56th Expedition [Hange]

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

Levi frowned out at the open space before the 56th Expedition. The regiment had come to a short stop where they could be somewhat safe. The former village had been long since abandoned considering that Wall Maria had been left to rot. He stared forward as his horse took its reprieve beside him. He ran a gentle hand across its fur absently while the others toiled about deciding their path and whatever logistics they felt hadn't been covered enough yet.

Soft sounds that carried across the plain on the wind would catch his attention, drawing his harsh gaze as he watched for danger. Most people would say he looked bored and utterly unperturbed by the fact that they were in Titan infested territory. Honestly, he wasn't that concerned for himself seeing as he knew he could get through any situation just fine. His concern was for the morons running about behind him. Yes, there were some passable soldiers on the squad; they worked well together. No trip outside the walls was safe though. Each and every person in the regiment understood that they risked their lives and may not return home this time.

He gave a small sigh and turned away from the opened land. So far, there was nothing to worry about, but that could change in an instant. Dark eyes drifted up to the soldier up on a roof top, keeping watch just as he had been. It had only been a few hours since they set out, but any safe chance to settle upon plans was taken. Anything could happen out here so it wasn't the worst thing to constantly reconfirm their objectives. It was just far too tedious for his tastes so he waited for Erwin to give an order, or for some idiot to force him into action.

His boots made soft scuffing sounds as he made his way toward the main group to catch the pieces of conversation. His guard was, of course, constantly up so as soon as a flare was shot off, the ground trembled under Titan footstep, or detail was suddenly out of place, he would be in action. His adaptability was one of the reasons Erwin wanted him in the Scout Regiment. He made sure his skills didn't go to waste. Now, if only they could get moving so he could make better use of his time.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

The Commandant tent was waaay too stuffy for her liking, what with the men trying to throw their weight around regarding the expedition’s next course of action. For the past five years they had tirelessly been laying down supplies in hopes of recovering Wall Maria—“preparing the path” as Erwin liked to call it. Unfortunately they lacked the man power to ever undertake such an ambitious mission, and so here they were. Here they sat with their horses and carriages chocked full with weapons and building materials; with hope in their hearts that someday soon all of their carefully planned work would make the difference mankind needed. Hange trusted the Commander’s judgment with every fiber of herself, a reliance that transcended what most might think possible. He knew how to make the difficult decisions, and with Mike and Nanaba already present, it was time for Hange to make her own preparations. She slid through the gap in the tent seamlessly, making sure that her exit from the meeting had been noted by Erwin but did not disturb the deliberations. There was an invigorating rush that welcomed her as she felt the fresh breeze on her face, pressing her index finger against the bridge of her glasses so that they sat higher on her face. Her deep brown eyes scanned the immediate area, and she had to refrain from showing any disappointment at the fact that it was so eerily peaceful. They had encountered so few Titans on their way here, it was almost unprecedented. To make matters all the more unusual, the concentration of Titans seemed to be even thinner the further they strayed from the safety of the Walls. How could that be, she wondered? Were the Titans shy today? Titan behavior was still a subject she was attempting to unravel; but a strong intuitive inkling was telling her that there had to be a logical reason why so few Titans remained to threaten them. While she scanned the forward camp, she found pause when her gaze locked on an ever-so familiar grimace. She almost hadn’t noticed him—his horse and the carriages hid him so well, what with his relative stature. Lucky for her, she had a perceptive eye. It was almost comical that his expression mirrored her own, and for similar reasons. She knew all too well that Levi detested inaction, so no doubt he saw this brief moment of rest as a waste of his precious time. Well, and all the better for her to confront him, she supposed. A wide grin played at the corners of her lips as she started toward him, bounding across the grass like a child who just left school early, “Oii, Levi!” Her jubilant voice carried across the open field, causing a few of the more inexperienced soldiers to swivel their heads. Obviously they were not yet used to her occasional outbursts. Hange came to a jumping stop in front of him, her glasses glinting mischievously in the high afternoon sun while she carefully placed her hands at her hips. “Beautiful day, isn’t it? The perfect weather to finally capture a deviant alive, don’t you think?” She spoke excitedly, her face lighting up just at the slightest mention of a deviant type Titan as her frame rattled with excitement. It was general knowledge among the Regiment that Erwin himself had given her the discretion to take whatever Titan subject she fancied for her research. Though, little did Levi know, that she included his skill in those outlandish plans of hers. ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman // NOTES » Wee! X3 )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

The short soldier started to near the tent where the Commander was coordinating their goals and accommodating whatever nonsense everyone thought necessary to burden him with. While Erwin had said that Hange was allowed to capture whatever Titans she fancied. Erwin said it was fine to do so, so Levi listened. The tall blond was perhaps the only person to be able to get him to do anything. It took a lot for anyone to be able to boss him around and unless he didn't see another choice, he did so. It was why he had joined the Regiment in the first place. Now his "superior" had simply earned his respect enough for him to follow.

However, capturing Titans was just simply another command. The dark haired male had no interest in doing so, but rather just didn't fight it. He would be just as happy to only kill them as study them. Then again, he would be just fine causing trouble inside the walls that would suit his needs as he would this. Now that he was here, he really couldn't think of something to occupy his time with if he were just another civilian. Perhaps the same thing he had done in the Underground. He mentally waved those thoughts away as they had no purpose.

He stepped between two of the supply carriages and drew further still toward the main tent. His steps slowed as he tried to listen for any disturbance now that he was far enough away from the outer perimeter of the old village. Levi needed to know he would still be able to hear everything he should from this spot as any other. His attention was quickly drawn back as the mad scientist of the group came bounding over, obviously finished with her bit of business and satisfied that her objectives would be taken care of.

His gaze snapped to her, then drifted to the soldiers around them. His small frown deepened as he saw some of the newer recruits turn to see who had called out. Upon seeing the over-excitable brunette, the soldiers slowly turned their gazes to see him and his scowl. His scowl was enough to make them afraid, and return to their tasks. Satisfied, Levi's expression went neutral as he turned to Hange. Save your excitement, He responded, ignoring pleasantries as usual. There aren't even any Titans around to capture.

His frown returned and he looked back the way they had come. The further away from Trost district they had gone, the fewer Titans they had seen. Sure, they could be huddled somewhere further south, but something felt off. They almost never got through a ride out into Titan territory without losing people. When are we leaving? Levi asked, his tone obviously expecting an answer that would mean they were leaving shortly. Being idle was something he rarely did. He always had something to do. However, he was meticulous enough that all of his things were spotless so he didn't even have anything to clean. He would almost take one of the new recruits doing something stupid just to quell his boredom.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

“Oh, Levi. You’ll get wrinkles if you keep frowning like that!” she huffed melodramatically, keeping an enthused smile all the while to show that his behavior had not gotten the best of her. No matter how harsh or cold he may act, Hange rarely took it personally. When dealing with someone such as the Corporal, it was best to let it just roll off your shoulders, and that’s precisely what the other squad leader did. It was just one of the many reasons they managed to work synergistically with one another. The optimist balancing out the realist. Truth be told it was the time that they spent together over the years that really allowed her to read him the way she did, and even then Levi remained a mystery in his own ways. And we all know how Hange felt about a secret she could not crack… Fortunately his boredom was rather evident, and as she looked down at the short man before her, she tried to use it to her advantage, “Say, if they won’t come to us, maybe we should go to them? There’s so much I still need to test while we’re out here!” Purposefully blocking his path between their present location and the tent, Hange’s expression only grew serious when he inquired about their plans for departure. The moments when she could take a situation seriously were few and far between, but they were warranted when the scenario called for it. Now seemed to be one of those times. Her soft brown eyes wandered to the surrounding soldiers—the very ones that Levi had intimidated—and although they now focused more heavily on keeping watch, she was well aware of listening ears. Unexpectedly, her hands left her hips and she beckoned him to follow her while she started off toward the edge of the camp. Her leather boots slid across the grass, the 3-D Maneuvering Gear strapped upon her belt clattering in time with her footfall. The rich green cloak of the Scout Regiment fluttered behind her, her slender frame moving in stark contrast to how she was just moments before. Now she slinked almost like a cat; focused and refined. It was easy to forget that Hange was also a capable soldier despite all of her eccentricity, but the moment she became stern, that was when it was truly disconcerting. While they walked, her voice had dipped low so that only he could hear her, “You’ve noticed that there are so few Titans the further we venture South, I presume? This far out, we are the only humans for miles around and we have a lot of rookies with us—a fine number of soldiers. The Titans should have picked up on that right away. We should be drawing them in like moths to a flame, yet why haven’t we seen a single one since we’ve arrived?” The logical question lingered there for a moment, Hange’s hands balling into tight little quivering fists. Was there something she had missed? There had to be an answer there. Somewhere. And she was determined to find it. “They think they can hide from me,” she uttered softly, “But I’m going to find out why our Titan friends are being so reclusive.” ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman // NOTES » n/a )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

Levi gave very little reaction to Hange telling him he would get wrinkles from his frowning. What did that matter? If he cared more for his appearance other than the fact that he needed to remain clean, then he might worry about frown lines. However, as it was, his life could be cut short at any time, unlikely as that was. No one would care if he had wrinkles and actually started to show his age. As long as he continued giving his all when he came out here, that would be all that anyone saw. So what did Hange care? No, there wasn't actual concern; it was just her trying to show the new recruits that he wasn't that scary. Well, maybe that she didn't think he was.

He gave a small huff and narrowed his eyes at the scientist. Sometimes he really didn't understand people. This is going them. We're outside the walls, moron, in their territory. Surely she didn't mean just riding around aimlessly looking for them. They had their formations and their numbers out here for a reason. That would draw them in and they could control the situation. Running off just searching for hiding Titans gave up that control, especially if they didn't involve the entire squad. Their success depended on everyone working seamlessly together. If either one went off on their own completely, they left everyone else to be eaten. Levi was their best weapon, Hange not too far behind, but she was distracted by wanting to study them. Maybe in the long run it would help, but right now it was close to wasting their resources.

Upon seeing her shift in stance and how serious the taller soldier got, he knew there was something off. Hange didn't get serious for no reason and she certainly didn't do so when it wasn't of utmost importance. He easily fell into step beside her as she beckoned him forward and away from the main tent. His stride was easy and unhurried despite having to keep up with her longer legs. His footsteps were quiet as they strode away from the main encampment and further from any curious people that would listen in on their conversation. His hands rested lightly on the tops of his gear, the light clinking of the blades contained within offering a little cover over their hushed words.

It wasn't the worst thing to allow them to shift and make whatever noise the gear liked if it meant that others wouldn't overhear them. If the brunette beside him deemed it necessary to get serious with him, that meant they what needed to be said could spook the newest additions to their squad. That was an unnecessary thing since they didn't need hysterics when every person out here needed to be on their guard. The youngest of them would be scared enough when they finally came across their targets. No need to start their terror now.

As his comrade started to point out the obvious lack of Titans, his frown returned. He knew most would be wary of the severe lack of threat, though he doubted most would actually be so concerned by it. Erwin was surely having the same thoughts they were. There was something very wrong with their situation. At this rate, we could make it to Shiganshina without encountering a single one. That means they're all north. There was nothing unusual to draw them in when we left, He mused, head bowing a little in thought. His raven hair fell forward to create a dark curtain the obscured half his face. Based on that thinking, that meant there was something back near Wall Rose that caught their attention.

Sharp grey eyes didn't miss how tense Hange was getting at the prospect of not having Titans to capture. It had quickly had become her life's work to study these abominations. She wasn't getting overly worked up, but those fists of hers were just the start to quickly getting out of hand. He reached out to brush his fingers lightly over the back of her fist to try and draw her attention to it. Usually, if he were dealing with someone that could get out of hand, he would exert his dominance over them, cowing them into doing as he wanted. Hange was different. He had earned at least some of his respect, stupid as she could be at times. She did want to save humanity at the end of the day which gained her his swords in their fight to learn more. He wouldn't be helping her with her damned experiments, but he would be right there the moment things got out of hand and he would save her from herself if necessary.

They aren't smart enough to hide, Four Eyes, Levi sneered, rolling his eyes that she thought they could actually plan to stay away from them. How often did they come across any Titan with a modicum of intelligence? Before Hange started on her crusade to capture Titans, there had been one recorded encounter of a Titan that might have some minor thought capability. That one had died at his blade, of course, but it was to save a human life which was always more important than capturing a Titan. Always. They couldn't just all of a sudden, en mass, think that they had to conceal themselves from the deadliest regiment of the military.

He raised his head to look at the other soldier. We need to find the distraction. Then we'll have your test subjects. He took a half step back and twisted to look toward the main tent. Why weren't they finished yet? The regiment needed to get moving if they wanted to accomplish anything. Standing around discussing bullshit was just wasting daylight. If Hange and he were right, there was something bigger going on that they needed to get to the bottom of. He just needed Erwin's word to move on from the remnants they stood in now.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

The faint ringing caused by the shifting of their gear was welcome cover to their conversation, adding just the bit of noise that was necessary to go unnoticed. A single sound could carry astonishingly well in this type of unnerving silence. She wouldn’t want to tip off the others, particularly the tense newbies that still shook in their boots from the very mention of a Titan. It was their responsibility, as the squad leaders, to maintain the peace amongst their inferiors. Despite his size, Levi could be intimidating enough to snap the entire Regiment into line. Hange preferred utilizing a gentler hand, but she could not argue with Levi’s methods. They certainly called for some impressive and intriguing results. She respected him for that and so much more. He was not humanity’s strongest without reason. “We likely -could- make it to Shiganshina. It’d be the furthest we’ve ever ventured; a precedence. A huge morale boost for mankind! But why haven’t we?” Hange asked her comrade, the question seeming to be more rhetorical than anything. She had a habit of speaking aloud, trying to piece together each and every part of her fragmented and fanatical conscious. Her train of thought often went running away from her, becoming consumed in her passion for answers. Erwin would sometimes keep things from her for this very reason. To prevent her from doing anything rash. From doing something she might just regret later on down the line. It was torture for her every single time, though all she could do was lay her convictions down into his hands and believe that the blonde man knew what was best. He hadn’t led her astray so far, thus there was no reason to ever doubt his judgment. In her stupor, she had not even realized how worked up she was getting until her mind registered Levi’s hand brushing against her knuckles. It was just the touch she needed, to be reminded that she was not alone in her laboratory where there was time and energy to be spent on such tribulations. This was the field, and this was their world. The world of her beloved and dangerous Titans. The scientist relaxed almost instantly, her intelligent eyes flickering down to the shorter man from behind her glasses. She offered him the faintest smile of gratitude, her posture straightening even when he snuck out an insult between his teeth. “Four eyes,” was it this time? It earned a soft snicker from her, the woman actually seeming to take some odd joy or comfort in his abuse. She understood that it came from a good place inside somewhere, despite all of that armor he hid behind. She’d never dare tell him to his face, but their equal respect for one another’s quirks was more than enough. Instead, all she could do was poke back at him playfully with words, “Don’t sound so certain about them, Levi. This world is full of unexpected things. You’ll never hope to see them if you keep your eyes closed.” Hange had not quite forgiven him for killing that particular Titan some time ago, but his actions were to preserve a human life, and for that… Yes, that was what was most important. It was almost irritating how a man as bristled and abrasive as Levi could offer her such clarity. Feeling refreshed, she sighed softly and lifted one of her hands to run it through her haphazard brunette locks, observing him as he pivoted toward the tent. She looked at him knowingly, speaking with a hint of caution to her tone, “Erwin is the one who is stalling.” In the event that it might come as a surprise to Levi, she did not hesitate to explain, “He is as concerned as we are. While others see this as the best opportunity to make a push for the outer district, he’s been running in circles to find reasons for us to stay. I asked myself “why”… why waste the man power after we’ve so carefully planned this expedition? He must have changed his mind after reading the field. I could have read him wrong, but I believe Erwin actually intends to keep us close to the Wall at least for the moment.” Rather than turn toward the tent, Hange found herself looking out into the world that surrounded them. The sky was beautifully clear and the weather was better than they could have ever hoped for. The trees rustled from nothing but the wind, the serenity of this moment almost catching her off-guard. It felt like the calm before the storm; that instinctual and defining moment before everything could go impossibly wrong. She felt it in her bones before the sensation of the faint vibrations rattled through the soles of her feet, a thrumming of the Earth pulsing from seemingly every direction. The tremors grew more powerful with each passing moment and her dexterous palms were already moving to retrieve the hand-pieces for her maneuver gear from their holsters. Her heart started to pound within her chest, skipping along to the rhythm of the Titan’s footfall. When the earthshattering sound of their steps finally graced the air, Hange’s expression burst to life. Her bright eyes danced with wonder and rather than wear a face of absolute terror, it was unmistakable how overcome with joy she suddenly was. From the gathering of trees approximately 100 meters to the south, a group of Titans came scrambling. A total of four stood no larger than seven meters, their naked and agile little bodies allowing for them to run faster than those that stumbled along after them. Breaching the tops of the trees crashed a sizeable twelve meter with an emaciated torso and long, thin legs, its lips forming a cockeyed grin. Joining him were three ten meter specimens. That made it eight in total. And any one of them could easily star in the next round of tests that she had in mind. She almost started shaking again, barely able to contain herself the moment she laid eyes on them. The soldiers all around them started shouting incoherently as one of the team leaders let a red flare fly. The smoke painted the perfect blue sky and Hange squealed with excitement, “And here they come! YAHOO!!” ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman // NOTES » Time for some action! I figured some of them would continue North but others would stray and come after the camp! )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

Levi could very nearly see the wheels turning in that frantic and scattered mind of hers. The scientist was so erratic sometimes that he was shocked that she had survived this long. How often did her mind come up with questions, answers, random fragments of thought that could so easily cloud her eyes? Was she truly so lost in whatever was running through her thoughts that she didn't understand why they might not make that last push to the abandoned district at Wall Maria? It would be the furthest they had ever gone since it fell.

There was a lot they didn't know now.

How many of them would be there? How overrun was everything? Was there anywhere somewhat safe for them to bunker down if needed? What horrors lay for them at the wall now? The short male would be okay pushing a little further out, perhaps try to send out a few brave scouts just to get something of an idea of what might be in store then come back, regroup, re-plan. While he hated to wait, hated being idle, there were times when it was necessary. He understood that but he could have seen the gain in moving forward before stopping. However, the oddness of their situation made him feel wrong about doing so.

He frowned at his partner as she told him he couldn't see. He didn't need to see the differences in Titans. He didn't need to see anything other than what they were and were not doing to those around him. My eyes are open. My job is to keep your sorry ass out of their giant mouths. You see what you can poke and prod at. I have to see how close you get to losing a limb, He sneered back. He rolled his eyes and let his focus drift slightly, feeling the warm breeze blowing through their temporary camp. It was gentle and soothing. It would be perfect for taking a day to one's self or with those closest and just enjoy being here. This would be perfect weather for a nice meal outside and letting the worries of living in this world melt away for a few hours.

He could never do that. Never would do that. He hadn't been raised for such nice things. He had been fighting his entire life and this was all he was built for. The whole "taking orders" thing was still vaguely new, enough so that there was basically one man that could boss him around. One of the reasons he allowed it was because he was damn good at his job. Erwin had lead the small team that had finally put a stop to what he and his friends had been doing in the Underground, as bad of a thing as it was for those less fortunate down there. Now, he continued to prove himself worthy of his loyalty. He gave a barely perceptible nod of approval at Hange's words. Erwin wasn't allowing them to move forward because it was the wrong thing to do. He agreed with that and minded wasting his time less now.

However, a lackadaisical attitude would be a terrible thing to have right now. Much like his counterpart he felt a shift in the air, a thrumming in his very bones that there was a sharp shift coming. Years of doing this had trained them to nearly have a sixth sense for the Titans. A scowl immediately pulled at his thin lips upon the feeling of the tremors running through the dirt, vibrating under their feet. He had a rather different reaction than the brilliant woman beside him. He was glad for the distraction, but hardly excited for the Titans appearing. Were they just that slow to join the others, or was there something that big happening that it was drawing them in from further away? He would never know seeing as he wanted to keep the herd gathering in the north as thin as he could.

However, part of his objective was to capture them for his partner. Yet, he couldn't vindicate taking these ones alive right now. At Hange's expression of eagerness and excitement at their arrival, he reached out to grab her cloak. She needed to keep her mind clear of her distractions. Erwin stalled us for a reason. Don't get carried away, He hissed. There was a steely tone in his voice that would have a lesser soldier's knees buckling in fear. He wasn't trying to intimidate her though. She was among one of the very few that could withstand his harsh personality. He just wanted her focused on what was really important. Capture might not be the priority today. He moved his attention to the sudden rush of boots over the stone and dirt, the clanking of maneuvering gear, and shouts from the men and women around him.

The occupants of the tent hurried out, joining the mayhem as they gathered whatever it was they needed. Levi gave a sharp whistle, cutting through the din of noise for his horse which quickly came to his side. Silently, he hoisted himself onto the swift animal and took off. He expected his squad to fall in quickly behind him without a word. He had trained them to do so and any less would result in his disappointment and none of them would risk that.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

The thick thunder of hooves joined the chorus of the Titans’ marching as the soldiers of the Scout Regiment—the best and the brightest that humanity had to offer—rallied their horses. Despite the abrupt chaos, the squads worked in synchrony with one another. Like a delicate dance, everyone started to fall into their positions as the entire camp gathered on the offensive. It was like watching the processes of a well-oiled machine; an army, no matter how small, that knew how to actually face and effectively kill these monsters. This was their outpost, human territory, and they needed to hold it at all costs. Hange looked almost offended at Levi when he grabbed hold of her cloak and reminded her not to get carried away. While the scientist within her was more than guilty of risking her own safety in an effort to understand the enemy, the squad leader’s top priority was to preserve human life. Her team had their own orders to follow, and they all understood… No, they all faithfully accepted that her research did not come without risks. Whatever emotions he stirred up with his stern reminder swirled there at the surface for a moment as her bright brown eyes met his stark, charcoal gaze. It was all she needed to remind herself that this was Levi’s way of telling her to exercise caution and not to get herself killed. No one could ever make that promise, especially while they were in their territory, but Hange appreciated the gesture. It was all the more meaningful coming from a friend as guarded as him. There was no room for her to tell him to do the same; Levi was unstoppable in her eyes. Indomitable. Yet, she secretly feared the day when that hypothesis could be disproven. She never wanted to lose anyone close to her, not even this crotchety little man. She offered him a reassuring smirk in an attempt to prove to him that her head was back in the game just as Moblit came strolling beside them on horseback, Hange’s own mount cantering along after him. Her second in command offered up the reigns to her horse which she took eagerly, finally speaking to her fellow squad leader, “Try to leave the last one for me!” Getting set in the saddle was second nature to her, her height allowing for her to climb onto her horse with little effort. The moment she was situated, she drove her horse forward with gentle pressure from her heels, releasing an enthusiastic shout the moment she felt the burst of speed from the powerful animal. Moblit offered Levi an uneasy shake of his head before he saluted the captain respectfully and hurried after Hange, the rest of her team following suit after their leader. Her squad was fortunate enough to be equipped with a carriage that carried the supplies necessary to successfully capture a Titan target. A canon was loaded with a spiked net and multiple sets of heavy chains rattled within the bed of the accessory cart, the manacles specifically crafted to incapacitate a giant captive. The tools looked almost medieval and grotesque, but they were necessary to diminish the risk in taking a specimen alive. Hange took point, her soldiers proceeding in a diamond formation around the cart for ease of mobility. The Titans continued to advance, and it would be the shorter class monsters that would break the first blood of this battle. They were capable of surprising speed, and when in groups no doubt they were just as deadly as the larger variations, easily capable of overwhelming even experienced soldiers. Hange had equipped her hand grips with her blades, preparing herself in the event that she needed to get her hands dirty. As much as she wanted to take one alive, she would not hesitate to step in and save lives if it came to that. As the first soldiers of the regiment started to hone in on the group of enemies, that was when the unthinkable happened… Rather than focus their attention on the army that advanced upon them, the large twelve meter Titan and two of the smaller ones kept their focus on the North. They moved with terrifying purpose, completely blind to the humans that they could possibly make a quick meal of. Something to the North was much more enticing to them, drawing them in. Hange saw it and it gave her pause. Were they abnormals...? No. Then what was driving them toward the Wall? ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman // NOTES » Sorry for the wait with this one! ;~;  )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

Levi understood that no one on this field could necessarily prevent themselves from getting eaten or otherwise killed. The only thing he could hope for was just a focused mind and everyone's head on a swivel to try and minimize the damage these beasts would do. This would not be a day when they could get away without a casualty with the number of Titans that had emerged from the small outcropping of trees. He would take Hange's nod as her word of trying to keep herself and her team on task. He didn't bother to offer Moblit a nod in return. They didn't have time for it as their horses galloped forward, pressed on by heels and calls for them to run faster.

It was always easier to try and take them out quickly. It would lessen everyone's chances of serious injury if they could all come at them in directions that ensured their safety. However, Titans had a sixth sense for humans, half the time nearly striking back preemptively. One of the first squads to reach the smaller Titans were shouting instructions to each other, trying to coordinate the best they could to take out two of the seven meter monsters that had broken off the group first. Their attempts might have gone off perfectly if it weren't for one of the ten meters joining in and snatching a soldier out of the air.

The shirt captain shook his head and let his mind work. A second squad was moving in to help the first that reached the Titans. It seemed that most soldiers were going to enter into battle with the Titans that deemed them more interesting. He frowned as he diverted his horse a little more south, getting a better idea of where everything was and how best to direct his own team. Like Hange, he noticed that there were three that didn't think a quick meal was in order. Why the hell were they continuing north? He would find out soon enough, but first, to keep as many from losing their lives on this expedition. He glanced over his shoulder, yelling to his team just to be heard.

His team broke off, aiming for two of the ten meter titans that should be easy enough for the group of them. The odds were in their favor due to their numbers and skill. Petra was very nearly his second in command and he knew that she would tend to their actual attack plan once they were close enough. The short male continued on, flanking everyone else as they entered into the fray. For a moment, he spared a glance toward the cart that contained all the equipment necessary for a safe capture. Being that three had diverted and continued on without engaging them, it might just be smarter to let it lead them to wherever it was heading rather than trying to capture any of them. Ugh, he was starting to think capture was his primary objective. He needed to spend less time with the scientist.

Yet, it wasn't a terrible idea. He could handle sparing one for a small walk, just to point them in the right direction. That meant that at least two of them needed to be taken out. Levi shifted on his horse, freeing his feet from the stirrups. He easily kept himself seated and steady from years of practice as he aimed for the twelve meter titan, as it lagged behind the other two ambling north. He stared at his target, hands moving of their own accord as he unsheathed his swords. He pulled the triggers under his finger tips and the release of propellant was a sweet sound to his ears. The grapples bit into the flesh of the twelve meter abomination and Levi was hurled forward off his mouth as he skillfully manipulated the gas output. Wind whipped his hair back as he flew forward, finally gaining the attention of his target.

It wasn't nearly fast enough for him though. It twisted to see what had marginally injured it. He adjusted his grip on the right blade, letting the dull edge rest against his forearm as he again manipulated his gear to rush the giant, glaring at its huge, ugly face. Hange would just have to deal with having one of the smaller ones for her play thing.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

The squads were at a disadvantage without sufficient foliage or buildings to utilize their maneuvering equipment, and already agonizing screams were starting to rise up amongst the cries of the soldiers that were locked in battle. Hange assessed the situation in a split second, her intelligent amber eyes catching Levi as he went after the three Titans that had broken off from the herd. One look at their squad leader and the soldiers that were in charge of the cart made a hairpin turn, their horses brilliantly trained for such feats as they galloped at top speed after the short captain. They would provide him with back-up, or initiate the capture protocol if the situation called for it. She had trained each of them well and she knew she could count on their judgement. For now, Hange and Moblit would add their strength to the threat at hand to try to minimize losses. Her long legs gripped the body of her dark brown steed, relying on her own center of gravity to stay mounted as she prepared her blades. Petra and the remainder of Levi’s team joined the fray, quarantining the first of the ten meter Titans that threatened their forces. The scientist felt a soft smirk tug at the corners of her lips as she watched them through the very corners of her peripheral vision. They really were some of the best. They would make quick work of him. There was a slight trembling of the earth as one of the seven meters came barreling through the formation, scattering the forces on horseback. It moved with inhuman speed, its arms outstretched as it made an attempt to grapple a soldier off of his horse. Fortunately, it was unsuccessful, but the little monster was far from clumsy. Its head twisted, its gaping mouth open wide as it caught hold of the man’s forearm between its teeth. The soldier released an excruciating shriek as he was dismounted, his arm straining not to be torn from its socket while he was suspended in the air. Hange’s glasses glinted dangerously as she worked herself to lend aid. A shift in the pressure exerted by her heels relayed her horse to go faster, the animal practically leaping forward as Hange balanced herself within the stirrups on her saddle. She twisted her body at her hips just as her horse started to run past her target and a simple pull of the trigger deployed the cables from her belt. Her grapples found purchase in the fleshy area of the Titan’s naked back, and since its mouth was already preoccupied, she only had to worry about its flailing arms. She was astonishingly quick, propelling herself with a masterful spurt of the pressurized gas from her storage tanks while she utilized the muscles in her feet to spin herself out of the direct pathing of one of the Titan’s groping palms. A chunk of flesh sailed into the air as the reinforced steel of her sword carved out the nape of the Titan’s neck, the dark red blood of the monster spattering like hot embers against the side of her face and cloak. It burned, singeing her skin before it immediately started to evaporate in a cloud of blistering steam. She winced and stomached the pain, the seven meter Titan releasing the soldier before its body crashed lifelessly to the earth with Hange standing victorious atop it. She rose her fingertips to her mouth and whistled, signaling her horse to return to its master as she looked to the shaken soldier. The man hugged his bleeding and dislocated arm close to his chest, Moblit leading his horse to a sliding stop beside him. Hange shot a glance to her second in command who seemed to be reading her mind, snapping his fingers to gain the injured soldier’s attention before he leaned over to help pull him up onto his own horse. No doubt the rookie would need to spend some time at the infirmary, but he kept his life, and for that Hange felt fulfilled. “Bring him back to base. Tend to the injured. The rest of the team will continue with the capture.” She voiced to Moblit who regarded her with apprehension, obviously wanting to be by her side in the event that things went south. But there was a familiar sentiment that glistened in Hange’s eyes that seemed to ease his fears, and after a reluctant nod, he took off back in the direction of camp with the injured recruit riding double. Not wanting to be caught flat-footed, she climbed back up onto her horse who waited patiently for her. There was another earthshattering crash as Levi’s squad brought down the ten meter Titan, its steaming body being the only means of recognizing the twisted, emaciated creature as they had already started off toward singling out the second one. Well then, it looked as if they had things under control. Hange ordered her horse to pivot on the spot before she took off to catch up with Levi and the rest of her team. The cold wind stung the shallow burns on her cheek as it whipped around her, the scientist urging her horse to advance at top speed. He had better leave one for me! She thought to herself as she rushed ahead, unlocking her dirtied blade and replacing it with a fresh, razor-sharp one. There was no room for dulled equipment. Due to the weight of the capture gear in the cart, it was not too difficult to catch up, Hange grinning madly while waving to her squad as she passed. They looked at one another quizzically before they shrugged it off, the eccentricity of their leader having been something they’ve become accustomed to. Levi had the big one to himself, so it looked like she would get her pick of the little guys. But since they were headed north, perhaps they could first lead them to their destination? Hange started to feel the exhilaration of the possibilities of having one of these Titans as her test subject return to her, carefully maneuvering her horse around the giant twelve meter as she called out to the sprinting seven meters: “YOOOHOOO~! SLOW DOWN YOU TWO, LET’S JUST HAVE A NICE LITTLE TALK!” ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman // NOTES » ♥  )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

Levi stared at the huge face that turned to see him flying forward, its own body offering the purchase for his gear to work. The small squad leader anticipated the turn it made, releasing the cables, only to send them right back at the beast as it twisted. Its left arm swung back at him, which meant he would get the momentum to slingshot back around directly at the nape of its neck. He The cables were just long enough that it almost seemed he might be caught between those bone crushing fingers. Instead he easily spun himself in a tight circle and the blades separated its fingers quite nicely.

The titan roared, the sound deafening at not being able to capture its prey as it had obviously expected. It tried for him again with its fully functioning right hand, but he was already to far toward its back. One more manipulation with the cables and a spurt of gas and Levi was spinning at a sickeningly quick pace. He was the embodiment of a buzz saw, severing the head entirely and cutting straight through the nape to ensure that it stayed down. It was a quick death for the beast that most thought him a magician for. They just didn't understand their gear. It was a damn shame seeing as they all had training and he didn't.

He gave a soft scoff to himself at the thought as he started falling with the titan to the ground. He angled himself so that he could send the hooks into one of the other two seven meter monsters that were heading north. He saw Hange ride up on her horse, calling out over their thunderous foot steps to gain its attention. He took the briefest of moments to be sure that she would be safe enough in their current situation and refocused. He put on a burst of speed and once more his steel bit through another titan's flesh. This one hadn't even had the chance to turn around. He planted his boots squarely between the titan's shoulder blades, consumed in the steam from the wound as it fell.

It hit the earth and the ground trembled yet he seemed totally unfazed. In fact, he took a moment to see steaming blood on his uniform, could feel it in his hair. That was what he got for flying through the neck of the twelve meter. He pulled a clean cloth from his pocket and wiped around his face to make sure it didn't get too far. He gave a short, sharp whistle even as his horse cantered forward, slowing as it neared its master. Levi hopped off his latest kill and mounted his horse once more and took off to catch up with the scientist. It was easy enough to fall in behind her, keeping enough distance so that he could react should he see the titan begin reaching for the brunette ahead of him.

Screams of terror and pain slowly drifted into distant calls for help, needing medical aid as most of the newer soldiers had found out why their expeditions yielded so little. However, the squad leaders had such experienced and proficient squads that they were nearly a whole group again, following after the last errant giant running for the wall. One glance told Levi that Eld had stayed behind to help Moblit and the others in giving aid. Obviously Eld would suffice in being their primary protection now that the main threat was smoldering on the ground.

The dark haired man turned forward once more, watching and waiting for the moment he would have to intervene on Hange's behalf. She was good at her job, could handle titans just fine. It was her willingness to do so now that it looked like they might be in a position to capture it that had him on edge. A moment's hesitation in the decision to capture or kill could mean lives lost or spared. It could be a hard one if the science meant more to him. Luckily for Hange, that wasn't his primary concern so her safety and that of her squad would always win out.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

Hange did not need to look behind her to know that Levi had taken out the other seven meter Titan that was scrambling along with its partner to the North. She just had to listen for the lack of the clapping of its bare feet on the earth to know that it had met its end. That realization made her drive her horse even faster, speeding after her only remaining hope to get her hands on a living test subject. A chance to actually study these monsters for even the slightest weakness that humanity can use against them. That was the burden that she put on herself and it was her willingness to succeed and demonstrate the sound logic to her methods that drove her. Her brilliant brown eyes were dangerously fixated on the back of the Titan that was mere feet ahead, sweat rolling down the sides of her poor mount as it strained to keep up the pace. This one was so fast! And the chase was invigorating, adrenaline bounding through her veins with each swift beat of her heart as it hammered in her chest. Weighing everything that this meant to her, it was too much to ask for Hange not to become entirely immersed in the pursuit. The world surrounding her quickly melted away until it felt as if there was just the two of them, running forever with no end in sight. She hardly paid any mind to the rest of her surroundings, her reckless desire to achieve this goal quickly winning over. She needed to slow it down or get it to focus on her if this capture was going to be fruitful. At this rate the cart could never hope to catch up. Unwilling to allow this opportunity to slip from her grasp, Hange sheathed her blades so that she could instead retrieve a flare from her side pouch. She needed anything she could find to gather the Titan’s attention, and she hoped that this one in particular liked the color red. Popping the gas round into the chamber, she locked the barrel back into place with a loud snap and gave her horse one last jab with her heels. The horse released a shrill noise as it broke off with a burst of speed, pulling ahead of the Titan just as they neared a cluster of dilapidated old farm houses that marked the outskirts of the innermost village within Wall Maria. Steering her horse directly in front of the Titan, she called out to the creature again: “OVER HERE! I promise I’ll take you on a long walk within the Walls, wouldn’t that be nice?” Palpable frustration started to build on her features when the Titan continued to ignore her despite her best efforts, forcing her to raise the flare gun up above her head. There was a brief explosion as the thick line of red smoke flew up into the air, the Titan’s large head literally cutting through the cloud as it ran. However, its beady black eyes then snapped to the scientist—the two locking gazes. Her goggles glistened with excitement when the Titan finally acknowledged her, “Yes, yes! That’s right, good boy—!” Hange could barely contain her own excitement, at least until the abnormally swift Titan reached out its arms and decided to take a perilous lunge right for her. Her breath hitched in her throat as she jerked on the reins of her mount, urging the animal to quickly evade to the right. There was a harsh burst of air from the power behind the Titan as it went sweeping past her, its gaping maw of yellow teeth missing her and her horse by mere inches. The creature had actually been successful in severing several strands of her hair with its snapping mouth. An ear shattering crash erupted into the area as the Titan crashed through one of the nearby cottages, sending brick, dust, and wood flying like shrapnel. Hange felt a stabbing pain in left arm as one of the flying splinters nicked her skin. She hesitated at first, releasing a soft grunt of pain as she quickly hid the wound with her free palm. Blood started to ever-so slowly spill out between her fingers, her expression straining not to show weakness. No, she was not going to let this ruin the plan… “So close!” She mocked the Titan as it struggled to regain its footing beneath the rubble, its wounds already starting to cauterize and heal over. Her typically chipper and up-beat voice cracked ever so slightly as she called out to it again: “Just a little more! Come on! ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman   » )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

The Ackerman watched on as Hange used herself to lure the seven meter where she wanted. It was reckless, but it wasn't a first and he was certain it wouldn't be the last. He simple monitored the situation until he deemed it far too dangerous to continue on as she was. Of course, he would try to be somewhat considerate and leave it alive if he intervened. His horse below him huffed with the exertion. He offered the briefest touch along the silky fur of its neck in a show of support for the animal. It was bred for this kind of thing, but that didn't mean that it would never tire, would never get harmed. This was dangerous work and their mounts deserved some measure of praise for their part in keeping them alive.

Now, he would need to ask his horse for all the more effort. He frowned as the Titan took the scientist's bait and followed after her toward the last dilapidated buildings outside Wall Rose. He had gotten too close. From his angle, he was almost certain that it had gotten her. Relief shot through him as he heard her voice calling back to the beast. This had gone far enough. The dark haired captain looked toward her team and their cart. With a curt nod he silently told them to prepare their gear. They would need to be quick since he wasn't planning on playing around anymore.

As he entered the remnants of farm houses and miscellaneous buildings, Levi shot off his horse once more. His grapples sunk into rotting wood, breaking the timber easily. The cables released and shot forward again, getting him even with the Titan's legs. With one burst of gas and carefully aiming his body, he bared his swords again. He wasted no time in cutting across the monster's path and burying his blades through it's knees. It wasn't smart enough to realize what was wrong as the Titan fell, unable to continue running after his partner.

In an effort to make it just a little safer for the capture team, Levi swung himself around, using the large "male's" shoulder to fly upwards, slicing through its arm so it had one less weapon with which to try and kill their teammates. If his personal team's trust in him meant anything, it was that everyone in his proximity would feel all the safer for having him here. With the last moment's of high he had gained, the short leader landed on a low rooftop and turned toward the titan as it hit the ground, causing dust and debris to billow out around it. As the dust settled, the titan was surrounded by soldiers and easily apprehended now.

Slate grey eyes lingered for a moment before moving on, looking for the brunette that so stupidly risked her life for these catches. His footsteps sounded heavy on the rooftop, creaking under his weight as if it could collapse. He headed for the other side of the building from the gaping mouth that was still trying to find its next unneeded meal. It was a pointless endeavor, but no one ever accused the titans of being smart. At least now it wouldn't be trying to eat Hange and would doubtfully hurt anyone in their squads.

[Hange Zoë]

I took a journey to the unknown. And i came back changed. i can feel it in my bones. = HANGE ZOË =

Her own blood dripped in warm, red rivulets over her knuckles as she applied unconscious pressure to the gash in her wrist. Leave it to Levi to come storming in like greased lightning, her keen gaze just barely able to discern him as he went propelling into the cloud of dust after her precious test subject. Her jaw clenched in mild concern, an odd sense of emotion stirring within her the moment he disappeared. Admittedly, her worry was more for the Titan than for her counterpart. She was still breathing and she was also the only human life that was immediately at risk. Although she had been brazenly rash this time around, maybe even borderline irresponsible when it came to offering up herself as a snack for the seven meter Titan, she was ultimately successful in garnering its attention. That presented her with the opportunity she had been looking for as her ears registered the whirring of the wheels on the cart the moment it approached. Levi had better not have crossed the line like he had all those times in the past, leaving her woefully empty handed. If that were the case, well then, the scientist just might not be so quick to forgive him this time around. The canons had been primed, the nets readied, as the wagon came to a rolling halt near Hange’s side. The squad leader did not so much as need to share a word with her soldiers as they quickly began to disperse, climbing out of the cart so that they could properly ground the canons and prepare the restraining gear. They moved with surprising speed and purpose, like the intricate cogs of a machine. They had rehearsed this so many times before, finally putting it into action was like watching a perfectly orchestrated masterpiece unfold. A sight that ushered fourth a flood of maternal pride in her team, the sensation filling the cavity of her chest. Not even one of them cracked or strayed from their task, even as the frustrated screams of the Titan started to rise up among the clattering of the bricks and mortar that crashed in the wake of Levi’s onslaught. Every soldier could trust with absolute faith that their leader had their backs; there was no room for doubts. She remained mounted in the event that the specimen was not suitably under control, sitting on pins and needles as she waited for the disturbed dirt to settle. This was it! This was it!! Finally she would have a Titan of her own to poke and prod at. Oh, the things she could do! At long last, she could finally put her theories into motion. Her eyes glinted with unrestrained excitement, her lips quivering as she fought back a wild grin. This sort of anticipation was almost intoxicating, on the verge of diving into levels that she could not hope to contain. Despite her enthusiasm, the sharp-minded woman searched quietly for Levi, scanning the tops of the cottages for that insufferable little man. Never would she consider firing off the canons if she ran the risk that he could be caught in the cross-fire. She’d never say such things, but she cared far too deeply for him to make that sort of gamble. Thus, it was not until she pinpointed him on the edge of the adjacent rooftop that she signaled the order that would allow the operation to swing into motion. She shot her bloodied hand straight up into the sky before she pointed directly to the prone Titan that writhed in a nest of rubble mere meters ahead of them, her voice resonating powerfully off the houses surrounding them, “FIRE!” In unison, two of the soldiers from her squad yanked on the triggers of the canons, the dozens of rounds discharging from the contraption in a shattering explosion of white smoke. Abruptly, the dilapidated village resembled a war zone, several of the men nearby quickly clapping their hands over their ears so they were not immediately deafened by the thunder of the weapons. Hange did no such thing, instead she watched with bated breath as the knife-like stakes went soaring through the air, the light of the sun glaring off the sturdy wires that would succeed in immobilizing the Titan in place. Evaporative blood hissed as it touched the cold surface of the cobbled walls, her knives digging into the Titan’s musculature and locking firmly into place with their treacherous, barbed tips. She almost thought that her heart was going to jump up out of her mouth as she observed the seven meter “male” make an attempt to move, only to be completely incapable of even the simplest action. He could not even swat a fly if he wanted to, instead releasing a guttural roar in reprisal. With a rush of excitement, Hange leaped out of her saddle, her legs carrying her in a sprint toward her captured Titan. In that instant, the deep wound on her wrist was completely ignored as were the calls of her squad who desperately tried to remind her not to go near the creature without first getting it in chains. Try as they might, their voices could not even reach her over the sounds of her own uproarious laughter. She bounded up to the Titan, every fiber of her body trembling with unparalleled energy as she stared directly into the pits of its soulless eyes. The secrets she would cut out of them… ( TAGGED » Levi Ackerman //  )

CREATED BY SEADRA OF WICKED WONDERLAND

[Levi Ackerman]

Hange Zoë

The shorter squad leader watched as the soldiers just below him scurried about, getting their things in order. Hange's team was quick, efficient, and it sparked a small sense of pride to see a team other than his own work so well. It might give someone far less cynical than him hope that all the soldiers would be able to do the same. He had no such notions, nor did he want to try to organize the entire Scout Regiment, no less any other faction, into trying to get these kinds of results. These individuals and the ones under his direct command were the exceptions to the rule.

He took several steps back on the rooftop he stood upon as he saw the cannons readied. It was just in time too. The Titan was about to regain its ability to grab and run sooner rather than later. Without taking out the nape of its neck, the damage Levi had done to it would be remedied due to its quick regeneration. He didn't want to be at risk for getting caught by the beast or the nets that they were about to release. He most certainly didn't want to get nicked by the blades that would cut into anything to secure the Titan. With his new stance over the field, he was prepared to react to anything now.

The cannons sounded, the blast easy competition for the roar of a titan at this range. The Ackerman didn't even flinch, much like his female counterpart on the ground. The scientist was much stronger than a few loud noises. She could also be just as loud as them. He rolled his eyes as the smoke and dust cleared, offering Hange her opportunity to get close to their capture in relative safety. Her design had proven to work well enough so far, so there wasn't reason for her to fear its failure. Yet. He would be wary enough for the both of them. He slowly moved to the edge of the roof and hopped off.

Dirt billowed up from his feet as he landed and he stepped through the small cloud that he had created. He headed for the taller woman, also ignoring the calls from the underlings about safety. It wasn't that he needed the warning, or disregarded the danger; someone had to wrangle Hange back so that everyone could do their jobs. You're bleeding, He snapped at the brilliant soldier, reaching out so that he might forcefully raise her arm so the wound was above her head. He wouldn't be able to fix that injury, but he knew the bare basics to keep her alive long enough for someone to be of use to her.

He quickly removed his hand, glancing at his fingers to see if he had gotten her blood on his hand. Her blood hadn't soaked up through her jacket, meaning that he remained clean. A small mercy that. Let them secure it, Hange. We have no where to stick it out here so you need to back up. Perhaps the reminder that they lacked a location to properly study this thing right now would bring a few of her senses back to her. Her objective had been successful so he wasn't all that hopeful that she would be easier to get in line. However, the chase was over and they still had other things that needed their attention. Unfortunately, this capture was low on his list of priorities.

What was still very much on his mind was why their large group had only drawn in a few Titans and couldn't even catch the attention of all of them. Their expedition had been fairly uneventful until those eight appeared. There had been three pulled back north for a reason. He very much wanted to understand that more. His interest in keeping humanity safe now outweighed his desire to sit around while Hange studied this thing.