The pale light of dawn crept softly through the linen curtains. Clara gently lifted Elias from his crib, her warm hands careful not to startle him. Though just over a year old, Elias's sharp eyes seemed to take in everything around him with quiet alertness. His small body wiggled, restless yet eager.
"Good morning, my brave little one," Clara whispered, brushing a stray lock of hair from his forehead. Her voice was gentle but carried the weight of a mother's concern. "Today is an important day."
Below, the house was already stirring. Erwin stood in the yard, gripping his wooden practice sword tightly. At six years old, he was still small but moved with the focused determination of someone much older. Albert sat at the dining table, pouring over maps and notes, his expression serious. The smell of fresh bread and sweet stewed fruit filled the air, evidence of Clara's early preparations.
From Clara's arms, Elias watched the familiar scene: family, routine, safety. But beyond those walls lay a world he barely understood—one filled with danger and mystery. The part of him that remembered another life, another world, felt that this place was different from what he expected.
Kaela arrived soon after, her presence like a burst of sunlight. She carried a basket of herbs, her smile bright and playful. "Good morning, Clara," she said warmly, hugging her friend. Then, kneeling beside Erwin, she ruffled his hair with affection. "How's my little warrior today?"
Elias cooed, reaching for her. Kaela smiled down at him, eyes twinkling. "And how's our little philosopher?" she teased, setting the basket aside.
There was something about Kaela that Elias couldn't quite place. She felt familiar, strong, but also different—almost as if she belonged somewhere important, yet distant.
The peaceful morning was soon broken by Albert's voice. "Family, the Survey Corps has arrived," he announced, glancing toward the door.
Erwin's eyes sparkled with excitement and a hint of nerves. This was the moment he'd been waiting for—the chance to step beyond the safety of the walls and into the unknown.
Clara's smile was tight but supportive. "We must be ready. This expedition could change everything."
The door opened, and a group of officers in worn uniforms entered. Their faces showed the exhaustion of many battles, but their eyes were fierce with determination. At their head stood Captain Falk, a man known for his daring and leadership beyond the walls.
"Albert," Captain Falk greeted, nodding respectfully. "Your knowledge of the old trade routes is crucial. The Titans have been moving strangely, and we need every advantage."
Albert replied with a serious nod. "I will do all I can."
Maps and reports were spread across the table, filled with notes on Titan sightings and potential routes. Elias's gaze shifted from the officers to Erwin, who listened intently, absorbing every word.
Later, when the officers departed to prepare for their mission, Erwin turned to Elias with a rare softness in his eyes. "You stay safe while I'm gone, okay?" he said quietly.
Elias gurgled in response, unaware of the promise hidden beneath the words.
That night, as Elias lay in Clara's arms, she sang a lullaby passed down through generations—a song about hope, courage, and light in the darkness. Elias's eyes slowly closed, but his dreams carried him far beyond the walls: through dense forests, towering cliffs, and vast skies filled with questions waiting to be answered.