Attack on Titan: Secrets of Marley (SNK x OC)

Chapter 15: Masks and Betrayals

Gray could still clearly remember the day the strategy for the next expedition was explained. It was about two weeks before the expedition, during an intense lecture in one of the castle's great halls. Major Erwin Smith himself had come to explain the plan.

The sun was setting behind the room's windows, casting a golden light that seemed ironically contrasted with the gravity of what was about to be discussed. The cadets were seated in tight rows, the atmosphere heavy, filled with the anticipation and anxiety of the soldiers who would soon be sent beyond the walls. Gray sat at the back, noting every detail, every word with rapt attention.

Erwin stepped in front of them, straight and imposing, his piercing eyes sweeping the assembly.

- For this 57th expedition, he began in a deep voice, our main objective is to secure a route to the Shiganshina district and to protect Eren Yeager throughout this mission.

The silence was total. The mention of Shiganshina raised a palpable tension among the troops. This was where it all began, where Wall Maria had given way years before, where the Titans had first appeared.

Erwin took a few steps forward, the sound of his boots echoing through the room.

- We're going to employ a long and extensive training strategy, he explained, pointing to a map on the wall. The aim will be to maximize our vision of the terrain and react quickly to any Titan attack. The center of the training will be reserved for elite soldiers like Captain Levi. Around this center, we'll have several layers of squads that will form a defensive perimeter.

Gray remembered observing the map carefully. The plan was meticulously thought out, as one would expect from Erwin. The formation was a long, wavy line, with each section having precise roles in responding to threats.

- We're going to move quickly, Erwin continued, but in an orderly fashion. The slightest deviation or hesitation could cost the lives of many soldiers, so it's imperative that everyone respects their role in this formation.

He paused for a moment, his eyes scanning the faces of the recruits, making sure everyone understood the importance of what he had just explained.

- We're expecting an attack from the Titans, or even a counter-offensive from the Armored and Colossal Titans. If we have to make sacrifices to get to Shiganshina, we will.

Gray felt a chill at these words. He had seen, more than anyone else, how willing Erwin was to make sacrifices to achieve his goals.

Erwin continued, going into more detail about the role of the different squadrons, the signals to use in the event of a formation break-up, and the tactics to adopt against the Titans.

Then Levi took the floor. The attention in the room became even more intense. His presence had that effect on everyone.

- Titans like the Armored and the Colossal are our biggest threat, he added, his voice cold and sharp. They're smarter, faster and far more dangerous than normal Titans. If one shows up, don't try to be a hero. Notify the elite squads immediately. It's up to us to neutralize 'em.

Levi's tone left no room for argument. It was clear that he would tolerate no mistakes.

After a final set of instructions from Erwin, the course ended on a heavy note, with each soldier leaving the room acutely aware of the imminent dangers.

Two weeks later, Gray knew that the mission would be very difficult to counter. Advancing with difficulty, dodging the attacking Titans, countered by Corporal Levi's Squad, he tried to make his way.

Finally, a few minutes after emerging from the villages adjacent to Wall Rose, the soldiers began to separate to execute the battle formation set up by Major Smith.