Historia Reiss

Historia Reiss (ヒストリア・レイス) is an illegitimate child from the aristocratic Reiss family. She was raised in isolation on an estate of the Reiss family before being violently dispossessed after the fall of Wall Maria, and in doing so, she was coerced into entering military service (in the hopes of her death) and consequently renouncing her name and claim to Reiss heritage in order to assume a new identity as Krista Lenz (クリスタ・レンズ). Over the course of her childhood and isolation, she intentionally created a persona for herself that was to be in all things selfless and kind to those around her. In her innermost self however, she is an empty, melancholy girl uncertain of her true nature and personality, nor her purpose and meaning in the world. She becomes an important asset to the Survey Corps, and is pursued by various agents of the government (under orders of the King and the Inner Brigade) and the Titan Shifters. Ymir initially sought her out of curiosity to her past and in order to use her as a bargaining chip. In the process, befriended her and fell in love with the Historia she saw underneath the emotional armor and false projections.

Appearance
Historia is petite and the smallest soldier from the 104th Trainees Squad from which the central cast originates. She has blonde hair, blue eyes, and wears the standard military uniform. Historia is noted for being very pretty; this, coupled with her kindness, sometimes causes her classmates to wonder if she is a goddess or an angel, hinting that many of them crush on her. When on expeditions, her hair is seen in a low ponytail.

Personality
Historia is normally very shy and kind, quick to come to tears, and doesn't know how to react to people in certain situations (likely coming from her isolation from people as a child). However, Ymir notes that Historia's desire to perform kindnesses stems not only from a desire to gain honor from them, but also to gain the approval of those around, and to be seen as a good person. This is perhaps a result of her childhood where she was denied both, and raised to believe herself to be an unfortunate mistake. The strongest manifestation of this is her often, and severe suicidal inclinations, where she desires merely to die in a manner where others will not hate her for having existed at all, and will be spoken off, and remembered favorably.

A lingering feeling it would be better if she was never born and a desire to be remembered as kind manifests itself in Historia's attempt to save a wounded Daz, which would have resulted in both of their deaths, had Ymir not decided to help, unprompted.

After being abandoned by Ymir (who had left to aid the escape and survival of Reiner and Bertolt), Historia's hopeful nature changes, regressing into a vapid disinterest of the world and events around her. She claims that while the outward manifestation of Krista Lenz was a kind and deeply caring person, the real her is empty. Historia's forced assumption of the identity of Krista Lenz resulted in her trying to take up a kind and selfless way of living. Although, she desperately seeks this goal, as Eren observes, the act is still insincere. Thus, Historia regards herself as being vacuous on the inside, lacking a true nature or identity.

History
Historia was born out of wedlock as an illegimiate and unrecognised daughter to Rod Reiss (who is later asserted to be of royalty) and a beautiful servant in his household, who later became his mistress. Historia was raised on an estate owned and administered by the Reiss household and was primarily overseen in her childhood by her maternal grandparents. Her mother chose to be deliberately distant to her, always reading by herself and never engaging Historia in any form of social interaction, nor participating with work around the estate. As a consequence of this, Historia was gravely neglected by all members of her family, as was shown to be a curt rejection and refusal of parental obligation on the part of her mother. Her grandparents interacted with her only to inform her of her obligations around the estate, and to instruct her on her chores. An important factor in her isolation in growing up was the treatment of her by the other children on the estate and the surrounding lands, who actively terrorised her if she tried to leave the farm or otherwise engage with them, throwing rocks and shouting other forms of abuse at her.

Growing up, she began to read widely, including books that depicted the typical relationship between a mother and her child, causing Historia to question her own relationship with her mother, and desiring to understand what it was like to have meaningful physical contact with her mother. This led to an attempt to hug her mother resulting in her being violently slapped away and causing her mother to openly lament that she did not have the bravery to kill Historia when she had been born. Though bruised and bloody, Historia felt happiness because it was the first time she had ever been spoken to by her mother. After this incident she would not see nor interact with her mother again for several years. During this interlude, she came to understand her position in the Reiss household, particularly that she was regarded by those around her as a curse and grave burden to her family; though she did not understand the reason for her treatment and rejection. The only consolation in her life on the estate were the animals being husbanded, providing her with a means of companionship.

However, she seemingly held one friend during her childhood; a Mysterious Woman that would visit her in secret (though the frequency of this is not shown). The woman taught Historia how to read, and further encouraged her personal development in the hopes of becoming a kind girl that everyone would love. She would chide Historia for not being more lady-like, but would become distressed when the girl spoke of her as an ideal role model of a proper Lady. It is not yet stated why, but Historia would forget many of these interactions and her existence, save for when the memories were subconsciously accessed during dreams.

Days after the fall of Wall Maria, Rod Reiss came to the estate with her mother to see Historia and to take her into the Reiss household properly; it is assumed that Historia would thus be recognized as a child and heir to the Reiss family. As they attempted to evacuate they were surrounded by unmarked soldiers of the Inner Brigade of the Military Police, who then confronted Rod Reiss over the identity of Historia and her mother. Rod Reiss in turn, denied any relation to them. One of the soldiers, Kenny Ackerman, restrained Historia's mother and killed her as she desperately attempted to deny being Historia's mother and her existence thereof. Her last testament before having her throat cut were to look at her daughter and coldly state that she wished she had never given birth to her. The soldiers then attempted to kill Historia as well, but Rod Reiss intercepted their efforts by offering an alternative arrangement: that if, she were to disappear from the Reiss household, assume a new name and identity before enlisting as a soldier, that would mean they would not need to kill her. The soldiers agreed with this, and Rod Reiss then gave her the new name of "Krista Lenz".

104th Trainees Squad arc
After the cataclysm of the Colossal Titan breaching Wall Maria, Historia lived in a refugee camp before reaching the minimum age requirement to enable her to enlist as a trainee. Upon her subsequent training and graduation she had been ranked as 10th of the 104th; a rank below Sasha Blouse (this was later asserted by Historia to have been given the tenth position by Ymir).

In the year 848, two years before graduation, Historia accompanies the other trainees on a wilderness hunt to sustain themselves in times of peace. Along with the other trainees, Historia is pulled into an equipment heist by thieves in the forest and is kidnapped, held as a hostage so the trainees don't retaliate. The ones left behind create a plan to try and rescue her, and after some trouble and the eventual capture of the thieves, Historia is safely returned and the thieves arrested.

Battle of Trost District arc
Following her inauguration into the military, Historia wasn't seen to be partaking in the battle of Trost until attempting to help Armin overcome the distress of him believing himself to have lost his friends to the Titans. She would then play a role in helping a Mikasa lead expedition with the other trainees retake control the supply room, enabling the trainees to affect a resupply which had until then, been preventing their withdrawal from Trost. This was while the Rogue Titan enaged other Titans in combat, distracting them from the expedition.

The Female Titan arc
As ordered, in the aftermath of the battle of Trost, she reported her Three Dimensional Maneuver Gear to the Military Police for inspection as a part of the investigation over the deaths two captured Titans, presumed to be have been killed by a soldier using Three Dimensional Maneuver Gear. Despite her fears in facing the Titans in combat again she volunteered to became a member of the Scouting Legion, something she would later say was a decision made by her innermost self that she herself didn't understand the reasons behind it. During her first expedition out of the walls she saved Reiner, Armin, and Jean after they have become partially stranded in combat against the Female Titan by supplying them wih a horse allowing all of them to proceed on horseback.

She was then seen to be holding her position on the tree line (as per orders) baiting the Titans and preventing them from entering the forest while the Survey Corps attempted to capture the Female Titan.

Clash of the Titans arc
Historia was later shown to be part of the group that is being suspected for being comrades of Annie, when the Beast Titan suddenly attacked with the other Titans.

When Pastor Nick revealed to the members of the Survey Corps that Historia may know about the Walls having Titans inside them because of her family, and that she went under an assumed name after being caught in the middle of her relatives' dispute. It wasn't long until Eren and the others realized that she was often around Ymir.

When she remembers being with Ymir when they were helping Daz in her hometown. She was confronted for living under an assumed name after being caught in the middle of a serious dispute between her families and relatives. Before transforming into a Titan to fight the other Titans attacking them, Ymir made Historia promise her to go back into living under her real name.

After Historia and the rest of the trainees watch Ymir fighting against the group of Titans nearly falling off the tower when Ymir transformed, to which Reiner questioned her if she knew about it but tells she didn't know herself despite being so close to her and refuses to believe it at first. When the Trainees question whose side Ymir is on, Krista remembers some events of her and along with the other watching Ymir's attempt to fight the other Titans and came to the conclusion that she is fighting to protect everyone. She begins to cheer for Ymir telling her not to die and to break down the tower and celebrates when Ymir does so. She, along with the others, ride on her back and land on the ground safely, except for Ymir who is eaten by the Titans. As Historia tries to make her way to Ymir to fulfill her promise she is nearly grabbed by a Titan but is saved by Mikasa. As everyone watches in disbelief at Ymir's wounds and the truth, Historia reveals her true name.

She reveals her true name as Historia Reiss to Hange Zoë and pleads with her to go easy on Ymir. While she knew what her friend did was wrong in hiding information that could have been useful to the Survey Corps, she understood she did it to protect her comrades. Hange tells Historia she understands Ymir being a Titan like Eren and being an ally of humanity, but the political and bureaucratic rules are not as simple as she thinks. She watches with horror as Reiner, in his Armored Titan form, grabs Eren while Bertolt snatches Ymir in his Colossal Titan form.

During the battle, she is assigned to provide care for the wounded. She insists that Ymir is still alive, and begs the other soldiers to rescue her. Later, she joins the rescue mission against Armin's advice. The team eventually manages to catch up with Reiner and Bertolt, but are unaware that Ymir has been convinced to ally with them in exchange for Krista's safety. When Ymir appears in her Titan form, Krista rushes to greet her and is swiftly ensnared in Ymir's mouth, so the Titans can kidnap her.

As the Titans flee from the military, Ymir finally spits her out and partially emerges from her Titan form so they can speak. Krista initially believes that Ymir is being forced to cooperate with the traitors, and begs to be released so that they can escape. However, Bertolt points out that Ymir is not being forced to work with them and demands to know if Ymir is going to change her mind again, abandoning Krista to save herself. At this point, Ymir breaks down and confesses to her that she intends to use Krista's status as the heir of the Reiss family and hopes to save herself from the traitors she served. Using Krista's true nature, Ymir begs her to please save her. In response, Krista smiles and states she will always be on Ymir's side.

When Mikasa arrives and attacks Ymir, Krista quickly steps forward to stop the fight. She pleads with her to spare Ymir, and refuses to back down even when Mikasa threatens her. It's only when Mikasa makes it clear she won't spare anyone who gets in her way, that Krista relents and talks Ymir out of fighting any further.

"I'll fight together with you! So release your hand! Even if you have your reasons and there are things you can’t tell me! No matter what! I’m on your side!"

- Historia to Ymir

Erwin Smith uses a successful ploy to slow down the traitors' escape, leading a massive horde of Titans directly into the Armored Titan's path. While her former comrades retreat to safety, Krista chooses to stay with Ymir and quickly comes under attack by the mindless Titans. She is rescued by Ymir, and they quickly become separated from Reiner and Bertolt in the ensuing chaos. During the fierce battle, she rescues Ymir from a larger Titan and proudly declares it her first Titan kill. As she lands and prepares to check on her companion, Connie Springer arrives on the scene and snatches her up. Krista initially struggles with him, stating that she doesn't need to be saved and has chosen to side with the traitors. She tells him that unless she goes, Ymir will be killed by the Titan Shifters' people. However, Connie saw through Ymir's lies and asks her if this is exactly what Ymir told her and points out that Ymir only acts seriously in order to protect her. He further points out the dangerous situation they're in, suggesting they retreat to safety together with Ymir. This seems to hit on and calm Krista, and they are quickly joined by Ymir running alongside them in Titan form. It is then that they notice Titans being thrown into the path of the main force, blocking off their retreat. As chaos reigns around them, she uses her gear to jump onto Ymir's head and shouts at Connie to call her "Historia". She then confronts Ymir about what Connie had said to her, wondering if Ymir is still lying to her in order to protect her. With newfound resolve, she states that they should both live only for themselves from now on -- echoing Ymir's words to her before she leapt from Castle Utgard. With a smile, she declares that she will never fear anything as long as they can be together. With this, she charges into battle along with Ymir and Connie. In the aftermath of the battle, she rejoins the main forces in fleeing back to the Walls. But Ymir hesitates and stops upon hearing Bertolt's screams, watching as the traitors fight for their lives against the Titan horde. Historia is shocked when Ymir utters an apology to her, reaching out to gently caress her hair before leaving to help the other Shifters. While Connie leads her horse, a heartbroken Historia watches Ymir join the battle and is forced to leave her behind within the Titan-infested lands of Wall Maria.

The Uprising arc
Upon arriving back at the wall, Historia collapses into the arms of Rico Brzenska as the rest of the military is in a panic dealing with injuries. Connie grasp his head and struggles to stand as Historia drinks some water and is comforted by Rico who tells her that there are no Titans nearby. As Rico continues to comfort Historia, Eren notes to Armin, Jean, and Connie that because he got captured all these people died. Jean notes that they had about 100 people and with the Garrison forces having little experience there are just 40 left, half of which can't walk. Jean adds that even the Survey Corps lost half their members before wondering what will happen to them now. Remaining optimistic, Armin comments that there were no losses on the way back as the Titans completely ignored them. As Armin thinks about the Female Titan controlling Titans, he asks Eren if he was the one who controlled the Titans and saved them. As Eren claims to have no idea, Jean and Connie press him for more information and remark that they certainly would have died otherwise. As Eren considers what they said, Jean says he appreciates how hard this is for Eren considering Erwin lost his arm, Mikasa has a shattered ricage, and Hannes died just to save him. Jean tells Eren that is unsure if he is worth the price but concludes that it is up to Eren whether or not their deaths have meanings. Eren chuckles and says that Jean has become preachy, a statement that Connie agrees with. Jean responds that he deserves some slack since he saved Mikasa before he is thanked by Eren, who vows to never hesitate again and to seal up Wall Maria while controlling Titans. Eren decides that his penance for what happened will be capturing Reiner and the others, along with making sure all these deaths had meaning. Historia, having heard the whole conversation, rises up against Armin and Rico's protests. She corrects Armin by saying that her name is Historia before telling Eren that they should hurry towards the wall. As Eren also asks her to rest, she yells in panic that she is fine before grasping Eren's shoulder and saying that if they don't hurry they won't be able to save Ymir. As she asks him if he is strong and demands he do something with his Titan power, the others question what Historia is saying. Collapsing, Rico asks her to calm down and to relax her body and soul. Eren tells her that Ymir was concerned about her safety when they were captured and Historia responds that she doesn't understand. Eren comments that she chose to leave the walls on her own, prompting Connie to agree and Jean to admit that she is hard to understand. As Historia begins to break down and cry, she says that she won't forgive Ymir for choosing Reiner add Bertolt over her. As she calls her a traitor, Jean calls her Krista and says she is not acting like herself. Histoira beings to laugh with tears still in her eyes and says that Krista was nothing more than a role given to her so she could live. Some time later, Eren, Armin, Jean, Mikasa, Sasha, Connie, and Historia have all relocated to a remote log cabin. Historia returns from gathering firewood with Mikasa, who is scolded by Armin for working too hard with her injuries. Eren adds that he tried to stop her from doing situps before Jean angrily replies that he shouldn't be spying on Mikasa. Sasha comments that this reminds her of training as Armin agrees but wonders why they were chosen for Levi's squad when they are plenty of other veterans who could protect Eren and Historia. The fighting continues as Armin and the others accuse Sasha of stealing bread.

Levi arrives at the cabin and calls a meeting with his new squad and Hange's squad. After scolding them for their poor cleaning job he announces that they are going to review their current situation. Levi begins voices his belief that sealing Wall Maria would be such a victory that nearly any sacrifice would be worth it. He then turns to Armin and asks him to share his opinion regarding the sealing of the wall, which is to use several hardened bodies of Eren in his Titan form. Due to this, Armin believes that they could seal the hole in one night which draws excitement from the crowd before he depressingly says that is very unlikely. Levi responds that the likelihood of the plan rests with Eren, who ensures his Captain that he will do his best. Levi motions to Hange that she now must choose a suitable place to experiment, and she responds that she will due to the tenuous peace inside the walls. She is incredibly eager to begin the experiments, especially with regards to Eren's potential ability to control Titans. Despite her insistence, she asks Eren to continue keeping a low profile which draws shocked reactions from Armin and Eren. Hange replies that the situation is very complicated but upon being reluctant to explain, Levi replies that she has been waiting to speak like someone holding in shit and she just needs to get it over with. Hange bluntly says that Pastor Nick has died, leaving everyone in Levi's squad confused. She goes on to say that he was found dead at the Trost Military Barracks and that he was certainly murdered. Hange recounts the story of her and Moblit Berner going to see Nick and being stopped from entering the room by two Military Police members, Djel Sanes and Ralph. Hange and Moblit both froze when they realized that both MPs were from the First Interior Squad, which is only supposed to deal with matters in the capital. Djel explained that they are here due to the shortages and Hange quickly feigned an apology and knowing about Nick's role with the Wall Cult. After grasping his hand too hard, Hange releases her grip and apologizes with a salute and by saying that the people who did this will surely come to pay. As they left, Moblit asked if they really killed Nick and Hange responded that they almost certainly did as the skin was torn on Djel's knuckles from punching Nick. Hange admits that she feels responsible for his death. After much silence, Armin asks if they tortured Nick in order to get information about the Survey Corps. Levi answers that they likely asked him if he revealed information about the Reiss family, or if he knew the location of Eren and Historia. Moblit adds that Erwin and Pixis were told and the First Interior Squad is being watched, but still they likely have multiple ways of finding them. Levi asks Hange if she has been thinking about the experiments and she replies yes since she is very concerned with how desperate someone is looking to get their hands on Eren. Levi asks if she is proposing they do nothing and Hanges response that they should just wait and see is criticized by Levi, as he believes that they will be found eventually so they must act. Levi inquires about Nick's fingernails and after learning that all 10 were removed, he confidently announces that Nick would have ratted them out after one fingernail and the loss of all 10 proves his conviction. Levi believes that they can either seal Wall Maria before getting stabbed in the back, or eliminate the traitors in the walls. He asks Hange who says they should both, the very same answer Levi thinks Erwin would give.

Mikasa, Historia, Eren, and Connie prepare dinner as Connie admits to Eren that he didn't understand half of that he just heard. Eren replies that they need to experiment discretely and eliminate anyone in their way. Connie announces his desire to kill the Beast Titan since, according to Ymir, it was responsible for transforming his village into Titans. Connie expresses anger at Ymir for taking him as a joke, prompting Historia to reply that he is wrong. She explains that Ymir kept quiet in order to avoid hurting Connie, which Connie finds hard to believe. At dinner, Historia begins to tell the story of her childhood by saying that she was born on a farm in Northern Wall Sina under the control of Rod Reiss. She remembers constantly doing chores and her beautiful mother always reading books, except when she dressed up and was taken to the city by different noblemen. Historia learned to read and write and realized that she was lonely since no one ever had a conversation with her that wasn't about work; she never spoke to her mother. After wanting to feel affection, she jumped on her mother's lap and was slapped off but was happy at receiving some attention from her mother, who wished that she had the courage to kill Historia. Her mother left the farm and she came to realize that for everyone there, her existence was not something to be celebrated and only animals were her friends. She then tells of the night five years ago, several days after Wall Maria fell, where she met her father, Rod Reiss. Her mother was also there but seemed incredibly scared as Historia was told by Rod that she would be living with him from now on. As they moved towards the carriage, they were suddenly surrounded by several adults who grabbed her mother and remarked that what Rod had done was very troubling. Historia screamed for her mother but was rejected as she denied being her mother or having anything to do with her. As Kenny Ackerman, the apparent leader, asked Rod if that was true, he lied and said that it was. The man forced her mother to the ground and slit her throat as she screamed at Rod for lying and finally wished that Historia had never been born. As Kenny approached Historia to kill her, Rod intervened and told her that her name was now Krista Lenz. She then lived on reclaimed land for two years and joined the Trainee Squad at the age of 12. She ends her story by saying that was when she met everyone here.

Historia looks on with Levi's squad and Hange's squad as they conduct an experiment with Eren's Titan form in the mountains. Eren, in a deformed state, falls over as Hange yells at him to get up and Levi notes that he isn't even 10 metres tall. Hange jumps down in order to cut Eren out before Mikasa does the same thing. Levi asks Hange if Mikasa shoudl be punished for acting on her own, but she replies that the experiment is over anyway. Hange pulls Eren from the Titan's nape while noticing the intense heat as Mikasa pleads to take over the task of freeing Eren. Hange continues her work by asking Moblit to draw Eren's disfigured face and theorizing about his state, prompting Moblit to yell that she has no humanity. Mikasa slices the flesh still connecting Eren to the Titan while Hange pulls him free and announces the end of the experiment. Historia, ordered by Levi to sit with him, joins him in a wagon with Mikasa and Hange. Eren wakes up in his room with Levi, Historia, Mikasa, and Hange who jokes that thanks to Eren waking up she won't be slashed by Mikasa. Eren, unaware of anything that happened during the experiment, asks if the hardening process worked and Hange bluntly replies no. Hange begins to recount the experiment and starts by saying that they decided to intelligence tests after the hardening ones failed. As Eren struggles to remember Hange continues and notes that he became a 15m Titan, was able to perform intricate tasks, but was unable to speak. After being asked to write on the ground, Eren wrote that he couldn't harden and then something sloppily about his father before agonizing for 30 minutes followed by crawling out of the Titan. After resting for 30 minutes Eren transformed into a 13m Titan who ignored all commands before collapsing and forcing Hange to intervene to free him. After another 30 minutes he transformed again into a 10m Titan who couldn't stand, was underdeveloped, and was more stuck to Eren than any previous form. Eren remarks that due to him the mission to seal Wall Maria is now impossible. Levi agrees that Eren is completely to blame and notes that they are now exposed to many risk due to the experiment and achieved nothing. Mikasa attempts to defend Eren but Levi counters that he isn't blaming, rather he is complaining about inadequacy which is part of the process. Levi continues his rant by claiming that a rotten smell exists in the walls and if it continues for another 100 years, humanity will be destroyed. While he has been aware of this since his birth he became even more so when he became exposed to the freedom outside the walls. Hange cuts Levi off and summarizes his point by saying that they learned Eren is unable to harden, along with other information resulting from the intelligence tests. Hange and Levi end by agreeing that everyone needs to keep working hard. As Eren continues to strain, Mikasa holds his arm and urges him to take it easy. Hange announces that they now only have one option left which is to investigate the Wall Cult and their link to the Titan-created walls. Hange also wishes to know why the supposed highest authority, the King, doesn't know this and the Reiss Family does. She reveals that Erwin has gone to the capital in order to gather information. Later, Historia and the rest of the squad read Erwin's orders in shock as they are told by Levi that any idiot who believes them should follow him. As Levi and the others leave, they observe men breaking into their previous residence as Armin asks Levi if they are First Interior Squad members. He finds it unlikely and notes that they are underestimating him before the group heads out. Eren and Historia separate from the group and head to a safehouse, where Eren worries about Jean and Armin as he thinks they look nothing like himself and Historia. He believes that if they are caught pretending to be them, they will surely suffer.

While in the hideout with Eren, Historia falls asleep in her chair and begins to dream of her childhood. On the farm she is sitting with her half-sister, Frieda Reiss, who is amazed at Historia's reading ability. Historia credited Frieda with helping her and she responded by making Historia blow her nose while telling her to be more lady-like. After Historia asked what lady-like meant, Frieda used a picture in a book as an example and claimed that it means being kind, gentle, and thinking of other. She then encouraged Historia to be like that so she would have friends since the world is a harsh place. Historia replied that she wanted to be just like Frieda, who was surprised and took this a compliment while she hugged Historia. She then told Historia that it was time before giving her one more hug and telling her to forget everything that happened her until next time. As Frieda walked away, Historia in her dream had no idea who she was. As Historia wakes up Eren asks if anything is wrong she replies that nothing is and she was just dreaming. Historia feels like she had an important dream but can't remember any of it which Eren says happens to him all the time. Eren inquires about the time before worrying about his squadmates and asking Historia if their opponent really is the Reeves Corporation. Eren takes a seat and apologizes to Historia for not being able to harden, which confuses her as to why Eren is apologizing to her. After asking if she still wants to help Ymir, Historia responds that her feelings have changed and Ymir made her own choices which gives Historia no right to do anything she didn't need to. She admits to only having the unknown Reiss family left and is unsure if she is suited for such high responsibilities, which forces Eren to ask what she wants and Historia to answer that she is not sure. After some silence, Historia tells Eren that she envys him because he always does what he wants to do and has something to fight for, which Historia lacks. With Ymir gone, Historia admits to not knowing anything and asks Eren if he ever thought someone like herself could exist. Eren responds that if they look at the world around them and the danger they face due to the Titans there is nothing to wonder about. He tells Historia that she should be worrying about Armin and she responds that her feelings are unsure, and Krista certainly would have worried because she was a good girl. Historia, speaking about herself, says that she wasn't loved and didn't wish to be born, adding that her real self is empty and good girls like Krista don't exist. Eren tells her that he had plenty of reasons to dislike Krista, which draws a shocked reaction from Historia. Eren ends by saying that she he likes her now because she is a stupidly honest, regular person. Historia and Eren regroup with the rest of their squad and retreat to another remote settlement. Levi, having foiled the kidnapping of Armin and Jean, formed an alliance with the kidnapper and captured two First Interior Squad members.

Historia and the rest of Levi's Squad listen in terror to the tortured screams of Djel Sanes, the First Interior Squad Member who killed Pastor Nick. Jean nervously says that although he was set against the Titans he is now unsure of who the enemy is and wondering why they are staining their hands with torture. Eren replies that they have no other choice since humanity will certainly be devoured if they fail here. Eren recites Erwin's order by noting that they are pulling a coup d'etat and this is likely the beginning. Sasha adds that they are all rebels now while wondering what will happen if they fail, prompting Jean to reply that they will be executed. Armin feels that trying to change a group that has held power for over 100 years is difficult and that the method they are using is wrong, instead they should be trying to gain the support of the populace. He begins forming a plan to use the chaos of the Titan's incursion as evidence of the government's wrongdoings, shifting the blame onto them. Very coldly, he goes on to say that sacrifices are necessary and the best course of action would be to create a tragedy that can be blamed on the government, and then the Survey Corps can come in and save the day. After receiving cold stares from everyone present, Armin gives a weak smile and says that he was just thinking. Jean asks if he was corrupted by his pervert kidnapper, Eren replies that Armin has always been a dark person, and Mikasa adds that she doesn't remember raising Armin like this as a kid. Armin depressingly reminds everyone that they are already criminals and are killing people because they have different ideas. Simply because they have different allegiances people need to be killed. Placing his head on the table, he ends by saying that they are no longer good guys. Later, Historia is seen sitting down on watch with a rifle.

As Levi gets his meeting underway he asks where Hange is, only to be told she left to speak with Erwin. After disparagingly calling her 'four-eyes', he thanks Nifa for working through the night and tells her to begin. After she wonders who their guests are, Levi explains that they are from the Reeves Corporations, which prompts Dimo to start leaving. Levi tells him to stay since they are allies and Dimo asks about his son, Flegel Reeves, who coyly remarks that if Levi wanted to provide a good welcome he should have put tea out. As everyone tenses up in anticipation of what Levi will do, Dimo smacks his son on the head and explains that he has been training him in business but he is a brat. As he again begins to leave, Levi insists that he stay as what is about to be revealed concerns the fate of the humanity. Dimo agrees to stay as Nifa announces that the meeting is about Historia ascending to the throne. Amid the shocked faces, Levi casually admits that he forgot to keep them up to date. Nifa continues, saying that the Fritz Royal Family are puppets in control of the real rulers, the Reiss family. Armin breaks the appalled silence by asking if making Historia the queen is their main goal. Levi tells him it is before asking Historia her thoughts, which are that she can't do it. Levi is sympathetic that this is a big burden to throw on her and understand her reluctance, but concludes that none of that matters as he harshly tells her to do it. After Historia refuses a second time, Levi violently lifts the distressed girl into the air by her collar, much to the horror of everyone present, while telling her that running away would only lead to the Survey Corps using all their power to make her do it. Levi tells her that this is her fate and the only way out of it is to fight Levi. Levi lets her drop to the ground and continues his speech despite Jean saying he didn't have to do that. Levi asks if they think they will be able to do whatever they want tomorrow and if the person standing next to them will still be there. He doesn't think that and believes that normal people don't either, not that he considers himself normal due to what he has seen. Despite this, he can fight first if Wall Rose were breached tomorrow and for all they know that could happen tomorrow. As much as they want to prevent this from happening, there are people in their way and Levi doesn't mind being their cold-blooded killer. He considers torturing people to death far more preferable to dying to a Titan since not everyone has to take part in torture. Levi ends by saying that all this could be avoided if Historia took power before he kneels down and harshly yells at her to do it. Frightened, Historia responds that she will do it, if her next role is to be queen she'll do it. Levi helps her up and after telling her that he is counting on her, he tells Nifa to continue while many glances are exchanged.

Nifa claims that she will now communicate Erwin's orders, which are to hand over Eren and Historia to the First Interior Squad, who will be monitored by the Reeves Corporations until they reach the final destination. The final destination is Rod Reiss, Historia's biological father and the highest authority within the walls. According to interrogated Military Police, everyone is under his command so the Survey Corps will capture him and ask him various questions. If he has sufficient answers then he will be allowed to remain in power, otherwise they will replace him with Historia. Finally, once this is all done they can begin the move towards Wall Maria. Outside, Historia and Eren are tied up under the supervision of Dimo who hopes this will work so he can do business up to Wall Maria. After Dimo rubs dirt on them for effect, Flegel asks why they are following a brute like Levi. Dimo coldly replies that the way a businessman looks at someone is key and this is why he trusts Levi, especially since this is the only way to save his company and Trost. He then jokingly tells Historia to give Levi a smack once she's queen as revenge, which Eren finds entertaining. Flegel leaves to use the bathroom just as Dimo hides several small knives on Eren and Historia so he can transform when needed. An employee tells Dimo that the First Interior Squad has arrived and he is shocked at how early they are. Kenny Ackerman congratulates Dimo and then frighteningly asks Historia if she remembers him. After insulting Historia for how little she has grown, Kenny calls Dimo outside who asks if he is getting a reward and has his subordinates capture Eren and Historia. Outside, Kenny has killed everyone from the Reeves Corporation except for Flegel who hid behind a tree. He blames the death of Dimo on the Survey Corps, has the knives removed from Eren, and tells his subordinate to prepare the anti-personnel control squad. He ends by saying that is has always been trouble letting a group like the Survey Corps run around with their power, as Levi silently watches from a tree.

Levi and the Survey Corps follow Eren and Historia to Trost, where they are in coffins being loaded into a carriage. After an ambush by Kenny Ackerman and the First Interior Squad, Levi and the Survey Corps are forced to abandon their pursuit. In the ensuing battle Nifa, Keiji, and a goggled member of Hange's squad are killed by the First Interior Squad. Kenny is temporarily defeated by Levi and leaves the chase up to his subordinates as he escorts the coffins to Rod Reiss. Historia and Eren have their coffins opened in some manner of building as Kenny remarks to Eren how long his journey has been. Historia has her restrains removed and is angrily looking at Rod, her father, with tears in her eyes before he unexpectedly apologizes for everything that has happened. As Eren looks on in disbelief, Rod hugs Historia and explains that he did never stopped thinking of protecting her, which greatly confuses Historia.

Eren is seen on top of a pillar in an underground location with his arms chained to the wall. As Kenny sharpens a knife, Rod remarks to an unrestrained Historia wearing a white robe that now they can put an end to this battle. Eren awakes in the underground location as Historia tells him that everything will be alright if he hangs in there for a while longer. She explains that Rod has always been an ally of humanity and had no choice but to deal with Pastor Nick, the Reeves Corporation, and the Survey Corps. As she says he did it all for mankind, Rod stops talking to Kenny and walks toward Historia as Kenny leaves. Rod tells his daughter that he will take over and says to an observant Eren that despite this being his first time here, it isn't unusual that it feels familiar. Historia asks Rod to explain to Eren and he says that he intends to, but first wants to try triggering Eren's memories of this place by putting his hand on Eren's back. As he and Historia place their hands, Eren is treated to a patchwork of memories that begin with someone going underground a chapel. They reveal Rod, Frieda, and some children before showing a white haired Titan being injured and the children being killed while Rod runs away. Next, a young Eren is given the key to his basement and injected with a needle that causes him to transform into a Titan. He eats the person who injected him and after transforming back into a human, he observes the individuals glasses and cries out for Grisha Yeager, his father. With the revelation of what his father did, Rod asks Eren if he remembers his father's sins as Historia looks off to the side confused.

After seeing several images of Frieda in her mind, Historia begins to tear up as Rod asks whats wrong. She realizes that back on the farm she wasn't alone since she had Frieda, but is confused about why she didn't remember her until now. Rod asks if she met Frieda and the name is unknown to her, so Rod describes her as a young woman with long black hair who was Historia's half-sister. He explains that she would visit Historia and likely erased her memories in order to protect her, which confuses Historia. Rod replies that by touching Eren, Historia's memories have been opened as well which leads her to ask to meet Frieda. Rod hugs Historia and tells her that Frieda, along with his wife and his other four children, were killed at this location five years ago by Grisha Yeager. Grisha was a titan shifter who came to steal the 'power' the Reiss family had, a power that was kept within Frieda's titan form. Her titan possessed an invincible power but she was too inexperienced to use it effectively and was eaten by Grisha, allowing him to steal the power. He then killed 14 year old Dirk, 12 year old Abel, 10 year old Florian, Rod's wife, and his oldest son Ulklin. Rod says that he was the only one to survive since he escaped while Grisha was destroying the chapel, which Rod eventually had rebuilt. As Historia wonders how Grisha could do something like that, Kenny interrupts and asks if they are yammering away. He reminds Rod that the military was successful in their revolution to overthrow the king and that they are almost certainly headed this way. Rod tells Kenny that he intends to but first everyone must leave, including Kenny. The military captain responds jokingly that he was only looking for a toilet, which prompts Rod to say that he trusts Kenny, a sentiment he returns. Kenny leaves by mockingly calling Rod 'Your Majesty'. Historia, having heard everything from Rod and remembering Frieda, has tears in her eyes and looks angrily at Eren as Rod returns with a doctor's bag. After apologizing for making Historia wait, Rod reveals a needle and serum which looks identical to what Grisha injected Eren with. Rod tells Historia that although it sounds strange Frieda isn't really dead since her memories live on. He asks Historia if she would like to see Frieda and his daughter responds that she would. Hearing this, Eren struggles against his chains and attempts to speak.

Hearing the battle between the Survey Corps and the First Interior Squad nearby, Rod tells Historia that they should hurry. Eren again attempts to speak, but is met with a cold glare from Historia as Rod comments that Eren has realized his fate for his sinful choices. Rod tells Historia that the power stolen by Grisha and transferred to Eren will return to the Reiss family through Historia. He explains that the cave they are in was created by a titan who also created the Walls and altered humanities memories so that they could live in peace. Some bloodlines are exempted but nobody knows the history of humanity prior to 100 years or where the titans came from, except Frieda. In addition to the titan's power, she knew everything about the world once she gained the power at the age of 15. Rod goes on by saying that eight years ago, in this same cave, she ate his younger brother. This is the duty of the Reisses and has been going on for 100 years, passing down this power so one person becomes a 'living book' entrusted with the fate of humanity. They are free to spread the secrets or tell no one, and everyone has always chosen the latter. Historia begins to ask a question but Rod says that they must hurry due to the situation of the broken walls, the loss of life, and the ongoing civil war. Rod admits that Frieda could have prevented all this and even exterminated all titans if she still had the power that Grisha stole and passed onto Eren. Rod says that anyone not of the Reiss bloodline cannot fully use the power, so as long as Eren lives the world will remain horrid. Historia is again cut off but this time by Kenny, who lowers himself from the ceiling with his 3DMG and asks Rod to confirm that only a Reiss can use the power. After he confirms this, Kenny comments that even if he became a Titan and ate Eren it would be pointless.

Kenny begins to tell a story about himself as a young man and his dying grandfather. His grandfather, lying in bed, asked if Kenny had killed more MP's and he replied that the ones sniffing around are dead. Kenny said that he found his sister, Kuchel, working at a brothel and that she was pregnant. Another branch of his family moved to Shiganshina but they remain poor due to abuse by locals. Kenny asked why the Ackerman name is so hated when they used to be favourites of the king. After prodding his grandfather with a joke, his grandfather admits that he intended to carry the secrets with him to the grave, but now there is no point. He explained that the Ackermans are feared by the government because they can't be controlled, not hated. His grandfather was born inside the walls so admitted to not knowing everything, but did know that the Ackermans were assistants of the government entrusted with the survival of humanity. Humanity has several bloodlines which can have their memories manipulated, but there are some minorities that are immune to this, such as the Ackerman and Asians. These bloodlines threatened the king's ideas about how to rule since he wanted to erase all memories and bring about peace through this. Kenny was confused by this so his grandfather clarified that the monarchy has the titan's power, that they have been passing down generations. This power built the walls that resulted in humanity losing memory of anything outside them. Due to their inability to have their memories manipulated, the Ackermans couldn't be controlled by the King and refused to submit to him unlike most other immune bloodlines. His grandfather ended by saying his parents did not pass this history along so that the monarchy would have no reason to abuse their children, however given the recent abuses that seems to have been pointless. Kenny replied that he will believed his grandfather's story because things will be more fun that way. He explains that that story influenced his beliefs up to today. Kenny violently lifts Rod into the air by his collar and points his pistol at him. Rod asks if Kenny thinks he is lying and he responds no because he waited for this to see if, for once, Rod wouldn't lie. He accuses Rod of this being his family's succession ritual and for stringing himself along. Rod thanks Kenny and as he begins to say that he never understood why his brother took Kenny off the streets, he is interrupted and told to not speak ill of Uri or he will die. Historia pushes Kenny's gun out of the way and demands that he release her father, to which he responds by calling her pitiful.

Kenny clearly explains to Historia that Rod wants to make her a titan so she can eat Eren. Historia believes that if it is her duty, then she will do it to save humanity. She announces her intention to eat Eren, bring Frieda back, inherit the history of the world, and then exterminate the titans. Kenny places Rod in a choke hold and reminds Historia that her birth was a tragedy and Rod never wanted her. Her mother only did it to gain favour but everyone hater her birth, Rod included. Kenny points out the irony in Rod randomly showing up and deciding to be a good father to Historia, which he thinks is only because Grisha slaughtered his 'real' family and he needed Historia's blood. Kenny goes on to say that the council had ordered him to kill both Historia and her mother but that Rod intervened, even having the Wall Cult monitor her. Kenny starts shoving a large knife down Rod's throat and shouts that he didn't want to be a Titan so made his brother and daughter do it. He even hid the fact Frieda lost her powers so that the Reiss family maintained power, and he kept silent about all this before the Battle of Trost which allowed thousands to die. Kenny becomes louder and yells that Rod doesn't care about his family, humanity, and certainly not Historia, he is nothing but a coward. Rod, surprising Kenny, removes the knife from his throat by badly cutting his hand and tells Historia that there is a reason he can't become a titan. He also says that he can't trust anyone else, prompting Kenny to release him and rhetorically question what he just said. As Historia rushes to his side, Rod thanks Kenny by saying that he has done well and that he finally understands his brother's decision, however his ambitions will go unrealized. Rod ends by telling Kenny that he is free and should go find another reason to have a long life. Kenny, with a blank stare begins to ascend the stairs toward Eren and remarks that Rod's choice wouldn't be fun. As Rod and Historia react in fear, Kenny ignores them and tells Eren that he will no longer block him from transforming. He removes Eren's mouth restraint and announces that both Historia and Eren will transform, with their being peace if the former wins and nothing changing if the latter wins. In order to help Eren transform Kenny slices along his forehead, pouring blood down Eren's face. Historia screeches in terror as Kenny gruffly says that what Rod suggested can't even be called living. Rod ignores the question and thrusts the needle into Historia's hands, telling her that she will definitely win because he chose a titan well suited for combat and Eren is still chained. He also clarifies that she only needs to inject his spinal fluid in order to regain the Reiss power. As Historia exposes her arm and prepares to inject herself Kenny uses his 3DMG to get far away. Just before injection, Historia pauses as she notices that Eren has not transformed and asks him why. As Rod encourages her from afar, Eren replies through blood and tears that what his father did wasn't necessary. He questions how many people died due to Grisha's actions and remembers several people from his trainee days. Eren confesses that he can't begin to make up for all the death caused before also admitting that he wasn't necessary. Historia think of the rejection she received from her mother and sympathizes with Eren. He then asks Historia to eat him so she can save humanity and she responds that when Eren called her a normal person it made her very happy. Historia finally injects herself with the titan needle and transforms.

Relationships

 * Ymir - Their relationship is complex, but is very close, and Ymir has been stated to be in love with her . She states that Ymir has "the worst personality ever", but was willing to abandon humanity if doing so would help Ymir. She states her intention to be at Ymir's side, and trusts her above all others. While Ymir challenges her unhealthy behaviors, she likewise challenges Ymir on her worst aspects.
 * 104th Trainees Squad - Krista is admired by the rest of the trainees, and the most popular girl among them. Many of her male classmates have a crush on her due to her beauty and kindness, as demonstrated when she rescued Reiner Braun, Armin Arlert, and Jean Kirstein. Sasha Blouse also initially thought she was a goddess, and seems to have remained close to her during training.
 * Mikasa Ackerman - Little is known how Mikasa feels about Krista. However, she does make it clear to her that she won't be afraid of killing anyone who dares to attack. Although neither girls are aware of it, they are very much alike; both have their own important person to them, act on that person's behalf, and are willing to go any length to ensure their important one's wellness and safety.
 * Connie Springer - Krista is good friends with Connie, and he is the one to make her aware of the truth behind Ymir's actions. While they've had few interactions shown, it is clear she trusts him enough to take his word at face value.
 * Eren Yeager - Krista had always envied Eren for the fact that he always knows his goals and can work toward them, however Eren had initially always disliked Krista, seeing her as a phony. When her true side was revealed as Historia, Eren respects the fact that now she is a "Stupidly honest and regular person." Krista now considers Eren as a very close friend, after hearing his words.

Trivia

 * Krista-Chara_Design.png official site reveals that the majority of her male classmates had a crush on her, referring to her as the "Goddess" of the 104th.
 * In a Volume 11 sideart, Isayama portrayed Historia shifting into a Titan which depicted an angel.
 * So far, she has been called a goddess twice in the story. The first time by Sasha in Episode 3/Chapter 15. Second time, in Episode 18/Chapter 24.
 * Her name is based upon the song lyrics "The Unsung War" from the Videogame Ace Combat 5 which also serves as Inspiration for Isayama's Oneshot "Heartbreak One" he had written before Shingeki no Kyojin in which the female lead character strongly resembles Historia.
 * Her name Historia is Greek in origin and means "History" . Also, her pseudonym Krista is of Greek origin (greek: Χριστή), meaning "she who is the anointed one". In Hebrew, "the anointed one" is "messiah".
 * Her birthday, January 15th, was celebrated in Japan as Coming Of Age Day between 1948 and 2000. It is now held on the second Monday of the month, but continues to celebrate the entry into adulthood by those turning 20.
 * Her alias surname "Lenz" means "spring" in old German.
 * At the Animagic 2014 series panel, producer George Wada confirmed that Ymir and Historia are "indeed a couple".

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