**Interior: Night - Dimly Lit Room within the Walls - Hours after the Scouting Expedition's Return** *(The room is sparsely furnished, the only light coming from a flickering candle on a small, wooden table. Cast-iron pans and military gear are scattered about. Levi sits at the table, his face shadowed, expression hard and unreadable. His Survey Corps cloak hangs loosely off one shoulder. In front of him, a small, crumpled piece of paper - a casualty report. His hands are clasped tightly together, knuckles white.)* **Levi**: *(Voice low, barely audible)* Sarah... *(A soft knock at the door breaks the silence. Erwin enters, his face solemn. He stands at the door, hesitant.)* **Erwin**: Levi, I... *(pauses, searching for words)* We did everything we could. *(Levi doesn't look up. His jaw clenches.)* **Levi**: *(Icily)* Did we? **Erwin**: *(Sighs, stepping closer)* You know the circumstances. The Female Titan... **Levi** *(Interrupting, voice rising slightly)*: I know what happened, Erwin! That doesn't change the fact that we lost good soldiers. That we've potentially lost Sarah. *(Erwin remains silent, recognizing Levi's pain. He moves to sit opposite Levi at the table.)* **Erwin**: Levi, Sarah was one of our best. Her loss... *(Levi's fist hits the table, causing the candle to flicker violently, almost going out. His voice is laced with anger now.)* **Levi**: Don't talk about her in the past tense. *(A heavy silence falls between them. Erwin looks at Levi, seeing the man's rarely shown vulnerability.)* **Erwin**: Levi, we all cared for her. She followed me here... *(His voice trails off, guilt evident.)* **Levi** *(voice softer, strained)*: She followed you, yes, but she fought with us. She was... *(He pauses, struggling)* She was more than just another soldier to me, Erwin. *(Erwin reaches across the table, placing a hand on Levi's. His voice is steady, offering solace.)* **Erwin**: I know. And if there's even the slightest chance she made it, we'll find her. But for now, we need to focus on the survivors, on what's next. Sarah wouldn't have wanted us to give up, not now. *(Levi finally looks up, his gaze meeting Erwin's. The emotion in his eyes is raw but there's a flicker of resolve there too.)* **Levi**: Then we keep moving forward. For the ones we've lost... for Sarah. *(Erwin nods, a silent agreement between them. They stand, a newfound determination taking hold despite the grief that lingers in the air. The candle flickers one last time as they move towards the door, stepping into the darkness beyond, ready to face whatever comes next for the sake of their fallen comrades.)* **Fade to black.**

**Exterior: Dense Forest - Twilight** *(The sun is just starting to rise, casting a soft golden light through the thick canopy of the forest. Birds chirp in the distance, an eerie calm settling over the area. Sarah stirs on the forest floor, her uniform torn and caked with dirt and blood. Her face is pale, but her determination is evident as her eyes flutter open, squinting against the early morning light.)* **Sarah** *(whispering to herself, disoriented)*: Where...? *(She attempts to sit up, grimacing in pain as her hand immediately goes to her side, where a makeshift bandage is soaked through with blood. She takes a moment to assess her surroundings and her injuries, trying to piece together the events that led her here.)* **Sarah** *(muttering to herself, trying to stay calm)*: The right flank... The Female Titan... We were ambushed. *(Flashbacks of the terrifying encounter flicker through her mind - the screams of her comrades, the overwhelming power of the Female Titan, and the desperate escape. Sarah shakes her head, trying to push away the memories.)* **Sarah**: *(Determinedly, to herself)* Stay focused. You need to survive this, for them. *(She slowly gets to her feet, leaning against a tree for support. She takes a deep breath and looks towards the direction of the Wall, barely visible through the dense trees. She knows she has a long journey ahead.)* **Sarah**: I need to make it back. But first, first aid. *(She scans the area)* And some water. *(With a plan in mind, Sarah cautiously starts to move, using trees for support as she goes. Suddenly, she hears a branch snap nearby. She freezes, heart racing, and silently draws her blade.)* **Sarah** *(whispering)*: Friend or foe? *(A small deer appears from the bushes, looking at her curiously before darting away. Sarah lets out a breath she didn't realize she was holding, and sheathes her blade.)* **Sarah**: *(Chuckling weakly to herself)* Great, now I'm getting jumpy at deer. *(She continues on, her steps slow but unwavering. Sarah finds a small stream and carefully tends to her wounds, washing them with the cold, clear water. She rips a cleaner part of her shirt to make a new bandage, wincing as she ties it around her waist.)* **Sarah**: Alright, Sarah. Time to move. You've survived worse. You can do this. *(Determination etched on her face, Sarah sets off towards the Wall, limping but resilient. The camera pans up to the rising sun, its light casting long shadows through the trees, symbolizing the hope Sarah clings to amidst her isolation and struggle for survival.)* **Fade out.**

**Exterior: Dense Forest - Late Morning** *(Sarah has been making slow but steady progress toward the Wall, relying on her survival training to navigate through the dense foliage. The morning has grown warmer, the sun climbing higher in the sky. Suddenly, the tranquil sound of nature is shattered by the earth-shaking footsteps of a Titan approaching. Sarah tenses, her survival instincts kicking in. She ducks behind a large tree, peeking out to assess the threat.)* **Sarah**: *(Muttering)* Just my luck. *(A 6-meter class Titan lumbers into view, its grotesque form scanning the forest. Sarah watches it, her grip tight on her blades. She waits, hoping it will pass. But her heart sinks as its gaze locks onto her hiding spot. She knows she has to move. Fast.)* **Sarah** *(Thinking quickly)*: I need a distraction. *(She spots a flock of birds in a nearby tree. Taking a small stone, she throws it at the tree, causing the birds to erupt into the air, their panicked squawks filling the forest. The Titan's gaze shifts towards the noise, giving Sarah the chance she needs. She bolts in the opposite direction, her heart pounding in her chest.)* *(As she runs, her eyes catch something metallic glinting through the trees. She skids to a stop, her attention drawn to a half-buried Survey Corps emergency flare gun. Hope surges through her as she picks it up, checking to see it's still functional.)* **Sarah**: This could be my ticket back... or my last stand. *(Pocketing the flare gun, she resumes her trek, now more vigilant than ever. Suddenly, her worst fears are realized as she stumbles upon a clearing, finding herself face to face with not one, but three Titans.)* **Sarah** *(Frantically calculating her chances)*: I can't... There's no way. *(With no cover and the Titans slowly closing in, despair takes hold. Then, remembering the flare gun, she makes a split-second decision. Her hands tremble as she pulls out the gun, aims it skyward, and fires. The flare shoots up, exploding into a bright red signal against the clear sky.)* *(The Titans, momentarily distracted by the flare, gives Sarah just enough time to take an evasive action. She dives into a dense thicket, crawling as silently as she can, heart racing as she prays for a miracle.)* **Sarah** *(Whispering to herself)*: Please, let someone see that. Let them find me. *(The camera pans up, following the flare as it burns brightly, a beacon of hope amidst the green expanse of the forest. The sound of distant footsteps suggests that her signal has been seen, but by friend or foe, it remains uncertain. The tension hangs in the air as Sarah waits in her hiding spot, the outcome of her desperate gamble now out of her hands.)* **Fade out.**

**Interior: Strategy Room within Wall Rose - Midday** *(The room is filled with the dim light filtering in through the high windows. A large map of the territory outside the walls dominates the center of a long wooden table, around which Levi, Erwin, Hange, Miche, and a few other captains are gathered. The atmosphere is tense, the weight of their recent losses evident in the room. Levi's expression is particularly stoic, his gaze fixed on the map but his thoughts elsewhere.)* **Levi** *(Internally)*: Sarah... could you have survived out there? *(Erwin is discussing their next course of action, his voice steady and commanding, but Levi's attention is only half on his words. Hange is animatedly suggesting new tactics for combating Titans, while Miche adds input on defense reinforcement around the walls.)* **Erwin**: We need to focus on reinforcing our defenses and-- *(A knock on the door interrupts him. An urgent-looking Scout bursts into the room, saluting quickly.)* **Scout**: Sir! A Scout flare was just spotted outside Wall Rose. Red signal, sir. *(The room falls silent, the weight of the news settling over each person like a heavy cloak. Levi's head snaps up, his heart suddenly racing. A red flare meant distress, a call for immediate assistance. It also meant survivors.)* **Levi** *(Standing up abruptly, his voice betraying his urgency for the first time)*: Where was it seen? *(Everyone's attention is now on Levi, surprised by his reaction. The messenger Scout quickly responds.)* **Scout**: North-Northeast sector, near where the right flank was... *(He hesitates, swallowing hard)* where they were last seen. *(Levi feels a jolt of hope mix with his fear. He exchanges a look with Erwin, who seems to understand the unspoken question in Levi's eyes.)* **Erwin** *(Nodding, decisively)*: Mobilize a rescue team. Levi, take Hange, Miche, and whoever you need. Find who set off that flare. *(Levi nods, his determination renewed. He turns to leave, Hange and Miche following closely, as the other captains begin to voice their support and readiness to assist.)* **Levi** *(Internally, as he moves)*: Hold on, Sarah. If that's you... I will find you. And if it's not... We'll bring whoever it is home. *(Hange catches up to Levi, her usual enthusiasm replaced with a solemn determination.)* **Hange**: We'll find them, Levi. *(Levi doesn't respond, but the set of his jaw and the look in his eye speaks volumes. The group quickly exits the room, their steps echoing in the hallway as they rush to prepare for the rescue mission.)* **Erwin** *(Watching them leave, quietly to himself)*: May you find what you're hoping for, Levi. *(The camera lingers on the strategy table, the map and its many annotations a stark reminder of the world they face outside. The scene fades as the sound of preparations can be heard building in intensity.)* **Fade out.**

**Exterior: Dense Forest - Moments after the flare** *(The camera fades in from black to find Sarah still hidden within the dense thicket, her breaths shallow as she tries to make as little noise as possible. The bright red flare's light has faded from the sky, and now only the natural light of day filters through the canopy above her. She's acutely aware of every sound in the surrounding forest--the distant calls of birds, the rustle of leaves in the wind, and her own heartbeat thundering in her ears.)* **Sarah** *(Thinking to herself)*: Please, let them have seen it. *(She dares to peek out from her hiding spot, scanning the area for any signs of the Titans or, hopefully, rescue. The forest seems eerily quiet now, the Titans that had cornered her nowhere in sight.)* **Sarah** *(Whispering to herself)*: Could they have... moved on? *(Her relief is short-lived as she remembers the unpredictable nature of Titans. She knows she can't stay in one place for too long. With a grim determination, Sarah carefully begins to move out of her hiding place, limping slightly from her injuries. She needs to find a safer spot to wait, hopeful that her flare was seen by someone, anyone from the Scouts.)* **Sarah** *(Internally)*: Levi, Erwin, Hange... please be the ones to find me. *(As she moves, the pain from her wounds becomes more pronounced, each step a test of her willpower. She leans heavily against a tree, taking a moment to catch her breath. The reality of her situation washes over her, the isolation, the fear, and yet the flicker of hope that refuses to die.)* **Sarah** *(Murmuring to herself)*: You've survived before, Sarah. You can do this. They're coming. You just have to stay alive until they find you. *(Determined, she pushes off the tree, continuing her slow trek through the forest. Her mind is a mix of memories from her time with the Scouts, her training, the missions, her friends... and Levi. His stern face, the subtle hints of care he'd shown, especially right before the expedition. These thoughts spur her on, giving her strength.)* **Sarah** *(Internally)*: For Levi and everyone else, I can't give up. *(The camera pulls back slightly, showing Sarah's lone figure making her way through the immense forest, a small beacon of endurance and hope amidst the green expanse. The natural sounds of the forest resume, a stark contrast to the silence of her resolve and the uncertainty of her fate.)* **Fade out.**

**Exterior: Dense Forest - Continuing from Sarah's Predicament** *(The sun has now climbed higher, bathing the forest in a harsher light. Sarah, despite her injuries and growing exhaustion, has managed to put some distance between herself and the clearing where the Titans had cornered her. Suddenly, she freezes. The unmistakable sound of Titan footsteps resounds through the forest, closer than she'd hoped. A chill runs down her spine as she realizes she's being hunted again.)* **Sarah** *(Whispering to herself in panic)*: Not now... *(She glances around frantically, looking for somewhere to hide or escape to but finds little cover that would hide her from the Titans' gaze. The sounds grow louder, and through the trees, she can now see the distorted faces of two Titans approaching her position. Her heart beats wildly, fear threatening to overtake her resolve.)* **Sarah**: *(Desperately looking around)* There's nowhere to... *(Just as she prepares herself for the worst, ready to fight with the last of her strength, an unmistakable noise cuts through the air - the sound of ODM gear. Sarah's heart leaps with hope.)* **Sarah** *(Barely daring to believe)*: Could it be...? *(Within moments, members of the Scout Regiment burst into the clearing, their ODM gear whirring. At the forefront is Levi, his presence commanding as he swiftly takes down the closest Titan with precise movements. Hange and a few others engage the second Titan, working together seamlessly.)* **Levi** *(Shouting)*: Secure the area! *(The Titans fall, one after the other, slain by the skilled Scouts. Sarah, overwhelmed by sudden relief and the pain from her injuries, collapses to her knees. Levi is by her side in an instant, his usual stoic expression softened by evident concern.)* **Levi**: Sarah, can you hear me? You're safe now. *(Sarah looks up at him, tears of relief welling in her eyes. She tries to speak but is overcome by emotion. Levi, in a rare display of gentleness, helps her to her feet, supporting her weight.)* **Hange**: *(Rushing over with a relieved smile)* We saw your flare! Thank goodness you're alright. *(As Hange checks Sarah's injuries, more Scouts secure the perimeter. The danger has passed, and Sarah is surrounded by her comrades, her family. The relief among the group is palpable.)* **Sarah** *(Finally finding her voice, weakly)*: I... I thought I... **Levi**: *(Cutting her off, firmly)* You're one of us. We don't leave our own behind. *(Sarah smiles, tears streaming down her face, not just from the pain but from the overwhelming relief of being found. The Scouts gather around, offering words of comfort and relief. The atmosphere is one of unity and resolve, a potent reminder of their bond as soldiers and friends.)* **Fade out.**

**Exterior to Interior: From the Forest to Inside Wall Rose - Transition** *(The scene transitions as Sarah, overwhelmed by her emotions and weakened state, loses consciousness in Levi's arms. The camera follows the swift and efficient motion of the Scouts as they use their ODM gear to travel back to Wall Rose, with Levi carrying Sarah securely. The sun is now high in the sky, casting long shadows that dance over the group as they move.)* **Interior: Inside Wall Rose - Gate Entrance** *(The Scouts arrive at the gate entrance of Wall Rose, the tension from the outside world giving way to the relative safety of the Walls. Civilians and soldiers alike turn their attention to the group, whispers and murmurs filling the air as they recognize the injured Scout in Levi's arms.)* *(Levi's expression is one of impenetrable focus, his gaze fixed ahead as he carries Sarah through the gates, the rest of the Scouts following closely behind. They move with a purpose, parting the crowd as they head directly to the command center where Erwin and other high-ranking officials await.)* **Interior: Command Center - Moments Later** *(Levi enters the command center, Sarah still in his arms, with Hange and the other Scouts trailing behind. The room falls silent at their entrance, all eyes on Sarah's unconscious form. Erwin, who had been discussing strategy with other officers, looks up, his face a mask of stoicism. However, as his gaze lands on Sarah and he processes the severity of her condition, a subtle shift occurs.)* **Erwin** *(Approaching quickly, concern breaking through his usually impassive demeanor)*: Is she...? **Levi** *(Nods, setting Sarah down gently on a nearby table used for mapping strategies, now cleared)*: She lit the flare. She's alive, but barely. *(Erwin's mask cracks further, a rare flicker of personal concern visible as he looks down at Sarah. He reaches out, almost involuntarily, to gently check her pulse, his touch careful. The room is filled with a weighted silence, the usually unflappable commander showing a depth of emotion he seldom allows others to see.)* **Erwin**: *(Softly, more to himself than anyone else)*: You did well to survive, Sarah. *(Levi watches Erwin, noting the crack in his facade. It's a silent acknowledgment of the bond they all share as members of the Scout Regiment, the family they've become. Levi then turns his attention back to Sarah, a silent vow made to protect and avenge his comrades.)* **Hange** *(Stepping forward, breaking the silence)*: We'll take it from here. Let's get her to the infirmary. We can save her. *(As Hange and a couple of other Scouts carefully lift Sarah to carry her to the infirmary, Levi and Erwin share a look. A mutual understanding passes between them - the importance of their soldiers, the weight of their losses, and the unbreakable resolve to keep fighting.)* *(Erwin finally turns to the rest of the room, the professional mask slipping back into place as he addresses the situation with renewed determination, but the brief moment of vulnerability remains, a testament to the trials they endure and the bonds that sustain them.)* **Erwin**: *(Commandingly)*: Let's focus on our next steps. We ensure her sacrifice wasn't in vain. We fortify, we heal, and then we retaliate. We owe her and every fallen Scout that much. *(The camera pans out from the room, capturing the determined faces of everyone inside. Despite the somber mood, there's a renewed sense of purpose, a drive not just for survival, but for victory, for those they've lost and those they're sworn to protect.)* **Fade out.**

**Interior: Infirmary Room - Late Afternoon** *(The room is quiet except for the soft breathing of Sarah, who lies unconscious on the bed, her bandaged form illuminated by the fading sunlight filtering through the window. Levi is seated beside her, his eyes never straying far from her face, a silent guardian amidst the soft beeping of medical equipment. The door opens quietly at intervals as visitors come and go, each bringing with them a wave of concern and hope.)* *(First, Hange enters, their demeanor a mix of their usual enthusiasm tempered with worry.)* **Hange**: Levi, any change? **Levi**: *(Shakes his head slightly)* No. She's still unconscious. **Hange** *(Approaching the bed, looking down at Sarah with a soft smile)*: She's strong. She'll pull through. You know, she was talking about studying Titan behaviors more when she got back. *(Laughs softly)* Said she was inspired by our crazy experiments. **Levi**: *(A faint smirk appears on his face)* Inspired or scared? *(Hange chuckles, then grows serious.)* **Hange**: She'll have plenty of time for that. Once she wakes up, we'll have a lot to catch up on. *(After a moment more, Hange leaves, offering Levi and an unconscious Sarah a reassuring pat on the shoulder. Next, the younger Scouts, Jean, Connie, and Sasha, enter timidly.)* **Jean**: How is she, Captain? **Levi**: Stable. **Sasha**: We brought her some bread from the mess hall... *(realizes how it sounds)* for when she wakes up, I mean. **Connie** *(Trying to lighten the mood)*: Yeah, and I'll tell her all about how Sasha tried to eat it on the way here. *(Sasha elbows Connie lightly while Levi simply observes the interaction, the ghost of a smile on his face acknowledging their effort to maintain a semblance of normalcy.)* **Jean** *(Seriously)*: She saved us out there, didn't she? **Levi**: She did what she had to do. What any of us would do. *(The younger Scouts nod, lingering for a moment before leaving the room quietly, leaving the bread on a nearby table. The sun has nearly set when Erwin finally enters, his presence commanding even in the hushed infirmary. He takes a seat on the other side of Sarah's bed, opposite Levi.)* **Erwin**: Levi. **Levi**: Commander. *(There's a pause, both men looking at Sarah, lost in their thoughts.)* **Erwin**: She was brave, out there. **Levi**: She's always been. **Erwin**: *(Looking at Levi)* You haven't left her side. **Levi**: *(His voice is quiet)* She wouldn't leave any of us. **Erwin** *(Nods, acknowledging the truth in Levi's words.)*: We've lost much, but we've saved many because of her bravery. We owe her. **Levi**: We owe them all. *(Erwin agrees with a nod, silence falling between them again as they both reflect on the cost of their fight.)* **Erwin**: When she wakes up, we'll need to be prepared for the battles ahead. **Levi**: She'll fight. Just like the rest of us. Until the end. *(Erwin stands, placing a hand on Levi's shoulder briefly, a sign of solidarity and shared resolve. He looks down at Sarah once more, a silent vow made.)* **Erwin**: Rest well, Sarah. Your fight isn't over yet. *(With those final words, Erwin leaves the infirmary, the room returning to its earlier stillness. Levi remains, watching over Sarah, a steadfast presence as night falls around them.)* **Fade out.**

**Interior: Infirmary Room - Continuing with Levi and Erwin** *(The room has settled into a deep, serene calm, broken only by the soft whispers of two of humanity's strongest soldiers speaking over one of their most valiant. The faint glow of lamplight casts gentle shadows across Sarah's peaceful face, the tumult of the day held at bay by the walls of the infirmary.)* **Erwin** *(Voice low, tinged with nostalgia)*: I remember the first time I met Sarah. She was just a child, no more than eight or nine. She'd found out which route I'd take into town for supplies and would try to follow me, thinking she was being stealthy. She'd keep to about ten paces behind, occasionally ducking behind barrels or carts whenever I looked back. **Levi** *(A smirk graces his face, the first genuine one in hours)*: Ten paces? Must've been the world's worst spy. **Erwin**: *(Chuckling softly)* Indeed. But it was her determination that caught my attention. She wanted to see the world beyond her small corner of it, even if it meant tailing me through town like a little shadow. *(Levi's smirk fades into something softer, the lines of fatigue and concern on his face illuminated by the dim light.)* **Levi**: She was just as stubborn when I joined the Scouts. Insisted I train with her every evening, even though she knew I'd outmatch her. Every time she'd end up on the ground, and every time she'd get back up, fire in her eyes, ready to try again. **Erwin**: *(Nods, understanding)* Her spirit has always been indomitable. It's what made her such a remarkable soldier...and friend. *(A silence falls between them, filled with unspoken acknowledgment of Sarah's impact on their lives.)* **Levi**: She never backs down. *(Pauses, his gaze not leaving Sarah)* Makes you wonder where that kind of resilience comes from. **Erwin**: *(Softly, contemplatively)* From believing in something greater than ourselves, perhaps. Sarah's always had a clear sense of what she's fighting for. It's a rare quality. *(Levi looks at Erwin, his eyes sharp yet carrying a depth of emotion rarely shown.)* **Levi**: And you? What do you think we're fighting for, Erwin? *(Erwin meets Levi's gaze, the weight of countless battles and lost comrades reflected in his eyes.)* **Erwin**: For a future. One where children like Sarah don't have to become soldiers to see the world beyond the walls. *(The two men fall silent, their shared resolve and the burdens they carry hanging in the air between them. Their conversation shifts unspoken to the bonds they've formed, the sacrifices made, and the hope that those sacrifices might one day mean something.)* **Levi**: She'll be back on her feet, demanding another match, you'll see. **Erwin**: *(With a small smile)* And she'll keep getting back up, no matter how many times she's knocked down. Because that's who she is. *(As the night deepens, Levi and Erwin continue to watch over Sarah in companionable silence, bound by their unwavering commitment to her, to their cause, and to each other. In this quiet moment, the depth of their care for her, and for what she represents, is palpable, a testament to their shared humanity amidst the brutality of their war against the Titans.)* **Fade out.**

**Interior: Infirmary Room - Late Night** *(After a moment of contemplative silence, Erwin stands, stretching slightly, the weariness of the day's events evident in his movements.)* **Erwin**: I should let you both rest. *(He glances at Sarah, then back to Levi)* Take care of her, Levi. **Levi**: *(Nods)* Always. *(With a final look at Sarah, Erwin leaves the room, the door closing softly behind him. The room returns to its state of dim tranquility, the only sounds being the gentle ticking of a clock and Sarah's soft, steady breathing. Levi remains seated, his posture relaxed yet alert, his gaze fixed on Sarah's face, lost in thought.)* *(Levi reflects on the moment he found Sarah beyond the wall, the gripping fear that turned to overwhelming relief when he realized she was still alive. The raw emotions of that moment flood back, the terror of possibly losing another person close to him, clashing with the relief and joy that she was safe, in his arms.)* **Levi** *(Thinking to himself)*: In this world... to love is to risk everything. Every damn day, we gamble with our lives, with the people we allow ourselves to care about. *(He recalls the weight of Sarah in his arms, how fragile and yet how strong she felt. The wave of something he hadn't quite allowed himself to name washed over him then, a feeling he's pushed aside in the face of constant danger and loss. But now, in the quiet of the infirmary room, with the battle behind them and Sarah's steady breathing for company, Levi confronts it head-on.)* **Levi**: *(Softly, under his breath)* It's love. Damn it, it's always been love. *(The realization doesn't come as a shock; rather, it's like the last piece of a puzzle clicking into place, making sense of the protectiveness, the worry, and the relief that surged through him. He understands the magnitude of what that means in their cruel world, where death is a constant companion, and love can make you vulnerably, painfully human.)* **Levi** *(Continuing to himself)*: And yet, she's still here. Against all odds, Sarah's still with us. If that's not a sign to hold onto what matters, I don't know what is. *(He leans forward, resting his elbows on his knees, his face softened by the faint light and the depth of his emotions. For a moment, Levi allows himself to simply watch her, to hope and to quietly acknowledge the love he holds for Sarah, the fierce determination to keep her safe, to fight for a future where perhaps they can explore what lies beyond the immediacy of survival.)* **Levi** *(Whispers, more to himself than to her)*: You're going to make it through this. We both will. And when you wake up... there's a lot we need to talk about. *(The night deepens, the infirmary quiet except for the shared space between Levi and Sarah, a space now filled with unspoken words and the tender, resilient seeds of love. Levi remains at her side, vigilant and unwavering, as the first light of dawn begins to seep through the window, promising a new day.)* **Fade out.**

**Interior: Infirmary Room - Early Morning** *(The first rays of dawn break through the window, casting a gentle glow across the room. Sarah stirs, her eyelids fluttering open as she awakens to the silence of the infirmary, alone. She sits up slowly, confusion and bits of memories from before she passed out weaving through her mind. The vivid recollection of Levi's face--focused, determined, and then a blur as darkness took her--fills her with a mix of emotions.)* **Sarah** *(Thinking to herself)*: Levi... he was there. He came for me. *(With her heart heavy with questions and a need to see familiar faces--especially Levi's and Erwin's--Sarah swings her legs over the side of the bed, steadying herself. Despite the protests of her body, she stands, determined to find them, to hear of what happened after she lost consciousness. She walks slowly, holding onto the wall for support as she makes her way out of the infirmary.)* **Exterior: Infirmary Hallway - Moments Later** *(The hallway is quiet, save for the soft morning light filtering through the windows. Sarah, her steps tentative but gaining strength, continues down the hall, driven by an inner resolve to find Levi or Erwin. Before she can ponder longer on where they might be, she spots Hange turning the corner ahead. Relief washes over her--the familiar face she didn't realize how much she was hoping to see.)* **Sarah**: Hange! *(Hange stops, surprised before a smile breaks across their face at the sight of Sarah up and about.)* **Hange**: Sarah! You're awake. How are you feeling? **Sarah**: I'm... alright. *(Her brows knit together in concern.)* Levi--was he really here? And Commander Erwin, is he safe? *(Hange's eyes soften, understanding the depth of Sarah's questions. They step closer, speaking in a gentle tone.)* **Hange**: Yes, Levi was here. He was with you all night, Sarah. Didn't leave your side for a moment. And yes, Erwin is safe. He's been handling the aftermath of the mission. *(Sarah's heart skips. She's known Levi to be many things--strong, dependable, sometimes distant--but to remain by her side through the night was a gesture she hadn't expected from him. She isn't sure what to make of it, given Levi's usual reserved nature with her, despite her own burgeoning feelings for him.)* **Sarah**: All night? But... why? I mean, I know we're comrades, but... **Hange** *(With a knowing smile)*: Levi might not wear his heart on his sleeve, Sarah, but he cares. More than he lets on, more than he probably knows how to express. You mean a lot to him. To all of us, but... with him, it's different. *(Sarah processes this, her mind racing. Levi's actions, once viewed through the lens of comradeship, now take on a new dimension. The recollection of his face as she faded out, the intensity in his eyes--it makes her heart flutter in a way she hadn't dared to acknowledge before.)* **Sarah**: I... I need to talk to him. **Hange**: He might be in the mess hall at this hour. Just... take it easy, alright? *(Nodding, Sarah offers Hange a small, grateful smile before moving past them, her determination renewed. Each step feels lighter, though whether it's from her recovering strength or the flutter of hope in her chest, she can't tell. Hange watches her go, a thoughtful expression on their face, aware of the budding something more between their two friends.)* *(As Sarah makes her way towards the mess hall, her mind is a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions about Levi, about what Hange said, and about the uncertain future they face. Yet, in this moment, finding Levi feels like the most important thing in the world.)* **Fade to black.**

**Interior: Mess Hall - shortly after** *(The mess hall is bustling with early risers, the clatter of dishes and murmur of conversations filling the air. Sarah's entrance goes mostly unnoticed, her gaze sweeping over the room, searching. Disappointment settles over her when she realizes neither Levi nor Erwin is present.* *As she turns to leave, she nearly bumps into Armin and Mikasa, who are making their way toward the exit with trays in their hands. Instantly, their expressions shift from surprise to concern upon seeing her.)* **Mikasa**: Sarah! You should be resting. What are you doing up? **Sarah**: I need to find Captain Levi and Commander Erwin. Do you know where they are? *(Mikasa opens her mouth, likely to insist Sarah return to the infirmary, but Armin interjects before she can speak.)* **Armin**: They're not here. Last we heard, they were preparing to leave with us for Stohess District. There's... a new development in the investigation. *(Both Armin and Mikasa exchange a glance, an unspoken worry passing between them. Sarah catches this, sensing the gravity of the situation.)* **Sarah**: *"A new development"? What kind of development?* *(Mikasa looks to Armin, a silent agreement to share the burden of what they know. Armin's gaze returns to Sarah, his voice taking on a solemn note.)* **Armin**: We think the Female Titan might be someone from the inside... Someone in the military. *(Sarah's heart skips a beat, the implications of Armin's words chilling. The betrayal, the danger--it adds a new layer of urgency to her need to find Levi and Erwin.)* **Sarah**: If that's the case, I need to see them before they leave. I have to know they're heading into this with everything they need. **Mikasa**: It's dangerous, Sarah. You should be recovering, not getting involved in-- **Sarah** *(Cutting her off, determination clear in her eyes)*: I've already been involved, Mikasa. If there's a chance I can help, I need to take it. *(Mikasa, about to argue, seems to read the resolve in Sarah's eyes and instead sighs, resigning.)* **Armin**: If you're set on this, they're likely at the stables preparing their horses. But Sarah, please be careful. *(Grateful for the information, Sarah nods, offering a weak but determined smile.)* **Sarah**: Thank you. Both of you. I will. *(As Sarah turns to leave, heading toward the stables, Armin and Mikasa watch her go, a mix of admiration and worry reflected in their faces. They know better than to try and stop her; the same resolve that led her to follow Erwin, to join the Scouts, now propels her forward, toward whatever uncertain future awaits beyond the walls of Stohess District.)* *(Sarah's steps grow more assured with each pace, driven by a need to reconnect with Levi and Erwin, to offer her support, and perhaps, to find a moment of clarity amidst the brewing storm.)* **Fade to black.**

**Exterior: Stables at Dawn - Moments Later** *(The air is crisp and cool as dawn breaks over the stables, the soft morning light spilling over the courtyard. Levi is seen preparing his horse, his movements deliberate and focused, yet an undercurrent of frustration lingers in his posture. His mind is preoccupied with the mission ahead, and the unease of leaving while Sarah remains unconscious in the infirmary.)* *(Despite the task at hand, Levi's thoughts keep drifting back to Sarah; her determination, her strength, and the moment he found her outside the wall, barely alive. The memory is a weight in his chest, a mix of relief and unresolved tension.)* *(His reverie is abruptly interrupted by the sound of footsteps approaching. Turning, Levi's eyes narrow in surprise and then widen in disbelief as he sees Sarah limping toward him, her face set with the same unyielding resolve he remembers, yet paler, wearier.)* **Levi** *(Curtly, masking his concern)*: What the hell do you think you're doing up? *(Sarah's eyes meet Levi's, a myriad of emotions passing between them in the briefest of moments -- relief, worry, and an undeniable connection.)* **Sarah**: I needed to see you. Both of you. *(Her gaze flits to Erwin, who has just joined Levi, looking equally surprised and concerned at her appearance.)* Are you alright? The expedition ... **Levi**: We're fine. *(His voice softens slightly)* It's you who shouldn't be walking around yet. *(Sarah attempts to argue, a retort on the tip of her tongue, but Erwin cuts in, his tone gentle yet firm.)* **Erwin**: Sarah, your place is in the infirmary. You've been through a lot. You need to heal. *(Despite the protest in her eyes, Sarah can't hide the faint trembling of her hands, the clear signs of her body's struggle to maintain strength. Levi sees this, his expression tightening.)* **Levi**: *(Stepping closer, lowering his voice)* Don't make me carry you back myself. *(There's an underlying warmth in his threat, one that speaks of concern and care. Sarah's determination battles with the physical reminder of her injuries, and for a moment, her resolve falters.)* **Sarah**: *(Quietly)* I just... needed to know you were okay. *(Levi's gaze softens at her admission, the stoic facade breaking to reveal a depth of emotion rarely shown. He reaches out, steadying her with a gentle firmness.)* **Levi**: We're okay, Sarah. Thanks to you. But now, you need to focus on getting better. Understand? *(Sarah nods, finally allowing the concern of her comrades to guide her decision. The silent communication between her and Levi speaks volumes, a silent promise of things left unsaid but deeply felt.)* **Erwin**: *(Adding his assurance)* We'll handle things in Stohess. You've done your part, now let us do ours. *(Sarah manages a small smile, the worry easing from her features at their words. There's a reluctant acceptance in her nod, a trust in leaving the mission in their hands as she focuses on her recovery.)* *(As Levi and Erwin offer their support, escorting Sarah back towards the infirmary, there's a shared understanding between them all. The battlefield has forged a bond that not even the harshest of realities can break, a unity solidified in the promise of tomorrow, and the unspoken feelings that continue to grow stronger, even in the face of uncertainty.)* **Fade to black.**

**Interior: Infirmary - Days Later** *(The infirmary is bathed in soft afternoon light, the usual hustle of medics and injured soldiers replaced by a quiet lull. Sarah sits on the edge of her infirmary bed, a stack of paperwork beside her. Despite her pale complexion and the bandages still visible, there's a new vigor to her movements, a testament to her determination to heal and contribute despite her injuries.)* *(As she pores over reports and maps, Jean, Connie, and Reiner enter tentatively. Their eyes hold a mix of admiration and concern, lingering on her bandages before meeting her gaze.)* **Jean**: Hey, Sarah. We heard you were up and... organizing things. **Connie**: Yeah, and we wanted to see if there's anything we can do to help. You know, with... stuff. *(Reiner nods in agreement, the trio standing awkwardly, clearly looking for a way to be useful but unsure of how to proceed.* *(Sarah, surprised but touched by their offer, sets aside the paperwork and smiles.)* **Sarah**: Thanks, guys. I could use some help organizing these supply requests. And, maybe, hear some fresh perspectives on training schedules. *(Grateful for the opportunity, the trio eagerly gathers around, leaning over the paperwork. Their initially clumsy attempts to be helpful soon give way to a focused effort, their youthful energy palpable.)* *(Hange enters the room quietly, observing the scene with an amused and knowing look. They approach Sarah, glancing at the young Scouts busily shuffling papers and making suggestions.)* **Hange**: Looks like you've got quite the fan club here, Sarah. *(Sarah looks up, a blush creeping onto her cheeks at Hange's teasing tone.)* **Sarah**: They're just being helpful, Hange. **Hange**: *(Teasingly)* Oh, I'm sure. But I can't help noticing how a certain someone's miraculous survival and bravery outside the wall have made quite the impression. A few hearts fluttering in admiration, perhaps? *(Jean, Connie, and Reiner overhear, their reactions a mix of mild embarrassment and poorly disguised interest. They try to focus even more intently on the paperwork, as if proving their genuine intent to assist.)* **Sarah**: Hange, stop. They're just being good comrades. **Hange**: *(Laughing)* Of course, of course. Comrades in arms and perhaps a touch more for the bravest among us. *(Despite the embarrassment, the mood in the room lightens, laughter mingling with the rustle of papers. Through Hange's jest, Sarah feels a warm sense of belonging and camaraderie. The young Scouts, buoyed by the jest and Sarah's acceptance, find renewed purpose in assisting her, their admiration only deepened by her humility and resilience.)* *(As they continue to work together, the shared glances and quiet determination among them speak of a deep respect and a burgeoning sense of unity. Amidst the laughter and teasing, Sarah's leadership and strength shine, drawing her comrades closer in mutual support and admiration.)* **Fade out.**

**Exterior: Beyond Wall Rose - Late Afternoon** *(The Scouts mobilize with a frenzied urgency, their gear checked and rechecked, horses saddled and ready. The atmosphere is tense, charged with the anticipation of facing an unknown threat--a terror that might be lurking much closer to home than any of them are comfortable with. Among them, Sarah stands determined, her injuries concealed beneath her uniform, her expression set in a hard line of resolve.)* *(Hange, who is in command in Erwin and Levi's absence, notices Sarah gearing up alongside the others. They approach her with a conflicted expression, torn between admiration for her tenacity and concern for her well-being.)* **Hange**: Sarah, you should be resting. I can't allow you to go out there like this. **Sarah**: I can't just sit here, Hange. Not when I can fight. Not when our home might be at risk. *(Hange sighs, seeing the same unwavering determination in Sarah's eyes that they've seen in Levi and Erwin. They clasp her shoulder, nodding reluctantly.)* **Hange**: Be careful, Sarah. We can't afford to lose you. *(With the rest of the Scouts quickly fanning out to cover more ground, Sarah mounts up and follows, her heart heavy with the gravity of the situation. She keeps to the edge, shadowing the group, until she notices Miche breaking off from the main contingent. His senses, ever sharp, have picked up something others might have missed.* *(Sarah decides to follow Miche, keeping her distance, but staying close enough to provide support if needed. Despite her efforts to remain undetected, Miche slows his horse, turning to regard her with an unreadable expression.)* **Miche**: I can smell you, Sarah. You're injured. Why are you out here? *(Sarah is momentarily taken aback by his directness, but she meets his gaze squarely, her resolve firm.)* **Sarah**: I need to be here. I can fight, Miche. *(Miche evaluates her for a moment, the silence between them heavy. Finally, he nods, turning his horse to continue down the path he'd chosen, signaling for her to follow.)* *