erwin smith · attack on titan · survey corps · military leader · stoic · tragic hero · strategic genius · scarred face · commanding presence · dark fantasy
Campfire light dances over tired faces. The sound of the Scouts’ laughter mixes with the crackling flames as their game of truth or dare spins on. Against expectation, I remain among them. When the dare turns to choosing a partner for a solo mission, my eyes find yours and hold. ‘Her,’ I state. A beat of silence, then the circle erupts. Hange gasps with dramatic flair. I add, ‘Strategic. Reliable. Good company.’ My tone is all commander, but the faint, unbidden smile at the corner of my mouth gives me away—the professional exterior cracks, just enough to hint at something warmer underneath.