The calm before the storm

The afternoon sun filtered through the large windows of Commander-in-Chief Zackly's office, casting long shadows across the ornate furniture and polished floors. Dot Pixis stood by the window, his ever-present flask in hand, watching the military exercises taking place in the courtyard below.

"It's quite remarkable, really," Pixis mused, taking a small sip from his flask. "Every marquis in Wall Sina suddenly becoming enthusiastically supportive of the queen's initiatives. One might almost call it... miraculous."

Zackly sat behind his massive desk, his fingers steepled in front of him. "We both know there's nothing miraculous about it," he said, his voice heavy with disapproval. "Mustang's methods may be effective, but they're hardly subtle."

Pixis turned from the window, a slight smile playing at his lips. "Oh? Have any of the nobles filed complaints?"

"That's the problem," Zackly growled, removing his glasses to clean them with methodical precision. "They're all terrified of him, but none will testify. How can we address the situation when no one will speak up?"

"And who could blame them?" Pixis asked, his tone light but his eyes sharp. "Who could stop him, even if they did? He has the queen's complete trust, the Survey Corps backs him without question, and he's got the Military Police so thoroughly cowed they practically salute him in the streets."

"Even Nile's working with him now," Zackly added, his frown deepening. "Says Mustang's efforts to clean up corruption are 'exactly what the Military Police needs.'"

Pixis chuckled softly. "The world's certainly changed, hasn't it? When the most feared man in the walls isn't a Titan or a criminal, but a government official."

"It's essentially a dictatorship," Zackly said, replacing his glasses. "Using fear and intimidation to force support for the queen. It goes against everything we-"

"Everything we what?" a new voice cut through the room like a blade.

Both men turned to see Aaron Mustang standing in the doorway, his tall frame filling the space with an almost physical presence. Neither had heard him enter - a disconcerting feat for a man his size.

"Wow," Aaron said, stepping into the office with casual confidence. "If it isn't the coward and the sadist. Having a pleasant chat about me?"

Pixis maintained his pleasant smile, though his hand tightened slightly on his flask. "Ah, Director Mustang. We were just discussing your... impressive results with the nobility."

Aaron dropped into one of the office's plush chairs without waiting for an invitation, stretching his long legs out in front of him. "Results are what matter, aren't they? Unless you prefer the old system of corruption and exploitation?"

"The methods matter too," Zackly insisted, though his voice lacked its earlier conviction under Aaron's direct gaze.

Aaron's emerald eyes fixed on Zackly with predatory intensity. "Like your methods in the torture chamber, Commander? At least my intimidation serves a greater purpose than your personal entertainment."

Zackly's face flushed red, but before he could respond, Aaron turned to Pixis. "Actually, I came to brief you on Section Commander Hange's new Titan elimination system. The preliminary tests are quite promising."

The sudden shift in topic was jarring, but Pixis adapted smoothly. "Oh? Do tell."

"A modified guillotine system mounted on the walls," Aaron explained, pulling out a notebook. "The blade angle compensates for Titan momentum, and the reset mechanism allows for rapid repeated use. With proper implementation, we could significantly reduce the manpower needed for wall defense."

As Aaron detailed the technical specifications, Pixis studied him carefully. This was the man who had the entire nobility trembling in fear, who had reshaped the power structure within the walls in a matter of months. Yet he sat there calmly discussing engineering specifications as if he were any other officer.

"The cost estimates seem reasonable," Aaron was saying, "especially considering the potential reduction in casualties-"

The office door burst open with enough force to rattle the windows. Historia Reiss stood in the doorway, her small frame somehow radiating more authority than any of the military commanders present.

"Aaron Mustang!" she declared, her blue eyes flashing. "You promised to help at the farm today!"

The transformation was instantaneous and almost comical. The fearsome Director of Internal Affairs, the man who terrorized nobles and corrupt officials, seemed to shrink in his chair.

"Historia!" Aaron's voice cracked slightly. "I was just finishing up here-"

"You said 'no interruptions, no emergencies,'" Historia quoted, advancing into the room. "Those were your exact words."

"I know, but this report-"

"Can wait," Historia finished firmly. She turned to Pixis and Zackly, switching seamlessly to her royal persona. "Commander Pixis, Commander-in-Chief Zackly, I apologize for the interruption, but I need to borrow Director Mustang. There are some urgent agricultural matters that require his attention."

Aaron stood, gathering his papers with slightly fumbling hands. "Yes, of course. The report can wait. I'll have it on your desk first thing tomorrow, Commander."

As Historia practically dragged Aaron from the office, they could hear his attempts at explanation fading down the hallway.

"I was just going to be a few more minutes-"

"Don't even start with me, Aaron Mustang. There are vegetables that need harvesting-"

After a long moment of silence, Pixis turned to Zackly with a bemused expression. "Well," he said, taking another sip from his flask, "that was... unexpected."

Zackly cleaned his glasses again, a nervous habit he'd developed during the tense conversation. "The most feared man in the walls, brought to heel by a tiny queen."

"Perhaps that's why we don't need to worry so much about his methods," Pixis mused. "As long as Queen Historia holds his leash, there are limits to how far he can go."

"You hope," Zackly muttered.

Pixis moved back to the window, watching as Aaron and Historia crossed the courtyard below. Even from this distance, he could see how the soldiers scattered to clear a path, their fear of Aaron warring with their respect for Historia.

"You know what I find most interesting?" Pixis said thoughtfully. "For all his intimidation and strong-arm tactics, everything he does is ultimately in service of making the world better. The nobles he frightens end up funding orphanages and schools. The officials he threatens stop exploiting the poor. The corrupt soldiers he beats end up reforming."

"The ends don't justify the means," Zackly insisted, but there was less conviction in his voice now.

"Don't they?" Pixis took another sip from his flask. "In a world where children are eaten by giants, where the poor starve while nobles feast, where corruption runs so deep it's practically tradition... perhaps we need someone willing to be the monster that forces change."

They watched as Aaron helped Historia onto her horse before mounting his own. Despite his fearsome reputation, his movements were gentle, his attention focused entirely on ensuring her comfort and safety.

"Besides," Pixis added with a slight smile, "any man who can be thoroughly cowed by a queen half his size can't be all bad, can he?"

Zackly had no response to that. They continued to watch as the unlikely pair rode off, the queen and her enforcer, heading back to the farm where Historia was building her better world, one frightened noble's donation at a time.

"Should we be concerned about the meeting we were supposed to have about the wall defense budget?" Zackly asked finally.

Pixis chuckled. "I think it can wait until after the harvest. Some things, it seems, take precedence even over military matters."

As they returned to their duties, both men found themselves reflecting on the strange new world they lived in - where the most feared man in the walls could be commanded by a former farmgirl turned queen, and where violence and intimidation somehow led to orphanages and schools.

It wasn't perfect, but perhaps it was exactly what their world needed.

The afternoon sun bathed the farmland in warm golden light as Neil crouched beside Rosy, his voice low and conspiratorial. The young girl sat in her wheelchair, enjoying the fresh air and warmth of the day.

"Trust me, Rosy," Neil said with a mischievous grin. "Your brother will love this joke!"

Rosy fidgeted with the hem of her dress, uncertainty clear in her emerald eyes - so like her brother's. "Are you really sure, Neil? Aaron can be... scary when he's angry."

"Absolutely certain," Neil declared with perhaps more confidence than he felt. "I know the Captain like the back of my hand."

Nanaba approached them, carrying a small bottle of medicine. "Rosy, don't forget your afternoon dose," she said, her voice gentle but firm.

Rosy made a face but obediently took the medicine, grimacing at the bitter taste. "Thank you, Nanaba," she said after swallowing. "You always take such good care of me."

The sound of approaching horses drew their attention. Historia and Aaron rode into view, their mounts kicking up small clouds of dust as they approached the farm.

Aaron dismounted first, quickly moving to help Historia down from her horse. His movements were practiced and gentle, speaking of the countless times he'd performed this simple act of chivalry.

"Thanks for watching over Rosy," Aaron said to Nanaba, his usual stern expression softening as he looked at his sister. "How was your day at the farm, squirt?"

Rosy's face lit up. "It's wonderful here! The air is so fresh, and I can see the sky all the time. Not like in the Underground."

Aaron's smile widened, genuine happiness replacing his usual guarded expression. "That's great to hear-"

"Hey, brother," Rosy interrupted, her eyes twinkling with mischief. "Why don't you marry Nanaba? She's really nice, and she takes such good care of me!"

The reaction was immediate and dramatic. Aaron froze mid-smile, his entire body tensing. Nanaba's face turned a shade of red that rivaled the setting sun. Neil had to bite his lip to keep from laughing out loud.

And behind Aaron, Historia's presence suddenly seemed to radiate an almost physical chill.

Aaron could feel his fiancée's eyes boring into the back of his head. Without turning around - he didn't dare - he maintained his frozen smile and asked, "What makes you say that, Rosy?"

Rosy burst into giggles. "It's a joke! Neil said you'd think it was funny!"

Aaron's smile didn't waver, but his eyes found Neil, promising a reckoning. "Oh, did he now? How... surprising."

Neil began slowly backing away, suddenly very interested in some distant point on the horizon. "Would you look at the time? I should probably-"

"Neil," Aaron's voice was eerily calm. "We'll discuss this later."

"It was nice knowing you," Nanaba whispered to Neil as she too tried to make herself scarce.

The tense moment was interrupted by the arrival of another horse. Commander Erwin Smith rode up, his commanding presence drawing everyone's attention.

"Mustang," he called out, dismounting smoothly despite his missing arm. "I've been looking for you."

Before Aaron could respond, Historia stepped forward. "I'm sorry, Commander, but Aaron has work to do here at the farm."

Erwin smiled diplomatically. "This will only take a moment. I just need his signature to authorize a mission."

Aaron's brow furrowed in confusion. "Erwin, you know the Survey Corps doesn't need my permission. I trust your judgment."

"True," Erwin acknowledged, "but I'd rather avoid any accusations of favoritism. Just a formality."

Aaron shrugged and took the offered document, reaching for the pen at his belt. "Alright, if you insist."

"You're not going to read it?" Erwin asked, something in his tone making Aaron pause.

"Should I?" Aaron looked up, suddenly suspicious. "What exactly is this mission, Erwin?"

Erwin's blue eyes gleamed with purpose. "We're going to reclaim Wall Maria."

The pen nearly slipped from Aaron's fingers. "What?"

"With Eren's hardening ability, we can seal the breach," Erwin explained, his voice steady but intense. "We have a real chance of taking back what we lost."

"Are you serious?" Aaron's voice was barely above a whisper. "After all this time..."

"The only obstacles are Reiner, Bertholdt, and the Beast Titan," Erwin continued. "Significant challenges, but not insurmountable."

Aaron's hand began to tremble slightly as he stared at the document. "And Eren's basement... all the answers we've been seeking..."

"We leave in two days," Erwin said. "The entire Corps will participate. This will be our most important mission yet."

Aaron stood silent for a long moment, lost in thought. 'When did I start caring about this?' he wondered. 'I joined the Corps for Rosy's sake, not for humanity. But now...'

With a swift, decisive movement, Aaron brought his fist to his heart in the Corps salute. "Commander," his voice rang with conviction, "allow me to serve as a member of the Survey Corps one final time. Just for this mission."

Erwin's smile was warm as he returned the salute. "You'll always have a place with us, Aaron."

Historia stepped forward, her eyes knowing. "You came here specifically to recruit him, didn't you, Commander?"

"My apologies, Your Majesty," Erwin said, not looking particularly apologetic.

Historia sighed, but there was a fond smile on her face. "I suppose it would be selfish of me to keep Aaron from this. The fate of humanity is at stake, after all."

"Historia..." Aaron began, but she cut him off with a raised hand.

"Just promise me one thing," she said, her blue eyes fierce. "Come back alive. That's an order from your queen."

Aaron's expression softened as he looked at her. "Yes, Your Majesty."

Rosy, who had been watching this exchange with wide eyes, suddenly spoke up. "Are you going to fight the bad Titans, brother?"

Aaron knelt beside her wheelchair, taking her small hand in his. "Just one more time, squirt. We're going to take back Wall Maria and learn the truth about the Titans."

"Will you be careful?" Rosy asked, worry clear in her voice.

"Of course," Aaron assured her. "I have too much to come back to now."

His eyes moved from Rosy to Historia, then to his squad members - even Neil, who was still trying to make himself invisible behind Nanaba.

"Speaking of which," Aaron added, his voice taking on a dangerous edge. "Neil, about that joke..."

Neil yelped and finally gave up all pretense of dignity, breaking into a run. "Sorry, Captain! Very urgent business in Trost! Can't be helped!"

"You can't run forever!" Aaron called after him, though there was more amusement than threat in his voice now.

As the sun continued its descent towards the horizon, casting long shadows across the farm, the group began to disperse. Erwin rode back to headquarters to finalize the mission plans. Nanaba took Rosy inside for her evening medicine. Historia went to check on the orphanage's evening preparations.

Aaron remained outside for a moment longer, watching the sky turn from gold to pink to purple. In two days, he would ride out with the Survey Corps again, facing the Titans that had haunted humanity for so long.

But for now, he had a farm to tend to, a sister to care for, a queen to love, and a subordinate to terrorize. Life, in all its complicated glory, waited for no one - not even humanity's greatest battles.

"Aaron!" Historia's voice called from inside. "Those vegetables aren't going to harvest themselves!"

With a small smile, Aaron turned away from the sunset. Wall Maria could wait another day. Right now, he had a promise to keep to his queen.

And maybe, if Neil was very lucky, Aaron would be too tired from farm work to exact his revenge for that little joke.

Maybe.

.....

The first rays of dawn filtered through the ornate windows of the royal bedchamber, casting a soft golden glow across the room. Historia stirred awake, her blue eyes adjusting to the early morning light. Beside her, Aaron slept soundly, his usually stern features relaxed in sleep.

She took a moment to study his face, noting the slight furrow that remained in his brow even in rest. Always carrying the weight of responsibility, even in his dreams. With gentle movements, Historia leaned over and pressed a soft kiss to his cheek.

"Rest while you can, you stubborn man," she whispered, carefully sliding out of bed.

Historia dressed quietly, choosing simple clothes suitable for farm work rather than her royal attire. The palace was just beginning to wake as she made her way through the corridors, nodding to the servants who bowed as she passed.

Her guards were already waiting in the courtyard, their faces carefully neutral despite their obvious opinions about their queen's early morning farm visits. Historia mounted her horse with practiced ease, and soon they were galloping through the streets of Mitras.

The city was different at this hour - quieter, more peaceful. Shop owners were just beginning to open their stores, and the sweet smell of fresh bread wafted from the bakeries. A few early risers recognized their queen and bowed hastily, but Historia was moving too quickly to stop.

The farm came into view as the sun climbed higher in the sky. Historia's heart lightened at the sight of it - this place that represented everything she was trying to build, everything she believed in.

She made her way to the stables first, as she did every morning. The horses nickered softly in greeting as she entered, the familiar smell of hay and leather wrapping around her like a comfortable blanket.

"Good morning," she said softly, running her hand along the neck of a chestnut mare. "How are we today?"

"They always seem happier when you visit," a voice said from behind her.

Historia turned to see Thomas, already dressed for the day's work, carrying a bucket of feed. He set it down carefully before bowing slightly.

"You don't need to bow here," Historia said, as she did every time. "This is a farm, not a palace."

Thomas straightened with a sheepish smile. "Hard habit to break, Your Majesty. How's the morning finding you?"

"Well enough," Historia replied, continuing to stroke the mare's neck. "Though I left a sleeping bear in my bed."

Thomas's eyebrows rose slightly. "Director Mustang? I would have thought he'd be up before dawn, terrorizing corrupt officials."

Historia laughed softly. "Even the fearsome Aaron Mustang needs rest sometimes. Especially with the mission to Wall Maria coming up."

"Ah, yes," Thomas nodded. "I heard about that. He's joining the Survey Corps again?"

"Just for this mission," Historia said, a hint of worry creeping into her voice. "Though knowing him, he'll find some way to get himself into trouble."

Thomas was quiet for a moment, gathering his courage. "Your Majesty... Historia... may I ask you something?"

Historia turned to face him fully, noting the serious expression on his face. "Of course."

"Your fiancé... are you happy with him? I mean..." Thomas fumbled with his words. "After everything... after what people like me did to you as a child... I just want to know you're truly happy now."

Historia's expression softened. "Thomas, you don't need to keep apologizing for the past. As for Aaron..." A small smile played at her lips. "He's an idiot sometimes, and he can be impossibly stubborn, but yes, I'm happy. When the whole world sees me as either a goddess or a political tool, he just sees me. The real me."

"Even though he's... well, known for being rather violent?"

"He does what needs to be done to protect what we're building," Historia said firmly. "But he's gentler than people think. You should see him with his sister, or with the orphans here."

Thomas nodded slowly. "I remember wanting to get your attention back then," he admitted quietly. "Throwing stones was stupid and cruel, but... I didn't know how else to make you notice me."

Historia's eyes widened slightly at this confession. "Thomas..."

"Don't worry," he said quickly, raising his hands. "I'm not saying this to... I just wanted you to know. I'm glad you found someone who knows how to show his care properly, even if his methods with others are a bit... extreme."

Meanwhile, across the city, Aaron walked through the bustling streets beside Commander Nile Dok. The morning sun glinted off their polished boots as they made their regular inspection of the Military Police posts.

"Pixis and Zackly aren't happy," Aaron said casually, his hands clasped behind his back. "They think my methods are too harsh."

Nile snorted. "They've been sitting behind desks too long. Sometimes you need to break a few noses to fix a broken system."

"Careful, Commander," Aaron's lips twitched in amusement. "That almost sounds like sedition."

"You have my full support, Mustang," Nile said seriously. "What you've done for the Military Police... forcing out the corrupt elements, restoring our purpose... it was long overdue."

They paused at a corner as a merchant's cart passed by. Aaron used the moment to study the man beside him. Nile had changed since they'd begun working together, becoming more of the leader he should have been all along.

"Still," Aaron mused, "they're not entirely wrong. Fear and intimidation aren't sustainable methods for maintaining order."

Nile raised an eyebrow. "Having doubts?"

"No," Aaron shook his head. "Just thinking about the future. After Wall Maria, after we learn what's in that basement... things will have to change."

"And you'll what? Retire to a peaceful life as the queen's consort?" Nile's voice held a hint of teasing.

Aaron's laugh was sharp and short. "Can you imagine me living a quiet life? Historia would go mad within a week."

They continued their walk, checking in at various posts and noting the marked improvement in discipline among the MPs. The soldiers stood straighter, their uniforms were properly maintained, and there wasn't a bottle in sight.

"You know," Nile said as they finished their inspection, "for all their complaints about your methods, Pixis and Zackly can't argue with the results. The walls are more stable now than they've been in years."

Aaron's expression darkened slightly. "Stability built on fear isn't true stability. But sometimes... sometimes you need fear to create space for something better to grow."

"Like the queen's orphanages?" Nile asked shrewdly.

"Exactly," Aaron nodded. "The nobles might have been frightened into supporting them, but look at the results. Children being cared for, educated, given a chance at a real future. Sometimes the end does justify the means."

Nile was quiet for a moment, considering this. "And after Wall Maria? What then?"

Aaron's eyes turned towards the distant wall, barely visible through the city buildings. "Then we'll know the truth. About the Titans, about our world... everything will change. And maybe then, we can build something that doesn't need fear to hold it together."

"You almost sound optimistic," Nile observed. "It's disturbing."

Aaron's laugh was more genuine this time. "Don't worry, Commander. I'm sure I'll find someone who needs their nose broken before the day is out."

The late afternoon sun cast long shadows across the farmland, painting the fields in hues of gold and amber. Historia wiped sweat from her brow as she helped Thomas load the last of the day's harvest into wooden crates. The air was heavy with the scent of freshly turned earth and ripening vegetables.

"You don't have to help with this part, Your Majesty," Thomas said, not for the first time. "This is hardly work for a queen."

Historia adjusted her grip on a particularly heavy crate of potatoes. "I've told you before, Thomas - on the farm, I'm just Historia. And I'm perfectly capable of carrying vegetables."

Thomas moved to take the crate from her, but Historia's stern look stopped him. He settled for walking beside her as they carried their loads toward the storage shed.

"It's strange," Thomas mused, his voice thoughtful. "If someone had told me years ago that the girl we used to torment would become queen, and that I'd be working on her farm..."

"Life has a way of surprising us," Historia replied, setting down her crate with a soft grunt. "Though I doubt anyone could have predicted any of this."

Thomas was quiet for a moment, arranging crates with methodical precision. "Do you ever think about those days?" he asked finally. "About who we were then?"

Historia straightened up, brushing dirt from her simple work dress. "Sometimes," she admitted. "But I prefer to think about who we are now, and who we're trying to become."

"And who are you trying to become?" Thomas asked, his voice soft.

Before Historia could respond, the sound of approaching horses drew their attention. Through the golden evening light, they could see two riders approaching - one's pristine military uniform marking him as Commander Nile Dok, the other's familiar tall figure unmistakably Aaron Mustang.

Historia couldn't help but notice how Thomas tensed slightly at Aaron's approach. Despite months of working on the farm, the former stone-thrower still hadn't quite gotten used to the presence of the feared Director of Internal Affairs.

Aaron dismounted with his usual fluid grace, his eyes immediately finding Historia. Despite his intimidating reputation, his expression softened noticeably when he looked at her.

"Had a productive day?" he asked, taking in her dirt-smudged dress and windblown hair with obvious affection.

"More productive than yours, I'm sure," Historia teased. "How many nobles did you terrorize today?"

"None, actually," Aaron replied with mock indignance. "Though there's still time before sunset."

Nile, who had dismounted more cautiously, cleared his throat. "Your Majesty," he said with a formal bow.

"Commander," Historia acknowledged with a nod. "To what do we owe the pleasure?"

Aaron stepped forward, a slight smile playing at his lips. "I invited Nile to join us for dinner tonight. I hope that's acceptable?"

Historia raised an eyebrow. "Oh? And were you planning to inform the kitchen staff about this addition to our dinner party?"

"I sent word ahead," Aaron assured her. "I'm not completely hopeless at planning, you know."

"Just mostly hopeless," Historia muttered, though there was fondness in her voice.

Thomas, who had been trying to make himself inconspicuous during this exchange, began to edge away. "I should finish storing these crates..."

"Actually," Historia said, turning to him, "why don't you join us for dinner as well?"

The invitation seemed to startle everyone present. Thomas's eyes widened in surprise, Nile looked mildly uncomfortable, and Aaron... Aaron's expression was carefully neutral, but Historia knew him well enough to see the slight tension in his shoulders.

"Your Majesty, I couldn't possibly-" Thomas began to protest.

"I insist," Historia said firmly. "You've been working hard all day, and we have plenty of food. Unless..." she turned to Aaron with a challenging look, "there's some reason he shouldn't join us?"

Aaron held her gaze for a long moment before sighing in defeat. "Of course not," he said smoothly. "Any friend of yours is welcome at our table."

The slight emphasis he placed on the word 'friend' wasn't lost on anyone present.

"Then it's settled," Historia declared. "Though we should all probably clean up first. I doubt the palace staff would appreciate us tracking dirt through the dining room."

As they began to make arrangements for the evening, Historia couldn't help but notice the various dynamics at play. Nile maintained his professional demeanor but seemed slightly more relaxed around Aaron than she remembered. Thomas was clearly nervous but making an effort to hide it. And Aaron... Aaron was being surprisingly accommodating, though she could tell he was watching Thomas with the same intensity he usually reserved for suspicious nobles.

"I'll have the stable hands take care of your horses," Historia said to Aaron and Nile. "Thomas, there's a washroom in the farmhouse where you can clean up. Aaron can lend you something more suitable to wear for dinner."

Aaron's eyebrow twitched slightly at this volunteering of his wardrobe, but he nodded in agreement. "Of course. Though I'm not sure anything I own would fit properly..."

"I'm sure you'll figure something out," Historia said sweetly, in a tone that brooked no argument.

As they made their way back to the palace, Historia found herself reflecting on how far they'd all come. A former farm girl now queen, a street thug turned royal enforcer, a stone-throwing bully transformed into a dedicated worker, and a military commander who had found his backbone.

The sun was setting behind the walls, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. The palace gleamed in the dying light, its windows catching fire with the last rays of sun. It was beautiful, Historia thought, but sometimes she missed the simplicity of farm life.

"A denarius for your thoughts?" Aaron's voice was soft beside her.

Historia smiled, reaching out to take his hand. "Just thinking about how strange life can be. Did you ever imagine we'd be here? Hosting dinner parties with commanders and farmers?"

Aaron's thumb traced gentle circles on the back of her hand. "I never imagined much beyond surviving the next day," he admitted. "You changed that. You made me think about building something, not just surviving."

"Is that why you agreed so easily to having Thomas join us?" Historia asked, studying his face.

Aaron's lips quirked in a slight smile. "I agreed because you wanted it. Though I reserve the right to be somewhat... protective."

"He's not that same boy anymore," Historia reminded him gently.

"I know," Aaron said. "But old habits die hard. And speaking of old habits..." his eyes gleamed with sudden mischief, "I believe I still owe Neil some retribution for that little joke yesterday."

Historia laughed, the sound carrying across the evening air. "You're impossible, you know that?"

"So I've been told," Aaron replied, his smile widening. "Multiple times, usually by you."

As they approached the palace, servants already hurrying to prepare for the expanded dinner party, Historia squeezed Aaron's hand. "Thank you," she said softly. "For trying. For being willing to change."

Aaron's expression softened further. "For you? Anything."

....

Thomas stood in front of the ornate mirror, tugging uncomfortably at the borrowed clothes. The fine fabric felt foreign against his skin, a stark reminder of how far he was from his usual place in life. Aaron Mustang's clothes hung slightly loose on his frame - the Director of Internal Affairs was taller and broader - but they were undeniably of better quality than anything Thomas had ever worn.

His mind wandered to the conversation he'd had with his fellow farm workers just that morning.

"Don't get too familiar with the queen," Jakob had warned him while they were tending the fields. "Word is Mustang's got a nasty temper when it comes to Her Majesty."

"Remember what happened to that merchant who spoke too casually to her?" Maria had added, her voice hushed. "They say Mustang threw him through a window."

Thomas adjusted the collar of his borrowed shirt again, trying to quell his nerves. The palace servants had directed him to the dining room, where the others would be waiting. Each step on the polished marble floors echoed ominously.

The dining room, when he entered, was both grander and more intimate than he'd expected. Candles cast a warm glow over the rich wood table, which was set for a relatively small group despite its capacity for many more. Historia sat at the head of the table, looking far more comfortable in her elegant dress than Thomas felt in his borrowed finery.

"Thomas!" Historia's warm greeting helped ease some of his tension. "Please, sit here."

She gestured to a seat that, to Thomas's mild horror, was directly across from Aaron Mustang. The Director sat with his usual imposing presence, though his formal uniform had been replaced with more casual evening wear. Commander Nile Dok sat beside him, and a young girl who Thomas recognized as Aaron's sister, Rosy, sat on his other side.

"Thank you, Your Majesty," Thomas said, carefully taking his seat.

"Historia," she corrected gently. "Remember? On the farm or off, among friends I'm just Historia."

Thomas caught the slight narrowing of Aaron's eyes at the word 'friends' but was saved from responding by the arrival of the first course.

"So," Nile was saying to Aaron, "about the new security protocols for the inner gate-"

"No," Historia interrupted firmly. "No work talk at dinner. That's the rule."

Aaron looked mildly affronted. "But the implementations are crucial for-"

"Aaron," Historia's voice carried a warning note that made even the fearsome Director of Internal Affairs fall silent.

"Tell us a story instead," Rosy piped up, her eyes bright with excitement. "Like how you fought the Beast Titan!"

Thomas nearly choked on his soup. He'd heard rumors about that encounter, but surely they couldn't be true.

Aaron's expression softened as he looked at his sister. "That's quite a violent story for dinner, squirt."

"Please?" Rosy pleaded. "Commander Nile hasn't heard it either, have you?"

Nile shook his head, looking genuinely interested. "I've heard rumors, but never the full story."

Aaron sighed in defeat. "Alright. It was when we thought Wall Rose had been breached. Mike and I were checking the outlying areas, dealing with regular Titans near an old stable..."

Thomas found himself drawn into the story despite his nervousness. Aaron described the appearance of the Beast Titan - a massive, ape-like creature that had displayed shocking intelligence.

"The arrogant bastard was practically gloating," Aaron's voice carried a hint of old anger. "Talking down to Mike like he was nothing. So naturally, I had to teach him some manners."

He described the battle in vivid detail - how he'd used his ODM gear to spiral around the massive Titan, avoiding its surprisingly precise throws and strikes.

"The key was getting inside its guard," Aaron explained, demonstrating with his hands. "These intelligent Titans, they fight differently. More calculated. But they also tend to be overconfident."

Thomas listened in growing amazement as Aaron described how he'd eventually maneuvered into the Beast Titan's mouth during a roar, slicing his way through to the nape from the inside.

"Found a bearded man in there," Aaron's eyes darkened at the memory. "But before I could finish it, this abnormal with an enormous mouth came out of nowhere and snatched him away."

"I heard he wet himself when you pulled him out," Rosy said with childish glee.

"Rosy," Historia admonished, though she was fighting a smile. "That's not appropriate dinner conversation."

"Oh, like brother's story about ripping through Titan flesh was appropriate?" Rosy countered with surprising sass.

Thomas couldn't help but notice how different Aaron was with his sister - the fearsome enforcer transformed into an indulgent older brother. It was... humanizing.

"Speaking of inappropriate dinner conversations," Nile said with a slight smirk, "I heard about what you did to Baron Reichmann last week."

"No work talk," Historia reminded them firmly.

"This isn't work, it's entertainment," Nile protested. "The man tried to organize opposition to the queen's education initiative. So Aaron here paid him a visit..."

The candles had burned lower as the main course dishes were cleared away. Thomas watched as a servant gently wheeled Rosy from the dining room, the young girl waving goodnight to everyone with her characteristic cheerfulness. Despite her illness, she had maintained a bright spirit throughout dinner, often being the one to break any tension with her innocent questions and observations.

"Sleep well, squirt," Aaron called after her, his voice carrying that particular softness he seemed to reserve only for his sister.

As they waited for dessert, the conversation shifted inevitably back to work matters. Thomas observed how Aaron and Nile fell into discussion about recent reforms in the Military Police, their voices low but animated.

"The northern district still needs attention," Nile was saying, leaning forward slightly. "There's a network of corrupt merchants that-"

"Aaron," Historia interrupted with an exasperated sigh, "what did I say about work talk at dinner?"

Aaron had the grace to look slightly sheepish, but Thomas could see the gleam in his eyes that suggested he wasn't entirely repentant.

Historia turned deliberately away from the work discussion, focusing her attention on Thomas instead. "Tell me more about the new crop rotation system you're implementing," she said, her voice warm and encouraging.

Thomas shifted nervously in his seat, acutely aware of Aaron's presence even as the man continued his hushed conversation with Nile. "Well, Your- I mean, Historia," he stammered, "we've been experimenting with alternating legumes with the grain crops. The soil seems to be responding well..."

He tried to focus on the agricultural discussion, but his words kept faltering under the weight of his awareness. Every time Aaron's head turned slightly in their direction, Thomas felt his heart rate spike.

The arrival of a servant at the dining room door was almost a relief.

"Your Majesty, Director," the servant announced with a formal bow, "Commander Erwin Smith and Captain Levi have arrived."

Thomas watched as Historia's eyebrows rose in surprise, while Aaron's expression showed only satisfaction.

"Finally," Aaron said, gesturing for the servant to show them in. "I was beginning to think they'd got lost."

"You didn't tell me they were coming," Historia said, giving Aaron a pointed look.

Aaron's lips curved in a slight smirk. "Well, you invited Thomas without consulting me. I thought it only fair to invite some friends of my own."

"Oh?" Nile interjected, his tone mock-offended. "And what am I, chopped liver?"

"Try a little harder, Nile," Aaron replied with a casual wave of his hand. "Maybe in a few more years of honest service, you'll earn the title of friend."

Thomas felt his mouth go dry as he realized what was about to happen. The room already held some of the most powerful people within the walls - the queen herself, the commander of the Military Police, and the infamous Director of Internal Affairs. And now...

Commander Erwin Smith entered the room first, his commanding presence filling the space despite his missing arm. The candlelight caught on his blonde hair and cast shadows that emphasized his strong features. Behind him came humanity's strongest soldier, Captain Levi, his shorter stature doing nothing to diminish the aura of deadly capability that surrounded him.

Thomas tried to make himself as inconspicuous as possible, but to his horror, Levi chose the empty seat right next to him. The captain's steel-grey eyes fixed on him with unnerving intensity.

"Who's this?" Levi asked, his tone flat but somehow managing to convey both disinterest and subtle threat at the same time.

Thomas opened his mouth to respond, but no sound came out.

"This is Thomas," Historia answered smoothly. "He's one of our most capable farm managers. He's been instrumental in implementing the new agricultural systems at the orphanage."

"A farmer?" Levi's eyes narrowed slightly. "At the royal dinner table?"

"Is there a problem with that, Levi?" Historia's voice carried a hint of steel beneath its pleasant surface.

"Tch," Levi responded, reaching for a cup of tea that a servant had hurriedly placed before him. "Just wondering when the palace turned into a public house."

"Now, now," Erwin said, taking his own seat with fluid grace despite his injury. "I think it's refreshing to see such... diversity at Her Majesty's table."

Thomas couldn't tell if the commander was being sincere or if there was some subtle mockery in his words. The man's blue eyes seemed to hold countless thoughts behind their calm surface.

"Indeed," Aaron added, his voice carrying a warning note that made Thomas want to sink through the floor. "Thomas is a valued member of the farm's staff. And an old acquaintance of Historia's."

Something in the way Aaron emphasized 'old acquaintance' made Thomas wonder if the Director knew about the stone-throwing incidents from their childhood. Given Aaron's reputation for knowing everything about everyone, he probably did.

"How interesting," Erwin said, accepting a glass of wine from a servant. "And how did you come to work at the queen's farm, Thomas?"

All eyes turned to him, and Thomas felt the weight of their collective attention like a physical pressure. Here he sat, a simple farmer, surrounded by the most powerful and dangerous people within the walls. The queen who could order his execution with a word. The Military Police commander who could have him arrested. The Survey Corps commander whose tactical genius was legendary. Humanity's strongest soldier who could probably kill him with a teaspoon. And Aaron Mustang, who was rumored to have once thrown a man off Wall Sina for speaking rudely to Historia.

"I..." Thomas began, his voice barely above a whisper. He cleared his throat and tried again. "I wanted to make amends for past mistakes. To do something worthwhile."

He saw something flicker in Erwin's eyes - approval? Calculation? - while Levi continued to stare at him over the rim of his teacup.

"Past mistakes?" Levi prompted, his voice deceptively soft.

"That's enough questioning," Historia interrupted firmly. "Thomas is my guest, and he's here to enjoy dessert, not undergo an interrogation."

As if on cue, servants began bringing in elaborate dessert plates. Thomas had never seen anything like the delicate confections they placed before each diner.

"Speaking of past mistakes," Erwin said smoothly, changing the subject, "Aaron, have you told them about that time in training when you tried to take on Mike blindfolded?"

Aaron groaned. "I thought we agreed never to mention that again."

"No, you agreed," Levi corrected. "We made no such promise."

Erwin leaned back in his chair, a rare smile playing at his lips as he swirled the wine in his glass. "It was Aaron's first day with the Survey Corps," he began, his deep voice carrying easily across the table. "He'd arrived with quite the reputation from the Underground, and Levi had personally vouched for his combat abilities."

"Which I still regret," Levi interjected, taking a sip of his tea.

Aaron rolled his eyes. "You saw potential and you know it."

"I saw an arrogant brat who needed humbling," Levi corrected. "Unfortunately, the humbling didn't take."

Historia leaned forward, clearly interested. "So what happened?"

"Mike was our best hand-to-hand combat instructor at the time," Erwin continued. "And young Aaron here..." he gave Aaron an amused look, "decided to demonstrate his prowess by challenging Mike to a sparring match."

"In my defense," Aaron interrupted, "I had no idea he could smell people from that far away."

Thomas, who had been trying to make himself invisible, couldn't help but lean forward slightly. He'd heard stories about Mike Zacharias, the soldier who was second only to Captain Levi in strength.

"Aaron was so confident," Erwin's eyes gleamed with remembered amusement, "that he offered to fight blindfolded."

Nile nearly choked on his wine. "You didn't."

"I did," Aaron admitted, running a hand through his hair. "Not my finest moment."

"Mike tried to talk him out of it," Erwin continued. "But Aaron insisted. Said something about how Underground fighters didn't need to rely on sight..."

"Which is true," Aaron protested. "Usually."

"So there was Aaron," Erwin gestured expansively, "standing in the training yard with a blindfold on, surrounded by the entire Corps, absolutely certain he was about to show everyone up."

Levi's lips twitched slightly. "I remember thinking you were either the bravest or the stupidest recruit I'd ever brought in."

"Mike circled him for a bit," Erwin said, building the tension in his story. "And Aaron actually did well at first. He managed to dodge the first few strikes, which impressed everyone."

"I could hear his movements," Aaron explained, though his face was slightly red from embarrassment. "The Underground teaches you to fight with all your senses."

"Then Mike did that thing he always did," Levi added, "where he sniffed the air and smiled."

"Next thing anyone knew," Erwin continued, "Aaron was flat on his back, looking up at the sky with the blindfold torn off, probably wondering why the world was spinning."

Historia tried to hide her giggle behind her hand, but Aaron heard it anyway and shot her a betrayed look.

"That's not even the best part," Erwin said, his smile widening. "Tell them what you did next, Aaron."

Aaron groaned and covered his face with his hands. "Do we really need to-"

"He waited until that evening," Erwin pressed on, ignoring Aaron's protests, "followed Mike to his office, and threw him out the window."

Thomas gasped before he could stop himself. Even Nile looked shocked.

"Second story window," Levi clarified, almost proudly. "Mike landed in a hay cart."

"I knew the hay was there," Aaron muttered defensively.

"And that," Erwin concluded, "was how Aaron earned his reputation for defenestration. Though these days he seems to prefer throwing corrupt nobles rather than fellow soldiers."

"In my defense," Aaron said, straightening up, "Mike thought it was hilarious. After he climbed out of the hay cart, he said I had 'good initiative' and offered to train me properly."

"And that's how two of humanity's strongest soldiers became rivals and friends," Erwin said, raising his glass in a small toast.

"Though some of us are stronger than others," Levi commented casually, taking another sip of his tea.

Aaron's eyes narrowed. "The 'Humanity's Strongest' title is purely political and you know it, short stack."

"Oh?" Levi's voice carried a dangerous edge. "Want to test that theory? I have a blindfold right here."

"Children," Historia interrupted firmly, though her eyes were dancing with amusement. "Not at the dinner table."

Thomas watched this exchange with fascination. The stories he'd heard about these men had always painted them as legendary figures - fearsome, untouchable warriors. But here they were, bickering like brothers while sharing embarrassing stories from their past.

"It's strange," Nile mused, "seeing you all like this. The feared Captain Levi, the infamous Aaron Mustang, reduced to squabbling over titles."

"We've been through a lot together," Erwin said, his voice growing more serious. "Levi might have brought Aaron into the Corps, but it was their rivalry that helped them both grow stronger."

"Though some of us grew taller than others," Aaron couldn't resist adding.

Levi's teacup clattered ominously against its saucer. "Keep talking, Mustang. See what happens."

"What's going to happen?" Aaron taunted. "Going to climb up on a chair to reach me?"

Historia cleared her throat loudly. "Need I remind you both that you're in the royal dining room? If anything gets broken, it's coming out of your salaries."

Both men subsided, though they continued to shoot challenging looks at each other across the table.

"You know," Erwin said thoughtfully, "despite all their competition, I've never seen two soldiers work together better in the field. When Levi and Aaron coordinate their attacks, even the most unusual Titans don't stand a chance."

"That's because Mustang's good for one thing," Levi said. "Being a distraction. All that height makes him an easy target."

"Better than being so short the Titans can't even see you," Aaron shot back.

Thomas watched in amazement as humanity's strongest soldier and the feared Director of Internal Affairs devolved into what could only be described as childish bickering. Yet beneath the insults and challenges, he could sense a deep bond of trust and respect.

"They're always like this," Historia told Thomas quietly, noticing his expression. "But the moment there's real danger, they move as one. It's quite something to see."

"Like a perfectly choreographed dance," Erwin agreed. "Though neither of them would ever admit it."

"Let's settle this democratically," Aaron declared, pushing his empty dessert plate aside. "We'll take a vote on who's humanity's strongest soldier."

Levi's eyes narrowed dangerously. "Fine. But no intimidating people into voting for you."

"That's rich, coming from someone who terrorizes recruits into cleaning spotlessly," Aaron shot back.

Historia raised her hand immediately, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "I vote for Aaron."

"Biased," Levi muttered into his teacup. "Your vote doesn't count."

"I am your queen," Historia reminded him primly. "My vote counts double."

Erwin cleared his throat, amusement playing at the corners of his mouth. "In the interest of fairness, I vote for Levi."

"Now who's biased?" Aaron protested.

All eyes turned to Nile, who held up his hands in surrender. "Oh no, I'm not getting involved in this. I'd like to keep both my kneecaps intact."

"Coward," Aaron and Levi said in unison, then glared at each other for the synchronized response.

Slowly, inevitably, everyone's attention shifted to Thomas, who had been trying his best to become one with his chair.

"Well?" Levi's steel-grey eyes fixed on him with unnerving intensity.

"I... uh..." Thomas looked desperately between the two men. Aaron's emerald eyes promised consequences for the wrong answer, while Levi's stance suggested imminent violence regardless of his choice.

"You can't intimidate my farm worker," Historia interjected, coming to Thomas's rescue. "Besides, it's getting late. We should all get some rest. Tomorrow's a big day."

The mood in the room shifted subtly at her words, the playful rivalry giving way to a more serious atmosphere. Tomorrow, they would begin the mission to retake Wall Maria.

---

The next day, as the sun began its descent towards the horizon, the Survey Corps assembled in Trost District. The air was thick with anticipation and an unusual energy - not the usual grim determination that accompanied their departures, but something more hopeful.

Aaron stood with his horse, checking Lucky's tack one final time. Nanaba and Gus approached, their faces set with determination.

"You don't have to come," Aaron said, though he already knew their response. "This isn't your fight anymore."

Nanaba stepped forward, her voice firm. "With all due respect, Captain, I'll follow you into hell itself. That hasn't changed just because we wear different uniforms now."

"Same here," Gus added with a grin. "Though Neil wanted to come too. Unfortunately, he's... indisposed."

Aaron raised an eyebrow. "Indisposed?"

"Severe diarrhea," Gus explained, trying to keep a straight face. "Apparently, he ate something that didn't agree with him at dinner last night."

"How unfortunate," Aaron said, his voice suspiciously neutral. "I hope it wasn't the dessert I recommended to him."

Nanaba and Gus exchanged knowing looks but wisely chose not to comment.

Around them, the atmosphere was electric. Citizens had gathered to see them off, something unprecedented in Survey Corps history. Flegel Reeves stood among them, his substantial frame easy to spot in the crowd.

"Give those Titans hell!" Flegel shouted, his voice carrying over the general clamor.

Jean, Sasha, and Connie seemed almost giddy with the positive attention, waving and responding to the crowd's cheers. It was such a change from the usual silent departures or outright hostility they'd faced in the past.

"Look at them," Nanaba said softly. "They're so young, but they've already been through so much."

Aaron watched his former squad members, feeling a mixture of pride and concern. "They're ready," he said with quiet confidence. "They've earned their place here."

Near the front of the formation, Erwin sat astride his horse, his face glowing with an almost boyish enthusiasm. Aaron had never seen the commander look so... happy.

"Citizens!" Erwin's voice boomed out, carrying easily over the crowd. "Today, for the first time in our history, you send us off not with despair, but with hope!"

The crowd roared in response, their cheers echoing off the walls of Trost.

"Today," Erwin continued, drawing his blade with his remaining arm, the steel catching the light of the setting sun, "we take back what is ours! For humanity!"

"FOR HUMANITY!" the crowd and soldiers roared as one.

The massive elevators began to lower the Survey Corps to the ground below the wall. As they descended, Aaron found himself looking back at the top of the wall. Historia stood there, her golden hair catching the last rays of sunlight, looking every inch the queen she had become.

She had wanted to say her goodbyes privately, away from the pomp and ceremony.

"Come back to me," she had said simply, standing on her tiptoes to kiss him. "That's an order."

"Yes, Your Majesty," he had replied with a small smile. "Though I might have to throw a few people out of windows first."

Now, as his horse's hooves touched the ground beyond the wall, Aaron felt the familiar surge of adrenaline. Somewhere out there, Reiner, Berthold, and their mysterious leader Zeke were waiting.

The formation spread out across the open ground, hundreds of horses moving in perfect synchronization. The thunder of their hooves seemed to shake the earth itself.

"Just like old times, eh?" Gus called out, pulling his horse alongside Aaron's.

"Almost," Aaron replied, his eyes fixed on the horizon. "Except this time, we're not just fighting to survive. We're fighting to win."

Nanaba moved to his other side, completing their small unit. Together, they rode towards whatever waited for them in Shiganshina.

Above them, the sun continued its descent, painting the sky in shades of red and gold. It looked almost like the sky was on fire, Aaron thought. Appropriate, given what they were riding into.

As they passed the last remnants of human civilization and entered true Titan territory, Aaron allowed himself one final glance back at the walls. At the life he'd built there, the people he'd come to love.

Then he turned forward, his face set with determination. He had promises to keep - to Historia, to humanity, to himself. And Aaron Mustang always kept his promises.

The mission to retake Wall Maria had begun.