After the Scarf: Expedition (Prolouge)

A dozen figures in green clad cloaks sat on horseback by the gate, anxiously awaiting for it to open. You were one of those few chosen for the mission preluding the larger one to follow in a week. You and 11 others, many from your trainee group, were chosen specifically for the mission. Not only to test your battle skills, but also to provide information for the upcoming mission beyond the walls. Amoung those chosen was Jean, Reiner, Bertholdt, Mikasa, Sasha, and of course, Rivaille, who led the mission. There were a few others which you didn't bother to learn the names of. 

It had been around a month after your shoulder had healed. Although you frequently had trouble with it, you didn't back down when you were chosen for the mission, despite Rivaille's protests. He argued you weren't ready for battle, despite your injury being healed. You had argued back, and the result lasted with a silence between you two for the rest of the day. 

You looked ahead of you, to where Rivaille sat at the front of the group. You knew he could feel your eyes on his back, but turning around would have seemed...petty. Instead he simply readjusted his cloak, a small but noticeable sign that he had recognized you. You let a tiny small slip past your lips. 

"We are opening the gate!!" A voice yelled from up ahead. "Titans are being kept out of the vicinity! Good Luck and Godspeed!"

You held your breath as the gate began to slowly rumble, raising to reveal the morning sun on the horizon. A few soldiers covered thier eyes against the harsh light, but Rivaille didn't move. 

"Forward." He said loud enough for the group to hear. You found yourself nodding, and urging your horse onward. You were in the middle of the group, put there specifically by Rivaille, knowing it was the safest place in the squad. 

You advanced through the gate, horses hooves pounding against cobblestones, then meeting soft grass and dirt. 

Thus, the 58th expedition beyond the walls began.