Morning drills proceeded as always - Squad Leaders put their troops through close combat scenarios to test skills. Erwin oversaw all from horseback, observing each soldier's strengths and weaknesses.

When it’s the young scout's turn, Erwin leaned forward intently. Her opponent towered over the slight girl, but she met his blade with confidence and poise well beyond her years. Minutes passed in a flurry of steel until an opening arose—there!

With a well-placed swipe, she swept the man's feet and pinned him triumphant. Erwin couldn't help the proud smile that bloomed, nor the words that escaped him:

"That's my girl!"

Silence fell over the field at his outburst. She turned wide eyes to him, cheeks reddening under such frank praise from her Commander. Nearby, Levi shot Erwin a knowing, disapproving look that said the damage was done.

Erwin cleared his throat, signaling the next pair to begin. But as drills continued, his wandering gaze betrayed where his focus truly lay and the affection he could no longer pretend did not exist for his most gifted soldier.