#( erwin got to deal with a more dead levi. erwin understands and accepts levi too but he knows the levi HE shaped ) | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

rosierocks30 · 4 years ago

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Hidden: CH.8

Chapter 8: Homecoming

Levi stared at the stairs that led to his hometown, the Underground City. It’s been many years since he considered going down to see how different the shitty place looks. He knew one thing was the smell hadn't gotten better. It still smells like feces and death.

The Captain of the Survey Corps walked down the dark stairs to enter the tunnel.

“What’s that awful smell?” An American accent echoes the dark dingy tunnel.

“Oi old man, quiet down. We don’t want to attract unwanted attention.” Levi glanced at his grandfather.

Both grandson and grandfather kept walking. Levi took Bill with him on a small trip to find any artifact that the late Jacob Miles left Kuchel Ackerman to hide it from Templars. This wasn’t his idea. Levi would have not come here if it wasn’t necessary. Bill insisted Levi to accompany him on this family duo mission.

The captain may not be part of the Brotherhood yet, but for a few months Bill had been training him of the creed. His squad are also going through the training too. Levi knew how to fight and kill human beings. For Walls’ sake, he was raised by Kenny the Ripper. He remembered the heated conversation between Bill and him.

(Flashback)

“Levi, don’t be stubborn. This is your heritage. Why don’t you want to be an assassin?” The Mentor sighed in frustration.

“Because the Survey Corps needs their captain. I will not abandon my comrades especially if we're close at war. My people need their Humanity’s Strongest. I won’t let them down. So no. Out of the question.” Levi explained.

“No one is asking you to leave the Survey Corps or not be part of the upcoming war. I think you should do it. Learning new skills can add your advantage of fighting against our enemies.” Commander Hange was leaning on the wall staring at the assassin and the captain arguing.

The room was dim from the candle lights. The meeting room was full of soldiers and assassins. Of course the queen was sitting at the head center of the table. The news of Premier Zackely’s death was what lead this emergency meeting to happen.

An old maid who cleaned Zackely’s Office, found him dead. Blood was covered from the desk to the floor. That was what the old lady witnessed when she reported to the MPs. The whole Paradis’ military were shocked and alerted.

With his death, a new Premier must be elected soon as possible. Whoever murdered Darius Zackely, it was a declaration of war. Darius was known to be a few steps ahead from everyone which got him to be Premier in the first place.

“Fine, but on one condition, my squad will be part of the Brotherhood. They’re the best soldiers I can rely on.” He said.

“Alright, you got a deal, son.” Bill nodded and agreed to the terms.

(Flashback)

They finally see the light of the end of the tunnel. Luckily, no one was there to keep an eye out of the entrance. Levi took a step back to let all the nostalgic memories he had as a child to an infamous thug.

“The only place I can think of is the brothel where my mother and I used to live there.” Levi pulled his hood more to cover half of his face. His grandfather already had his hood covering his eyes. They kept walking on the muddy road. There were people doing their daily activities. In the corner, some prostitutes try to allure them with their terrible flirting skills in Levi’s option.

Thank the Walls, Historia didn’t join them. Her mood had been changing as her womb got bigger. Only a couple of months left for the baby to pop out. She would glare at them and maybe cause a scene. His wife usually wasn’t like this. It’s probably the hormones’ fault. Hopefully, after the baby is born, he won’t be walking on eggshells around her.

These past few months had changed at a fast pace for Levi. First is the assassination of Darius Zackely then choosing his new successor which it was the Garrison commander Pixis. He’s a brilliant man but a drunkard also. Oh yeah, most of the higher ups officers know Historia is pregnant and married to him. The public doesn’t know yet, but they’re half way there.

(Flashback)

Before Darius Zackely’s death, the three commanders of the Survey Corps, Garrison, and Military Police, were summoned by the Premier along Captain Levi, Mentor William Miles, and Queen Historia for this sudden late evening meeting.

As Levi and Historia entered the room and sat in their places. The Premier made a sound to get everyone’s attention. “Alright, everyone and your majesty. I have summoned this private meeting because one of my spies in Marley sent me a letter that General Magath will soon plan to invade this island than we hope for a little longer we anticipate.” Most of the group were not happy about this news.

“Before we discuss defending our home, Captain Levi and Your Majesty is there anything you both should share with us?” Darius glanced at the married couples.

Historia was confused while Levi glared at his superior officer. He had a hunch what the Premier meant when he asked them.

“I’m sorry, Premier Zackely. I don’t follow what you’re saying.” The queen said while posing as the authoritative figure. She is the queen of Paradis Isle, not the little soldier she once was.

“You know what exactly I mean, You’re Majesty. Your relationship with Captain Levi. I admit both of you kept this secret for so long. I applaud both of you, but you both know that the nobles will cause a riot for this scandal.” Commander Dok was speechless when the secret relationship of Levi and Historia was exposed. Commander Pixis was intrigued at this revelation.

“How the fucking hell did you know about us?” Levi still glared at Darius. This isn’t happening. The Premier will throw Levi to jail and she won’t be able to see him. Historia was scared for her husband.

William was observing the way his grandson was ready to attack to protect Historia. “Levi, please calm down.” Then Levi’s glare shifted towards him.

“Captain Levi relaxes. I’m not planning to lock you up or execute you. I just want you two be aware that I know for a long time about your relationship, even your marriage. Commander Hange, I’m not surprised you knew about them and witnessed their marriage. I’m disappointed that I needed a spy to know about the lovebirds.” Darius Zackely glances at the finger where the ring is located from Historia’s hand. The queen blushed embarrassingly.

“You have someone spied on me?!” Something in Historia made her snapped. She has been tired of being too cautious just to have some privacy. Ever since Historia became queen, it has been suffocating. Her ladies were around her most of the time that she needed to give them an excuse to be alone. The nobles come for an audience with her for planning some extravagant party or trying to ask for her hand in marriage for themselves or their sons. She never wanted to be queen, but some midget decided to choke her into agreeing. Historia never told Levi or her friends that sometimes she gets breakdowns.

“Your grace, calm down for the sake of you and your heir.” The Premier noticed the queen got up and glared angrily.

“Did one of my doctors tell you?” She said.

“No, like I said one of my spies who’s name will remain anonymous.” The older man trying to make the queen understand.

“Alright, so now you know about us. What do you plan to do with us then?” Levi intervened. He grabs Historia’s wrist to gesture her to sit down and try to remain calm.

“I’m not planning anything. This would have been avoidable if you both told me personally so I can make sure this stays a secret. A baby right now is not the right time at the moment since war will come soon.” He lectured on the married couple like misbehaved kids.

“It wasn’t planned, sir. It just happens.” Levi felt uncomfortable about getting to that topic.

“I see, so now that’s settled. We can now plan properly for both the queen’s safety and the future crowned prince or princess. Who knows what the Marleyans will do if they knew your pregnancy. “ Zackely shuffled the papers.

“Your majesty, once you reach six months, we’ll escort you to the Farm from the orphanage to be bed rest and prepare you for a safe delivery away from the possible battleground.” He continues. On the other hand, Historia was concerned for the residents’ safety. “What about the people? We need a plan to have an evacuation if they make it into the Walls.”

Commander Pixis speaks out. “Your grace, my soldiers and I will make sure the enemies won’t get through the Walls. Not under my watch.” His tone was filled with passion and promise.

The queen nodded in gratitude for the Garrison Commander. Commander Nile Dok joined in the conversation. “I’ll increase soldiers to patrol for the safety of the citizens.”

“Thank you, Commander Pixis and Commander Dok. I don’t want fatality to increase to the mass when the war starts.” She leans against her chair to breathe in relief.

“Premier Zackely, if I may intrude; Levi and I had talked about sending the queen to the location where my fellow assassins are based.” William speaks out.

“Hmm that would be safer, but the Marleyans would track us down and shoot the ship.” He pointed out.

“Yes, but I know someone with a cargo plane to take the queen along with some bodyguards to New York City.” Bill suggested his plan to the Premier.

“Very well, I’ll consider it. As allies, we need to be on our toes since you mention these Templars could be involved with the Marleyans?”

“Also, if anything does happen to me, I named Pixis as my successor. Since the day, the late Commander Erwin led his Scouts to Grisha Jeager’s basement; this kingdom had been transitating the changes from not being the only last humans on Earth.” Zackely said.

Commander Pixis salutes his higher up officer. “I’ll be honored to accept you as your successor.”

“Good, I’m pleased you accepted it, you’ve earned it, Pixis.” Zackley nodded.

(Flashback end)

Levi shook his head to focus on why they were here as his eyes glanced at the old familiar building. It still looks the same since he left with Kenny. His grandfather stared at him in concern. “Are you alright, Levi?”

The raven haired soldier nods his head to assure the elder man that he’s fine. “Yeah, I’m fine. Let’s get this over it. I have a date with my heavily pregnant wife after this.”

They enter the brothel slash hotel. The place is full of people. The smell of the air is full of perfume and smoke. Levi hated the smell. It had suffocated him when he used to live here as a child.

“Let’s see if Mr. Douglas is still alive.” Levi mumbled and walked to the bar section. Bill followed him then both sat on the stools right beside each other.

A bartender was cleaning a glass shot when he noticed Levi and Bill sat on the stools. “What can I get you gentlemen? I see you both are not from around here.” The man started the small conversation.

Both the soldier and assassin had their hoods hiding most of their face. “We’ll have whiskey on the rocks.” Bill said. Levi wasn’t a fan of drinking since he always needed to be alert 24/7 in order to survive this world.

The bartender nodded and began to grab a bottle of whiskey. He grabbed two glasses then put two ices in each glasses. The amber liquor was poured into the glasses half full then slides one by one to Bill then to Levi.

The captain stared down at the whiskey. Don’t get him wrong. He has high tolerance in alcohol, but that doesn’t mean he enjoyed it. Tea is his preference. As some of the Americans say to him one time. Tea is love, tea is life. That he agreed.

Levi lifts the small glass the way he holds his tea and has the rim of the glass press on to his lips. His lips open a bit to let the strong scent of alcohol run down to his lips as he drinks into a small sip.

“He is not, but I am.” Levi finally answered one of the questions from the bartender. “I used to be born and raised here. I’m Levi, Kuchel’s son. Is Mr. Douglas still working here?”

The young bartender gasped from Levi revealing who he was. “You mean, you’re the Captain Levi that my gramps told me about when he used to run this place?”

“Ah you must be related to him?” Bill said.

“He died long ago. Now, this hotel belongs to my ma and me. My grandpa used to tell me stories of a small kid who liked cleaning too much that he learned many tips from you.” The bartender smiles from thinking old memories of his grandfather.

“I’m sorry to hear that. He was a good man from what I remember.” Levi sympathized with the young man.

“Thank you, but it was long ago so it’s alright. So, can I ask why are you here? Ever since you moved up the surface, you made a name for yourself as Humanity’s Strongest. I would never have thought I'd meet you. You’re a hero to the people down here. Most of us were overjoyed to have one of our own protecting good people like us. Well, some since this underworld city is full of cruel bastards ruling over good honest people like my gramps and my neighbors.” The bartender frowned at the thought of the criminals ruining the poor people who just want to be left in peace.

Great another fanboy. Levi hated to encounter anyone who admired him as a hero because in his reality, he doesn’t feel like a hero. He’s just a soldier who fights for humanity to repay his sins. He’s a monster. Monsters are not heroes.

“I came back to finally face my past. I’m ready. Will you lent me the key of #7? I want to look at the room where my mother died in it, before I go to war. Who knows I might not ever get the chance to tell my mother’s soul goodbye.” Levi lowered his head as tears tried to threaten to come out.

His mother was a warm and compassionate woman. She reminded him of Historia. His beautiful sweet Historia. Every night his mom always sang lullabies during bedtimes. Some songs were in another language but he knew them from the heart.

(Flashback)

“Levi, come to mama. It’s bedtime.” A beautiful raven haired woman called her toddler son.

“Yes mama.” A little Levi runs to his mother’s arms. Kuchel picked him up and smiled warmly. “Oh my, you’re growing bigger and stronger.” She chuckles while holding him up in the air like a plane.

“Look mama, I can fly! I’m a birdie.” Levi flaps his arms like a bird flying with its wings.

“Yes, my little eagle.” She threw him up into the air and caught him. The little boy giggled and hugged his mother. Her smell was pinecones and wild flowers. He doesn’t know why since they have never been to the surface. But she somehow smells like it.

She began to gently rock him. Her hum turned into a tune. Then she sang away a lullaby that Levi’s father taught her.

Close your eyes

Let the sound of the night sing away

Feel the breeze to drift you a far this place

So spread your wings

Rise high, my little eagle

Fly away into the clear sky

You’ll be free

You’re meant to be free

Don’t stop and keep flying

To freedom, my baby eagle

So my baby eagle, fly away

(End of Flashback)

(Another flashback)

Historia was reading a children’s fairytale book to the unborn baby she’s carrying in her womb. Levi was on the desk doing paperwork for Hange which irritated him since papaerworks is not his best skill. He lifts his tea cup to sip it and stops his work to turn around and listen to his wife reading a book to the unborn.

“Tch, our kid isn’t even born yet, and you’re already reading to her or him.” Levi scoffed.

Historia stopped and rolled her eyes at her grouchy husband. “The pregnancy book said by now our child already developed ears to listen to our voice. I want the baby to be nurtured with our love now.” She placed her hand on her now swollen belly then rubbed it. She’s now heavily three months away from birthing their baby.

They still don’t know the gender of the baby. It’s best to be surprised whether it’s a girl or boy. Either way, they don’t care what gender it is. The soon to be parents will love their baby no matter what. Ever since the late Premier Zackely’s death, Pixis became the new Premier. The plan resumed what the late Premier Zackely wanted. Once the queen started to show, the MPs and Levi escorted Historia to the Farm where an Orphanage was resided. The Orphanage was funded by the government when Historia and Levi advocated.

Levi pushed the wooden chair to leave space for him to get up. He walked to the large bed and flopped on the mattress next to his wife.

“If you say so.” He said and glanced at the huge belly. Levi hoped the kid wouldn't be taller than him, but he felt the unborn will grow tall in the future. He pressed his forehead on Historia’s belly and began to hum into a similar tune that his late mother used to sing to him.

Close your eyes, little one

Let the sound of the night sing away

Feel the breeze to drift you afar this place

So spread your wings

Rise high, my little eagle

Fly away into clear sky

You’ll be free

Don’t stop and keep flying

To freedom, my baby eagle

So my baby eagle, fly away

After Levi stopped singing, a sniffle sound was heard from Historia. He glimpsed at his wife as she cried silently.

“Why are you crying. Are you in pain?” The soldier gets up to check if she was in serious pain. Historia shook her head to respond to his concerning questions.

“No, I’m fine. It’s just...that was so beautiful. Who taught you?” The queen still has tears falling.

“My mother. She used to sing this song to me every night before I go to bed.” He whispered.

He felt her hands cup his cheeks to guide his face to hers. His lips press against hers to feel those soft warm lips he comes to cherish. This kiss was not their usual passionate hunger, it was soft and tender.

“You’re full of surprises, Levi Ackerman.” She whispered while kissing him.

“It won’t be surprising if I gave it away all at once.” He smirked playfully.

She giggled and cuddled him on the bed. Levi grabbed the book to place it on the nightstand table to be comfortably close to his wife.

“Tomorrow, I’m going back to the Underground City. I haven’t gone there in many years.” He said in a quiet tone. This caught Historia’s attention.

“Why are you? You’re ready to face your past?” She was concerned for him. Historia knew she couldn’t go accompany him underground.

“Yeah, I’m ready. It’s time to have that closure for us and the baby. I don’t want to have that regret if I lose my chances to have my peace. Also I want to check if I find anything that my father gave something to my mom to hide it from templars or any one with terrible intentions.” He said.

She nodded in understanding. “Go, if you must do this. But come back home to me safely. At least, take someone with you. I would feel less worried if you go alone.” She buried her face on his chest just feeling scared again being so far away from her husband.

“I will, and don’t worry; I’ll come home as soon as possible.” He made a promise. His nose buried on her hair to inhale her scent. Damn, she always smelled so pure and divine.

“Good, I’ll hold on to that.” The queen smiled.

“Let’s sleep, I need to wake up early anyways.” He began to undo his just the shirt to take it off and place it on the chair where his desk was. Historia already wore her nightgown but it was maternity style. He could feel her eyes staring at him. His head turned to glance at her which she was blushing.

“Can’t get enough?” He chuckled deeply then went to his side of the bed and lift the covers to lay on the bed then covered half way.

Historia coughed. “No matter how many times I see you naked or half naked in this case, I am still blushing like a virgin.” She chuckled along.

He wrapped around his arms on her body to snuggle under the covers. Both husband and wife laid on the bed peacefully as their eyes drowned away to sleep.

“You are too adored, my goddess. Goodnight, my love.” He gave her a goodnight kiss.

“Goodnight, my soft warrior.” She whispered and kissed him back.

(End Flashback)

The bartender decide to give the key to Room # 7 to Levi. So now, Levi and Bill walk through the empty halls where it still haunts the captain for many years. So many bad and good memories, he had within these halls as a brat.

Finally, they reached to the door of room #7. Levi stands in front of the door as so many flood of memories of his mother and him barely surviving off the money his mother earned by prostituting herself with men like Ethan and Raymond. He doesn’t know if Ethan is alive. He so badly want to crave the now old man’s body as he torture him slow and painful. The pain he caused with Destinia, Jessie, and his mother…

“Are you sure you're alright, my boy?” Bill places his hand on Levi’s shoulder to comfort him. Levi snapped out of his trance of emotional pain. He turned his head to look at his grandfather to nod in reassuring him.

He inserts the key into the door knob then twists it as the door unlocks it. His hand opened the door slowly. Inside the room was dark and empty.

Levi steps into the room. After all these years, he has returned home.

“Ok, this place may be empty, but we’ll try to find anything.” Levi said. Both of them begin to look through the empty furniture. Yet, nothing. Levi glances at the mattress and pulls out his hidden blade to cut the mattress. He ripped open the old mattress. “You could have used the Eagle vision if it is an artifact of the First Civilization.” Bill pointed it out.

Levi made an annoyed expression. “Fine.” He had been practicing to use his Eagle vision. It was cool when he accessed it.

The captain closed his eyes then opened it as his vision is grey with some faded blue lines. He scans the mattress to see once again, nothing. “Damn it. It’s not even here either.” Levi sighs in frustration. Bill frowned in disappointment of not finding anything. “Probably someone already took it and we’re too late.” Mentor assassin said.

Levi looked up to scan all over the room. On the left, he views a golden-reddish sphere inside the wall. Bingo. They have found it. “Or my mother was good at hiding things.”

“You found something?” Bill was excited. Levi gets off the ripped mattress to walk toward the wall where the sphere is located.

“Yeah, it’s inside this wall.” Levi places his hands then presses his ear. He knocked on the wall which made an echo bang. “It’s hollow. I’m going to have to make a hole.” He steps back to have space to punch into the wall. A hole was formed then the raven haired man saw a glimpse of a sphere object glowing.

“I don’t believe it. Another Apple of Eden.” Bill wonders is this the same object that Jacob had found long ago on his mission to the ruins of the Aztecs, where he found this sphere object?

Levi rips some pieces of the wall to make a bigger hole then grabs the object carefully. He observed the Apple of Eden. This thing is so peculiar but intriguing. So many wars between the templars and assassins were fought over to gain controlled over this.

“So, what now?” The captain looks at his grandfather in guidance.

Before Bill says anything, the sphere glows brighter. Levi stuck out his hand away from him but didn’t drop the Isu’s object.

The piece of Eden created an illusion image of a man who looks like sitting on a wooden chair. When the image of the man appears, Bill gasps in shock that it was his first-born son, Jacob Miles.

“Hello Levi, my little boy. It’s me, your dad.” The projected image of Jake chuckled lightly.

“Listen son, if you found this piece of Eden then you probably know about your heritage. We come from a long ass line of warriors called the assassins. Hopefully, dad already began training you. But this thing is the only way for me to send a message since by then I would probably be dead by then. I just want to say...I’m sorry. I’m so fucking sorry for leaving you and your mother in this shitty place. Both of you deserve a life. I’m sorry I couldn’t be there to watch you grow up into a fine man. Heck, I bet you got my good looks. I had the same vision of you all grown up slaying some giant-like monster. I don’t know it was, but you were looking badass. Your mother didn;t believe me at first. I convinced her, we got to give you a badass name.” Again, he chuckled.

Levi’s hand was trembling. He can’t believe it. He finally met his dad. All those years of denial of wanting to know about who he was? Bill was trying not to cry when the image of his son was in front of him. This was his last days before he died.

“Levi, I understand you probably might hate me for leaving you and your mother alone on this island. I could have taken your mother away from here, but with you being so close to be born; we don’t want to risk pregnancy complications. The plan was to take you both after your birth, but it’s like faith didn’t allow it. I am being called on to go on this dangerous trip. I might not survive, but if I did, I will promise you both that we’ll go to America where you won’t live in hunger, worry about being prosecuted because you're an Eldian and Ackerman. I love you so much Levi. No matter what you’re capable of, I will always love you. Don’t let your guilt consume you. You’re a survivor. You’re a descendant of both warrior’s bloodlines. I may be long gone from this world, but I will always be there within you to guide you just like our ancestors are within you to guide you. We’re all in one. Protect your mother for me, kiddo. She is my world. That spunk woman is one of the kind. One day, when you become a man, you’ll find someone who will make you feel their worth of risk of getting that happy life. So, this is it. Goodbye son, live for yourself. Live for the right of the happiness you deserve. It’s never too late to chase that dream. I love you, son. Kuchel, if you’re listening. I love you so fucking much baby. I’ll try to go home to you, ok.”

The image of Jacob had disappeared. The apple of Eden had stopped glowing. Levi dropped the artifact as his knees hit the ground. His head bow low as tears are trying to escape. His body trembles from hold in so much emotion. William encouraged his grandson to not hold it in. “Levi, it’s ok. You don’t have to bury them anymore. Let them out.”

The captain presses his hands on the cold floor then makes a fist of both of them. A sound of choked sob was heard from the former thug. For years, Levi learned to bottle up his pain, grief, and any emotion to be a numb human. Now, he finally shattered every wall he built. The tears dripped on the floor and a scream of years bottle up was let out. This is how Eren Jaeger felt when something in him spark of anger and determination was let out. Levi continues letting out his emotions until he finishes. WIth his strength, the Eldian soldier gets up slowly.

“How are you feeling now, grandson?” the whisper of his grandfather said. Levi Ackerman wasn’t the type to hug. The only exception is Historia and few people in the past that are long gone. He wraps his arm around his grandfather to hug him. For the first time since he was a boy, his inner child is awake from a long hibernation. His inner child craves comforts and affection from a blood relative since his parents are long gone. His grandfather is the closest parent he will ever get now. Tch, his dead uncle, Kenny Ackerman was never a parent material.

Bill gladly accepts his grandson’s hug. His grandfatherly gesture comforts Levi. Bill held him tight not wanting to let go. For a few months since both of them met face to face, it was nothing bitter and distant well at least from Levi’s part. Bill had tried to reach out to his only family member. He too lost so much. His sons, wife, his parents, and his friends from the Brotherhood. Both Miles men sacrifice so much for what price? To have their loved ones died either way?

“Is it too late to ask you to be accepted as a Miles? I’m ready to be an assassin. To be your grandson, grandfather. I want to protect my friends, comrades, the people of Pardis Isle, family: you, Historia and our unborn. I want to win this war so my descendants can live in peace. I promise I’ll listen to you whenever you’ll mentor me in the way of an assassin.” Levi vowed.

“Of course, my boy. You have always been a Miles. My blood runs in your veins, but we can legalize it if that’s what you mean.” The old man chuckles.

“I will still have Ackerman as part of my last name. I want to honor my mother’s heritage also as an Eldian. My children will have those two proud names when they come to this world.” He continues.

“Also, I want to find my mother’s remains. She deserved to be buried in a better place then in this shitty ass underground.” Levi said. Already, the raven haired man let go of his hugs from his grandfather.

“Yes, we can do that too. I think we can have her buried alongside with your father in South Dakota where his remains lay to rest.” This made Levi give his rare smile at his grandpa.

“Yeah, I would appreciate that, gramps.” He nods.

After their heartwarming moment, Levi and William go back to the bartender and hand him the key. Before leaving, Levi asked one vital question.

“Did your grandfather say anything of where he buried the remains of Kuchel Ackerman?” He asked.

The bartender was thinking carefully trying to remember. “What my old pa used to mention, Kenny the Ripper guy, he dragged that body and asked us to be buried anywhere we see fit. So my grandpa is buried in our family’s little graveyard. I can show you where she was buried.”

“Thanks, I apprenticed for it. One more time. You got a shovel?” Levi asked.

(The Orphanage Farm)

Historia Reiss-Ackerman was helping some of the caretakers to make supper for the children. She sniffed the aroma of the chicken and potatoes stew. Oh the queen can’t wait to save some for Levi when he returns from his mission. Her belly is big and round already. Now she’s almost seven months until the baby is ready to come out. Most of the time, Historia takes many naps or just reads a nice book under the shade of a tree during a sunny day. Summer is almost over, and most likely this child will be born by October.

How time passed by when it seemed just like yesterday, Levi and Historia were fooling around to fill their void with lusts. Her sparkle blue eyes glances down at her wedding band on her ring finger. This was never her plan to fall in love, become queen, get pregnant, get married, now preparing for war and for the birth of her child. This was too much for her if she was back then pretending to be Christa. That girl, Christa, was too soft, kind, and afraid to be herself. Historia despised that part of her.

If it wasn’t for her being Christa, she wouldn't have met her friends, gaining valuable life tips from Ymir. Ymir was more than a dear friend to her. The tough Ymir was her guardian angel. She was always there to protect and cherish her. This is something Historia will keep in her heart. Beside her sweet older sister, Frieda, Ymir had loved her and reminded her how worthy she is.

The queen touches her cheek when tears roll down from her eyes. Ugh, it would be great if she would stop shedding tears every time Historia thinks about Ymir. The blonde woman wipes them away. Once the stew simmer, she turns off the stove then lightly stir the stew before covering the huge pot with a lid. The main dining table was already set up for the children and caretakers to eat dinner.

Historia turns to call for one of the staff. “Emily, would you let everyone know that dinner is ready, please?” The woman nods with a smile. “Of course, Your- I mean Historia.” The light haired woman blush from feeling embarrassed forgetting the first rule in this Orphanage. The young queen made it clear to everyone in this establishment that to call her by her name. So, there;s no your grace, your majesty, or my queen. Just Historia. She wants to feel normal for once in a while. The royal life can be drainful. How did her late sister or any members of her estranged family had dealt with it?

The woman Emily already walked away to announce dinner is ready. Meanwhile Historia places her hand on her watermelon size belly to bend down to open the lower cabinet and takes out a medium size pot to pour some stew into it. The one thing her husband loves when he comes back from his missions is her cooking. Historia makes his favorite dishes like stews, pot pies, and anything related to bacon.

She placed the other pot on the countertop next to the stove. A strong kick was felt in her belly. Historia smiles from feeling the baby being activated. “You’re hungry as well?” her hand rubs on her stomach. “Don’t worry, sweetheart. We’ll eat soon.”

The queen uses a wooden spoon to scoop out the stew and pour into the other pot until it's full. She left the other pot on the countertop to cool off a bit while serving a bowl of stew to everyone. Of course, the staff woman, Emily, has come back to help her serve the kids their meals.

The dining table is full of kids and the staff who work here. They are like one big family. There are chattering conversations from left and right. Some kids play with their food and others bite down to rip the bread rolls that were freshly baked earlier.

Historia ate the stew quietly while listening to certain conversations. She took a glimpse at the window to see if Levi had come back yet. The view was getting dark as the sun’s rays disappeared slowly from the horizon.

The blonde haired beauty got up then said goodnight to everyone, but the children ran to her to give her a hug. Historia smiles from embracing these innocent kids. When she and Levi started to build this orphanage with the special squad help of course, Historia vowed to give love affection to these kids whenever she comes here to stay for temporary. Some of the caretakers jokingly tell her; both Levi and Historia are like the mother and father with the kids.

At first Historia panicked they knew about their relationship and they might or had spread their secret to anyone. Fortunately, the queen had an informal staff meeting to clear the air if they knew something’s going on between her and the captain. She was ready to deny any claims until the same woman, Emily, spoke out that they did figure out their relationship, but they will respect it by keeping it to themselves in this household. This made the queen sigh in relief.

Some of the staff who are close to Historia’s age, asked questions on how they met, and oh how romance and forbidden their love is. Their love is forbidden and romance but it’s not all glamorous as fairytale books like to mislead you. All the heartbreak, arguments, and happinesses are worth enduring. In the end, their bond grew stronger and tougher to break.

(Flashback)

A year ago…

The aftermath of their unexpected one night stand in Levi’s quarter, Christa Lenez aka Historia Reiss was washing the dishes. She volunteered doing cleaning kitchen duty for the morning while most of her friends and comrades did their assigned chores from Captain Levi’s orders.

She can’t believed Captain Levi and her had sex a month ago. These past weeks, all the small female soldiers could think of her captain in a very erotic imagination.

Her cheeks became warm and reddish from thinking in such profanity to her higher up officer. The biggest question Christa wanted to know was what are they now? She remembered what he said to her before proceeding in taking her virginity. Once he takes her, he will not share her with anyone. So what the hell does he mean? Since the day after, he avoids her like she’s some deadly plague. It had hurt her because maybe she had hoped she was not the only one who felt something like they had become one with each other.

The meekly soldier shook her head in trying to forget these thoughts. It won’t matter anyways because Levi made it clear in his action that whatever had happened between them was nothing. Christa was used to not being loved especially how she was raised by her estranged mother until her death when she was a little girl by some man named Kenny Ackerman. Her father just stood there to let it happen. After the incident, she was sent away to some random family in Wall Rose in a town of District Trost.

The family who took her in were one of her father’s connections. The Dinkles were worshipers of The Three Walls. Every morning the household must pray to the Walls or get punished. Christa used to worship in order to gain her foster family’s affection, but they were distant and cold to her. In their eyes, she’s a product of sin and lust; a bartard as Mr. Dinkles had spewed her constantly. No matter what she does to try to please them, they somehow punished her. That’s when the girl began to realize how worthless and a burden she was to this cruel world. There were times she attempted to end her life. Of course, Mr. Dinkles lectured and punished her more that she would go to hell if she succeeded. So Christa had tried to not do it. When she got older, her foster parents sent her to join the military since that was the deal her father made with the Dinkles. Good riddance that she did because it was hell being with the Dinkles.

Christa frowned from the memories of her childhood after watching her own mother being killed in front of her. The adolescent soldier was not aware when a fellow soldier from the Scouts leaned against the countertop in a cocky attitude. “Hey there dollface, maybe after you finished, wanna take a stroll in town with me?”

The blonde haired girl stopped washing to turn at the male soldier. “No, thank you. I must finish other chores that Captain Levi ordered me to do before the end of the day.” She politely declined him.

“Ah come on, cutie. I’m sure the Captain will not notice. Let me treat you to dinner and maybe we can have some fun afterward.” The male soldier roamed his fingers on one of her sides. Goosebumps form on her skin from male human contact.

“I said, no, thank you.” She frowned at what this guy's real intentions were. She may have slept with the captain but that doesn’t mean she’ll give herself easily to anyone. Christa had learned her lesson.

“Don’t be stubborn. You will miss out on having a cock giving you pleasure. Since Ymir girl is not here to cockblock some of the guys here that wanted you, you are like an angel waiting to be tainted by one of us.” He smirked.

Christa had enough listening to this asshole. She is tired of being the too nice girl, Christa. Only her friends and Section Commander Hange, Commander Erwin, and Captain Levi knew who she really is. The petite soldier finished her chores then walked away from the creep.

The guy grinned down his teeth angrily. Who does this bitch think she is? Every girl the guy talked to, they either blushed or flirts back. He never was rejected. His arm wrapped around her waist before Christa was out of his reach. Christa or Historia panic a bit from his bold advances on her. She wiggled from trying to escape from his grasp. No, she will not be weak. She can’t be weak anymore. She will be strong. She must be strong. Goodbye Christa Lenez, no more the sweet naivete girl. From now on Historia Reiss will rise.

Something in her snapped and jabbed hard his rib then butthead his stomach. The guy fell on his knees while clenching his stomach from pain. “What the fuck, you bitch?! You will pay for that.” He glared at her. Her eyes widened from being astonished at her strength.

The guy grabbed her ankle to make her fall on the hard floor. The blue eyed girl kicked her legs to be away from him. He pounced on her which she was trapped under the male soldier. Shit, what can she do to escape now? Her heart beats in fear from what he will do to her if she doesn’t find a way to run away. “Let go of me.” She yelled at him.

The creep smirked in victory. “Why should I? This wouldn’t happen if you agreed to go out with me, dollface. Now, you will know the consequence for rejecting me.” His hand already traveled on her body. Historia felt his touch replusing. Only Levi’s touch was warm and rough but also gently. This creep’s touch was uncomfortable and just terrible. The female soldier cried in distress. She, still trying to fight him off then glared hatefully at her soon to be rapist. Historia spit on his face.

“Yuck, you little whore. Now, I will make you feel pain.” He slapped her face. Her cheek sting from his attack. Historia closed her eyes to imagine the night with Captain Levi to get through this nightmare.

“Tch, looks like you should be the one to feel pain.” A deep baritone voice appeared in the kitchen.

Historia felt the heavy weight of the guy was off of her. She opened her eyes to see her captain pinning the creep on the wall. The same guy was scared to death from seeing an enraged Captain Levi. The raven haired man usually doesn’t have that expression unless killing Titans.

The tiny soldier gets up to walk towards Levi. “C-captain please, don’t do something regretful.

Levi had a knife pressed on the guy’s neck. Historia saw it as she got closer. She needed to stop her captain before he got in trouble instead of the true culprit.

On the other hand, Levi sees red and already thought of thousands ways to use this knife on this pig. How fucking dare this brat touched and harmed Historia? He heard a soft familiar voice trying to talk him out.

“Trust me, I won’t regret it.” His tone became chillingly dark.

“Please....sir. He will get the punishment he deserves by Commander Erwin.” She pleaded with Levi which he glanced at her to see her beautiful blue eyes begging him to stop. The captain growled as he put the guy down but still grip his shirt.

“You should be thankful that she showed you mercy otherwise you would have been in pieces. We will go to the Commander and you will fucking explain to him what you were about to do to Historia, a fellow soldier who’s part of my squad. Is that clear, you shithead cunt?” He said in a cold tone. The other soldier nodded in fear. “Tch. Come soldier, we’ll need your testimony to Commander Erwin.” He glanced at the petite beauty. He can see the hand mark on her soft creamy skin tone cheek.

Levi prayed to the Walls for Erwin to let him tortured this pussy brat. He dragged the whimpering boy to Erwin’s office. Historia follows the captain silently. Once Levi reported what had happened in the kitchen and made the creepy brat explain what he did and almost planned to do to Historia, Commander Erwin had the cunt arrested for assaulting sexually and physically on a fellow soldier. This was unacceptable in a time like this. So Erwin had the MPs take away the soldier.

After the drama, Historia and Levi were in his room. The captain was attending to her injury as it formed a bruise within hours. His hands were soft and delicate on her skin. This is right. His touch was the only thing that brought her comfort from the traumatic experience.

“H-how are you feeling?” Levi was concerned for his subordinate.

Historia was quiet but she looked into his steel grey eyes as tears fell from hers. This was all too much for her. It was not just almost being raped but how hot and cold Levi had treated her after that night. She was so confused. Deep down what they had done was wrong, but she can’t help feeling the fire that ignited her spirit. Levi had awoken her willingness to keep on living. She doesn’t want to let go of that fiery feeling.

“I-I don’t know, Captain.” The blonde beauty whispered.

“Historia, call me Levi.” He said.

This made her snapped. “Why are you doing this?” She tried to contain her emotions.

“What are you talking about?” The older man was confused.

“You have been treating me like I’m some disease but there were rare times you treat me like we have been lovers for a long time. So what is it that you want from me. Levi? You can’t keep giving me misleads and expect me to be ok about it. Because I know what I want. What do you want?” She looked into his eyes while standing her ground.

Levi was astonished that this meek girl had the balls to confront him. To be honest, the captain doesn’t know how to respond to her attacks. Ever since that night, he can’t stop thinking of her. He wants her, but there were many reasons Levi shouldn't have tried to pursue this girl. Most of the women he was with, they had met their doom. From Jessie to Petra, what makes Historia any different from the others? The blonde soldier deserved to be with someone who will give her comfort, stability, and love.

Levi can’t offer any of it. He only can give his leadership to survive the missions. Somewhere deep in him, had been controlling his decisions when it’s involved Historia.

That stupid Iapteus suddenly decided to show up and makes it difficult to detach himself from Historia.

Iapetus rarely gets involved with Levi’s personal life since he let his host have free will. That free will had diminished when he met the cute female soldier on her graduation from being cadets. His head was giving awful headaches. Then he heard a deep monstrous like voice in his head screaming “mine, mine, mine”

Tch, his titan is like a greedy kid that can’t shut the fuck up. He noticed Historia was waiting for his reply.

“I…” That's all he can say. This disappointed her. She gets up from the bed to start walking towards the door. Historia just wanted him to be honest, but it seems he couldn’t answer her questions. The blue eyed girl felt tears falling again.

Levi shook his head in disbelief of himself. This petite woman somehow has power over him. He should have let her leave and ended whatever that had in a very short period of time. This is for the best for both of them. But no Levi doesn’t want her to walk away from him. His soul yearned for this goddess-like girl.

“Hold on.” He finally spoke as his hand snatched her wrist to stop her.

“I’m sorry...I didn’t want to cause you pain.” He whispered.

“I just want to know what does that make us? I felt something between us, perhaps I’m being silly and imagining you also feel that too.” She tried to wipe her tears from her eyes.

Levi was too quiet again, but he used actions to speak loudly. So, the raven haired man pulled her towards him. Historia felt his solid tone chest when her body pressed against his. The older man wrapped his arms around her to hold on to her.

“I want you, but I’m scared if I get closer to you; something terrible will happen to you. I can’t lose another person who matters to me again.” Levi finally said what he wanted to say.

“I understand. I am also scared too, but what’s the point of living and be happy if we let fear consume us. We don’t know what will happen tomorrow or in 5 years or 20 years if fate granted us that privilege. Levi, would it be better to give it a shot at us?” She glanced at the man.

Levi stared into those pretty blue eyes and moved her golden blonde hair away from her face to see it better.

“I-if we do this, just promise me you won’t leave me too soon.” His hand caresses her soft cheek.

“As long you don’t leave me as well.” Historia smiled with joy. She leaned to kiss his lips.

(End Flashback)

Historia had already left the dining room in the main Orphanage building. She had the porcelain container of the stew she had made for supper. The queen walked on the stone pathways that led her to a cottage house behind the property she now owns being the last member of the Reiss family.

The sun had set down for the day. The sky was clear and dark, only the stars and the full moon shined to give some light. The August breeze passed by her which her dress lightly flowed. When she became the owner of her late father’s property, both Levi and Historia not only built the orphanage but also a cottage to have some privacy for them.

The cottage they built looked like one of those fairytale stories she used to read them as a child. At first, Levi teased her in his usual jerk way about having her dream home. He was a practical man, but with convincing she made a design plan so he can see what she visualized.

The pregnant queen unlocked the door to enter the house then closed it. Since lights weren’t installed yet, Historia used a candlestick to light up once the container of stew was placed on the table in the kitchen.

She looked at the time to see it’s late and sighed. Guess, Levi might not get home tonight. Historia decided to make tea before she headed to bed. This baby had been too active with kickings and movings around. Was Levi active too when he was in his mother’s womb? That’s something she won’t have the luxury to know.

“Aren’t you exhausted, sweetheart?” The woman blonde whispered to her unborn child. In response, she felt a kick.

“So a no.” She chuckled then heard the kettle whistling as the water was ready to be used.

While she was preparing the tea, the sound of horses from outside was heard. The queen stopped what she was doing to speed walk outside of the cottage. By the time the petite woman reached the front of the building of the orphanage, a figure on his horse galloping towards the entrance of the estate.

Historia smiled to see it was Levi. As he got closer to her, Levi spotted his wife waiting for him outside.

“Oi woman, why are you up late? Should you be in bed? It’s past your bedtime.” Finally her husband arrived. He got off his horse. Historia didn’t bother to answer him as she hugged him to welcome him home.

“Levi! I’m happy you’re home safe and sound.” She nuzzled his chest.

“Of course, I did promise you, I’ll come back tonight. Didn’t I?” He gave a warm smile to her then embraced her hugs.

“How hungry are you? Because I made your favorite stew.” She grinned.

“Chicken and potatoes stew?” His stomach growled all of the sudden. Levi hasn’t eaten since breakfast. Today was emotional for him. He lost his appetite when His grandfather offered to buy him supper earlier. He declined politely which Bill was understanding.

“Mhm with bacon bites.” She added. Levi was a sucker when it comes to bacon.

His expression shifted to a child-like. “Well what are we waiting for? Let’s go eat. I’ll meet you in the cottage once I put Beauty in her stall.” He said.

Historia nodded and gave him a peck on his cheek. Both went in opposite directions. Levi went into the horse stable. Just when he was about to enter, the stable man came out in a rush to help out Levi.

“Welcome back Captain Levi. I hope you had a good day, sir.” He said with a smile.

“Tch thanks. Could you give Beauty her carrots, she had earned it.” Levi stroked the horse nose gently to show affection.

“Yes, sir. I will.” He saluted to show the veteran with respect. The captain nodded to acknowledge. “Alright, good. Well, goodnight. Sam.” He started to head out.

“Goodnight, sir.” The stable man, Sam said.

The raven haired man walked back the same direction to get the cottage. As he opened the door to the front of the cottage, he spotted the candlelights from the kitchen. Once he reached there, Historia was setting up for Levi to eat on the table. She poured two cups of tea then placed one for her husband and the other for herself. Levi sat down on the chair to see a bowl of stew in front of him. On the left, a roll of bread was placed close to the bowl. On the right, his cup of tea and a spoon ready for the stew.

“You’re not gonna eat?” He noticed his wife only had a cup of tea in front of her.

“I already had supper, but don’t worry. I’m still here to company you while you eat.” Historia reassured him.

“Hm, ok.” As long as she had food in her belly, he doesn’t need to be concerned at the moment.

While Levi began eating his stew, Historia started the conversation. “How was the mission with Bill?”

The captain stopped eating to find the words of what he went through. “It was shit hell.”

Historia frowned then placed her tea cup on the saucer to reach out his hand. “What had happened? A-are you ok?” She was worried.

“I found out that my dad wasn’t a shithead who left my mom when she was pregnant. He went on his mission that got him killed. I can show you better than to explain it.” He gets up to go to the living room and open his carrier bag to pull out the Apple of Eden sphere. Historia looked at the object with curiosity and was amazed.

Levi held it as it activated then a hologram of his father appeared. The queen gasped in surprise at how advanced this technology was. She was listening to what the man in the hologram said. Carefully, the queen observed some traits between Levi and his father shared. They both have similar posture when they sit. He inherited his father’s jawline. Most of it Levi got from his mother, but still the young woman can’t believe this man was his father.

After the hologram of Jacob Miles finished talking, the image disappeared. She glanced at Levi then went to hug him tightly. “Oh Levi, your father has always loved you.”

She was glad for her husband to have loving parents who went great lengths for Levi to be protected and born with love even if it was a very short amount of time. A part of her envy him. At least, her husband will have closure that his father did want him.

“I told grandfather that I’m ready to take it seriously on being an assassin.” He said.

“That’s great news, my love. We’ll kick ass together.” She said jokingly.

“We? You’re still pregnant. I’m not gonna let you kick anyone ass when you’re in that condition.” Levi scoffed.

“I’m aware that I’m still pregnant, but that doesn’t mean I’ll be pregnant all the time. Eventually, I’ll participate in missions.” Historia pouted.

“Like I’ll allow you to do any missions. You're a queen. You should be focusing on running a nation.” He mumbled.

“You know damn well, I’m capable of doing both. If I must join the Brotherhood to protect and rule our people, then I will do it without your permission.” She glared at her husband.

“Historia, I preferred you not get involved.” He growled low. Historia placed her hand on her hip to gesture in not giving in.

“What do you mean not to get involved? Levi, I’ve been involved the moment you decided to go great length into convincing me to be queen by choking me. So, it’s too damn late for me not to get involved.” Her tone was firm.

The captain glared with his steel grey eyes at his wife. He was silent from her comment. She does have a point, but why can’t she understand that he wants to protect her to make sure she lives longer.

“You’re one stubborn woman.” That’s all he could say as his eyes looked away from her.

“Of course I am. You married one. My love, I understand your intention. You want to protect me, and I’m grateful for that; but I am not a damsel in distress or I don’t want to be one. I am tired of being weak and staying on the side lines. It kills me to see that soon our soldiers are going to have to fight in the war while I stay locked in some safe house. I feel I will have blood in my hands for not doing anything! I should be going to war with all of you to fight or at least motivate our soldiers that we are going to survive and thrive to have our freedom to live as human beings.”

Levi sigh then reached out to grab her hand to pull her towards him. Historia let’s him and sits on his lap.

“Baby, you don’t have to feel a burden of not doing anything. You are already contributing so many things to give up hope to fight the war. I know the Scouts are motivated because they have a queen who is compassionate, honorable, and makes changes for the people. They called you the queen’s people. You know the noblemen feel threatened because you inspire the common people in Paradis to have the power to make their destiny. Besides they will fight for their lives, families, and friends; they will fight for their queen. I will fight for my queen. You’re so special to all of us, my love.” His words were encouraging. Historia couldn’t help to smile. She leans to kiss him sweetly.

“Oh Walls Levi, I love you so much.” She whispered between their kisses.

“I love you so much too, Historia. I promise you. Everything will be ok. I will make it alive so we can be together to raise our child when she or he is born.” His forehead pressed on to hers.

“Please do. I need my other half to be complete., baby.” She stroked his hair softly.

“As you wish...” he said.

Both couples stayed in the same position to embrace this beautiful moment. Who knows what could be in stores for them.

A/N: You think the last chapter was the longest I wrote, but nope this one is definitely the longest. So my lovely readers, enjoy this chapter. There will be more to come. I’ll see you all until the next chapter. Peace and love everyone.

#levihisu #rivahisu #levi ackerman #historia reiss #snk #aot #attack on titan #assassin's creed #fanfic #crossover

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sunagitsunee · 5 years ago

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Achilles Heel

Hurt / Comfort, Levi Ackerman x Hanji Zoe

POST 115 FIC

ALSO IN AO3

The patterns of the exposed beams of the ceiling were suddenly the most interesting thing in the room.

Levi had been past his major self-loathing stage, one that immediately kicked in after his stupor post the explosion. He’d been through despondency and helplessness after realizing the mishap took out parts of him that were necessary for battle. Denial was there, too, with the fact that he was a diminished version if himself after the accident—that he might not be the strongest one anymore.

What was eating him away was the guilt: survivor’s guilt. Or more so, having to bide his time until he could fully recover just so he could return to the battlefield.

Basically, he had to stay put, bathe in peace, while their allies were dying by the minute.

To him, it was an indirect murder by his hands, because he failed.

Once more he was unsuccessful in fulfilling his promise to his previous commander, just because he was being uncharacteristically reckless. And to make it worse, his current commander was stuck nursing him back to health instead of watching over the poor kids left to finish what they had started.

It was all fucked up.

No—scratch that. It was beyond fucked up.

Levi had already faced all kinds of defeat ever since his memory had afforded to remember. And he thought losing his mother, his dearest friends, his own squad, and even Erwin, were already the peak of the damnation of his existence. He was clearly mistaken.

Because this time, he had lost a little more than himself, and gained back one thing he had forsaken a long time ago.

Well, he had spent the last decade redeeming himself from the clutches of the underground. Humanity’s Strongest Soldier, that was what everyone called him. He walked and talked the reputation. He devoted himself to his host and to the cause of saving humanity that the supposed burden became his second skin, to the point that his emotions got in the way—so he got rid of it.

As they say, they had to become what they wanted to kill. And he, including several other members of the original Survey Corps, became monsters to eradicate other monsters. Living with the armor of ferociousness for so long made him forget what it was like to feel despair. People had died left and right and tears came out reservedly, away from a mere human being’s gaze. No big deal.

Before the accident that rendered him catatonic for days, he had the impression that he would outlive everyone, so he had no problems of thinking about who would die next. Normally, his soul would be crushed and be forced to move on the next second because everyone counted on him to carry on the will of the dead.

However, the brush with good old death had changed things drastically.

He can die, alone and powerless. The truth was cold and unforgiving. It hit him like a brick wall. And he hated it.

Years and years of bravado and confidence had led up to this point. And the biggest problem was, who will carry on his will and those who died before him once he is gone? Who was strong enough to bear all the weight he carried in his back? All the lives which were sacrificed, if he couldn’t let them live on through someone else, would they have been wasted all for naught?

Who would care to remember him if he was to suddenly disappear, and no one else was around?

That was not even the worst.

The most fucked up thing that ever happened in that incident was being in the brink of oblivion, almost fading out, but then meeting the gaze of someone else that was filled with terror and sadness over the fact that he was, in fact, perishing.

It stung so bad, that it made him cower at the thought of biting the dust just like that.

He had never thought about it before, to be honest. But back then during his last breaths, when he had the sliver of chances to look upon the face of the person who was calling him back to reality: he saw that expression. Anguished was not even enough to describe what he witnessed. Fear, confusion, resolve, despair, longing… hundred more waves broke through his savior’s—Hanji's—facade while they held him gently, while he clung to that warmth as if it was his lifeline.

Which was stupid. Because they aren’t normally like that. They’d laugh and shout but not once did they throw those sentiments at him without holding back. They were strong like him. They’d lost people too, but they stood up and fought on.

So why, why did the glimpse of their face in sorrow made his wounds ache a thousand times more than they should?

Pathetic. Levi had convinced himself over these past few days that it should be the last time that he’d let them go through that. He wouldn’t go out like that. He’d never want to see Hanji’s eyes, the most vibrant pair he’d ever met, be clouded again in his dying moments.

He would have to make do of what’s left of him to push through, no matter how lamentable the outlook seemed.

“Knock, knock.”

As if on cue, his rumination was disrupted with the voice that retrieved him from the underworld. The door revealed Hanji’s resigned frame, and light steps against the wood followed after as they approached his rigid figure in the tub.

Levi slowly turned his head towards them and took note of their sullenness behind the pretentious but affable smile.

“What? Don’t tell me you wanna take a bath with me?”

“Maybe. But I suck at doing it. You blasting me with water is still the best way to do it.”

Scoff. “It’ll be a different experience since I have less fingers to blast you with.”

He watched how they winced for a split second, probably a knee-jerk reaction after being reminded of his current setbacks. Hanji finally let out a sigh after holding their breath for several seconds before setting by the floor, absentmindedly playing with his bath water by dipping an entire arm.

“I talked with our hosts. The Azumabitos are displeased with how we are doing. Understandably so. But they are willing to hide us until you’re fully on your feet. Thanks to them, I’ve sent a coded message to Mikasa for our current status.”

“Yeah. And are they still all alive?”

“Presumably. Eren was dead for some time, but as expected of shifters, they can transfer consciousness and heal.”

“Fuck those shifters.” Good thing the kids were still kicking, but man, fuck Zeke and his existence. He spearheaded all this fuckery. And he’s still out there thanks to him.

“Our forces have withdrawn for the meantime… They have control over our new recruits, and most of our leaders have been transformed to…titans… I’ve instructed Jean to gather our remaining allies and rummage for whatever is salvageable. I'm—”

Hanji paused and bit their lip before punching the edge of the tub with their other hand, so hard that he felt the tremors from the impact. Levi knew them all too well, they were frustrated, more so with themselves rather than anything else.

“Damn… We’ve lost so much. I was never suited to be this. I’m such a fucking mess. Erwin would have pulled a miracle out of our asses by now. You know that. I’m sure you think the same way.”

NO! Obviously! Erwin was gone, right? And Levi chose it to be that way. He still doesn’t regret the choice of letting him rest, keeping him safe from this abhorrent world. Except that seeing Hanji at the end of their wits was every bit of torturous for him, too. But still…

“You said it before, Hanji. Outcomes aren’t determined by a single choice. Don’t take all the blame.”

Another fist hit the keg. “But I am at fault. I failed to draw a good gamble, and I got you injured by a flaw in the weapon that I made. I’m… I’m sorry, Levi. I’m not even sure if that amounts to anything anymore….”

Jeez.

Hanji was at it again. His guilt was already a thing, but theirs were like a second punch in the gut. They needed to be coherent as soon as possible for all their sakes, and Levi was one of the handful who could knock some sense into them.

“That’s the fiftieth goddamn apology you’ve managed to spew, and as far as I know, you aren’t supposed to be a deprecatory ass.” He spoke a little louder, making sure to emphasize every word. “Maybe if you stopped gambling and living in Erwin’s shadow and be precise like you used to be, those words would actually bear something.”

They went silent for a while, with only the drops from the faucet accentuating the stillness. Hanji was crouched away from his sight, probably pondering on their shortcomings, wallowing on the hurt from his statements, or perhaps repeating his harsh preaching like a mantra until they were consequential.

In the first place, they were the only person who could read between the lines no matter what foul words he spat out.

What he meant, anyway: Hanji had always been the better person, and if there was anyone who could get their stride back, it was them. They just had to get out of their slump, and they need to be back to their usual self. That he trusted them, and that he would do anything for them.

His speech seemed fruitful, much to his relief. When they straightened up, there were less shadows on their face, albeit the weeks of sleep deprivation and stress made the frown lines seem permanent.

Hanji tapped the surface of the water, purposefully splashing on his body, and some, hitting his face.

“Asshole,” they said. Levi kicked lightly and the ripples overflowed until they got into their clothes, too. He got a stifled gasp as a response.

“That’s the shitty glasses that I know.”

They chuckled but stopped abruptly to move closer until their faces were the same level. Their chin rested against the tub and their fingers hovered on the new scar that adorned his visage.

Caressing without touching, that is. For some reason it relaxed Levi; it was as if they were accepting his impairments instead of intruding upon him. It was their usual dynamic, one that went off-track when the war had started.

A thorn got dislodged from his heart knowing their thing was finally back.

“I’m sorry, Levi. Just this once, I say not as your commander. I truly am sorry.”

He shifted fully to his side so their good eyes could meet. There was something thick building up in his throat; he could have ignored it but decided against it. If he didn’t say it on the spot, he may never have the chance to do so.

“Thank you. And this is personal. You could’ve left me there. A dead man served no purpose to your goals, but you ended up putting your life on the line as well. You’re that dumb, but you saved me. I owe you. Everything.”

Hanji smiled and let their touch graze his jaw, right where the gash ended.

“I will admit, I was being selfish in that one. I could have let you rest, but I was scared. I… couldn’t let you go in the end.”

His chest drummed at their words and how they rolled off from their tongue.

“Scared, huh.“

He was, as well. Openly. For the first time. And if the situations were reversed, he’d risk his life to save them, too. Maybe the fear of losing them was a big part of his weakness now, but it’s a weakness he’d have to live with moving forward. "Maybe we are humans after all…”

“Yeah, you monster… I… just realized I needed you. Only humans do that kind of thing, I guess…?”

Needed. By the way the russet in their eye glinted, he knew they meant it in every sense of the word, and he too, felt the same way. More than they could both comprehend. More than the bonds of the dying breed that they share.

It was needing in a much, much, intimate level. And it took that recent trip to demise to bring those feelings bursting to the surface.

Levi’s hand met theirs, and he immediately appreciated the familiar warmth in contrast with the cold water. He held it down by his neck and rested against their palm. Hanji lightly squeezed on his skin.

“Hey… Don’t die alone, Levi. Don’t die before me. Get our freedom in my stead if I go. Promise me.”

He could feel their breath grazing in his face, and it nearly wanted him to breach the small distance that kept them apart and catch their lips. But no, this was not the time for it. It was unfair. War had no space for such ties.

He decided he would do it when they’re finally free, only then, since they deserved the whole of him. They’d start a new life together, that was his new resolve.

Instead, Levi smiled and brought his handicapped grip to nestle on their cheek.

“Don’t be stupid. If you go down, I go down. If you live, I live. So do your damned best to survive, and I would keep at it too. That’s what I can promise.”

Hanji turned their head to press their lips longingly to his palm before speaking.

“Of course… that seems fair to me.”

#levihan #levi #hanji zoe #shingeki no kyojin #attack on titan #snk #aot #levi ackerman #mine #i couldn't get this out of my head ugh #anyway

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sunshinearmin · 7 years ago

Text

Let Mercy Come

Armin dealing with the aftermath of the mission to Shiganshina (trigger warning for self harm)

AO3

Word Count: 3204

‘Why am I alive?’ It was the first thought that came to his mind every morning. ‘Why am I alive?’ He would think as he opened his eyes and stared at the ceiling. ‘Why am I alive?’ he’d ask himself as he got dressed and headed for breakfast. He hardly ate anymore. He only went to the dining hall to give off the appearance that he was fine.

He didn’t know why he bothered. Everyone knew he wasn’t fine. There were only nine of them left, they knew each other very well at this point. So they all knew that he wasn’t eating. Most of them watched him with pity and concern. He hated it.

‘Why am I alive?’ he’d ask himself as he felt Floch’s eyes on him, filled with anger and disgust. Floch had made it known that he didn’t think Armin should be alive. Eren and Jean kept telling him to defend himself, but how could he defend himself when he thought Floch was right?

‘Why am I alive?’ he’d ask himself as he moved through the streets. People knew who he was, and many looked at him with hatred. Commander Smith had been a hero to many, and they couldn’t understand why he was dead, and this scrawny little kid was alive. Armin agreed with them.

‘Why am I alive?’ he’d ask himself as he stood up on the wall, watching their latest tactic for killing titans. He was always scared to be up on the wall. There was this little voice in his head that told him to jump. To just let himself fall off the wall. The fall would certainly kill him, but more likely, he’d be eaten by one of those titans. Good. He should have been eaten a long time ago. It would be that titan’s lucky day, as they’d acquire the Colossal Titan’s power. Since Marley had turned them into a mindless titan to begin with, they’d probably fight against them. He felt like anyone could do a better job than him.

‘Why am I alive?’ he’d think as he went about training. Commander Zoe wanted to run tests on his titan, but Armin was too scared to even think about transforming. Eren hadn’t had control of his titan at first. What if he hurt someone? What if he killed someone? No. He wouldn’t do it.

‘Why am I alive?’ he’d ponder after training as he changed in his room. He didn’t go to dinner anymore. Instead, he’d sit in his room and stare off into space. He didn’t read anymore. His mind couldn’t focus on the words. He’d tried writing but his brain moved faster than his hand and he got frustrated. He’d open up the window and scatter the pages to the wind.

“Why am I alive?” He’d voice his constant question aloud only when he was alone in his room, watching the world grow dark. Armin understood why Captain Levi had made the decision he had. The commander had more than earned his eternal rest. He’d done his part. They had no business dragging him back into this bloody, cruel world. What Armin disagreed with was his receiving the serum. Personally, he felt that the captain should have let him die too. He’d been prepared for it. Had accepted it. Knew that was the outcome of his choices. What he had not been prepared for was becoming a titan and murdering someone he had once considered a friend. No, this responsibility was too great and he could not handle it. He was too weak.

“Why am I alive?” He’d ask himself as he sat in his bed, fighting sleep. While the days were long and draining, he’d take a thousand times over when sleep came. For with sleep came death. Not his own, of course, that would be too merciful. No, what came was everyone else’s. Courtesy of Bertolt’s memories, he saw Marco die every night. They’d abandoned him to be eaten. Armin saw tears stream down Annie’s face. Saw the tears on Marco’s face. Heard his screams.

He never told anyone he saw what happened to Marco. It would just cause unnecessary pain, especially to Jean. Armin was in enough pain, he didn’t need to share it. He’d begged Connie to tell him exactly what happened to Bertolt, so now he saw that in his dreams too. He saw his parents die. His grandfather. He saw Ymir, Moblit, Erwin. He saw Franz missing half his body, Mina losing her head. Thomas and Naz. Cis and Hannah and Marlowe and Hannes and Eren. Always Eren. Again and again and again. His brain came up with new and more gruesome ways. He watched Mikasa die, over and over. Jean and Connie and Sasha. Hange and Levi. Just rivers of blood. Surrounding him. Choking him. Drowning him.

He’d wake up gagging, the coppery taste of blood in his mouth. He was left to ponder, how do you tell your friends that you can’t look them in the eye anymore because you watch them die every night? That you can’t look at them without seeing their blood staining your hands? He was losing his mind, that had to be what was happening. This was the slow descent into madness.

He was a disappointment. A waste of the serum. He shouldn’t have been saved. He should just let Eren eat him, be done with it. Armin could feel the disappointment in Levi’s eyes like a dagger in his heart. What a waste of Erwin’s sacrifice.

He began to spend more and more time shut away in his room. No one came to check on him. Not even Eren or Mikasa. It was better this way. He couldn’t stand the pity in their eyes. He’d fooled them all into believing he was strong. He had fooled himself. But look at him. He was completely falling apart. He wondered if anyone would even notice if he just didn’t leave this room anymore.

Armin didn’t know what drove him to take the knife from breakfast one morning. He carried it with him all day, and placed it on his dresser that evening. He didn’t know why. No one came to check on him when he woke up screaming. It had been a particularly bad night. Eren and Mikasa getting torn apart again and again. Their screams still filled his ears. He couldn’t face them. He couldn’t sit down at the breakfast table and pretend everything was alright. So, he stayed in his room and paced.

Apparently, his absence was noted, as around 11:30, there was a knock on the door. Floch’s voice called through the door. “Armin, the commander wants to know why you weren’t at breakfast.” He was glad it was Floch. The only one not interested in Armin, and therefore the only one who wouldn’t come in here asking questions.

“Tell her I’m sick.” He called back.

“Whatever.” Armin pressed his ear to the door and listened to the sound of Floch’s footsteps retreating. Good, old, dependable Floch. The Floch that came back from Shiganshina was not the same one who had left. This Floch was angry and bitter. It made sense, given what he had gone through. Watching your friends die horrible deaths was not an easy thing. They’d all gone through it. For them, it had happened in Trost. It had happened on that expedition. But Floch was lucky. He didn’t have to experience that utter betrayal. Finding out that three years of friendship was a lie. That those people were responsible for making you an orphan, and homeless. That people you had considered friends had taken everything from you, and lied to your face about it.

It seemed his lie worked. No one came to check on him the rest of the day. It was another horrible night. Torrents of blood washed through Shiganshina. Washed through Trost. Washed through Stohess. Rivers of blood drowned everything. He could see the faces of his friends as they struggled against the onslaught. As they lost and slipped beneath the surface.

He awoke in a cold sweat. He moved out of bed like a shot and seized his trashcan, vomiting as soon as he had it in his hands. Once he was done, he leaned back against the wall. It was the middle of the night but he knew he wasn’t going back to sleep. Did Eren have nightmares like this? Armin felt so alone. ‘Why am I alive?’ He wondered. ‘Why am I suffering like this?’

He stood up and began to pace. Would he have to spend the next thirteen years like this? For he had an expiration date now. That was another thing that came with powers he didn’t want. Maybe this was all his punishment because he shouldn’t be alive. He had cheated death and the universe was making him pay for it. But didn’t the universe know that it wasn’t his fault? It hadn’t been his choice. There had been a whole conversation that he wasn’t a part of.

Armin went to the window and opened it, taking in huge breaths of night air. He felt like he was suffocating. As he looked over the town, he saw it. The rivers of blood washing everything away. He recoiled, right into the dresser. He ran a hand over his eyes. It wasn’t real. He glanced at the window again. All was normal.

He turned away and his eye caught the knife on the dresser. There was a little voice in his head that told him to pick it up. To slide the steel across his skin. He watched the blood bead up, bright red against his pale skin. His eyes widened in horror as he watched the steam begin to rise from the wound. It was healing.

Something that had fascinated him on Eren once, now horrified him on himself. He was a monster. An aberration. Something that should not be alive. He slid the knife across his arm again. And again. He drew more and more blood, pressing down harder and harder. Soon, he was slashing at his wrists, his arms, his legs. He slashed his neck. Literally slit his own throat. And he just kept healing. Rivers of blood. That’s what he was creating. Rivers of his own blood.

He didn’t notice the sun come up. He didn’t hear the knock on the door or it open. So, he was surprised when he turned and saw Hange standing there, trying to keep the horror off of her face. Armin noticed for the first time how hot the room was. It was filled with steam, rising from his wounds, rising from all of the blood. “Doing your own experiments?” She asked. “It’s not nice to do it without me.”

“Commander-“

“May I have the knife please, Armin?” she held out her hand. Slowly, he extended it, hilt first. “Thank you.” She studied the steam coming off the blood on the blade. “Your healing abilities seem to be working.” She then handed it back behind her, where Armin saw Levi was standing in the hall.

The commander didn’t have her gear on, but the captain did. Was Levi here to put him down? Was Hange afraid of him? Should she be? Armin sank to the floor, and put his head in his hands. “I don’t-I can’t.” He couldn’t seem to form a coherent thought.

“Armin, tell me what I can do to help.” Hange knelt down beside him.

His brain defaulted to his ever present thought. “Why am I alive?”

“You’re alive because Captain Levi decided that. It’s a choice none of us got a say in, except him. The choice was made and all we can do now is learn to live with it.” Armin stared down at his lap. “Armin, look at me.” He looked at her face. “I know that you think you can tough this out on your own, or maybe you’re thinking that you can waste away in here. But Armin, we need you. We needed your mind before, but now there’s only nine of us and much bigger threats coming. We NEED you. So, it’s time to try something else because this isn’t working.” Hange took a deep breath, slowly reached out a hand, and put it on his shoulder. “I know that what you have been through is traumatic, and you are young. We are all here for you. You just have to tell us what you need.”

Armin glanced up at Levi, who seemed to have relaxed slightly. Clearly, he didn’t view Armin as a threat. He looked back at Hange. Her face was sincere. She genuinely wanted to help. But what did he need? “I need to go.”

“Go where?”

“I don’t know. Just…away.”

Hange glanced up at Levi. They seemed to be having a whole conversation without words. Armin used to be able to do that with Eren. He wasn’t sure it was still something he could do. Hange seemed to come to a decision. “I can give you two weeks, but I have some conditions.” Armin was surprised. To be honest, he hadn’t expected her to just let him go. “First, Levi is going with you, wherever you decide to go. This is both for your safety and the safety of others. Second, you need to come back ready to work. We have a lot of work ahead of us. We need to start testing out your titan. We have preparations in place. I know you’re scared but no one is going to get hurt.”

“Except maybe you.” Levi said.

“Not helping.” Hange quipped “So, do we have a deal? Do you accept my conditions?”

Armin nodded his head. “Yes, Commander. I accept your conditions.”

“Good.” Hange smiled at him. “Pack your things, then. I expect you back in two weeks.” She stood up and looked at Levi. “Please bring him back in one piece.”

“He can regenerate his limbs, Hange.”

“You know what I mean.”

Armin climbed to his feet. “I won’t cause any trouble.”

“I don’t doubt that. You’re not Eren, after all.” Levi said, crossing his arms.

“You boys have fun.” Hange said before leaving the room.

Lev stared at Armin. “So, where do you want to go?”

Armin was as surprised by where he chose to go as Levi was. But Levi didn’t say a word, and even let Armin have his privacy as he stepped into the underground room. To be honest, he wasn’t even sure why he was here. It had been a long time since he’d talked to her. But something drove him here.

“Annie.” He said softly, slowly stepping up and putting his hands on the crystal. It was cold to the touch. He could see her through it though. She looked like the princess in the fairytales him mom used to read to him. She looked peaceful. “How do you live with it? How do you live with all the blood on your hands?” he felt the tears in his eyes and he fell to his knees, resting his head against the crystal. His eyes closed and he saw Annie in Bertolt’s memories. The look of anguish on her face as she took Marco’s gear. As she watched Marco die, getting half his face ripped off. He opened his eyes, feeling sick to his stomach. She had seemed so upset, but yet she still did it. “Is this your way out? Are you hiding from it all?” The tears slipped down his face. “It’s not easy to do the right thing when you don’t know what the right thing is.”

He felt a surge of anger flow through him. She was hiding. She wasn’t dealing with all of the pain and horror and death she had caused. “Why?” He rose to his feet. “Why? Why did you do this? You don’t believe in the ideals of Marley! You don’t care! So why?” he pounded his fists on the crystal, unaware that he was screaming. He raised his fist again.

“Hey.” Suddenly, a hand seized his wrist and spun him around. He stared into Levi’s eyes.

“How do you do it? How do you live with all of the blood on your hands?” He asked quietly.

“You tell yourself how much more blood would have been spilt if you hadn’t. You tell yourself it was for the greater good. And then you move on. You keep going because it’s going to keep coming.” Levi let go of him. “You’re a soldier, Armin. You trained for this. Sacrificed and suffered. Now is not the time to crumple up and quit. Like four eyes said, we need you.”

Armin appreciated that Levi didn’t put on kid gloves with him. Didn’t walk on egg shells. Levi spoke to him like he spoke to everyone else. It was refereshing. Levi started back up the stairs and Armin followed. He paused for a moment and glanced back at Annie. The captain’s words echoed in his head. “You move on.” He turned away. “You keep going.” He began to climb the stairs again, wondering if he’d ever get to talk to Annie again. Ever find out why. He doubted it. She’d probably never open her eyes again. Spend however much of her thirteen years was left in that crystal.

His own eyes blinked several times as he stepped out into the sun. His heart seemed a little lighter as he felt the warmth of the sun on his skin. He was alive, whether he liked it or not. He had to leave Annie and all the rest in the dark. In the past. They had bigger fish to fry. He looked at Levi. “So, we have a week and a half left.” Levi said. “Where do you want to go?”

“Home.” They both knew that Armin didn’t mean Shiganshina. Like Levi, after losing everything, Armin had made a new home, in the people around him. He knew he had a long road ahead of him, but he would get better. He had to. They needed him. “Let’s go home.”

#my writing #my fanfiction #armin arlert #hange zoe #levi ackerman #annie leonhardt #eren jaeger #mikasa ackerman #floch forster

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famousattractionoffameanddance · 6 years ago

Text

Fame and Dance

September 19th, 2021

A large man with blonde hair, blue eyes, and significantly large eyebrows looked sullenly at the young actor currently moping in the seat in front of him. His eye was twitching as only this talent can cause. He was quite pleased with himself that he wasn’t expressing in any other way. Letting out the breath he didn’t realized he was holding until that moment before he addressed the young man.

“Eren, I understand that your lessons are not going as you would like them but taking this attitude isn’t going to improve it any either. You have no motivation with this teacher and it shows in your dancing… Take this card, go to this address, talk to the proprietor, sign up for a dance class, and I guarantee by the end of the conversation you will have found your motivation.”

Eren looked at him even more despondently as he took the card out of his hand and looked it over. The look he leveled at him would have made a lesser man recoil and take his words back. However, he is by no means a lesser man so he met Eren’s gaze with his own. The look he gave him was a withering one that clearly said he wasn’t putting up with his wallowing any longer.

“Not even you can get me out of this mood..”

With Eren boyfriend dumping him because of his overzealous fans he lost the one person he could be intimately close with. He was short, funny, and a sweet little thing that made him laugh. Maybe if he had been aggressive they could have lasted longer but, what did he expect, he had been human.

“Then I guess it’s a good thing I won’t be your motivation then…. Do you want someone to drive you over there?

Eren just slumped even further in his seat a long heavy sigh was Erwin’s answer. “Do I have to?”

“Yes. You have to. Now do you want someone to drive you over?”

He asked looking pointedly at Eren before dialing up Kenta because he already knew Eren wasn’t in any mood to go where he wanted him to go unless someone else was taking him. Kenta is about the only person who won’t say unnecessary things to either Eren or Levi when the two meet. Kenta picked up on the second ring and Erwin informed him as to where he needed Eren taken right away so he can quickly get started on his classes.

In less than ten minutes Kenta was waiting for Eren with a car outside of the talent label run by Erwin, to which Eren is under. As the number one celebrity in the world Eren has a lot of rabid fans. It wasn’t surprising that they had caused problems with his last boyfriend but luckily for Eren Levi’s had his own troubles with celebrity. That tends to be the case when one is a Prince but Eren will learn that eventually especially if they start dating.

Eren groaned he waited that full ten whole minutes before he was ushering Eren downstairs. Erwin traded him off to Kenta to go to wherever the fuck he’s going to. Eren honestly doubt it’ll cheer him up. So he crawled into the back seat and laid face down on the seat groaning in displeasure.

Hell, Armin was doing better than him he could see the way he looked at Erwin and vise versa. So they have some sort of office romance. But, him noooo he just had to be the number one actor the good looking sexy ass fuck guy on the planet to make ovaries explode and gay males erupt. If he could have anyone he wanted than the fans was going to make sure he stayed single. They shredded his ex-boyfriend for crying out loud… it’s a miracle he even stayed as a pop idol he left the damn country because of him and his possessive fans.

Eren began to whimper he was going to cry an ocean before all this was done. Kenta looked back at Eren lying across the back seat through the rearview mirror with a concerned expression. He knew Eren had been down in the dumps ever since his fans caught him on a valentines date with his last boyfriend whom they somehow managed to run off before July. It’s been three and a half months since then and Eren was still trying to work through it but his learning curve was greatly tied to his emotional state so now that he’s having to learn something new it’s really showing.

Luckily it was about a five minute drive from the agency to the dance studio he was taking Eren too so when they arrived he got out and opened Eren’s door for him.

“We’re here Eren. Come in when you’re ready. I’ll go find Levi for you.”

He said cheerfully and left the door open for him.

Eren nodded his head with a muffled word that sound like ha’kay.. He stayed in the car for an extra five minutes before he drug his ass out of the car. He took one look at the dance studio and was half tempted to just ditch.

He would have if it wasn’t for the thought that Erwin will grab a hold of his balls and ripping the damn thing from between his legs… “On second thought… it’s not worth it…even if I can regrow the damn thing...”

With his fate sealed he climb the few stairs up to the dance studio. He checked the place out and found a sofa that had his name on it. He went over and laid face down again. If it was possible his soul would have left his body.

Despite wearing heels Levi made no sound on the polished floor as Kenta brought him out to the waiting room to meet one of Erwin’s talents who’s been having a difficult time recently learning ballroom dancing. He was expecting someone professional since he knew Erwin wasn’t the type to deal with the unprofessional. He stood with his hands on his hips and one cocked to the side as he looked the male on his sofa from head to toe and then back up again before speaking.

“This is a dance studio. If you want to sleep go to a hotel because if I wanted some guy laying on my couch looking like he’s dead I would have become a prostitute. Now sit the hell up.”

Levi was only five foot three in his bare feet but he was real used to dealing with any situation. He could be diplomatic when he wanted to be but right now his scales were being rubbed the wrong way. If the jerk didn’t want to take his classes he wouldn’t force him and he would tell Erwin to shove him up his ass. He didn’t need that hand out bullshit. If he wanted a hand out he would just ask his parents because they have already offered. If he accepts a hand out then this place would be a failure anyways.

Eren planted his hands on either side of his head and pushed up. He sat up very slowly removing his sunglasses to look back at the sharp tongue male. What he said was kinda funny that he ended up chuckling.

“I’m not sleeping. I’m sorry for the disrespect I showed.” Eren gave him a light smile. If he’s really looking at him he was pretty short. He had a clean haircut, black, long in the front, short in the back. It looked perfect from where he is sitting. His eye was a combination of smoky gray metal and lighting blue. He had the palest complexion he had ever seen minus Connie he was the whitest of all white that if he didn’t know any better this one never got any sunlight. He was attractive to say the very least and he was his type physical wise.

He wonder if this was Erwin’s attempt to get him motivated. When he thought about his ex and what he done his fan done it just made him sigh. He couldn’t possibly get into another relationship.

“I hate you Erwin…. I pray his balls will rot off and roll away from him along with those ridiculous eyebrows.”

Levi was rather mollified when he apologized and sat up. The chuckle he had let out had sent a shiver of desire racing down his spine. His eyes were hot as hell but he needed to rein his underused sex drive back in because for one this was business not pleasure. Not that he wouldn’t mind a bit of after hours play he always made sure to keep things professional despite the fact that he want to both fuck and be fucked by this sexy male sitting on his couch.

It was a bit impossible for Levi to hold back his laugh when the male cursed Erwin, his balls, and his ridiculous eyebrows. He didn’t know why he was cursing him but he might as well inform him that if he doesn’t want to take his classes he won’t force him and he won’t let Erwin force him to take his classes either. Now if Erwin wanted to force him to take someone else’s classes there was nothing he could do about it.

“You’re funny…. I don’t know why you’re cursing Erwin but if you don’t want to take my classes then I won’t force you. If you want I can definitely tell Erwin where to shove it since I was already telling Kenta if this is another one of Erwin’s attempts at a hand out I’ll force feed him his damn hand and everything that’s attached to it.”

He said with obvious annoyance at Erwin as he turned on his heel and headed for one of the back dance studios, not the one he had been in but a different one. If the male wanted the classes he could come with him, if not then he knew where the door was. Like he had said, he wouldn’t force him even though he was quite interested as to how nicely their bodies would fit together in a tango. He looked strong, not in a body builder sort of way but well toned and muscular.

All thoughts about licking his abs are a dangerous road that he needed to get control of because in the heat of a tango he might do something he would probably end up regretting. The last guy he had gotten involved with, he was mostly his body type but he had also been supernatural, had been a big mistake. The bastard had ended up cheating on him with every single one of his coworkers that he could get in their pants. Male and female, bastard couldn’t work for a week because Levi had busted his lip.

As a Prince, and a Dragon, though he supposed that he had a natural predisposition to believing in fairy tales and that his one true love is out there somewhere. If it happened for his parents he didn’t see why it couldn’t happen for him too. He had to believe or assholes like Nate would ruin love for him forever. He didn’t want that so he stuck with his dancing and hoping that they would meet someday.

Eren got to his feet when he turned from him and boy did he get an eye full of Levi’s curves. He was definitely male but, even he could tell he had a nice shape despite the baggy shirt tight leather pants and fuck me red pandora heels. The poor actor chased after him but, he gave Kenta a look that he’ll be fine on his own. When Kenta gave him a smile he couldn’t help the small grin of his own when enter the back dance studio.

“I was cursing him because he gone and set me up. He told me I’d find motivation after having one conversation with you. You’re definitely my type and I think you were hella fine walking up to me with your hand on your tiny waist. You had the kind of air around you that says I won’t tolerate any one bullshit let alone me.” Eren replied with a laugh, “To be honest I had a really bad and possibly naughty thought about what I’d love for you to do to me.” Just as suddenly as he laughed he lost his smile and looked down, “I’ve been dumped by my last boyfriend and it was my fault. My fan chewed him up spit him out and shredded his male pride to the point he fled the country from me.” Eren sighed again all he wanted to do now is laid down and mope but, when Levi grabbed his hand and drag him to the middle of the dance studio he didn’t get the chance to fall back into his earlier state of depression.

“I’m really sorry for what I did out there I do want to learn believe me I put in the hours of dancing and studying it and I remember all the steps and hand gesture to the expression I must have but, I have this horrible switch that my emotions are tied to my acting and I’ve been on a crappy shitty emotional weeks.”

“Some people aren’t meant to live in the limelight and can become crushed by it. If you’re not strong in your convictions then you can’t whether the things that will rise like a storm to crush you….”

Levi said softly pulling Eren into a slow start of a waltz to gage his skills. Then he thought back to what he said about Erwin, while trying his damnedest to forget what Eren had said about how he had been thinking he wanted him to do naughty things to him. He had nearly purred his approval but kept it in check. He lifted his gaze to meet Eren’s as they slowly started dancing.

“I’m going to have to kick Erwin’s ass…. I don’t like being used to Honey Dick anyone, even if they’re extremely delicious….”

He said with a smirk lifting the corners of his mouth.

Eren laughed, “If you need a tag team partner of kicking Erwin’s ass I’m your man.” He easily guided Levi across the floor his body remember what to do. He may have been lifeless but, that doesn’t mean he did not practice. “What you said earlier about the some people can’t live in the limelight. I’m always in the spotlight I don’t think there was a time I’d ever have any privacy. And he was too he’s a Korean idol so I’d like to think he knew what he was getting into…I thought we could do it but, he didn’t give me a chance.”

Eren sighs again but tried to smile at being called delicious, “So I’m extremely delicious huh?” He said teasingly he was trying to lighten the mood and switch topic. Levi wasn’t his therapist he was paid to teach him how to dance and he wouldn’t waste his effort. He liked Levi and his spunky no nonsense attitude of his.

“Personally I feel like I’ve been put through the blender and I didn’t give a damn what I tossed on. I haven’t even cut my hair since January. I look like I step out of a Shaggy-Do kids movie with no common sense.”

“Oh…. Well then he should have just sucked it up or kept it in his pants…. I personally try to keep things professional and I do my best not to sleep with students.”

As a dragon he could not lie and if pressed he would be reluctant to admit that he had broken his rule once before and was burned himself. As the tempo of the music changed so did the steps. Levi was technically dancing from the female’s role as he took them into a slow samba. He was warming him up for the tango. He was correct about knowing the steps and Levi could tell he was talented.

He was definitely going to give Erwin a piece of his mind though. He didn’t give a damn how hot the guy was he was not using him to honey dick someone into learning a dance properly. He definitely had the basics down and he couldn’t help but look forward to teaching him advanced steps. Erwin probably already had a dance choreographer to design a dance that focuses on his strengths and shows them off properly.

“For what it’s worth I personally think you look stunning with long hair…. You’d look even more divine if it were longer too.”

Levi said with a slight blush coloring his cheeks as he averted his gaze to stare unblinkingly at a fixed point on Eren’s chest. It was increasingly hard not to focus on the closeness of him. Somehow though he managed to push through and make some minor corrections to his stance as they moved. He had a decent grasp of Eren’s skills as the music came to a stop and he stepped out of Eren’s arms to go over to a small unobtrusive desk in the far back corner.

Each of his classrooms had one with its own built in computer that raised up with a brush of his hand. He pulled up his lesson plans, each individual class was structured to focus on the areas where the student needed the most work. Making a few notations he occasionally glanced up to meet Eren’s gaze since he was staring at him so intently while he worked on the lesson plan.

“Is there a particular dance or skill you wish to learn or improve upon?”

He asked breaking the silence that had fallen between them. It had at least been a comfortable silence. Not that awkward silence that usually fell between him and clients when he would work up a lesson plan after the quick assessment dance, He had good form and it was natural. He moved gracefully and Levi knew that with enough training no one would be able to take their eyes off of Eren when he is on the dance floor. He had a rather commanding presence as it was.

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