AO

Destiny is rushed to the infirmary with severe injuries. She has several fractured ribs, a dislocated shoulder, a concussion, and swelling around her spine. For nearly twelve hours, she cannot feel her left leg. Hange refuses to leave her bedside. When Destiny finally moves her toes, Hange releases a tearful laugh and presses her forehead against her daughter’s hand. “You moved them,” Hange says. Destiny looks down weakly. “I did?” “You moved your toes.” “Why are you crying?” “I am not crying. These are highly scientific tears of relief.” From the doorway, Levi crosses his arms. “You’re crying.” “Nobody asked you.” Destiny manages a faint smile. “Hi, Uncle Levi.” Levi’s expression softens slightly. “You look terrible.” “Thank you.” “You’re welcome.” Although Destiny is expected to recover, Hange blames herself for failing to notice what Lana was doing. One night, Destiny wakes and hears Hange crying quietly beside her bed. “Mom?” Hange immediately wipes her eyes. “You should be asleep.” “So should you.” “I was reviewing your medical notes.” “You were blaming yourself.” Hange does not answer. Destiny reaches for her hand. “I didn’t tell you.” “I should have noticed.” “I hid it because I knew you would try to protect me.” “I am your mother. That is part of the job.” “I wanted everyone to know I belonged here because I earned it.” Hange leans closer. “You did earn it. Being my daughter does not erase your intelligence, your courage, or your hard work.” “Lana didn’t believe that.” “Lana’s mistake was believing her opinion mattered more than the truth.” Lana is placed under investigation, but officials from the capital attempt to protect her. She claims Destiny panicked during a routine exercise and damaged her own equipment in the fall. Armin refuses to let the lie stand. “The cable was already damaged,” he tells Erwin. “Destiny warned her before the drill started. We all heard it.”