The Royal War Hammer

Chapter 11 The Table Talk Part 2

(Eren's POV)

Armin's eyes reflect a mixture of pain and frustration as he struggles to find a rebuttal. "Eren, I understand your anger, but this cycle of violence... it won't end unless someone breaks it. We can't just keep perpetuating it. We have to find another way."

Taking a deep breath and calming myself after seeing Carla still in Gloria's hands, I respond with a sigh. "Finding another way... Did you truly believe we hadn't considered that? Perhaps I owe you an explanation of what I've been doing these past months. We followed the Survey Corps' wishes initially: negotiations. But when it became clear that Marley wasn't an option, we embarked on a journey to various nations, seeking their perspectives. Do you want to know what we discovered?"

Gloria steps in, her voice carrying the weight of harsh truths. "Failure. Each nation has its own narrative about Eldians, often contradicting one another. Yet, the common thread is their view of Eldians as devils to be eradicated. We witnessed firsthand the depths of their cruelty towards Eldians, surpassing even Marley's treatment."

Despite the grim realities, I interject with a glimmer of hope. "But not all hope was lost. We found two nations willing to listen: the Stammer and Valij Nations. They recently fought a civil war over Eldian rights, and the side advocating for Eldians emerged victorious."

"We were able to sneak into a meeting with both leaders, it was not easy because they didn't trust us, for Eren having the Founding Titan, and for me being a member of the Tybur Family and feared if Marley is going to declare war on them." Gloria says. "We have tried to use the Founder's powers to take away the Eldian blood for the population in those two nations, but it is still not enough."

"Do you want to know how we reach a compromise? We would have to help them cultivate and develop lands, eliminating all the dead bodies from war and even figuring out a way to deal with the barren land. It was much more harsher than Paradis." I say. "Only the two of us, it was already hard. If it wasn't for them, it would have taken more time, and besides, Gloria is already pregnant."

Gloria acknowledges Taka and Elizabeth with gratitude. "Thank you for your assistance."

Elizabeth responds casually, "No problem. The Stammer and Valij Nations are pleased with your efforts, solidifying our alliance."

Armin, confused by the revelation, asks, "The Stammer and Valij Nations are in alliance with us? But why hasn't the military been informed?"

"The Yeagerists are aware, and Queen Historia has given her approval," I explain. "Currently, the Marleyan volunteers have been apprehended. Imagine if the military knew about the two nations. They might have taken similar actions."

As we discuss these matters, we're suddenly alerted by Zeke's scream.

Gloria immediately questions, "Zeke has activated his plan, hasn't he?"

"I believe so..." I mutter grimly. "And I assume you're already aware of Falco being injected with Zeke's spinal fluid..."

Mikasa, shocked by the revelation, gasps, "Don't tell me you knew about that too..."

I explain the situation further. "We were aware of Zeke's plan; Yelena informed me about it years ago. Our intention is to overthrow the current military structure and rebuild it in our image. This is crucial for my survival and for the betterment of the islanders."

"And you were also aware that they were planning to find a Titan to devour me and use my powers," I continue. "But that would have been unnecessary. Even if they were to succeed, I would utilize the Founding Titan's vow to ensure that whoever devoured me would act according to my beliefs. The Attack Titan never submits to another's will."