XXV. Everything in Place

+————————+

The Survey Corps had dedicated months of relentless training and preparation toward executing Roku's devised plan.

Roku, Erwin, Miche, and Nanaba diligently honed their formations, ensuring their synchronization and coordination were impeccable.

Meanwhile, Captain Zoe tirelessly worked on his innovation, the specialized weapons designed to immobilize the Titans.

Roku, inherently curious and observant, frequently found himself by Captain Zoe's side, watching the meticulous construction of the devices and occasionally lending a hand.

As the days slipped away, the countdown grew more pronounced – a mere three months remained until the crucial deadline set by the higher-ups. The Corps had meticulously orchestrated everything, ensuring all elements of their strategy were in place.

Captain Zoe entered Commander Shadis' office, bearing the news of the Corps' readiness.

"Commander, all preparations have been completed. Our formations are nearly flawless, and we've successfully crafted 23 of the specialized weapons as planned."

Commander Shadis, leaning back in his chair, gazed out of the window, his mind absorbed in the weight of their impending mission.

"Excellent work, Zoe. Now, it's down to the success of the plan. I earnestly hope it unfolds as intended this time."

"I have full faith in my recruits, sir," replied Captain Zoe, his confidence unwavering. "They have the skills and dedication needed to make this plan a triumph."

A flicker of pride crossed the commander's face as he turned to face Captain Zoe. "Indeed, the new generation embodies everything we need for success: strategy, skill, raw strength, decisiveness, and, not to forget, a genius." the commander was referring to the special squad members as he said that.

The air crackled with anticipation as the Survey Corps recruits gathered, summoned by Commander Shadis for a momentous announcement. His voice, resonant and filled with determination, echoed through the room.

"Tomorrow will be a day etched in history, a turning point for humanity. It's either a day of monumental triumph or one that may fade into the annals of forgotten sacrifices. But we, as the Survey Corps, vowed to never forget our fallen comrades. Tomorrow, we shall succeed, and the Survey Corps will rise again. Your dedication over the past three months is commendable, and soon, we shall reap the rewards of our collective efforts."

The fervor of the commander's speech ignited a fire within the recruits, infusing them with hope and excitement for the imminent mission.

As night draped the headquarters in a veil of darkness, Roku couldn't escape the pangs of nervousness.

Memories of the past, haunted by the loss of dear friends, crept into his mind, instilling a sense of apprehension. He grappled with the weight of his promise to protect his comrades and the captain at any cost.

"I don't have to think much about this, it's not about whether I can do it or not, it's about that I have to do it" Roku whispered to himself, acknowledging the duty that lay ahead.

Restlessness overtook him, prompting a solitary stroll down the corridor to ease his mind.

Most recruits had succumbed to sleep, but as he wandered, a familiar voice called out from behind—Captain Zoe.

"Can't sleep?" the captain quipped, offering companionship in his office. Roku followed, and the captain brewed a calming cup of tea, sharing it with his anxious companion.

"Thank you," Roku murmured gratefully as he accepted the tea.

"Are you nervous about tomorrow?" Captain Zoe inquired, concern lacing his words.

Roku, looking away momentarily, admitted, "A little."

"Me too," the captain confessed, his demeanor shifting.

"I have a daughter, you know," Captain Zoe continued. "Every time I embark on an expedition, I wonder if it's my last chance to see her. She's my world—her mother passed away, and she only has me."

Roku listened attentively. "Maybe you can retire after this expedition, and spend the rest of your life with your daughter," he suggested.

But the captain's resolve was unwavering. "If we capture a titan, I'll dedicate everything to studying it. It's been my dream for so long—I won't let it slip away."

Roku observed the determination in Captain Zoe's eyes, a longing for his dream to become a reality.

"you know something Roku I have this letter in my desk maybe when I die you can give her that letter although I would love to give it by myself" the captain sighed.

Roku looked at the captain, "Don't worry, you won't die so soon. Nobody will take your life except me," Roku declared, attempting humor but stumbling on his social awkwardness.

The captain chuckled, his laughter

As they acknowledged the late hour, Roku bid farewell and departed from the captain's office, his thoughts swirling.

"Dreams? I've lost sight of such a thing. But I can see how much he yearns for his dream," Roku reflected as he traversed back to his barracks. "I'll ensure he reaches it. That's the least a dreamless guy like me can do."

An unexpected realization settled within him—a renewed understanding of dreams and the fervent desire to ensure Captain Zoe achieved his.

+————————+

End of the Chapter