The Heart of Humanity

Chapter 15: Captain Eva

The last time Eva had been summoned by Shadis she broke his office window and was nearly abducted by the Military Police. Although a year had passed, Shadis never let her hear the end of it. He never let her hear the end of anything she did, and every day he was lucky she had given up her life of crime. Eva hesitated in front of the door; the scout's council room made it more nerve-wracking. Was she being transferred? Now that she had been dating Erwin for a year he had less say in her military career, and for a while, it felt like he was the only higher up keeping her in the Scouts. Although, Hange was making their mark as a Section Commander and they were close friends, and while Levi also had little say in her professional life he wouldn't just accept a forced transfer. He'd go with her, and then they'd be down two of their best. Eva finally knocked, realizing she was now late.

"Enter," A voice she didn't recognize called. She pushed open the doors, surprised to see Erwin and Hange in attendance. Shadis was also present, sitting to the left of the man she didn't recognize. He sat at the head of the table whispering something to Erwin on his right before looking up at her. 

"Eva, welcome. I'm Premier Dhalis Zachary, your Commander-In-Chief." Eva saluted, standing a little straighter. She considered bowing.

"A pleasure to meet you."

"The pleasure is all mine. I've heard great things about you. Please, sit." Eva lowered her salute, taking his invitation to sit. A cup of tea was placed in front of her, but she didn't reach for it. Levi had made her particular about tea.

"Am I being transferred?" Eva asked, gently pushing the cup aside.

"Ackerman, you will speak when-" Premier Zachary raised his hand, and Shadis fell silent.

"No. Although I'd imagine the crown would appreciate someone of your caliber, your talents would be wasted in Sina," He replied, and Eva already felt relieved.

"As you understand decisions about your military career must be handled through the council, which is why I've come personally to deliver the news," He continued. Eva glanced at Erwin, then at Hange who looked ready to burst with excitement.

"Eva Ackerman. With the recommendations of your superiors, your peers and the approval of the council, and in recognition of  your accomplishments in creating open-field combat techniques, I am authorized to bestow on you the rank of Captain." Eva stood from her seat nearly knocking it over.

"What?" She heard Erwin chuckle, but her eyes were on the Premier.

"You have surpassed even our oldest veterans. You have earned the respect and admiration of your superiors, peers and civilians which is no easy feat. You'll join the ranks of some of our best, but it is a rank well earned. Do you accept?"

"Of-Of course, yes. Yes, sir!" She stammered. Zachary nodded, a slight smile on his face as he stood. Eva fumbled her hand into a salute as he walked around the table.

"Congratulations Captain Eva, I'm sure you will continue to do great things." He offered his hand, and Eva took it. She was a little started when he got in close.

"Your Commander did not offer his recommendation. I suggest treading lightly," His voice was barely a whisper in her ear. He stood straight just as quickly, a smile on his face as he released her hand.

"Shadis will give you the paperwork, but as of now, you are a Captain of the Scouts. Good luck."

"Thank you, sir. I will not let you down."

"See to it that you don't," He replied. Shadis went to follow him out, pausing briefly beside Eva.

"Section Commander Hange will give you the paperwork, see to it that it's on my desk tonight," He ordered and Eva nodded, watching their backs as they exited.