'Just Be' [Jean x Reader] Ending 4: DISCOVERY

Author's Notes: This alternate ending takes place some indeterminate amount of time after the conclusion of Just Be. Contains manga spoilers. Along with possible fic spoilers, this alternate ending draws upon theories and speculations based on yet-to-be-revealed plot material in the SnK Canon. Hope you enjoy! 8D

…

…

…

"…It's snowing."

Jean Kirschtein, trainee of the prodigal 104th Regiment, gazed forlornly out the window, watching as the first drift of winter descended upon the training outpost. A fire was burning in the hearth of the barracks common room, but a chill continued to sweep through the corridors, like a ghostly presence. Jean shivered, and turned away from the frost-covered window.

It feels as though this winter might never end.

Not far off, Marco was sitting cross-legged in front of the fire, jotting down lines in what appeared to be a journal. His boyish, freckled features were locked in concentration. Clearly, he was hard at work, deliberating upon every word.

Jean wandered over, standing beside him before the hearth.

"Still writing, Marco?" he asked, tilting his head.

"Just passing the time," Marco replied, smiling absently. His brows furrowed in thought as he tapped his charcoal pencil against the parchment. "... I can't figure out what that next line should be..."

Jean glanced at the notebook, and quirked a brow.

"It's that fairytale again, huh? The Dark Demon of Razgriz," he quipped with a smirk. "You've already written down the entire book from memory, for Heaven's Sake. What seems to be the problem?"

Marco frowned, looking strangely unsettled.

"I just can't help but wonder if there's more to the story," he mused. "Something important that I've overlooked, somehow…"

Jean sat down alongside, folding his legs beneath him. "Sounds as though you want to rewrite the story and make it more like your own."

"Oh, I don't know about that," said Marco, giving Jean a good-humoured look. "Just by living our lives, are we not the writers of our own stories?"

Jean fell back against the floor, resting his arms behind his neck. "I'd rather be the one doing the reading, to be honest." A loud and obnoxious yawn escaped his mouth. "I'm not exactly one for adventure. Let someone else be the brave and fearless hero. …Or in your case, a mysterious Demon."

…Demon? Jean thought incredulously. Yeah right. The kid was a freckled saint, plain and simple.

Marco trilled with laughter at the last remark. He must have found the idea a marvelous joke as well.

Even so, his eyes fell into a reflective haze, staring at the painstakingly written lines in his book. As if he was searching for some hidden meaning in a tale he knew by heart, all his life.

He sighed, shaking his head. "I feel like I've forgotten something really important… But I just can't figure out what."

Jean gazed askance at him, noting the troubled look on his face. How unlike Marco to be bothered by something as trivial as a simple fairytale. But then again, Jean knew Marco better than anyone else. There were secrets shared between them that no one else had the slightest notion of.

"Hey," said Jean, in a serious tone. "Don't sweat it. I'm sure you'll figure everything out someday. And when you do… tell me, okay?"

Marco blinked at him in surprise. At Jean's reassuring tone, he smiled gratefully.

"Thanks, Jean," he said warmly. "Someday, I will."

… Little did Jean know - that simple statement would only be one of the many promises that would never come to fruition.

---

Two winters later, at Legion Headquarters, Jean awoke from his flashback with a jolt.

"Jean? …Hey, Jean! You still with me?"

The sound of your voice knocked him out of his stupor. Startled, he blinked the haze out of his eyes and glanced at you.

"Y-yeah. I'm here," he mumbled stupidly, ruffling a hand through his fluffy, copper-blond hair. "I guess I spaced out."

"Sure did," you replied with characteristic wryness. Cocking your head, you gazed at him intently.

"…Missing sleep? Or is something on your mind?"

It was early in the morning, and still dark. The two of you, bleary-eyed, had been pouring over charts and strategy maps lain across the common room table. Everyone in the Legion was working overtime these days. Somewhere along the way, Jean had stopped paying attention, having fallen into a reflective trance. It was as though he were recollecting something.

You stared at him tensely. Jean sighed, half in resignation, half with affection. You weren't the type to let these things go, so he may as well spill it.

"I was thinking about Marco," he said quietly, picking up a charcoal pencil and twirling it in his fingers. "As you know, he and I used to talk a lot. Just him and me. Mostly about useless, trivial crap…" He paused, suddenly frowning in thought.

"But…?" You asked, nudging him for an answer.

His brows furrowed. "But I can't help but wonder… There was something important he wanted to tell me. He couldn't say anything back then, because there were just so many things he was so unsure of. It's like he was looking for a missing piece of himself."

"What do you mean?" you asked, leaning closer across the table, illuminated by torchlight.

Jean stared at you directly. "…Marco never told you, did he? That he was adopted as a child."

Your eyes widened. "What…?"

Jean smiled ruefully. "As I thought, I was the only one he ever told. I'm sure he was going to tell you, eventually. He just… never got the chance."

You sat there, dumbstruck. This was the first you had ever heard of this. And here, you had thought you had known everything there was to know about Marco, the one who had stood by you with unending faith and kindness… until the day he vanished forever.

"He had no memories of his early childhood before he was adopted," Jean explained, looking solemn. "From what he was told, he was simply found and taken in. Growing up, he had no idea, and believed for the longest time that he was related to his family by blood. Ever since he found out, he's been searching desperately for that missing piece in his past. …That's what he told me."

You took a deep breath, leaning your elbows against the table and running your fingers through your hair.

"Wow…" you said, incredulously. "… I had absolutely no idea."

"Yeah…" Jean smiled weakly, looking apologetic. "He never asked me to keep it a secret, but… I didn't think it was right for me to tell anyone else. No matter how hard he tried to hide it, I knew it bothered him."

He gazed towards the window, while you took a moment to let the revelation digest. Though the sun was slowly breaking out, the panes remained frosted over.

"Maybe that's why the Tale of Razgriz meant so much to him," he pondered. "It's an incomplete story. It lacks a beginning, and an end. No one knows how the Demon appeared and where it came from. No one knows how it came back to life and became a savior. All his life, Marco's asked the same question about his past…"

"…Yeah," you said gravely. "And to this day… you and I are still asking questions about… how he died."

Even after what happened with Annie… you thought bitterly.

Jean nodded desolately. An incomplete story, indeed. One that left behind a trail of broken promises and unanswered questions.

You reached across the table, giving his hand a consoling squeeze. He returned it gratefully, still looking tormented.

I wish I'd known, you thought to yourself remorsefully. He always smiled so cheerfully, I had no idea he was suffering so much without telling me.

A ghostly chill swept through the castle. You shivered and drew Marco's cloak tighter around your form. …A cloak that would never be returned.

…We were all supposed to visit his hometown together. The three of us…

There was a commotion out in the castle corridor. You heard the sound of soldiers bursting out of their rooms, flooding through the hallway. Officers barked orders, and their subordinates hastened to follow.

You and Jean exchanged a baffled look. What in the world is going on?

Connie poked his head through the doorway. His eyes were wide, and he was gasping for breath. "Better scramble, you two! Commander Smith wants us to assemble in the courtyard for a briefing." He gulped. "I think there's been another attack."

The two of you immediately rose to your feet, wasting no time.

---

Everything had changed in the months following the Battle of Trost. Annie Leonhardt was imprisoned underground, encased in crystal. Bertholdt was gone. Reiner was gone. Ymir was gone. The Military Police were growing discontent with the Legion with every passing day. Deception, spilled secrets, betrayal, and growing mistrust had transformed the very nature of the war, to the point where everything was cursed with doubt. Who was the enemy? Who were your allies? Who was the true victim, and who were the aggressors? You didn't know anymore.

Either way, the incident at Castle Utgard had taught all of you a chilling lesson. Titans could evade the Inner Walls at any time, even without the event of a wall breach. No one knew where they came from, only that they had the ability to spring from seemingly out of nowhere. There was no reason, no explanation. But no matter how bizarre the situation was, you and the rest of the Legion had all but learned to expect the unexpected. The Walls themselves were no longer a guarantee of safety. Every town was at risk, no matter where they were within the perimeter.

There was no question. Humanity's survival well and truly lay on the brink. Day by day, the people prayed for a miracle, begging for someone to come and help turn the tides of war. Though it irked you how they would rather rely on otherworldly forces than the duty-bound soldiers of the Legion, you hardly found the heart to blame them.

Standing in the frozen courtyard among the ranks of your fellow Cadets, you and Jean tensely remained steadfast and attentive, breath bated and visible in the morning winter air. But no matter how much you steeled yourselves for whatever the briefing may reveal, nothing could have prepared you for the news you were about to receive.

Commander Erwin Smith, 13th Commander of the Recon Corps, stood before his loyal subordinates with a stoic expression. His blue eyes were as grim and dark as a storm.

One hand was folded behind his back. On his other side, a sleeve hung limp and hollow. The sight of it made you shift uncomfortably.

"Over a hundred Titans have been spotted moving north from Southern Wall Rose," he informed them. "There has been no report of a breach, and we currently have no idea how and where they have managed to infiltrate Wall Rose."

The soldiers were taken aback. The air buzzed with disconcerted whispers until the Commander called for silence.

"The Legion has been called to halt their advance!" he declared. "We believe they may be heading for the town of Jinae."

Jean froze. Your shoulders went tense, and your mind went blank with shock.

That's Marco's home town…

…

The sun broke free of the horizon, shedding a pale and ethereal light into the chill winter sky. Across the frost-covered plain, the fearsome horde slouched slowly towards the quiet town, promising only death and destruction in its wake.

This was the morning where all of history would witness a great change.

…

Your grandfather was renowned for collecting stories from far and wide, from the most common folk tales to the most obscure and ancient of legends. As a young child, you listened every night as Grandfather recited them by heart, and made them come alive with words alone. 'The Tale of Razgriz' he had said, was certainly the most enigmatic and intriguing story of them all.

"They say the story originated from a period of war and chaos," he told you, sitting with you before the fireplace. "Long before the Walls were built, even before the first Titans appeared, there was a bloody battle that took place not far from where we live now. A battle where man fought against man out of greed and hatred."

The very notion made you shiver.

"As the bloody war persisted, for years and years without end," he continued. "Suddenly, one terrible winter, out of the abyss peered the eyes of a monster - the demon named Razgriz. It was spirit of war that left behind a trail of fear and death wherever it went. Passing judgment on the foolish, the self-serving, and the bloodthirsty, Razgriz decided that none of the soldiers should live. All of them were massacred as it wielded its power, and rained destruction upon the earth. Perhaps Razgriz must have decided to pass judgment on itself as well, for the Demon itself also perished along with the soldiers."

You were still a child, but even then you that the nightmares would persist for quite some time.

"But because of the Demon's actions," said Grandfather, as you listened with rapt attention. "The pointless war that lasted for nearly a decade and claimed so many lives finally came to an end. The common folk who survived emerged from their refuges, promised to throw down their arms, and made peace with each other. Together, they built a city to commemorate that day of armistice. In that city, Razgriz was hailed as both a monster and a hero. It is believed that should the land once more fall into the depths of despair, Razgriz will surely return…"

He hugged you consolingly as the two of you stared into the fire.

"That city is gone now. People have moved in and out, and so much has changed in that land over the past hundred years. But where it used to be, so long ago, today stands the town you and I know as Jinae. Now, the legend is little more than an obscure fairy tale."

That was the story you had heard so many years ago. Until this moment, you had forgotten entirely. But now, in vivid imagery and detail, you remembered everything Grandfather had told you, from the very beginning of the story itself…

…

…It was a cold and snowy day…

…

Flash forward to present time, where you stood upon the battlements of an old and crumbling fortress, located not far from the peaceful settlement of Jinae. It served as a rendezvous point for those taking part in the defensive operation, as well as a vantage point that looked down into the city below. You shivered in the crisp, wintry air, fastening Marco's cloak a little tighter around your shoulders. A thick forest, stripped of its greenery, surrounded the town on all sides. Cupping your hands and staring out into the distance, you could see tremors rattling the distant treetops.

And then… out of the dead silence came an ominous pounding noise. It hammered against the ground like thunder, in slow, sluggish rhythm. It was a sound you knew all too well.

The Titans were on their way.

You strapped into gear, filled up on gas and assembled with the rest of the Legion, ready for battle. Your heart pounded thickly as you stood at attention, surrounded by your comrades. Your eyes began to wander along the rows of nervous soldiers.

Not far off, you spotted Armin participating in strategic discussion with Erwin Smith, and Zacharius. You observed him quietly. Truth be told, you no longer saw the blonde boy as a meek, bookish little mouse. The fact that he alone had managed to deduce the true identity of Annie Leonhardt spoke everything about his keen intellect… and most importantly, his fearsome resolve. Looks were deceiving indeed, and Armin was far from weak.

Mikasa was the same as always. Recent events had put her on edge, and she appeared more determined than ever to guard Eren's life above everything else. Right now, her crimson scarf was wrapped around the lower part of her face, concealing her expression and guarding her lungs against the bitter chill.

Looking at Eren's fierce expression, you could tell that he was reliving the horrific fall of Zhiganshina. This time, however, he was far from powerless. Within his very blood was a secret weapon ready to be wielded at a moment's notice. Now, he concentrated with all the fibre of his being. As long as he focused on a single goal, he was nigh unstoppable. No matter what the Military Police said about him, no one could deny the pivotal role he would be expected to play in today's defense operation.

Connie was pale and tense, still tormented by the fate that had befallen his village… along with his mother. Your heart stung with pity and admiration. It took sheer bravery to keep everything under a wrap of calm, the way the boy was doing right now. From the way his fists clenched and trembled, you could tell that he was itching to act. To prevent the same thing from happening to Jinae.

Sasha had changed greatly in demeanor over the past few months. Where there was once nervous energy and skittishness, the brunette now held her head high with newfound confidence and stone-cold determination. Without a doubt, encountering the enemy in her own village had inspired her to new levels of courage. That alone was enough to amaze you.

In the ranks stood the small, petite blonde formerly known as Christa Lenz. That was the name you had called her ever since the two of you first met as trainees. Now, she had all but shed her fabricated identity to reassume her true name, the one she had kept hidden for all these years.

… Historia Reiss. The name was still foreign and unfamiliar on your tongue, like that of a stranger. Her former personality had also been cast aside, leaving no trace of the perfect Angel of Mercy she used to be. Now she looked jaded. Hardened. Colder. Perhaps even a little lonely.

Unnoticed, you gazed at her sadly. That fact that Ymir, of all people, had cast herself into exile had dealt the girl an emotional blow. She had been all but abandoned by the one person who had always stood by her.

Bertholdt and Reiner, once familiar fixtures amongst the 104th, were nowhere to be found. You felt your heart grow cold, to the point where it hurt. The less you thought about them, the better. No matter how much you used to trust them in the past, you forced yourself to accept the reality that your former comrades were the worst sort of traitors and liars known to mankind. That didn't make it any less painful.

They could be taking part in this attack, for all we know, you thought angrily.

… You didn't want to think about Annie, either. After her capture in Stohess, it was evident that she would rather seal herself away from the world than spill her secrets. What burdened you and Jean the most was the fact that she may very well have known the true nature of Marco's death. That knowledge, too, was now beyond your reach.

Marco, you thought forlornly. How would he have felt, knowing that his hometown would soon be under attack?

Jean stood beside you, gazing off into the distance. His amber-gold eyes tilted towards the pale morning sky.

"…Here comes the snow," he murmured softly.

You looked up. Small flakes of the purest white drifted gently from the heavens above. The sight of it felt like an omen.

Simple townsfolk were filtering out in an orderly, hurried fashion. Their faces were pale and frightened as they were led to safety by the Garrison Soldiers. You held your breath, staring with sympathy.

At least the evacuation is going well.

"I haven't seen anyone from the Military Police," you said, glancing about. "Where could they be?"

"By my guess? Holing up in Wall Sina by now," Jean muttered darkly. "Not that I can blame them."

"…That's fine," you said coldly, clenching your fists. "We don't need them. The Legion and the Garrison will stop the onslaught here if they have to. We've prepared ourselves for this."

"Mm…" Jean paused in thought. "So long as nothing unexpected happens, casualties should be kept to a minimum. We have Jaeger on our side, after all. All we have to do is stay alive, keep our cool, and deal with each Titan one by one."

His face fell pensive as he stared into the gentle snowfall. "It's strange. Is it just me, or does it feel as though Marco ought to be standing here with us, right now?"

"We promised him we'd all meet up in Jinae together someday," you murmured sadly. "Now it's just the two of us. And here we are, about to defend his hometown from an attack."

You remembered what Jean had told you of Marco's painful past. It was still hard to believe he had kept such a secret from you, all this time.

"Hey… Jean," you said in a tentative voice, gazing sidelong at him. "Do you… do you think he ever came close to remembering his past? Who he was, before he was adopted?"

Jean blinked, as though hit with a sudden realization.

"It's funny you should mention it," he said, eyes wide. "There was something he told me back in the supply depot, just hours before he went missing. I remember now. That was the last real conversation we ever had together, just him and me."

You listened intently as Jean recalled out loud, what Marco had said that day.

…

"The Demon is more than just a legend. I'm certain of it," Marco said, smiling enigmatically. "Listen, Jean. Someday... when you and [First] come to visit me in Jinae, I'll show you the book itself. …Then I can tell you how the story really ends."

…

"He must have remembered something, I'm sure of it," spoke Jean, conviction in his voice. "I don't know why he didn't just say something back then. Or maybe he just never got the chance…"

Something about those words startled you. You couldn't figure out why. But for some reason, you remembered the sound of Grandfather's voice, reciting the story you knew so well.

…When history witnesses a great change…the Demon appears.

You shook your head, clearing your head of such a fanciful notion. Stories were nice and well, but right now you were about to be thrust into battle. There was no time to pray for a miracle or go hunting for creatures of myth while there were Titans to exterminate, lives to protect, and a city to save. Marco's city, of all places…

Falling in line with Jean, you straightened your spine and stood at attention. Perched upon a branch high above, Lance Corporal Levi stood before the company to deliver the briefing. Clearly, he was the one leading today's operation.

"We will be commencing the defensive operation at Jinae!" he barked, eyes austere. "The people have been evacuated, and envoys have been sent to warn the neighbouring villages! However, it is imperative that we halt the raid here! Supply stations have been set up along the perimeter! Split into groups and fan out through the city! Use the buildings and trees to maneuver! Deal with each Titan as you see fit, but do not be careless with your lives!"

Dark, stormy eyes flickered towards the Cadets. "Once the operation is underway, Cadet Jaeger will engage using his Titan form. Protect him by all means possible!"

Eren Jaeger lifted his chin, emerald eyes blazing with determination.

The Lance Corporal addressed his soldiers one last time, eyes cold with focus.

"Do not let any of them leave this city alive," he hissed. "Keep your wits about you. Guard each other well. And above all… show those filthy beasts who the true monsters really are."

You drew in a sharp breath and clenched a fist against your heart. With a resonant snap, the rest of the Cadets gave their salute.

"SIR!"

</i></b>Every single one of you brimmed with resolve. Grimly satisfied, Humanity's Strongest Soldier drew his blades with a shriek of steel. Sparks flew into the frigid air.

"Soldiers, MOVE OUT!"

Within seconds, every blade was unsheathed, glinting coldly in the winter morning. Rank by rank, the soldiers began filtering into Jinae, ready to encounter the enemy.

Facing the city, Jean held his blade upright, and brushed his lips upon the hilt. Together the two of you advanced with the same goal in your hearts.

I swear on my life, Marco… you thought, knuckles white against your blade. No matter what, we'll protect this place for you.

…

…

…

[Songstamp: Ace Combat 5 - "The Unsung War"]

…

Everything felt so unbearably hazy and heavy. Like a dream. The more he struggled to make sense of the situation, the more confused and disoriented he became.

…Where was he? Who was he? …Why did everything feel so strange…?

He slipped in and out of consciousness with such irregularity, it was impossible to tell what was real and what was illusion anymore. Bizarre, chaotic visions filled his head. Scenes of joy. Scenes of tragedy. Strange faces. Familiar faces. Faces that refused to leave his thoughts. Were they… memories? Were those memories… his? …Or did they belong to someone else? Someone he used to be, but was no longer?

It felt as though he were scouring for answers in the endless fog.

…

// …When history changes greatly…

…Razgriz reveals itself…

…First as a Dark Demon… //

…

A small part of him grew acutely aware of the fact that somehow, not of his own accord, he was moving. Walking. Visions of a town, both familiar and unfamiliar, flashed before his eyes. Was that where he was headed? What sort of discovery awaited him there?

…Or rather, who was there, waiting for him?

The compulsion to move forward took a hold over his mind. He could think of nothing else. But for now, perhaps that wasn't such a bad thing…

… After all, maybe the answers were there all along, waiting for him to reach them.

With that, the creature continued its slow and steady march. Never was it aware that its journey, was in fact, a homecoming.

…

// … As a Demon, it uses its power …

… To rain death upon the earth…

…And then… it dies… //

…

…

…

Titans converged on the deserted city. Prowling, they filled the empty streets, encroached every neighbourhood, and continued their slow and relentless march towards the north. The heat from their skin, burning hot as coals, released a thick vapor into the frigid air, forming a visible mist.

The brave men and women of the Legion were on the move. Traversing the air with their 3D Maneuver Gear, they navigated the city buildings and rooftops to take measure of the situation.

"Take out the lone ones first," Connie said under his breath, crouching low against the roof tiles. "Watch out for Aberrants."

Sasha nodded, gritting her teeth. "Got it. Let's go for that ten-meter one first. You two distract it and I'll sneak up on it from behind."

Historia said nothing, but nodded her silent agreement. Her blue eyes were emotionless. Focused. Together, the three of them cautiously made their advance… and engaged.

One by one, more soldiers entered the fray. Within minutes, the air was thick with the sounds of battle. Steel sang, cables shrilled, and frantic shouts resonated through the air. The Titans, finding potential prey in their aggressors, began their ruthless hunt.

Regardless of how prepared they were for this moment, blood was bound to spill. Such was the cruel way of war. But no matter what the soldiers of the Legion were determined to stand their ground.

"FOR HUMANITY!" came the rousing shout. That spirited voice was answered by over a hundred more.

…

// When history changes greatly,

Razgriz reveals itself.

First, as a Dark Demon. //

…

The swift and stalwart Mikasa led her group, swords ablaze. Quick as lightning, she weaved through the throngs of Titans, felling those who were unlucky enough to get in her way. Closing in behind were Eren and Armin. The former was itching for a bloody fight, the latter was determined to keep the other two safe. The trio of Zhiganshina moved as a single unit, placing all priority in guarding Eren Jaeger.

Soldiers fought and soldiers fell. The brave, the valiant, and the passionate were often the first to be caught victim to the enemy's voracious hunger. Screams tore the air as soldiers were plucked from the rooftops, or even from mid-air… only to be silenced beneath the crushing might of gigantic teeth.

It would not be long until the once-peaceful streets of Jinae ran thick with blood.

In the heart of the battle itself, Lance Corporal Levi was both a fearsome and awe-inspiring sight to behold. His form was simply a blur in mid-air as he moved from one target to the next. With his trademark spinning slash, he easily dispatched the Titans in twos, and even threes, in a single vicious swoop. Foe after foe collapsed to the ground in a lifeless heap. As they vaporized upon the frozen street, thick pillars of steam billowed into the wintry sky.

The Lance Corporal carved a path for the other soldiers, inspiring morale and urging the front line to keep up. His expression was focused and unrelenting. And yet, his eyes flickered with worry towards his fellow comrades, namely those who were in the direct path of danger. He could only move so fast to save them from certain death…

"Heads up! ABERRANT! It's a CRAWLER!" came Connie's warning, all the way from the other district. The commotion there was growing louder and more agitated by the second.

…

// Gloria! Razgriz reveals itself…

First, as a Dark Demon //

…

"Tch…!" Levi was forced to make his choice - move forward on his own, or turn back. Maneuvering in a hairpin turn, he raced towards the source of the danger, cutting through alleyways and sprinting across rooftops. Three more Titans stood in his path, forcing him to deal with them first. How many soldiers would fall victim before he finally made it to Aberrant?

The Crawler was a nightmarish sight as it scaled across the tiles, like some deformed, half-human lizard. Its teeth were already soaked with blood, and now it advanced upon Connie's group with frenzied hunger. The Cadets' eyes were wide with fear. Try as they might to escape, the Aberrant was far too quick for them. Hunching on its hind legs, it suddenly pounced upon Historia, who was paralyzed with terror.

Levi cringed, already assuming what came next. There was no way he'd make it in time…

A blur suddenly shot out of nowhere, intercepting the Crawler's flight path, and tackling Historia into the nearby roof. The Crawler overshot itself, and flew headfirst through the wall of a building. Rubble exploded into the air.

Historia opened her eyes, looking up to see who her savior was. One thing she was certain of… it couldn't be Ymir.

No. It was you who helped her up to her feet.

"Are you alright?" You asked. "Can you still fight?"

The tiny blonde stared at you with awe, before coming to her senses and nodding resolutely.

"Yeah," she said, picking up her blades. "Thank you… [First]."

You smiled faintly at her, then marched across the rooftops to where the Crawler was busy wrenching its head free. A single blade glinted ominously in your hand. The air was charged with a familiar spark. Everyone suddenly turned their heads to watch.

…

// Gloria! Razgriz reveals itself…

First, as a Dark Demon //

…

"You're nothing like that Crawler I encountered back in Trost," you taunted, grinning humourlessly. "I think I'm more than a match for you."

The moment it freed itself, it spotted you. You stared it in the eye, blazing with defiance.

"Come and get me, already."

It lunged. You leapt backwards. It missed you by mere feet. Firing your cables into the nearby walls, you launched yourself into the air, dancing well within its line of sight, but just inches beyond its reach. Marco's cloak billowed into the air behind you, like evergreen wings.

"Who are you watching now?!" you ridiculed it as it began to give furious chase. A familiar game of cat and mouse you knew so well. As it snarled and swiped and snapped its teeth at you, you darted through the air with daring movements and aerial techniques that were unpredictable… and completely mesmerizing to watch.

The soldiers cheered you on.

"GO FOR IT, [First]!" yelled Sasha, as you led the Aberrant away from the main group. Meanwhile, Levi observed from a nearby perch. Looks like everything was under control here, after all. There was no mistake who was the true monster here - you flew and fought as though you were possessed by a Demon.

…

// …When its sleep ends, when its sleep ends…

Razgriz … rises again…

This time… as a Great Hero! //

…

And so, he turned a heel and headed for another Titan-infested area, cape swirling behind him. Under his breath, he murmured with a slightest of smirks…

"…Watch your back, O Firefly from Hell."

---

"DODGE IT, [FIRST]!" yelled Connie, looking over his shoulder frantically. Of course, he already had his hands full dealing with another group of Titans heading his way.

You remained one step ahead of the Crawler Titan. It was fast, but you were faster. Keeping your wits about you, you led it through a maze of buildings and alleyways until you reached the spire of a nearby church…

Step one, your mind raced. Keep it distracted. Step two…

Out of nowhere flew another green-cloaked soldier, blades angled for the kill. With its back turned, the Crawler had no chance to react before its nape was carved out. With a spray of blood, it crumpled against the roof and disintegrated.

Jean stood in grim triumph upon its spine, blood evaporating from his blades, cloak, and face.

"Took you long enough!" you sneered overhead.

"I could say the same thing about you!" he retorted as you landed next to him. You flashed him a savage grin.

The two of you were working together as a pair. While the rest of the soldiers were sweeping up the Titans one by one, you and Jean were making sure the situation didn't get out of control. That meant watching the backs of the Cadets, warning them of danger, and going after the most dangerous targets first.

You were making progress. But this battle was far from over.

…

//History… changes greatly

Razgriz… reveals itself

… A Great Hero! //

…

Mikasa gave a warning shout from the watchtower overhead. "Second wave, closing in fast!"

You could see it. The very brunt of the Titan army would soon be upon you. This was it. The turning point of everything.

"EREN!" roared Levi. "NOW!"

You spotted the green-eyed boy suspended in mid-air for a split-second. Then, a bolt of lightning fell to earth, staining the sky with eerie colors of green and red. A tremendous explosion burst forth, rocking every corner of the city. You shielded your eyes from the blast of wind. When the dust cleared, there stood the Rogue Titan, in all its fearsome might.

"UROAAAAAAAAAAAGHHH!!"

With a powerful bellow that left you stunned, it charged headfirst into the nearest barrier of Titans, wreaking havoc with reckless abandon.

"Fucking show-off," Jean muttered, not quite hiding a smirk.

"Everyone, protect Eren!" yelled Mikasa, leaping into the fray. The rest of the Cadets in the 104th followed, determined to guard their comrade, and Humanity's Last Hope.

"Jean!" you shouted. "I'm scouting ahead! I don't want any Aberrants getting caught up in the mix!"

Jean nodded, and moved to follow. "I'm going with you!"

You smiled gratefully. Together the two of you advanced beyond the front lines into unknown territory. Come what may, the two of you were going to protect the place of Marco's birth and childhood. To the death, if you had to.

… You wandered further into the thick of the invasion, not caring that any help whatsoever was now far from reach.

"[First]!" Jean warned you. "Don't advance too far!" And yet, he remained steadfast at your side.

Something about the battle lured you. You were vengeful, you were angry. You wanted so very much to spill the blood of your enemies. It was bad enough this war had taken away one of the most cherished comrades you had ever known, now they were defiling his home town. Eyes brimming with righteous fury, you descended upon your first unlucky foe, and ferociously punctured its left eye with a single blade.

…

// History… changes greatly …

Razgriz… reveals itself …

… A Great Hero! //

…

"You don't belong here!" you hissed, in a voice that didn't sound at all like yourself. As you leaped away in retreat, the Titan cried out in pain. Jean gladly put it out of its misery by severing its nape. He too, had hate and anguish in his amber-gold eyes. Using the same tactics, you being the decoy and Jean moving in for the kill, the two of you made quick and bloody work of the Titans that dared stand in your path.

Like a Demon, passing judgment…

This war was taking a toll on you both, in more ways than one. With battle after battle, there was no end in sight. After witnessing so much death, so much destruction, and losing the person dearest to you, the only thing the two of you wanted was to strike at the enemy in every way possible. Viciously. Even if it meant giving in to the worst and most violent of your compulsions.

"Just lie down and die, already!" Jean snarled, blades slicing through the air. Blood was soaking you both faster than it could evaporate.

Everything was crumbling into chaos and insanity. This war was painful enough, but having to wage it in Marco's home town… It felt like a travesty. A desecration. And the two of you were a part of it. You and Jean had always talked of visiting Jinae to honor his memory, but…

This wasn't how it was supposed to happen…

This war was as much a burden on your emotions as it was on your physiques. Jean had a numb expression on his face as he flew through the air, carving at another Titan. You, on the other hand, were battling bitter tears. Before you realized it, the two of you found yourselves surrounded on all sides, completely alone. Your bodies were both reaching their limit. Where there was once adrenaline, exhaustion started to take over.

At this rate, we might really die here, you thought wearily, feeling sweat drip into your eyes. If it's with Jean… if it's in the place where Marco was born… then perhaps I wouldn't mind…

"[First], LOOK OUT!" Jean yelled.

You snapped back to your senses, and found yourself engulfed in shadow. Titans in the thirteen-to-fifteen meter range were swarming around you. Fueled by the desperate instinct to survive, you leapt for safety… only to feel your wire snag. A Titan had gotten hold of it, and gave it a forceful tug.

The harness choked your body. Gasping for breath, you felt yourself being hurtled backwards through the air at frightening speed. Everything was a dizzying blur. Vision swimming, you knew what came next. Even if smashing against the wall of a building didn't kill you, the Titans would be more than eager to finish you off.

This is the end… you thought, closing your eyes.

"[First]!!" Jean screamed in anguish. What unfolded next, however, left him shocked beyond all will to move or speak. His bright gold eyes went wide with disbelief, as though the impossible was coming to life.

The spine-shattering impact never came. Miraculously, you landed on something softer than either brick or stone, absorbing the blow. As your mind flooded with confusion, you looked around… and found yourself caught in the palm of someone's hand.

….The palm of someone several times larger than yourself.

You froze with far and braced yourself, believing yourself caught by a hostile Titan. But whoever had saved you from becoming a bloodstain in the stone wall did you no harm. Instead, you were lifted in the air to safety, away from the Titans that had every intent to devour you. Long fingers curled over you protectively. Heart racing, you clutched your arms around a giant digit, hanging on for dear life against the sudden movements that threatened to throw you off.

Eren… you reasoned, remembering the might and intellect of the Rogue Titan. He's here… He has to be. It's the only possible explanation…

…

// …When its sleep ends, when its sleep ends…

Razgriz … //

…

And yet, not far off in the distance, Jean gazed up at you with stunned expression. The blood had drained completely from his face, as though he was staring eye-to-eye with a ghost. Standing upon the rooftop, he remained frozen with wordless shock.

Your confusion grew. What in the world was he staring at? As the smaller Titans below uttered inhuman groans, something about your saviour's complete and utter silence told you… that the Titan that had saved you… was not Eren.

Holding your breath, you turned and looked over your shoulder, tilting your face upwards. As the vapor cleared, your eyes widened.

…

// … ( Instrumental ) … //

…

Dark and intelligent eyes stared gazed at you with silent curiosity. The giant's visage was fair-skinned, possessing youthful features and a serene, haunting expression. Its high forehead was framed by a parting of black, glossy hair. Though its lean, muscled body was covered in an intricate pattern of bone-plates and exposed muscle, the creature still looked extremely human.

What struck you the hardest however, was how familiar it looked. This was a face you knew so well, and recognized on sight. And yet, your mind struggled to reason. It couldn't be, it just couldn't! There was no explanation for it. It was impossible…!

And yet, the moment you saw the dappled markings that decorated its face, beneath earth-coloured eyes… you immediately realized why Jean reacted the way he had. It was too surreal, incredible, and horrifying for words... but even so, there was no mistake.

A giant finger reached down, and gently touched the emblem on the back of your cloak.

Your trembling mouth fell open. Your voice was a shriveled-up whisper as you dared to utter a sound.

"M-Marco…"

…Hearing the name, the Titan tilted its head to one side, and stared at you intently. Something flickered behind those dark irises. You knew immediately what it was.

Recognition.

"It…it can't be…" you croaked, mind going blank. "I… I don't… believe…"

A huge commotion stirred up behind you. A shell-shocked Jean struggled to keep his balance as a twelve-meter class Titan crashed into his building, and began crawling along the rooftop. Caught off guard, Jean slipped on the frost and fell upon the tiles, leaving him easy prey for the approaching monster. With gnarled, deformed hands, it reached out for him hungrily.

"JEAN!" You screamed, reaching helplessly between the giant fingers that held you.

At the sound of your voice and that very name, the Titan's eyes suddenly flared with life. Straightening its back, it stood a towering fifteen-metres tall. Its movements suddenly became sharp. Focused. Coordinated. You recognized a profound sentience in its expression as it lowered its palm, and deposited you gently on the roof of a nearby building.

Turning towards Jean, it advanced upon the Titan that was moving in for the kill. The hand that once held you with such care and mercy now curled into a fist.

With a powerful crunch, blood and bone fragments were sent flying into the air. The last you saw of Jean's attacker was the sight of its shattered face, right before the sheer force of the punch sent it hurtling into a cluster of buildings.

Jean propped himself up on the tiles, jaw agape as he stared up at his protector.

"Buddy…" he whispered faintly. "Marco… Is… is that you…?"

The dark-eyed Titan turned to look at him, eyes filled with that haunting stare. Once again, you saw that glint of recognition. Like a light in the shadows.

Your body still trembled. On your hands and knees, you gasped, crawling your way towards Jean as fast as you could.

"Jean…" you rasped, clutching his shoulder. "Are you… are you seeing, what I'm seeing?"

The black-haired Aberrant, now fully aware of its surroundings, suddenly turned its attention towards the swarming Titans.

On impulse, Jean's fingers reached up and clutched your arms tightly, fingernails forming bruises. He too was left dumbstruck beyond reason at the unfathomable sight that had unfolded before him, like a creature sprung out of the realm of myth.

A ghost of Razgriz…

"[First]…" he uttered in an agitated voice. Clenched against your sleeves, his fingers shook uncontrollably. "What the fuck is happening…? What's going on? I don't…" He gulped thickly. "… Don't …tell me…"

It sounded as though he were desperately fighting back tears.

…

// … When History Witnesses a Great Change,

Razgriz Reveals Itself.

First, as a Dark Demon … //

…

The Aberrant Titan stood its ground, assuming what was distinctly a defensive stance. Once it became clear who it had every intention to protect, you knew that there could be no mistake. Your shock melted away into a tentative, almost fearful acceptance of the truth. You clasped your hands over your mouth, completely overwhelmed with emotion.

Marco, in the form of a Titan, barred the paths of those who had set out to attack you… and engaged them in a turbulent brawl. Though he made not a single sound, his expression grew dark and fierce. His fists were merciless, unstoppable. The familiar fire of life and cognizance burned in his eyes, setting them aglow.

He was a soldier who lived for pride.

"Oh my God…" you whispered, eyes welling up with tears." Jean… It's him…! It really is him…!"

Giant fists flew, knuckles capped with diamond-hard boneplates. One by one, the Titans crumpled and collapsed beneath the overpowering might of your protector. Their napes were torn out bare-handedly, each in a single, brutal swoop. Those that survived were in no condition to fight until they regenerated.

…

// … As a Demon, It Uses Its Power

To Rain Death Upon the Land

…And Then, It Dies… //

…

Overcome by the sight, Jean bowed his head, shoulders shaking violently. Tears fell freely from his eyes, dripping upon the frozen tiles. Somehow, behind tightly clenched teeth… he still found the courage, hope, and joy to grin.

"Buddy…" he said, chest wracked with sobs. "Looks like you found your answer, after all…"

The Demon was more than just a legend… And your dearest Brother-in-Arms had risen again.

More Titans emerged from the fog. This time, they turned their attentions towards Marco. Their grins bared malevolently, exposing predatory teeth. Undaunted, Marco turned to face them, crouching low and raising his fists. Pale lips parted, releasing a visible breath of exertion. The surface of his tall, muscle-bound form emitted wisps of steam.

The Titans lunged, snapping their jaws, determined to latch their teeth with the intent to rip, tear, and maim. Though Marco fought valiantly against them, you could tell that his strength was waning. It wouldn't be long until the enemy got the upper hand.

You and Jean recognized this, and immediately got over yourselves.

…

// When history changes greatly

Razgriz reveals itself,

First as a Dark Demon//

…

"We have to help him," you said fiercely, exchanging your dulled blade for a fresh one.

Jean nodded resolutely, wiping away tears with the back of his hand. "Yeah. You're right. Legend or no, it doesn't matter. This time… I'm not losing him again."

With renewed fire in your hearts, the two of you flew into the heart of the brawl, determined to defend your comrade to the last. You went for the eyes, destroying the sights of your aggressors without mercy and giving Marco leverage to finish them off. With a feral cry, Jean targeted the napes themselves. Those who dared to assail Marco with their teeth were punished swiftly with steel precision as their backs were exposed.

Titan after Titan fell to your combined attacks in a defeated pile. Freed from their jaws, Marco calmly shook off the corpses of his foes. The slashes that marked his skin closed and healed with a hiss of steam. With a sigh, he turned his silent eyes skyward.

…

// Gloria! Razgriz reveals itself…

First, as a Dark Demon //

…

Nearby, you and Jean soared overhead on your wires, staring down at him from above. Your faces were filled both with awe and fear. From down below, the statuesque boy gazed up with ever the serene look. His huge, dark eyes followed your forms, expression impossible to read. But with a benevolence that you knew so well, his marked lips formed the faintest of smiles.

"He recognizes us," you realized, voice trembling. "He knows who we are…"

…

// Gloria! Razgriz reveals itself…

First, as a Dark Demon //

…

In his transformed state, he was barely recognizable as the ordinary, good-natured boy you once knew. Somewhere between life, death, and rebirth, he had transformed into something other than human. A creature of otherworldly might, and of unknown origin. Perhaps, this had been his true identify all along.

But you and Jean both knew, that somewhere behind those dark, mysterious eyes was the comrade you missed so dearly. The friend who had always stood by you, guarded your lives and well-being above everything else, and lifted your hearts with hopeful words. The friend you had before thought lost… was now found once again.

…

// …When its sleep ends, when its sleep ends…

Razgriz rises again…

This time… as a Great Hero. //

…

…The three of you were finally together again. With that miraculous reunion came the chance to repair the countless promises that had been all but shattered in the past. This must surely be the goal that fueled his powerful form right now.

"…We'll survive this. I know we will."

Marco turned his attention towards the third and final wave of Titans flooding in from the south. Closer and closer they slouched, faces grinning heartlessly. Eyes brimming with energy, he moved to intercept. Wherever he would go, you and Jean resolved to follow him to the end.

"No matter happens... No matter where you end up, or what you decide to do… always remember that I am on your side."

With footsteps of thunder in his wake, he charged forth, fists bared towards his enemy. Letting out a war cry, you and Jean dove in with your blades alight, showing no fear.

"Someday, we'll go to Jinae… All three of us…"

The Titan Boy uttered a fearsome, inhuman cry of his own, sending tremors through the air. Your eyes stung with tears once more. That voice… It even sounded like him…

"… There, I'll tell you how the story really ends."

A predatory set of jaws lunged towards you, teeth glinting in the pale morning light. Reaching out, Marco caught the creature's bite with his entire arm instead. His features contorted in a faint expression of pain as the Titan sunk its teeth, inches deep.

"So… keep that cloak safe for me, until we meet again."

Jean furiously swooped in, blades hissing. Metal struck flesh, and a chunk of the enemy's spine was sent spinning through the air. The battle raged on in a cacophony of shrieking steel, pounding fists, and frantic shouts.

"Whether in this life or the next… I'll find my way back to you."

Somewhere in the midst of all the violence and bloodshed, you found yourself smiling with complete and utter happiness.

"… That's a promise."

Nothing would separate the three of you ever again.

…

// History… changes greatly!

Razgriz… reveals itself!

A Great Hero… //

…

…At the end of it all, buildings stood ruined and damaged in the aftermath of the carnage. The countless corpses of your enemy vaporized into nothingness. All was still in the district once more.

Landing on the ground, next to Jean, you listened for the sounds of battle. They were distant. Fading. And yet, the voices you managed to hear were shouting out in triumph. Your comrades were elsewhere, cheering their respective victories. The Invasion of Jinae was slowly coming to an end.

And yet, you and Jean were the only ones who had witnessed the true miracle that had transpired here.

…

// History… changes greatly!

Razgriz… reveals itself!

A Great Hero… //

…

Eyes fixed upon Marco's towering form, Jean took a tentative step forward.

"Something's wrong," he said, grabbing your arm. Looking up, you immediately realized why.

Marco's shoulders slumped. His dark eyes glazed over. Drained of strength, drained of energy, he could barely stand. His legs shook. Before long, he fell to his knees with a deafening impact, scattering a storm of dust and snow. A hissing breath of steam escaped his throat before his eyes closed entirely.

At last, he collapsed lifelessly upon the ground before your horrified eyes. Little by little, his flesh began to melt away, disintegrating into nothing but steam. … Like a corpse decaying in rapid time.

You felt your heart tear in two at the sight.

"No…" you said in a choked voice, refusing to believe it. "No… He can't die… Not again! Not after finally coming back to us-"

You immediately closed your mouth, struck by a sudden epiphany. The moment you locked eyes with Jean, you knew in that instant that his thoughts were the same as yours.

The nape…

…

// When its sleep ends… When its sleep ends…

Razgriz… //

…

The two of you hastened forward, as quick as your feet and gear could carry you both. The hope in your hearts was overwhelming, to the point where it almost hurt. There was a chance it could all go wrong and end in bitter, crushing disappointment… But by now, the two of you were willing to risk every ounce of pain in the world, all for the sake of believing in yet another miracle.

… And so, the two of you stood upon the spine, engulfed in a pillar of steam. The heat was stinging, overpowering, but that didn't stop either of you.

Feverishly, Jean began slicing away at the thick bundles of flesh and muscle with the shattered remains of his sword. Sweat dripped from the sides of his face, and his eyes were filled with bright expectation. You helped by pulling the wound apart, searching desperately for whatever might be imprisoned beneath, waiting to be recovered.

One meter deep… Ten centimeters wide!

"Keep cutting at the nape!" you told Jean, desperation rising. "I can see something! We're almost there!"

The heat scalded your flesh raw and red as you bare-handedly delved into the back of the creature's neck. But you were beyond caring at this point. As the remains slowly melted and blackened, you yelled into the nape.

"Marco… Marco! Hang on! We're gonna get you out of there! MARCO!"

Jean's eyes suddenly went wide.

"[First]…" he whispered faintly. "There… I see him…"

You saw it to, and your breath immediately caught in your throat. A human form was slowly emerging from the masses of flesh.

Jean threw his blade aside. Both of you dove your arms in and latched on for dear life, not caring if the heat made either of you faint. With all your collective might, you pulled. The massive and resilient muscle fibres held fast. But the more you exposed them to the frigid air, the more they finally began to peel away.

…At last, the boy was pulled free from the corpse, unconscious by all appearances. You caught a glimpse of his face, and recognized those unmistakable, freckled features within an instant. The brusque motions of being pried away from his prison sent a jolt through his body. Reflexes kicked to life, and he drew in a hissing gasp of air. As his bare skin was exposed to the bitter chill of winter, he began to shiver. Violently.

Instinctively, you unfurled the cloak from your shoulders and wrapped it around his form to prevent him from freezing. For extra measure, you and Jean both held him close as his shoulders slumped. He was in no state to stand on his own.

And yet, as you and Jean embraced him tightly and stared at each other with fear and wonder, the both of you felt it. The pulse of life that pounded with vigorous thunder in his chest. …A heartbeat.

…His thoughts and yours were one and the same. This had to be a dream. It was just too horrifying, yet too miraculous for words. None of it made sense. None of it felt real. Try as you might to grasp at an explanation, neither of you could find a single one.

But deep inside, you both knew...the warmth of his body, the breath that surged in and out of his lungs, the heart that drummed with vitality had to be real. The emotion that filled you both was overwhelming. Within seconds, the two of you broke down completely - into red-hot tears.

…

// When its sleep finally ends…

…Razgriz … rises again. //



…

…Dark, earth-brown eyes fluttered ever so slightly. Stirred awake by the sounds of faint sobbing, they slowly opened.

…

Across the distance, Levi observed the scene with a look that was nigh unreadable. Unnoticed by the two of you, he had witnessed everything. But for the longest time, he performed no action, nor gave any sign that he was present. At last, with a quiet sigh, he turned a heel and left the three of you to your heartfelt moment, not wishing to intrude. This, by far, was something beyond his ability to understand and interfere with.

… At the end of the defensive operation, you and Jean Kirschtein were declared Missing in Action, having vanished without a trace following the Battle of Jinae. By all accounts, you were both presumed dead, in the report that was given directly to the Military Police. With no one from that branch to witness what had truly transpired in the central district of Jinae, no questions were raised. Any rumours of yet another Titan-shifter appearing in their midst were swiftly quashed.

…But within the ranks of the Legion itself, the rumours flew back and forth. Whispers spoke of a Demon from some obscure fairytale coming to life, turning the very tide of the battle itself, and how you and Jean might have had something to do with it. The comrades of the 104th, in particular, were not yet convinced that the two of you were well and truly dead. After all, there was no proof. No witness to your supposed deaths. Only sealed lips and secrets abound, as though something was being covered up.

The commanding officers were quick to dismiss these rumours, stating only that 'all would reveal itself in due time'. One would think that that explanation alone would be enough to quell their curiousity, but Lance Corporal Levi knew better.

And so, whenever the nosy brats of the 104th hounded the Lance Corporal, demanding what happened to their comrades, he would always reply with the same mysterious answer.

"Believe whatever version of the story you wish to believe," he said to them in a cryptic manner. "But know in your hearts… that the next time history witnesses great change…

…Razgriz will return."

That was when they knew, that there was nothing to fear, and still room to hope. After all, Levi's words had all but confirmed that that someday…somewhere … you would somehow meet again.

…

---'Just Be': Discovery---