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Chatter arose from the end of the hallway.

Erwin lifted his head, heart pounding. The base was empty except for Hange and Mike, who were sitting in his office with him, closing out the year 's reports. The chatter could only mean one thing: Levi and his squad had returned from their scouting mission to the north.

Sure enough, Levi strode through the door. 'Hey, ' he greeted them, as if he had only been away for a few hours.

Erwin held his breath, studying Levi for the first time in two long months. The dark hair was longer and shaggy, his undercut was growing in, and his beard was thicker than Erwin had ever seen it. His expression was neutral, but his eyes were locked on Erwin 's, and holding, and Erwin found he couldn 't look away.

Gradually, he became aware that Mike and Hange were watching them, waiting for their reaction.

He stood tall, clasping his hands behind his back. 'Welcome back. '

'Yeah, ' Levi said. 'Thanks. '