faces. Despite not meeting their eyes, Eren's acute hearing picked up the hushed murmurings that passed between the mother and child, offering a glimmer of hope. As the mother tenderly shared a whispered explanation, a profound sorrow washed over the child, triggering an uncontrollable outpouring of tears and heartrending sobs that echoed through the air, intensifying their longing for his absent father.

Eren's eyes were irresistibly drawn toward a lively group of kids gleefully immersed in a game of merriment amidst the mud. Their small bodies were completely immersed and adorned with layers of muddy residue, obscuring their true appearances beneath the dirty veneer. However, Eren's astute observation allowed him to discern the pronounced frailty etched upon their figures, igniting a profound concern within his heart.

Undeniably, these innocent souls bore the unmistakable signs of prolonged and gnawing hunger. Yet, astonishingly enough, their solemn plight failed to deter their unbounded joy and boisterous laughter reverberating through the air. Engrossed in their simple yet profound camaraderie, the playfulness of their muddy antics seemed to momentarily transcend the persistent pangs of hunger, concealing the undeniable deprivation they faced in the midst of their infectious laughter and mud-slinging revelry.

Eren suddenly felt a strong yet gentle hand on his shoulder. Turning his head to the right, he found Mikasa, her soft touch and worried expression showing genuine concern for him. In an attempt to alleviate his anguish, she spoke in a whispered tone that held both reassurance and determination, assuring him, "We will not let them suffer anymore, Eren." The intensity in her words mirrored the fiery determination that now burned deep within his green eyes. With his nod of agreement, a mixture of resolute determination and unyielding resolve radiated from his very being, signaling his unwavering dedication to make everything right.

Levi's ears picked up on the hushed conversation between Eren and Mikasa that was taking place behind him. He turned his gaze. As he did so, his eyes inadvertently landed on a group of children who were engrossed in a lively game nearby. The sight of their emaciated bodies and sunken bellies struck a familiar chord within Levi, transporting him back in time to his own impoverished past. He vividly remembered the days when he, too, had grappled with the desperate pangs of hunger, when the thought of consuming even the most repulsive and unappetizing sustenance seemed like a far better alternative than facing an agonizing demise through starvation.

"I'm Kenny, just Kenny," Levi remembered his words vividly, the bitter taste of resentment lingering on his tongue. As his memories engulfed his mind, Levi could feel the familiar rush of anger coursing through his veins, prickling his skin and tightening his grip around the reins of the horse he was astride. Sensing its rider's tumultuous emotions, the horse responded with a subtle restlessness, its muscles tensing under Levi's firm hold.

In an effort to find solace amidst the storm brewing within him, Levi exhaled a heavy sigh, determined to divert his thoughts away from the source of his infuriation. He concentrated on redirecting his gaze to the future that lay ahead, uncertain yet promising.

His attention was inevitably drawn to Eren. Levi's vantage point allowed him to witness the tender scene unfolding before him - the sight of Eren grasping Mikasa's hand.

Levi felt a lingering frustration inside him as he turned his gaze back to the path ahead, his annoyance evident in the barely audible words that escaped his lips, "Stupid kids." Together, they continued their silent journey through the gates, cautiously making their way into the desolate city. As Eren's eyes scanned the surroundings, he couldn't help but notice the eerie emptiness that engulfed the once-bustling streets. The city appeared almost abandoned, devoid of its usual vibrant energy. Only sporadic sightings of soldiers broke the silence, their figures moving purposefully with their burdened arms, gripping long logs firmly, their muscular frames accentuating the physical strain. A few soldiers even resorted to utilizing carriages to transport the logs more efficiently, showcasing their resourcefulness amidst the eerie stillness.

After riding for ten more minutes, diligently trailing behind Levi on their horses, with steadfast determination visible in their expressions, Levi brought his horse to a halt in front of a quaint house. Every muscle in Levi's body seemed to relax as he gracefully dismounted, allowing his boots to make a soft thud on the solid ground. Not wasting any time, Eren and Mikasa swiftly followed suit, their movements mirroring Levi's precisely. With excitement and curiosity filling their senses, they eagerly followed Levi's lead, stepping inside the cozy house that bore a striking resemblance to a lively bar.

Walking inside the dimly lit bar, Levi took the lead and confidently pushed open the heavy wooden doors, signaling Eren and Mikasa to follow. Stepping across the threshold, they were greeted by the familiar mingling scents of alcohol that hung in the air. They instinctively pulled away their hoodies as they entered, revealing their faces underneath. Surveying the room, their eyes were drawn to the corner where Floch, Marco, and Jean occupied a round table, surrounded by an ambiance of camaraderie and merriment. The table boasted three jugs brimming with frothy beer. Meanwhile, Mike leaned nonchalantly against the nearest wall, exuding his trademark calm and composed aura amidst the lively backdrop.

As Eren confidently strode in the front, his purposeful footsteps reverberated throughout the bar, catching Floch's attention in an instant. Reacting swiftly, Floch swiftly pivoted to face the entrance, eager to discern the identity of the unexpected visitor. To his surprise, Eren, Levi, and Mikasa emerged, their synchronized steps echoing loudly on the aging wooden floorboards, creating an eerie creaking sound.

"Eren!" Floch, his voice laced with a combination of astonishment and genuine respect, shouted out in surprise as he witnessed Eren's sudden presence. His loud exclamation caught the attention of both Jean and Marco, who were engrossed in their own conversations until that very moment. Jean and Marco immediately became aware of Eren's arrival, and they swiftly rose to their feet and approached him with a mix of anticipation and respect.

Not missing a beat, Floch, always eager to display his unwavering loyalty, was the first to raise his hand in a crisp salute, demonstrating his profound respect for Eren's authority. Soon after, Jean and Marco, just as reverent, followed suit, reciprocating the gesture as a sign of their utmost admiration and acknowledgment towards Eren's presence. Everyone knew they were saluting to Eren, despite him still not having the Title of a Captain or A Commander; Levi couldn't help but groan at the stupid kids.

"Floch, Jean, and Marco, you three are the ones in control of the new group?" Eren questioned, his voice emanating authority and determination as he fixed his piercing gaze upon each of them, meticulously studying their every move and evaluating their capabilities.

"Yes, Eren. Jean is second in command, and Marco is our third strongest soldier. He has killed seven titans during the fight in Trost," Floch explained respectfully, pointing at Marco, who puffed his chest out once Floch mentioned him.

"I see, well. We called you here to meet, we need to talk about something important," Eren, with a gesture inviting his companions to take their seats, positioned himself at the head of a circular table. Jean, Floch, and Marco settled around him, their presence punctuating the room's air of anticipation. Meanwhile, on the outskirts of this gathering, a stoic Levi leaned nonchalantly against the wall, engaging in a whispered conversation with Mike. Mikasa, who seemed to emanate an aura of protectiveness, stood close to Eren, her stance akin to that of a steadfast bodyguard.

Silence fell over the dimly lit bar, casting an eerie stillness that permeated the air. The patrons, their voices hushed and glasses held in suspense, found themselves captivated by the haunting melody of the wind outside. It whistled and howled.

In the midst of this profound silence, Jean, with determination etched on his face, broke through the stillness by clearing his throat. His piercing eyes bore into Eren as if demanding answers that had long been eluded.

"Eren," Jean's voice resonated assertively, "before you say anything else. I think is time for you to answer some of our questions. I think is only fair that you give us some answers first," His proclamation brushed against Floch's fiery glare.

Aware of the multitude of eyes fixated upon him, Eren raised his hand to his mouth, clearing his throat with purpose. The sudden sound, vibrant against the backdrop of silence, seized the attention of everyone present.

"Floch, how many soldiers have joined?" Eren questioned, ignoring Jean's question, who looked at him with annoyance.

"One hundred and twenty, all the cadets, including me are grateful for everything you did. There are many Garrison soldier who want to join, there's even three soldiers from the Military Police that want to join," Floch informed Eren, keeping his voice formal, but Eren could tell Floch was slightly suspicious of the three soldiers from the Military Police that want to join.

"Very well, I think it is only fair that I answer your question, but before I tell you anything, you are to keep this a secret," Eren ordered, earning a surprised look from both Mikasa and Mike while Levi looked at Eren in a calculating way, telling them the truth wasn't part of the plan. Eren's green eyes glittered, earning a surprised look from Floch Marco and Jean, who could feel a sudden pressure in their bodies, almost like a warning, letting them know what could happen if they spoke up.

"We understand, Eren. We won't tell a soul." Floch promised genuinely, with a salute, quickly followed by Jean and Marco, who both promised not to say anything to anyone.

Eren started speaking and told them only as much as he needed the truth of the world, the history of Eldians, and how Marley had sent the warriors to infiltrate the walls and steal the Founding Titan. Eren didn't mention anything about the Semi Titan Shifters, about him having the Founding Titan. Only that Eren Ymir had the power of the Titans.

Once he was done speaking, all three of them, including Marco, were struck with an overwhelming sense of disbelief and astonishment. Marco's face, formerly filled with color, instantly drained of blood, leaving it as pale as freshly fallen snow. It was evident from Marco's expression that he either had difficulty accepting Eren's words or harbored a reluctance to believe them, both of which were reflected in his wide-eyed disbelief and shaken demeanor.

Jean barely reacted to Eren's words, his face remaining stoic and expressionless. However, Eren could sense a storm brewing inside him as his clenched fists tightened around the edges of the wooden table, causing it to emit a strained creaking sound. Meanwhile, Floch's fury was evident in his piercing gaze, his eyes burning with anger and resentment. Though Eren anticipated their curiosity to prompt a barrage of questions, an eerie silence settled upon the bar. The trio, including Jean and Floch, seemed locked in their own thoughts, processing the weighty information Eren had just revealed.

Jean's murmurs finally shattered the heavy and oppressive silence in the room as he spoke with a sense of defeat and anger evident in his expression. "Our friends died because of what our ancestors did," Jean's voice grew louder with each word he uttered, a surge of intensity building up within him until it erupted in a bitter laugh. Filled with a mix of bitterness and irony, Jean commented in disbelief, "This is A Joke!" The weight of the situation overwhelmed him, and he felt a sudden urge to release his pent-up frustration through physical aggression, longing to strike something in a desperate attempt to alleviate his anguish.

"Our comrades, our friends, we lost them because of the hatred of the outside world." Floch was seething with anger. His face flushed with a burning rage that he struggled to contain. But despite his attempts to regain composure, Floch found himself haunted by the piercing screams that echoed incessantly in his mind, refusing to grant him respite even in sleep. Every night, he would be tormented by vivid dreams of the fallen souls, a constant reminder of the horrifying loss that occurred on that fateful day. And yet, there he stood, still alive, grappling with the weight of survivor's guilt. He understood that his continued existence was merely a stroke of luck, a cruel twist of fate that spared him while his comrades and friends were mercilessly robbed of their futures.

"Are you sure the whole world hates us?" In that brief moment, their brows furrowed in perplexity, desperately searching for the identity of the person who posed such a thought-provoking question. As their gazes shifted, a sense of unease washed over them, directed towards Marco, who appeared noticeably unsettled, likely due to the sudden spotlight cast upon him, with every single individual fixated on his response.

"What?"

"I understand that Marley despises us, but the whole world. That can't be True. Right?" Marco added before looking at Jean, waiting for him to side with him; Floch glared at Marco, ready to remind him what the Titans did to their friends, until Eren cleared his throat, gaining their attention.

"We don't know much about the outside world yet. There might be some out there that are willing to listen, but our objective right now is to ensure my, Ymir and Annie's survival tomorrow," Eren explained; this earned surprise looks from the three of them.

"Why would someone want you dead?" Marco questioned, a little bewildered, not understanding why anyone inside the walls would want to kill the person who had become the symbol of hope for too many people.

"The King doesn't want what's good for any of us. His plan is for everyone inside the walls to die, that's his end goal, we know for certain he will try to get me tomorrow during the trial, me, Ymir and Annie, to get rid of us quietly, before I cause a even bigger havoc on his 'Paradise'" Eren, consumed by a seething rage, allowed every utterance to be laced with unequivocal hatred. Each word he spoke seemed to fuel the flames of his anger, kindling it into an inferno within his core. Despite the intensity of his emotions, his voice maintained a steady, restrained tone, betraying a hidden determination to control his fury. His piercing green eyes, usually filled with warmth and compassion, now transformed into windows to the depths of pure wrath. This unexpected show of hostility startled even Mikasa, leaving her momentarily speechless and uncertain how to respond.

However, as seconds ticked by, Eren's eyes gradually relinquished their enraged glow, reverting back to their familiar shade of emerald. With this subtle transformation, the overwhelming anger that once consumed him seemingly faded away, dissipating into thin air. Much to Mikasa's profound relief, it was as if the anger within him had never existed.

"Annie! Eren, are you sure we can trust her? She might have fought with us, but she still kept quiet about the attack in Trost?" Jean questioned with a bitter tone, his skepticism towards Annie persisting. Despite the fact that she had fought alongside them, Jean couldn't help but hold reservations about her due to her silence regarding the attack on Trost. It bothered him that she hadn't disclosed vital information about such a significant event. Jean was torn between appreciating her assistance in the fight and doubting her loyalty. While acknowledging her involvement, he remained cautious and hesitant, realizing that Annie's allegiance couldn't be taken for granted.

"Commander Erwin has already made a deal with her; she will serve the Humanity inside the Walls and reveal everything she knows to pay for not being willing to cooperate with us earlier," Levi said, with a determined look on his face and a slight tilt of his body away from the Wall, found his voice amidst the ongoing conversation and confidently spoke up. He gracefully stepped forward, making deliberate strides towards their table.

"Tomorrow, every branch of the Military will hold a meeting; there, Commander Erwin will inform them about Eren, Ymir, and Annie. We need your help to increase our chances of Zackly aiding us," Mike added professionally.

"Indeed, can I count on your support?" Eren questioned Floch and Jean, his gaze steady and his voice firm. The room fell into a brief silence as the three individuals locked eyes, the weight of their unspoken answer hanging in the air. Floch, Marco, and Jean rose from their seats without uttering a single word, their unwavering loyalty evident as they stood before Eren. In a profound display of solidarity, the three comrades saluted.

Fully aware of Floch's sincere and unwavering support, Eren observed the intensity in his eyes as he passionately declared, "We will support you, Eren Yeager. Our group will always aid you, no matter what." The resounding sound of respect echoed in Floch's voice, emphasizing the genuineness of his words. Gripped by curiosity, Eren paused for a moment, eager to articulate the intricacies of their plan yet unable to quell a burning question that lingered in his mind.

"What do you call your group, Floch?"

"This group doesn't follow me; they all follow you, Eren. They're yours, not mine." Floch added before a smile formed on his face.

"As for the name. We call ourselves: 'The Yeagerists' "