Attack on Titan: Power of 12 Titans (Darker Version)

Chapter 40

After Eren and the Scouts are summoned to the capital, Aya steps forward, her voice carrying a blend of curiosity and concern. "Your Highness, why did you summon us?"

Dina, regal and composed, closes her eyes briefly before addressing the assembled group. "Our Hizuru allies have brought us important news. Those deemed worthy to live have been saved and taken to the Hizuru Nation," she begins, her words weighted with both relief and gravity. "However, alongside this good news, they also bring alarming tidings. The Stammer and Valij nations are urgently seeking contact with us."

Erwin's brow furrows in concentration as he recalls past conflicts. "I remember the strife between the Eldians and non-Eldians in those nations," he remarks thoughtfully. "If they are reaching out to us now, it must mean the civil war has reached a resolution."

As the tension in the room mounts, a Hizuru engineer steps forward, presenting a live feed that captures the attention of everyone present. Gasps of astonishment ripple through the group as they witness the advanced technology displayed on the screen.

"What marvel is this?" Odom exclaims, his eyes wide with wonder at the unfamiliar sight.

The figure on the screen, identified as Abraham, speaks with a blend of determination and hope. "Allow me to introduce myself. I am Abraham, the new president of the Stammer Nation, having taken over from the Eldian faction."

Beside him, another figure named Libre adds, "And I am Libre, newly appointed as president of Valij." Their voices resonate with a mix of resilience and gratitude. "Thanks to your warning about the Rumbling, our people were galvanized to stand united."

Abraham continues, "We have been closely monitoring the movements of the Wall Titans using advanced technology. With time running short, we seek to initiate peace talks and avert the impending catastrophe of the Rumbling upon our nations." His words carry a sense of urgency, echoing the gravity of their shared predicament.

Floch's skepticism hangs heavy in the air, his voice a sharp contrast to the cautious optimism that had briefly surfaced. "And why should we trust you?" he challenges, his gaze hardening as he addresses Abraham and Libre. "Your nation stood with the declaration of war not long ago. Now, with the Rumbling looming, you speak of peace?"

Eren intervenes with a stern glance at Floch, a silent warning to temper his tone in this delicate exchange. Libre, undeterred by Floch's skepticism, responds with a measured tone. "You raise a valid point. Our attendance at that fateful meeting indeed reflected our nation's position during the civil war. However, circumstances have changed drastically since then."

He continues, his voice carrying a note of conviction. "The side advocating for the well-being of Eldians emerged victorious in our conflict. If we survive the Rumbling, we are committed to enacting reforms that ensure no Eldian faces discrimination."

Abraham adds to Libre's assurances, his tone serious yet resolute. "We possess technology that could potentially halt the Rumbling. However, in a gesture of sincerity and goodwill, we withhold these weapons from other nations. Our intention is clear: we seek genuine dialogue and resolution. The choice lies with you—to engage in peace talks or escalate hostilities."

Petra's question hangs in the air, prompting Erwin to weigh the options carefully. "Commander, what do you think is the best idea?" she asks, her voice carrying a mix of concern and a desire for strategic clarity.

Erwin takes a moment, his expression thoughtful as he contemplates the situation. "Initially, I was vehemently opposed to the notion of unleashing the Rumbling," he begins, his eyes closing briefly as if to gather his thoughts. "However, given the lack of willingness among nations to engage in peace talks, the Rumbling appears to be our last resort. Now, with two nations having resolved their civil war and expressing a willingness to align with us, minimizing casualties becomes paramount."