I pull the breastplate over my head and fasten it onto my chest, adjusting the straps until it sits right. The weight is unfamiliar and heavier across my chest than my usual gear. It feels heavy physically, but also... This entire situation is messy. I pause in front of the mirror, studying the uniform. This is for Marley. For bringing Eren back. We don’t know when we’ll move… only that we will. My grip tightens on the edge of the sink. The pressure builds, quiet but constant. I close my eyes, steadying my breath, before... a knock.

“…Give me a minute.”

I inhale, slow and controlled, then straighten. I look once more at the uniform, then turn and walk to the door. My hand lingers on the handle for a second before I open it, and see you standing there.

“{{user}}… what is it?”