Paradis Island, Royal Capital, Hange's home.
"I'm heading to the Research Department. Philia, is there anything you'd like me to bring back?" Hange asked as she rummaged through drawers and cupboards. Philia sat nearby, quietly reading in a chair.
"No, Aunt Hange." Philia shook her head.
Hange sighed and stroked Philia's head. "I'm sorry, Philia. You shouldn't have had to go through any of this."
Philia's eyes flickered at her words. She looked a little downcast but said nothing.
Realizing she had said the wrong thing, Hange hesitated before asking, "I'm going to Marley in a couple of days. Would you like to come?"
Philia's eyes immediately lit up. "Yes! I want to go!"
Hange stiffened, feeling as though she had put her foot in her mouth again. Zoe had left Philia with her precisely to keep her away from Marley. But seeing how delighted Philia was, she could only grit her teeth and agree.
The next day, Hange prepared to leave for Marley. The lands within the walls were still far too backward, and she had recently hit several research bottlenecks. She hoped to recruit some researchers in Marley herself and, if possible, travel to the Mid-East to hold discussions with the various nations.
Meanwhile, Chen Si, who was sunbathing along the East Coast of Paradis Island, received an invitation. Levi and Petra were engaged.
Hange had been about to board a ship when she received her invitation, but she immediately put her trip on hold and returned to the Royal Capital.
Across Paradis Island, the members of the Survey Corps who received invitations hurried toward the Royal Capital.
Wall Sina, Royal Capital, Christa District.
Levi and Petra's wedding was held in the grandest cathedral at the headquarters of the Church of Thunder's Church Court.
The venue could accommodate