In a world where magic intertwines with the unknown, a tale unfolds that diverges from the well-known legend of The Boy Who Lived. Amidst whispers of the extraordinary, emerges a new enigma : The Girl Who Lived. With eyes as piercing as molten gold...
A few minutes before the Survey Corps arrived in Shiganshina
The sun had yet to rise, leaving the world bathed in a dim, haunting twilight. Atop the towering Wall, an eerie silence hung in the air, broken only by the occasional crackling of the dying fire. Bertholdt sat quietly, his gaze fixed on Reiner, a mix of concern and apprehension etched into his features. He couldn't help but wonder if his comrade—and friend—was truly in his right state of mind.
Before Bertholdt could dwell further on his unease, the commanding voice of Zeke shattered the stillness.
" Like I told you... Little Annie should be fine. Trust me," Zeke said with a calm authority, his fingers absently scratching the back of his ear." She's not being tortured. Could you really imagine that happening ? With her abilities, all it takes is a single injury to handle just about any situation".
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Bertholdt shifted uncomfortably, but Zeke pressed on without pausing, his tone matter-of-fact.
" Not only that, this is Annie we're talking about. She knows how to take care of herself. If anything, she's probably lying low somewhere, practicing her kicks".
Reiner, who had been staring blankly at the ground, finally broke his silence," But they definitely know her identity".
" Even Annie couldn't...". Bertholdt started, his voice faltering into silence as uncertainty gripped him.
Zeke's expression turned cold, his sharp gaze cutting into the two younger warriors like a blade," Huh... So you're saying you still aren't committed ? Is that it ?". His voice carried a dangerous edge." Then what exactly was that decision we made the other day ?".
Both Reiner and Bertholdt tensed, swallowing nervously under Zeke's piercing glare. His gaze was unrelenting, as though he could see straight through their thoughts, exposing every hidden doubt and fear.
" I don't mind repeating the lesson, Reiner," Zeke said icily." But if you lose next time, you're handing that armor over to another warrior. Do I make myself clear ?".
" N-No... That's not what I meant". Reiner stammered, his voice shaky.
" Then get it together." Zeke's voice softened slightly, but the weight of his words remained heavy." We have one goal, right ? Regain the Coordinate and put an end to this cursed history. Let's finish it".
Bertholdt and Reiner exchanged a glance, neither daring to speak. Zeke's eyes softened for a brief moment, though his expression remained solemn.
" I want us to end it". Zeke added, almost as if speaking to himself.
A quiet determination spread across Bertholdt's face as he nodded firmly," Fine. We'll forget about Annie for now. We don't need to drag anyone else through this hell. Let's end it".
