The meeting chamber was silent as the delegates took their places around the expansive table. Sunlight streamed through tall windows, illuminating the serious faces of those gathered. Kenny Ackerman leaned against the wall, his signature hat tipped low but unable to hide his ever-present grin. Levi and Mikasa flanked the royal couple, their presence a silent reminder of Paradis's strength.
Rosalinda, usually bubbling with energy, sat quietly beside Haru, her formal robes making her look more like the noble she was than the cheerful young woman from dinner. The weight of the occasion seemed to have finally settled on her shoulders.
Commander Erwin Smith sat to Eren's left, his calculating blue eyes taking in every detail of the Hizuran delegation. Commanders Pyxis and Nile completed the military presence, along with Captain Hange, who could barely contain her curious glances at the visitors' foreign attire.
The groups introduced each other. The Commanders and captains gave out their names. Then Hiyomi and her two Eldians introduced themselves.
Historia opened the proceedings, her voice clear and confident. "Before we begin formal negotiations, I believe we should address the most important part of this discussion – the current global political situation."
"An interesting opening gambit, Your Majesty," Kiyomi responded, her face carefully neutral.
Eren leaned forward slightly. "We believe in being direct, Lady Kiyomi. Marley's expansion isn't slowing down. They've conquered nations far more powerful than Paradis, and their appetite for territory only grows."
"And you believe this concerns Hizuru?" Haru asked, his tone measured.
"We know it does," Historia replied. "Hizuru's technological advancement and strategic location make it an obvious target. The only reason Marley hasn't moved against you yet is that the cost would be too high... for now."
Erwin nodded. "Our intelligence suggests Marley is developing new weapons technologies that could change that calculation."
Rosalinda's hands tightened in her lap, but she remained silent.
"Intelligence?" Kiyomi's eyebrow raised. "From where, might I ask?"
"We have our sources," Eren said smoothly. "Just as I'm sure you have yours. The point is, Marley's pattern is clear. They isolate nations one by one, waiting until the moment is right to strike."
"They're like a kid with a new toy," Kenny added. "Eventually, they're gonna want to play with it."
Pixis took a measured sip from his flask. "Crude but accurate. Marley's military expansion poses a threat to all independent nations."
"Is that a flask, Commander?" Kenny perked up. "Don't suppose you'd share with a fellow concerned citizen?"
"Kenny," Levi growled, "shut up or wait outside."
"And you think an alliance with Paradis would prevent this?" Haru's skepticism was evident. "No offense, Your Majesties, but you're not exactly in a position to—"
"To what?" Historia interrupted gently. "To fight back? To innovate? To surprise everyone who's underestimated us?"
Commander Pyxis cleared his throat. "Perhaps we should show them the development plans, Your Majesties?"
Eren nodded, and Hange eagerly spread out several detailed maps and diagrams.
"These are our current industrial zones," Eren explained, pointing to marked areas. "And these are our projected expansions over the next five years. We have abundant natural resources that we've barely begun to tap."
"Resources that Marley would love to get their hands on," Historia added. "But more importantly, resources we're willing to share with true allies."
Kiyomi studied the maps with interest. "Impressive plans. But implementation requires expertise that—"
"That Hizuru has in abundance," Eren finished. "We're not asking for charity, Lady Kiyomi. We're proposing a mutually beneficial partnership."
"Our engineers have already adapted several key technologies," Hange interjected enthusiastically. "The problem isn't understanding the principles – it's scaling up production efficiently."
"Something Hizuru excels at," Historia noted. "While we offer raw materials that your industries desperately need."
Haru leaned forward, his professional mask cracking slightly to show genuine interest. "You've done your research."
"We've had to," Eren replied. "The world hasn't exactly been friendly to us. But that's precisely why this alliance makes sense. Both our nations know what it's like to stand alone."
"Though we don't have to continue standing alone," Historia added softly.
Rosalinda spoke for the first time, her voice unusually serious. "You speak of standing alone, but you're suggesting we stand together against Marley?"
"Not against anyone," Eren corrected. "For ourselves. For our people's future."
Commander Erwin stepped in. "Consider the strategic advantages. Hizuru's naval power combined with our unique defensive capabilities would make any aggressor think twice."
"Unique defensive capabilities?" Haru questioned. "You mean the Rumbling?"
The room tensed slightly, but Eren remained calm. "We prefer not to rely on that option. We're more interested in conventional military and economic cooperation."
"Smart," Kenny muttered from his corner, drawing several glances.
"Very smart," Kiyomi agreed, surprising everyone. "You're not offering us a weapon or asking us to be your shield. You're offering a partnership."
"Exactly," Historia smiled. "One that benefits both our peoples. Hizuru's technical expertise combined with our resources could create something remarkable."
"And what of cultural exchange?" Rosalinda asked, some of her usual enthusiasm returning. "Last night's dinner proved we have much to learn from each other."
"That's also part of our proposal," Historia nodded. "We want to establish regular diplomatic missions, cultural exhibitions, educational exchanges—"
"Your Majesty," Haru interrupted, "while this all sounds promising, there are practical considerations. The distance between our nations, the logistics of maintaining such cooperation..."
"Already accounted for," Eren replied, nodding to Captain Marlowe, who produced another set of documents. "We've drafted plans for a dedicated shipping route, including potential port developments and supply stations."
"You've thought of everything, haven't you?" Kiyomi remarked, something like approval in her voice.
"We had to," Historia said simply. "Too much depends on getting this right."
"And what do you imagine this alliance looking like in ten years?" Haru asked.
Eren and Historia exchanged a glance before Eren answered. "We see Paradis and Hizuru as the foundation of a new kind of international cooperation. One based on mutual respect and benefit, not domination and fear."
"Bold words," Kiyomi said.
"Backed by solid plans," Historia added. "Every proposal we've made today is supported by detailed implementation strategies. We're not asking you to take a leap of faith – we're asking you to make a calculated decision based on facts and mutual interest."
Commander Nile spoke up. "The military implications alone make this alliance worthwhile. Hizuru's naval expertise combined with our unique geographical advantages—"
"Yes, yes," Kiyomi waved her hand. "The strategic benefits are clear. What interests me more is the long-term vision." She fixed her gaze on the royal couple. "You're not just planning for tomorrow, are you? You're planning for generations ahead."
"That's exactly right," Eren confirmed. "This isn't about quick gains or temporary advantages. We're looking to build something lasting."
"Something that could change the world," Historia added. "Not through force, but through cooperation and innovation."
Rosalinda leaned toward Haru, whispering something that made him nod thoughtfully.
"Your Majesties," Haru said, "you make a compelling case. But there's one thing you haven't addressed directly – the prejudices our people might face from other nations for allying with Paradis."
"Actually," Historia replied with a slight smile, "we have addressed it. Every trade route we've proposed includes multiple potential partners. Every technological development plan includes provisions for joint patents. We're not asking Hizuru to stand alone with us – we're asking you to be first in what we hope will become a network of allied nations."
"First," Kiyomi repeated, "with all the advantages that position entails."
"And all the risks," Haru added.
"Life is risk," Eren said firmly. "But calculated risks, taken with strong allies, are what build futures."
The room fell silent as the Hizuran delegation exchanged glances. Finally, Kiyomi spoke.
"I believe we have much to discuss among ourselves," she said. "But I must admit, your presentation has been... most impressive. You've clearly put tremendous thought into this proposal."
"We have," Historia nodded. "Because we believe in it completely."
"As do we all," Commander Erwin added, gesturing to the assembled military leaders.
"Then perhaps," Kiyomi suggested, "we should take a brief recess to consider what we've heard, and reconvene this afternoon to discuss specific details? We need a moment to collect our thoughts."
"And our drinks," Kenny muttered.
"Of course," Eren agreed. "Take all the time you need. We understand this isn't a decision to be made lightly."
As the delegates began to rise, Rosalinda spoke up again. "Your Majesties... thank you. For showing us that there might be a better way forward than what we've all been taught to expect."
Historia smiled warmly. "That's exactly what we hope to prove, Lady Rosalinda. That there's always a better way, if we're brave enough to seek it together."
As the Hizuran delegation filed out, followed by most of the military commanders, Kenny pushed off from his wall with a low whistle.
"Well, well," he drawled. "You two sure know how to put on a show."
"It wasn't a show, Kenny," Eren replied firmly. "Every word was true."
"That's what made it so damn effective," Kenny grinned, tipping his hat as he sauntered out.
"You're terrible," Levi told Kenny as they watched the delegates leave.
"Yep," Kenny agreed cheerfully. "Sometimes you need a bastard to cut through the bullshit."
Mikasa, still at her post, allowed herself a small smile. "Is that your life motto, Uncle?"
"Nah," Kenny adjusted his hat. "My life motto is 'always know where the booze is stashed.' Speaking of which..." He headed toward Pixis with determination.
"Should we stop him?" Mikasa asked Levi.
"Do you want to try?"
They watched as Kenny cornered Pixis, who seemed more amused than annoyed.
"At least things aren't boring," Mikasa conceded.
"With Kenny around?" Levi snorted. "Never."
Mikasa and Levi remained at their posts, while Eren and Historia shared a quiet moment of understanding. The first round had gone well, but this was just the beginning. The future they envisioned would take more than one successful meeting to build – but they had laid a strong foundation, and done it together, just as they did everything else that mattered.
Later
As the meeting chamber emptied, Eren loosened his collar slightly and let out a long breath. Historia placed her hand over his, a gesture that didn't go unnoticed by those remaining in the room.
"Well," Kenny drawled from his corner, "that was more entertaining than watching cadets try to climb walls for the first time. Almost as funny, too."
"Kenny," Levi warned, but there was no real heat in his voice.
"What? I'm just saying our royal lovebirds here put on quite the performance. Did you see Haru's face when Historia mentioned the joint patents? Man looked like he'd bitten into something sweet when he was expecting sour."
Erwin approached the royal couple, his expression thoughtful. "Your Majesties, I believe we've made significant progress. Lady Kiyomi was particularly interested in the industrial development plans."
"Yes," Historia nodded, "but did you notice how she reacted when we mentioned the shipping routes? There's something there we're missing."
Armin, who had been quietly observing, stepped forward. "Actually, I've been thinking about that. Perhaps we should consider revealing some of our technological advancements? The new vertical maneuvering equipment modifications, or the long-range communication devices or the guns?"
"Or the semi-shifters!" Hange exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement. "Just imagine their faces when they see—"
"No," Eren cut in firmly. "The semi-shifters remain absolutely secret. We don't reveal that card until we're certain of where Hizuru stands."
Kenny sauntered over to where Levi and Mikasa stood. "Speaking of secrets, you two grumps might be interested in a little family history lesson."
"Not now, Kenny," Levi sighed.
"Oh, but this is relevant," Kenny's grin widened. "You see, little Miss Quiet over here isn't the first Ackerman to catch a Hizuran's eye. No sir, not by a long shot."
Despite herself, Mikasa turned slightly toward Kenny. "What do you mean?"
"Well, well, she speaks!" Kenny chuckled. "See, about seventy years ago, our clan had this interesting little symbol. Some folks wore it on their wrist, kind of like that cloth you're always fidgeting with, girlie."
Mikasa's hand instinctively went to her wrist covering.
Meanwhile, Historia was deep in discussion with the commanders. "We need to consider approaching the Southern Nations next. They're less likely to be immediately threatened by Marley."
"True," Pyxis mused, taking a sip from his ever-present flask. "But they're also more likely to be swayed by Marley's propaganda about us."
"That's why timing is crucial," Erwin added. "If we secure Hizuru's alliance first, it lends credibility to our diplomatic efforts elsewhere."
"Speaking of credibility," Armin interjected, "we should discuss contingency plans. What if Marley learns of these negotiations?"
"Oh, they already know," Kenny called over, momentarily interrupting his conversation with the other Ackermans. "Probably got spies crawling all over like ants at a picnic. No offense to your security, kid," he nodded at Levi, who rolled his eyes.
"Kenny's right," Eren acknowledged. "We have to assume Marley is aware. That's why we need to move quickly but carefully."
"Commander Hange," Historia called, "what's the status of the new port facilities?"
"Oh! Well, the basic infrastructure is complete, but if you want to hear about my new ideas for the crane systems—"
"The short version, four-eyes," Levi interrupted.
"Fine, fine. We're ahead of schedule and under budget, though I still say we should add that experimental loading mechanism I designed..."
"The one that exploded three times during testing?" Eren asked dryly.
"It only exploded twice! The third time was more of a... vigorous disassembly."
Kenny barked out a laugh. "Reminds me of the time Uri tried to 'improve' the palace plumbing. Took weeks to get the smell out."
"You're giving me a headache," Levi muttered.
Later
The afternoon sun cast long shadows across the meeting chamber as the delegates reconvened. Kenny had moved to a different wall to lean against, claiming the new angle "made the show more interesting."
Kiyomi settled into her chair, her expression carefully composed. "Your Majesties, while your morning presentation was impressive, there are some... practical concerns we must address."
"Of course," Historia nodded. "Please, speak freely."
"Very well. Let's discuss the titan-shaped elephant in the room," Kiyomi's eyes fixed on Eren. "Marley's Titan forces are formidable. The Colossal Titan alone has enough destructive power to level cities. How do you propose to counter such threats?"
Kenny's quiet chuckle earned him a sharp look from Levi.
"That's an excellent question," Eren replied, exchanging a meaningful glance with Historia. "But I believe you're working with outdated intelligence about Marley's current capabilities."
Haru leaned forward. "Outdated? The last reports confirmed their possession of the Colossal, Armored, Female, and War Hammer Titans, among others."
Another small laugh from Kenny's direction.
"Those reports," Historia said carefully, "are no longer accurate. Marley's titan arsenal has been... significantly reduced."
"Reduced?" Rosalinda's eyes widened. "How reduced?"
Eren's green eyes gleamed. "Marley currently possesses only one Titan shifter: The War Hammer Titan."
The silence that followed was broken only by Kenny's barely contained snickering.
"Impossible," Haru breathed. "How could they have lost—"
"The 'how' is classified," Eren cut in smoothly. "But I assure you, this information is accurate."
Kiyomi's composed facade cracked slightly. "And the other Titans? Where are they?"
"Also classified," Historia replied. "But they are... secure."
Kenny pushed off from his wall. "What their Majesties are too polite to say is that Marley's been playing with an empty hand for a while now, bluffing their way through diplomatic negotiations with threats they can't back up anymore."
"Kenny," Erwin warned, but the damage was done.
"No, no, let him speak," Kiyomi said, her eyes sharp. "This is... most interesting."
Rosalinda looked between Eren and Historia. "If what you say is true, then Marley is vulnerable. Why haven't you—"
"Used the Rumbling?" Eren finished. "Because we're not interested in destruction for destruction's sake. We want to build something better, not just tear down what exists."
"Noble words," Haru said skeptically. "But if you have such an advantage—"
"We prefer to use our strength wisely," Historia interjected. "The Rumbling is a deterrent, not a first resort."
Kenny snorted. "Plus, it'd make one hell of a mess. Do you know how hard it is to rebuild after thousands of massive titans throw a parade through your country?"
"Kenny," Levi warned; he was getting a little tired of Kenny opening his big mouth.
"What? I'm just saying what everyone's thinking! Besides, why wreck perfectly good land when you can win without breaking anything?" His grin widened. "Well, anything important anyway."
Kiyomi's eyes hadn't left Eren. "So when you speak of Marley's vulnerability, you're not merely speculating. You've already proven it by acquiring their Titans."
"I neither confirm nor deny that statement," Eren replied diplomatically, though a slight smile played at his lips.
"Oh come on," Kenny called out. "We all know those shifters aren't on vacation in Marley anymore. Might as well admit—"
"Kenny!" Levi snapped. "Don't you have somewhere else to be?"
"And miss this? Not a chance, nephew. This is better than that time Uri tried to convince everyone that he had water in his wine, and not wine."
Despite the tension, Rosalinda couldn't suppress a giggle, which she quickly tried to hide behind her hand.
"The point is," Historia steered the conversation back on track, "Marley's position isn't as strong as they'd have the world believe. And while we don't intend to abuse our advantages, we do intend to use them to protect our allies."
"Assuming we become allies," Haru noted.
"Oh, you will," Kenny muttered. "Unless you enjoy being on the losing side of history."
"What my... enthusiastic colleague means," Erwin smoothly interjected, "is that the strategic benefits of an alliance have only become more apparent."
Kiyomi sat back, studying the royal couple. "You've been very busy since taking the throne, haven't you? Acquiring Titans, developing your military, planning industrial expansion... one might wonder what other surprises you have in store."
"Many," Eren said simply. "Some of which we'd be happy to share with trusted allies."
"Trust goes both ways," Haru pointed out.
"Exactly why we're being honest about Marley's current situation," Historia replied. "We could have let you continue believing they held all those Titans. We know what it's like to be threatened and isolated. We don't wish that on anyone else."
"Except Marley?" Rosalinda asked quietly.
"Marley made their choices," Eren replied, his voice hardening slightly. "We simply ensured those choices had consequences."
"And now you offer us the chance to stand with the winning side," Kiyomi observed.
"We offer you the chance to stand with those who would build rather than destroy," Historia corrected. "The fact that we're winning is just an added benefit."
"Perhaps," Kiyomi said carefully, "we should discuss exactly what kind of building you have in mind. Since Marley's position is... weaker than we believed, the possibilities are rather different than we initially assumed."
"Finally!" Kenny exclaimed. "Now we're getting to the good part!"
"The good part?" Haru asked, despite himself.
"Sure! The part where everyone stops pretending they don't know what's really going on and starts talking about how to carve up the pie! Though in this case, it's less carving and more... what's the word I'm looking for?"
"Strategic reallocation of resources?" Erwin suggested dryly.
"That's it! Fancy way of saying 'taking what Marley took from others and giving it back.' With interest, of course."
"What my uncle means," Levi sighed, "is that there will be significant changes in the global power structure. Changes that our allies would be well-positioned to benefit from."
"Now who's being diplomatic?" Kenny grinned.
Eren leaned forward. "Lady Kiyomi, we've shown you our hand – at least part of it. We've demonstrated our strength and our intentions. The question now is: do you want to be part of what comes next?"
Historia added, "We're not just offering you protection from Marley. We're offering you a chance to help reshape the world into something better."
"And if we refuse?" Haru asked.
"We will respect your right to choose. But we hope you'll choose to work with us."
Kiyomi was quiet for a long moment, studying the royal couple. Finally, she spoke: "You've given us much to think about. Much more than we expected when we arrived."
"That's kind of their specialty," Kenny remarked. "Always full of surprises. Makes life interesting, doesn't it?"
As the meeting began to wrap up, with promises to continue discussions the next day, Kenny's voice carried across the room one last time: "Just wait till they find out about the other surprises we've got stored away. Now that'll be a meeting worth watching!"
"Kenny!" several voices shouted in unison.
His only response was laughter as he sauntered out of the room, leaving behind a mix of exasperation, amusement, and carefully concealed anticipation for what the next day's negotiations might bring.
Later
The marble corridor echoed with familiar voices and footsteps, a welcome interruption to the heavy discussions of the day. Eren sat on a cushioned windowsill, Historia leaning against him while absently rubbing her belly. Mikasa and Levi stood nearby, while Hange was sprawled on a decorative bench, papers scattered around them.
"Oi, look what the cat dragged in," Levi muttered as Jean, Connie, and Sasha rounded the corner.
"Your Grace! My Queen!" Connie straightened immediately, attempting a formal bow that made him nearly lose his balance.
"My King Eren, did they bring any special dishes?" Sasha practically bounced in place. "I heard Hizuru has these things called 'dumplings' that are like little pouches of heaven!"
Jean rolled his eyes. "That's why these idiots dragged me here. They couldn't wait until the formal dinner."
"No, nothing yet." Historia said, much to Sasha's disappointment.
"Still the same suicidal bastard, I see," Jean added, looking at Eren with a smirk. "Sitting by an open window when there could be assassins around."
"It's good to see you too, Jean," Eren replied with a genuine smile.
"Your Grace, I—" Marco started as he approached with Rico.
"Marco, please," Historia interrupted warmly. "We've known each other too long for such formality."
Rico squeezed Marco's hand, her usual stern expression softening. "The diplomatic corps is buzzing about the Hizuru delegation. Is it true what they're saying about their technology?"
"You should see their ships!" Hange exclaimed, sitting up suddenly and sending papers flying. "The steam engines they've developed are fascinating! The compression ratios alone—"
"Hange," Levi warned, "maybe not in the corridor?"
"Oh, right, right. Sorry!"
Sasha had managed to sidle closer to Historia. "But seriously, about those dumplings..."
"I'll make sure the kitchen prepares extra for you," Historia laughed, then winced slightly as the baby kicked.
"The little prince giving you trouble?" Jean asked, his formal facade dropping completely.
"Princess," Eren corrected automatically.
"You don't know that yet," Mikasa pointed out.
"I have a feeling," Eren and Historia said simultaneously, then shared a smile.
"Well, whatever it is, that kid's going to have the craziest set of uncles and aunts in history," Connie grinned.
"Speaking of history," Marco stepped forward, his expression growing serious. "The common people are hopeful about this alliance. They're tired of living in fear."
Rico nodded. "The Garrison's been getting reports from all over. People want to know there's a future worth building for."
"A future worth fighting for," Jean added quietly.
Eren looked around at his friends – his family really. Connie trying to stand straight but fidgeting like the teenager he still was at heart. Sasha, whose hunger somehow hadn't diminished her capacity for loyalty and love. Jean, who'd grown from an arrogant kid into one of his most trusted advisors, never losing his edge or honesty. Marco and Rico, whose love had bloomed in the midst of war and chaos. Mikasa and Levi, silent guardians always ready to protect. Hange, whose brilliant mind never stopped working for their people's benefit.
Historia must have followed his thoughts, because she squeezed his hand. "This is why we did it," she whispered. "Why we accepted the crown."
"Yeah," Eren replied softly, watching as Sasha tried to demonstrate what she imagined a dumpling looked like while Connie attempted to correct her, Jean facepalming in the background. "Not for power or glory..."
"But for them," Historia finished, her hand resting on her belly. "For all of them. For the future."
"Speaking of the future," Jean interrupted their moment, "you still owe me a rematch in the training grounds, suicidal bastard. Being king doesn't get you out of that."
"Jean!" Rico scolded, but there was amusement in her voice.
"What? You want me to call him 'Your Most Royal Pain in the—'"
"Jean!" several voices chorused.
Laughter echoed through the corridor, a bright sound that seemed to chase away the shadows of their earlier heavy discussions. For a moment, they weren't kings and queens, soldiers and commanders – they were just friends, young people who'd been through hell together and emerged stronger.
"We should go," Marco finally said. "The diplomatic reception will be starting soon."
"And the dumplings!" Sasha added hopefully.
As their friends began to depart, with proper bows from everyone except Jean (who just gave a lazy salute), Eren and Historia remained by the window, their hands intertwined.
"We're going to give them that future," Eren said quietly.
Historia nodded, watching their friends' retreating forms. "Yes, we will. All of them."
The baby kicked again, as if in agreement, and this time Historia smiled through the discomfort.
"Where's Annie?" Eren asked, realizing one significant absence among their friends.
"The Female Titan's doing perimeter checks," Levi answered, his arms crossed. "She's the best we've got at detecting threats before they get close. Said something about not trusting foreign ships in our waters."
Historia smiled softly. "Always the cautious one."
"That's why she's perfect for security," Mikasa added, her tone carrying a hint of respect that had taken a loooong time to develop.
"Oh, that reminds me," Levi's expression darkened slightly. "The Monkey wants a meeting with our Hizuru guests."
Eren's face clouded over. While his relationship with his half-brother had improved over the months, there were still moments when trust became difficult. "Did he say why?"
"Something about sharing his royal perspective," Levi's tone made it clear what he thought of that idea. "Want me to keep him away?"
Eren exchanged a quick look with Historia before responding. "Yes. For now, make sure he doesn't get anywhere near the Hizuru delegation. I'll talk to him later."
"Good," Levi nodded. "Last thing we need is the Monkey throwing his own plans into the mix."
"Brother or not," Historia added softly, touching Eren's arm, "we need to be careful about who has access to Lady Kiyomi at this stage."
"Especially since we don't know what angle he's playing at," Jean commented, having lingered behind the others. "No offense, Eren, but your brother's plans tend to have plans of their own."
"None taken," Eren sighed. "You're right. I'll deal with Zeke myself after the initial meetings are done."
"Want me to have Annie keep an extra eye on him?" Levi asked.
"No need," Eren shook his head. "He won't do anything to jeopardize Paradis. He's proven that much at least. He just... has his own way of doing things."
"That's putting it mildly," Jean snorted.
"Jean," Marco called from further down the corridor, "we really should go. The reception..."
"Yeah, yeah," Jean waved to his friend before turning back to Eren. "Try not to start any international incidents before dinner, suicidal bastard."
As Jean jogged to catch up with the others, Eren felt Historia squeeze his hand again. The gesture carried understanding – she knew how complicated his feelings about Zeke were, how difficult it was to balance family loyalty with their responsibilities to Paradis.
"Annie will be back soon," Historia said softly. "She never stays away too long."
Eren nodded, grateful for her understanding. Between Historia's gentle strength, Annie's fierce protection, and Mikasa's unwavering loyalty, he sometimes wondered how he'd gotten so lucky.
"I'll go inform the guards about the Monkey," Levi said, pushing off from the wall. "Make sure he stays in his cage for now."