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

Chapter 16: The Twilight Assault

It had been four days since Gray had left Mitras and returned to his position at the Survey Corps HQ in Trost. The return to routine had brought him a certain tranquillity, although his mind was constantly preoccupied with recent events. Annie's mission, Eren's failed capture, all weighed heavily on his shoulders. But in this world of soldiers and strategies, he had no choice but to keep moving forward, hiding his worries behind appearances.

Each day began in the same way: wake-up at dawn, physical training followed by theory lessons, then a meal in the huge dining hall. Gray had got used to this almost mechanical rhythm. It kept his mind occupied and prevented him from thinking too much about the challenges facing him and his allies.

At the end of the day, the dining hall was buzzing with lively conversation. Members of the Scouts were discussing rumours about the forthcoming expedition, or the training they had undergone. Gray sat at a table at the back of the room, silently watching the recruits around him. He didn't feel like taking part in the discussions. The weight of his double life made every interaction more difficult.

Just as he was about to finish his meal, a sudden silence filled the room. Commander Smith had just entered, imposing by his mere presence. He made his way to the podium at the end of the room, his gaze roving over the faces of the recruits who were watching him intently. Gray raised his head slightly, intrigued. Erwin's speeches were always memorable, and he sensed that this one was going to be no exception.

Erwin stopped in the centre of the room, crossing his arms behind his back before beginning to speak in a strong, confident voice:

- Soldiers of the Scouts, I'm not going to hide from you the fact that the times ahead are going to be crucial. We've already suffered heavy losses, but it's at our darkest moments that the light of humanity must shine brightest.

The recruits' eyes were riveted on him. He spoke with a palpable intensity, as if every word carried the weight of the responsibility he bore.

- We are approaching a decisive turning point in our war against the Titans. But to prepare for our next expedition, we need to make sure that every one of you is ready, mentally and physically. Mistakes will not be tolerated, because they will cost lives.

Gray frowned. He'd heard similar speeches from Erwin before, but this time something seemed different. The commander was careful to choose his words, as if he had a hidden agenda behind them.

- From tomorrow, we will be temporarily leaving Trost, continued Erwin. You'll be transferred to an old Scouts stronghold. This place will serve as a base for intensive training, and an opportunity to reflect on our mission. It's a secluded place, out of sight and out of mind. Here you will learn to work together and face your fears, because what awaits us out there is far worse than anything you have yet imagined.

The recruits exchanged worried glances, some whispering amongst themselves. The idea of leaving Trost for a remote base was unsettling them. Gray's instincts were alarmed. Why send them to an isolated base now, at this precise moment?

- This place has a history, Erwin continued. A glorious past for the Scouts, and it's here that you're going to forge your own. The aim is not just to train, but to forge a mind of steel. It will be a test, and only the most determined will come out stronger.

- What do you think? asked Bertolt, whispering in his ear.

- I don't know, to be honest, he replied. It just seems odd that it should happen just after Annie's attack. It does seem strange.

- In any case, we'll keep our guard up, Reiner whispered to them. It is strange, as Gray says.

- Understood, agreed Gray.