#infectious testing market

[pangur-and-grim]

a lot of you probably knows Belphie's story, but I'll summarize just in case.

Devon Rex cats are better for people with allergies (less shed fur + less Fel d1 protein in their saliva), so on February 16, 2024, I went the breeder route and put down a deposit. before Belphie even opened his eyes, he was mine!

every Friday, the breeder sent me a new photo. I had a broken leg, and was basically rotting in bed at that point, so it was the best part of my week. then, at 12 weeks old, I BROUGHT HIM HOME!

at first, he was so alive! like a wind-up monkey that never shut off. he dangled from the wall-hangings, savaged my feet as I walked, and used my elderly cats as jumping poles to do cool acrobatics over. but all this gradually faded.

first, he stopped playing. then he stopped climbing. then he stopped moving much at all. my vet ran tests on him and found multiple pathogens (calcivrius + mycoplasma), but the medication didn't help - he kept declining.

on September 17th, I woke up to find him swollen like a balloon. we finally had an answer: he had Feline infectious Peritonitis, aka FIP. before 2017, this would've been a death sentence. he would've kept bloating until he drowned in his own fluids. and before 2024, I would've been forced to inject him with black market drugs. but thankfully, South Tower Animal Hospital in Fergus, Ontario was doing a study on the oral medication! we drove two hours, enrolled him, and left with the GS-441524 pills.

and he went from those photos above.....to this:

I thought Belphie would die as a kitten. I'd accepted that he would never grow up. but now he gets to LIVE!

and all for the low cost of $7,553.....ahhhahaha........god.

that + a recent home disaster has wiped out my savings, but I still need to pay for Belphie's medication. to remain in this study, I need to do bloodwork monthly until Feb 2025, and he'll need daily pills until March 2025.

I've put a risograph print + enamel pin set up at greerstothers.shop. I hate asking for help, but if you'd like to support Belphie's continued treatment, please consider checking them out!

[aarunresearcher]

The United States IVD market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic and infectious diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, and infectious diseases such as COVID-19. This, in turn, has heightened the need for accurate and timely diagnostic tools like IVD, thus creating lucrative growth opportunities for the market. 

[soumyafwr]

https://carbonfacesocial.org/blogs/79307/Infectious-Disease-Testing-Market-Share-Overview-Competitive-Analysis-and-Forecast

Infectious Disease Testing Market Share, Overview, Competitive Analysis and Forecast 2031

[aishavass]

North America, followed by Europe are the largest regional markets for point of care testing for infectious diseases...

[foldingfittedsheets]

wait what the fuck go back why are there lambskin condoms at all

Yeah so, back in the day people didn’t like getting pregnant. And they didn’t have access to latex for a long time. So lambskin condoms are some of the OG contraceptives, they were better than nothin. The first iterations were made from animal intestines, there’s some debate but that was sometime in the 16th century, though some think it was much earlier.

When latex condoms hit the market in the 1850’s it would have been the death knell for lambskin except! People with latex allergies still needed an option that didn’t make them drop into anaphylaxis. Also animal condoms were still cheaper until the 1920’s. Fun fact: my friend Charlie is allergic to latex but decided to just use latex condoms anyway and got stuck hiding in a closet when the girls parents came home and forgot he had a biohazard on his penis until he started having a seizure and remembered to remove it.

Anyway! The downsides of current lambskin are numerous. First off, it feels an awful lot like wax paper which seems quite unpleasant for both partners. Additionally, it still transmits STIs, because lambskin is just… skin, and is permeable to infectious disease.

Lastly why it’s bad: Modern condoms are checked for microtears and breakage by running a small electrical current through them. That’s how we know they’re safe to prevent all the stuff. But lambskin can’t be subjected to this test, so it can’t even say it’s guaranteed to prevent pregnancy, if there’s microtearing semen are gonna get through.

But noooow there’s a baller new material called polyisoprene that can be tested for breakage, doesn’t smell bad like latex, and is hypoallergenic. They’re basically the best condom in every way, and lambskin should now bow out and stop existing.

[aventurineswife]

Paint the World Pink and Blue

Summary: In the chaotic streets of Zaun, you encounter Jinx, the enigmatic and wild inventor with a penchant for explosions and mischief. What starts as a chance meeting quickly turns into an adventure as Jinx pulls you into her unpredictable world of fireworks, inventions, and chaos. Amidst the noise and danger, a connection sparks between the two of you that might just be the most exciting—and dangerous—thing you’ve ever experienced.

Tags: Jinx x Reader, Fluff and Chaos, Slow Burn (implied potential), Found Family Vibes, Mischief, Humor, Explosions, Mutual Pining (?).

Warnings: Mild descriptions of explosives and chaotic behavior, Slightly reckless actions (typical Jinx behavior), Brief mentions of fear/danger due to Jinx's unpredictable nature.

A/N: first time writing this, I have no idea what I did...🧍‍♀️uhhh, bit ooc ig since I have never watched Arcane... yeah, enjoy.

The chaos of Zaun's night market had never felt more alive. Steam hissed from broken pipes, neon lights flickered like desperate fireflies, and the hum of low chatter merged with the occasional boom from distant experiments gone awry. You weaved your way through the crowd, looking for anything resembling stability in this whirlwind city.

And then there she was.

Jinx stood atop a pile of crates, her eyes alight with excitement as she lit another firework. Her braids whipped around her, the perfect complement to the wild grin plastered across her face. It was hard not to stare. She was mesmerizing in the way that storms are—chaotic, destructive, but impossible to look away from.

You didn’t expect her to notice you, but she did.

“Oi, you!” she called, pointing her oversized flare gun at you, though her tone was more playful than threatening. “You’ve got the face of someone who needs a little more boom in their life.”

Your heart jumped, whether from fear or something else, you couldn’t tell. “I’m good without explosions, thanks...” you replied, hoping humor might save you from whatever chaos she was planning.

Jinx hopped down, her boots landing with a thud against the floor. She closed the distance between you with a few skips, her grin only widening. “Boring answer, cupcake. Lucky for you, I don’t take no for an answer.”

Before you could protest, she grabbed your hand and dragged you off toward a secluded corner of the market. The people around you didn’t even blink; they knew better than to get involved when Jinx was in the mix.

She led you to a makeshift workshop cluttered with half-assembled gadgets, jars of brightly colored powders, and an unsettling amount of explosives. She finally let go of your hand, spinning around to face you. “Alright, here’s the deal: I’m working on something big. Huge. Monumental! But I need a second opinion.”

You raised an eyebrow, glancing at the haphazard pile of mechanical parts and volatile materials. “And you picked me because…?”

“Because you don’t run away screaming when I look at you,” she said, tilting her head with a mock-serious expression. “Plus, you’ve got good vibes. I like vibes.”

Before you could decide whether to be flattered or terrified, she thrust a strange device into your hands. It looked like a cross between a grenade and a music box.

“What… is this?” you asked cautiously.

“A party starter!” she exclaimed, leaning closer until her face was inches from yours. “Pull the pin, and it’s fireworks. For, like, five seconds. Then—BOOM! Confetti. Brilliant, right?”

Her enthusiasm was infectious. You couldn’t help but smile, despite your better judgment. “You’re absolutely out of your mind.”

She laughed, the sound bright and wild. “You say that like it’s a bad thing.” Her gaze softened slightly, the chaos in her eyes dimming just a fraction. “You’re fun. I like fun.”

The moment lingered, her usual frenetic energy giving way to something quieter. Then, just as quickly, she snapped back to her usual self. “Okay, enough mushy stuff! Test it out!”

You hesitated but pulled the pin. The device whirred to life, shooting out a spray of vibrant fireworks that lit up the dim workshop. True to her word, it ended with a shower of confetti and a loud pop. You couldn’t help but laugh.

“See? Told you it’s a hit!” she said, her grin triumphant. “Stick with me, cupcake, and you’ll never be bored again.”

You weren’t sure what you’d just signed up for, but as she grabbed your hand again and pulled you toward her next adventure, you realized you didn’t care. Chaos had never looked so good.

Should I post the Ekko, Isha and Caitlyn fic too...? Hmmm 🤔🫣👀

[covid-safer-hotties]

The next pandemic is inevitable. Australia isn’t ready - Published Sept 23, 2024

(Before you Americans yell at me, It's already the 23rd in Australia. This is very late-breaking)

I thought this was a really good breakdown of the current situation given the government-approved covid denial we live in. Long, but worth a read.

By Kate Aubusson and Mary Ward

Top infectious disease and public health veterans at the nerve centre of the state’s war against COVID-19 are sounding the alarm.

NSW is less prepared today to fend off a deadly pandemic despite the lessons of COVID-19, say top infectious disease and public health veterans at the nerve centre of the state’s war against the virus.

And we won’t have another hundred years to wait.

NSW’s gold standard Test-Trace-Isolate-Quarantine and vaccination strategies will be useless if a distrusting population rejects directives, refuses to give up its freedoms again, and the goodwill of shell-shocked public health workers dries up.

A panel of experts convened by The Sydney Morning Herald called for a pandemic combat agency akin to the armed forces or fire brigades to commit to greater transparency or risk being caught off guard by the next virulent pathogen and misinformation with the potential to spread faster than any virus.

“It’s inevitable,” says Professor Eddie Holmes of the next pandemic. A world-leading authority on the emergence of infectious diseases at the University of Sydney, Holmes predicts: “We’ll have less than 100 years [before the next pandemic].

“We’re seeing a lot of new coronaviruses that are spilling over into animals that humans are interacting with,” said Holmes, the first person to publish the coronavirus genome sequence for the world to see.

“People are exposed all the time, and each time we are rolling the dice.”

The independent review of NSW Health’s response to COVID-19 opened with the same warning: “No health system or community will have the luxury of 100 years of downtime.”

Pandemic preparedness needs to be a “permanent priority”, wrote the report’s author, Robyn Kruk, a former NSW Health secretary, “rather than following the path of those that have adopted a ‘panic and forget strategy,’ allowing system preparedness to wane”.

Why we don’t have 100 years to wait for the next pandemic The World Health Organisation has declared seven public health emergencies of international concern since 2014, including the current mpox outbreak.

Climate change is turbocharging the factors that coalesce to create the perfect breeding ground for a pandemic-causing virus, including population increases, bigger cities, and better-connected global markets and migration.

“Animals will be forced into more constrained environments, and humans that rely on those environments will be again constrained in the same environments. There will be more wet markets, more live animal trade that will just increase exposure,” Holmes said.

“It was clear that we weren’t ready [for COVID],” said Jennie Musto, who, after seven years working for the World Health Organisation overseas, became NSW Health’s operations manager for the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre, the team responsible for NSW’s COVID-19 contact tracing and containment.

“Everyone had preparedness plans gathering dust on a shelf, but no one was actually ready to respond, and so everyone was on the back foot,” Musto said. “Perhaps none of us really thought this was going to happen. We were waiting 500 years.”

Who would willingly become the next doomed whistleblower? Eddie Holmes, known for his repeated assertion that SARS-CoV-2 did not come from a lab, is deeply concerned that when the next pandemic-causing virus emerges, chances are it will be covered up.

“My worry is that if the virus appeared in a small population, say, somewhere in Southeast Asia, the people involved wouldn’t blow the whistle now, given the fact that you would get blamed,” he said.

Li Wenliang, the Wuhan doctor who tried to raise the alarm about a virulent new virus, was reportedly reprimanded by police for spreading rumours and later died of COVID-19.

The global blame game, culminating in a deep distrust of China and accusations that the virus was grown in a Wuhan lab, is why Holmes believes “we’re in no better place than we were before COVID started, if not worse”.

“I work with a lot of people in China trying to keep the lines of communication open, and they’re scared, I think, or nervous about saying things that are perceived to counter national interest.”

From a vaccine perspective, our defences look strong. There have been monumental advancements in vaccine development globally, driven by mRNA technology. In Sydney this month, construction began on an RNA vaccine research and manufacturing facility.

“But the way I see it is that nothing has been done in terms of animal surveillance of outbreaks or data sharing. The [global] politics has got much, much worse,” Holmes said.

Combat force Conjoint Associate Professor Craig Dalton, a leading public health physician and clinical epidemiologist, called for a dramatic expansion of the public health workforce and the establishment of a pandemic combat force that would routinely run real-time pandemic simulations during “peacetime”.

“No one is upset with fire brigades spending most of the time not fighting fires. They train. A lot. And that’s probably how we need to move,” he said.

“We need exercise training units so that every major player in pandemic response is involved in a real-time, three to four-day pandemic response every three to five years at national, state and local [levels].”

The federal Department of Health and Aged Care recently ran a health emergency exercise focused on governance arrangements involving chief health officers and senior health emergency management officials, a spokeswoman for Health Minister Mark Butler said. The outcomes of this exercise will be tested later this year.

Dalton said desktop simulations and high-level exercises involving a handful of chiefs didn’t cut it, considering the thousands of people working across regions and states. He instead suggested an intensive training program run in the Hunter New England region before the 2009 H1N1 pandemic provided a good model.

“We were ringing people, actors were getting injections, just like a real pandemic,” said Dalton, who once ordered a burrito in a last-ditch effort to contact a restaurant exposed to COVID-19.

Our heroes have had it The expert panel was emphatic that our pandemic response cannot once again rely on the goodwill of the public health and healthcare workforce.

According to the Kruk review, what began as an emergency response ultimately morphed from a sprint into an ultra marathon and “an admirable (yet unsustainable) ‘whatever it takes’ mindset”.

They were hailed as heroes, but the toll of COVID-19 on healthcare workers was brutal. Workloads were untenable, the risk of transmission was constant, and the risk of violence and aggression (for simply wearing their scrubs on public transport in some cases) was terrifying.

“We got through this pandemic through a lot of people working ridiculous hours,” Dalton said.

“You talk to a lot of people who did that and say they could not do it again.”

Tellingly, several expert personnel who worked at the front lines or in the control centre of NSW’s pandemic defences were invited to join the Herald’s forum but declined. Revisiting this period of intense public scrutiny, culminating in online attacks and physical threats, was just too painful.

So long, solidarity Arguably, the biggest threat to our pandemic defences will be the absence of our greatest strength during COVID: the population’s solidarity and willingness to follow public health orders even when it meant forfeiting fundamental freedoms.

The public largely complied with statewide public health orders, including the stay-at-home directive that became the 107-day Delta lockdown, and other severe restrictions prevented many from being at the bedside of their dying loved ones, visiting relatives in aged care homes and attending funerals.

“My worry is that next time around when those sorts of rules come out, people may say, ‘Well, don’t worry about it.’ They relax it in the future. Why don’t we just not stick to the rules?” said Professor Nicholas Wood, associate director of clinical research and services at the National Centre for Immunisation Research and Surveillance.

“I’m not sure we quite understand whether people [will be] happy with those rules again,” he said.

Dalton was more strident.

“I tend to agree with Michael Osterholm … an eminent US epidemiologist [who] recently said the US is probably less prepared for a pandemic now than it was in 2019, mostly because the learnings by health departments in the COVID pandemic may not make a material difference if faced with a community that distrusts its public health agencies,” he said.

“If H1N1 or something else were to spill over in the next couple of years, things like masks, social distancing and lockdowns would not be acceptable. Vaccination would be rejected by a huge part of the population, and politicians might be shy about putting mandates in.”

As for the total shutdown of major industries, people will struggle to accept it unless the next pandemic poses a greater threat than COVID, said UNSW applied mathematician Professor James Wood.

The risk of the virus to individuals and their families will be weighed against the negative effects of restrictions, which are much better understood today, said Wood, whose modelling of the impact of cases and vaccination rates was used by NSW Health.

“Something like school closure would be a much tougher argument with a similar pathogen,” he said.

A previous panel of education experts convened by the Herald to interrogate pandemic decision-making in that sector was highly critical of the decision to close schools for months during NSW’s Delta lockdown.

Greg Dore, professor of infectious diseases and epidemiology at the Kirby Institute, said the public’s reluctance to adhere to restrictions again may, in part, be appropriate.

“Some of the restrictions on people leaving the country were a bit feudal and too punitive,” he said. “Other restrictions were plain stupid, [for instance] limitations on time exercising outside.”

Meanwhile, the delays to publicly recognise the benefits of face masks and the threat of airborne transmission “ate away at trust”, Dalton said.

“We shouldn’t make those mistakes again,” he said.

Transparent transgressions Uncertainty is not something politicians are adept at communicating, but uncertainty is the only constant during a pandemic of a novel virus.

Vaccines that offered potent protection against early iterations of the COVID virus were less effective against Omicron variants.

“[The public], unfortunately, got hit by a rapid sequence of changes of what was ‘true’ in the pandemic,” James Wood said.

Political distrust can be deadly if governments give the public reason to suspect they are obfuscating.

The expert panel urged NSW’s political leaders to be far more transparent about the public health advice they were given before unilaterally enforcing restrictions.

There was a clear line between public health advice and political decision-making in Victoria. The Victorian chief health officer’s written advice was routinely published online.

In NSW, that line was blurred as Chief Health Officer Kerry Chant stood beside political leaders, most notably former premier Gladys Berejiklian, at the daily press conferences.

Public health experts said that they looked for subtle cues to determine the distinction between the expert advice and the political messaging during press conferences, paying attention to body language, who spoke when and who stayed silent.

“It is fine for public health personnel to have a different view to politicians. They have different jobs. What is not OK is to have politicians saying they are acting on public health advice [when they are not],” he said.

The ‘whys’ behind the decisions being made were missing from the daily press conferences, which created “a vacuum for misinformation”, said social scientist and public health expert Professor Julie Leask at the University of Sydney.

“The communication about what you need to do came out, and it was pretty good … but the ‘why we’re doing this’ and ‘what trade-offs we’ve considered’ and ‘what dilemmas we’ve faced in making this decision’; that was not shared,” Leask said.

The infodemic In the absence of transparency, misinformation and disinformation fill the vacuum.

“We had an ‘infodemic’ during the pandemic,” said Dr Jocelyne Basseal, who worked on the COVID-19 response for WHO in the Western Pacific and leads strategic development at the Sydney Infectious Diseases Institute, University of Sydney.

“The public has been so confused. Where do we go for trusted information [when] everyone can now write absolutely anything, whether on Twitter [now called X] or [elsewhere] on the web?” Basseal said.

A systematic review conducted by WHO found misinformation on social media accounted for up to 51 per cent of posts about vaccines, 29 per cent of posts about COVID-19 and 60 per cent of posts about pandemics.

Basseal’s teenage children recently asked whether they were going into lockdown after TikTok videos about the mpox outbreak.

“There is a lot of work to be done now, in ‘peacetime’ … to get ahead of misinformation,” Basseal said, including fortifying relationships with community groups and teaching scientists – trusted and credible sources of information – how to work with media.

In addition to the Kruk review’s six recommendations to improve its pandemic preparedness, NSW Health undertook a second inquiry into its public health response to COVID-19, which made 104 recommendations.

NSW Health Minister Ryan Park said: “We are working hard to ensure the findings and recommendations from those reports are being implemented as quickly as possible.”

The expert panellists spoke in their capacity as academics and not on behalf of NSW Health or WHO.

The ‘As One System’ review into NSW Health’s COVID-19 response made six recommendations 1. Make governance and decision-making structures clearer, inclusive, and more widely understood 2. Strengthen co-ordination, communication, engagement, and collaboration 3. Enhance the speed, transparency, accuracy, and practicality of data and information sharing 4. Prioritise the needs of vulnerable people and communities most at risk, impacted and in need from day one 5. Put communities at the centre of emergency governance, planning, preparedness, and response 6. Recognise, develop and sustain workforce health, wellbeing, capability and agility.

[brainddeadd]

“Why do we keep pretending we don’t want to kiss each other?”

The sound of laughter and chatter filled the air around you as you and William Nylander walked through the bustling outdoor market. The warm evening sun cast a golden hue over the stalls, and the sweet scent of pastries wafted through the air, mixing with the laughter of families and friends enjoying the night.

You and William had been friends for a while now, your bond forged over shared interests and late-night conversations. But lately, there had been an undeniable tension between you two—something electric that made your heart race whenever he was near.

As you stopped at a stall selling handmade jewelry, William leaned in closer to get a better look. “What do you think of this one?” he asked, holding up a delicate silver bracelet.

“It’s pretty,” you replied, smiling at him. “But I think it would look even better on you.”

He laughed, the sound warm and inviting. “You think so? Maybe I should get it just for that reason.”

As he spoke, his eyes sparkled, and the playful banter continued, but the tension lingered just beneath the surface. You both picked out a few trinkets to remember the day, but every time your hands brushed against each other, a spark ignited.

Finally, unable to hold back any longer, you turned to him, your heart pounding in your chest. “William,” you started, trying to find the right words. “Why do we keep pretending we don’t want to kiss each other?”

His laughter faded, and he turned to you, surprise flickering across his features. “You feel it too?” he asked, his tone more serious now.

“Of course I do,” you replied, feeling a mix of relief and vulnerability. “It’s like this huge elephant in the room that we keep ignoring.”

He stepped a little closer, the distance between you shrinking as the laughter of the market faded into the background. “I thought I was the only one,” he confessed, his voice low. “I didn’t want to ruin our friendship, but I can’t help but think about how much I want to kiss you.”

Your heart raced at his admission, and a soft smile spread across your face. “So, why don’t we stop pretending?”

With that, William hesitated only a moment before leaning in closer, his gaze searching yours for permission. You nodded, and in an instant, his lips were on yours—soft and tentative at first, as if testing the waters.

The world around you melted away, and you melted into the kiss, feeling all the pent-up emotions and unspoken words finally come to life. As he deepened the kiss, wrapping his arms around you, you felt a sense of joy and relief wash over you. This was right.

When you finally pulled away, breathless and smiling, William brushed a strand of hair behind your ear, his eyes filled with warmth. “That was worth the wait.”

“Definitely,” you agreed, feeling giddy. “Now, let’s see what other trouble we can get into tonight.”

“Lead the way,” he said, his grin infectious as he intertwined his fingers with yours, ready to explore the rest of the evening together.

[aarunresearcher]

United States point of care diagnostics market size is projected to exhibit a growth rate (CAGR) of 6.90% during 2024-2032. Numerous advancements in portable and handheld diagnostic devices have enhanced the convenience and user-friendliness of testing, which is primarily driving the market growth.

[darkmaga-returns]

by Maryanne Demasi, PhD

An explosive new study conducted within the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) own laboratory has revealed excessively high levels of DNA contamination in Pfizer’s mRNA COVID-19 vaccine.

Tests conducted at the FDA’s White Oak Campus in Maryland found that residual DNA levels exceeded regulatory safety limits by 6 to 470 times.

The study was undertaken by student researchers under the supervision of FDA scientists. The vaccine vials were sourced from BEI Resources, a trusted supplier affiliated with the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID), previously headed by Anthony Fauci.

Recently published in the Journal of High School Science, the peer-reviewed study challenges years of dismissals by regulatory authorities, who had previously labelled concerns about excessive DNA contamination as baseless.

The FDA is expected to comment on the findings this week. However, the agency has yet to issue a public alert, recall the affected batches, or explain how vials exceeding safety standards were allowed to reach the market.

[devoted1989]

65,000 non - human primates are used in laboratory experiments every year in the united states

Each year, more than 110 million animals - including mice, rats, dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, fish and birds - are killed in U.S. laboratories for chemical, drug, food, and cosmetics testing. In order for a drug to be approved in the United States, the FDA typically requires toxicity tests on one rodent species such as a mouse or rat and one nonrodent species such as a monkey or dog.

Around 65,000 non - human primates (NHP) are used every year in the United States, and around 7,000 across the European Union. No new biomedical research projects have been approved on chimpanzees in the US since 2015.

Macaques are now the most commonly used NHP - most are imported from China and Cambodia.

The huge demand for research monkeys and their rising costs have created a market for monkey smugglers.

While most macaques imported by the US are identified as captive-bred on paper, some experts believe that many of those in US labs have been trafficked from the wild as the illegal trade in wild-caught macaques is widespread. Sources state that prices vary from $5 000 - $20 000 per monkey.

NHPs are used because of their similarities to humans with respect to genetic makeup, anatomy, physiology, and behavior which make it possible to approximate the human condition.

NHPs are used in research into HIV, neurology, behavior, cognition, reproduction, Parkinson's disease, stroke, malaria, respiratory viruses, infectious disease, genetics, xenotransplantation, drug abuse, and also in vaccine and drug testing.

The NIH is the largest public source of funding for biomedical research in the United States.

Last year new U.S. law eliminated the requirement that drugs in development must undergo testing in animals before being given to participants in human trials. It allows the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to approve new drugs without requiring animal data.

Signed in December, the law doesn't ban the testing of new drugs on animals outright. Instead it simply lifts the requirement that pharmaceutical companies use animals to test new drugs before human trials. Companies can still test drugs on animals if they choose to.

And pro-research groups are downplaying the law, saying it signals a slow turning of the tide. Jim Newman, communications director at Americans for Medical Progress, which advocates for animal research, argues non-animal technologies are still “in their infancy” and won’t be able to replace animal models for “many, many years.” The FDA still retains tremendous discretion to require animal tests, he says.

- National Institutes of Health ( https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov), Science Direct, World Animal Protection, science.org, National Anti - Vivisection Society and HSUS.

Image with kind permission from The Ethic Whisper.

@theethicwhisper

[shiorihyugawrites]

Steadfast Hearts

In the aftermath of global war, alliances are forged, and new bonds are tested. Dr. Tiana Belrose, a brilliant Androsian engineer, arrives in Paradis with cutting-edge technology, her country's hopes on her shoulders, and a guarded heart. Her brilliant inventions are the reason why Marley invaded and ravaged her country, but Tiana refuses to sit back and do nothing.

Assigned to be her personal guard, the stoic and battle-hardened Captain Levi Ackerman is known for his discipline, but as they spend countless hours together, he finds himself drawn to the woman he’s sworn to protect.

In the midst of battles against Marley, political intrigue, and the weight of their responsibilities, an unexpected romance begins to blossom between two unlikely hearts. As tensions rise on the battlefield and within their own ranks, Levi and Tiana must navigate their feelings in a world that doesn’t allow for weakness.

Love was the last thing either of them expected to find in the midst of war, but it may be the only thing that saves them. (Levi x Black OC)

Chapter Forty Eight

Meanwhile, back at the scouts’ accommodations, the sun was already high in the sky when Eren finally stirred from his sleep. He groaned, rubbing his eyes as he blinked against the bright light streaming through the window. He sat up abruptly, realizing he had overslept.

"Shit," he muttered to himself, quickly throwing on his shirt and rushing out the door. He knew the others had planned to go to Tiana’s workshop that morning, but as he looked around, the house was quiet—eerily so. They must have left without him.

Determined to catch up, Eren hurried through the winding streets of Androsia, trying to remember the way to Tiana’s workshop. But the more he walked, the more he realized he had no idea where he was going. He passed colorful market stalls and bustling vendors, the unfamiliar sights and sounds of Androsia both fascinating and disorienting. The air was filled with the scent of spices and fresh sea breeze, and somewhere in the distance, he could hear the faint beat of drums and rhythmic music.

As he wandered, the music grew louder, pulling him toward its source like a siren’s call. Eren found himself standing at the entrance to a lively street party—a soca party, as he would later learn. The beat was infectious, the rhythm impossible to resist. Before he knew it, he was caught up in the crowd, surrounded by dancing bodies, the vibrant energy of the celebration sweeping him up.

Brightly dressed dancers moved around him, their hips swaying and hands clapping to the beat. Eren, still a bit disoriented from his unexpected detour, couldn’t help but grin as he watched. One of the women, noticing his curiosity, pulled him into the dance. She was beautiful, with dark, glistening skin and a radiant smile.

"Come on, soldier boy!" she called over the music, her voice warm and inviting. "You can’t just stand there!"

Eren hesitated for a moment, but the crowd was so lively, the atmosphere so intoxicating, that he found himself laughing and joining in. The woman spun him around, and soon two more women had joined them, their laughter ringing in his ears as they danced around him, their movements fluid and mesmerizing.

Back at Tiana's workshop, the scouts had finished their day of learning and inventing, and Tiana’s friends had just left. Levi and Tiana were discussing their plans for the evening when Jean noticed something—or rather, someone—was missing.

“Hey,” Jean said, glancing around. “Where the hell is Eren? He should’ve been here by now.”

Connie frowned, scratching his head. “Wasn’t he back at the house?” he asked. “I thought he was coming with us.”

Hange’s eyes widened. “Oh no,” she said, smirking. “Did he oversleep? Again?”

Mikasa looked worried, her brow furrowing. “He was still asleep when we left,” she said. “But he should have been able to find his way here. Right?”

Tiana, sensing their concern, quickly called over the maid who had been helping them. “Did you see Eren leave?” she asked.

The maid nodded. “Yes, he left a few hours ago,” she replied. “Said he was headed here.”

Levi’s eyes narrowed. “But he never made it,” he said, his voice low. “Which means he got lost.”

Armin sighed. “That sounds like Eren,” he muttered. “He probably took a wrong turn somewhere.”

“I’ll go look for him,” Mikasa said immediately, already heading for the door.

Tiana quickly stepped in. “We’ll all go,” she said. “He couldn’t have gotten far. Let’s split up and search the nearby streets.”

The scouts agreed, and they fanned out, combing through the busy streets of Androsia, calling Eren’s name and asking passersby if they had seen him. It wasn’t long before Jean spotted a familiar head of messy black hair in the middle of a bustling crowd.

“There he is!” Jean shouted, pointing toward the center of the street party. “Over there!”

The scouts turned in unison, their eyes widening at the sight. Eren was in the middle of the soca party, clearly having the time of his life. He was dancing with not one, not even two, but three beautiful women, his face flushed with a mix of alcohol and excitement. The women were laughing and spinning around him, their vibrant skirts swirling as they moved to the beat. Eren, seemingly oblivious to everything but the music, was grinning from ear to ear, his arms around their shoulders.

Connie’s jaw dropped. “What the hell…?” he mumbled, barely able to process the sight before him.

Sasha burst out laughing. “Is he drunk?” she asked incredulously. “He’s definitely drunk, right?”

Mikasa looked horrified, her protective instincts kicking in. “Eren!” she shouted, trying to push her way through the crowd. “Eren, what are you doing?”

Eren turned at the sound of his name, his grin widening when he saw the scouts. “Mikasa!” he slurred, clearly tipsy. “Jean! Connie! You guys gotta try this! It’s so much fun!”

Jean crossed his arms, an incredulous look on his face. “You were supposed to come to the workshop, not get drunk at a street party!” he scolded.

The women around Eren giggled, one of them playfully nudging him. “Oh, come on,” she teased. “Your friend here is a great dancer. He’s having a good time!”

Levi, having finally caught up to the group, stood at the edge of the crowd, arms crossed and a deep frown on his face. “Eren,” he said in his commanding tone, “get over here. Now.”

Eren’s smile faltered, and he immediately sobered up a little. “Ah, shit,” he muttered, realizing he was in trouble. He waved goodbye to the women, who pouted playfully but let him go.

As Eren stumbled back over to the group, Levi grabbed him by the collar, his eyes stern. “What the hell were you thinking?” he snapped. “You could have gotten yourself hurt, or worse. This isn’t a vacation.”

Eren winced, his head starting to pound. “I’m sorry,” he mumbled. “I just… got caught up. I didn’t mean to worry everyone.”

Mikasa looked relieved to have him back, but her expression was still a mix of concern and frustration. “You’re lucky nothing happened,” she said softly. “Come on, let’s get you back to the house. You need to sober up.”

As the scouts led Eren away from the party, Tiana couldn’t help but chuckle softly, leaning into Levi. “Well, at least he was having fun,” she said with a small smile.

Levi shook his head, but there was a hint of amusement in his eyes. “That kid’s going to be the death of me,” he muttered.

As they began to make their way back to their accommodations, Eren, still feeling the lingering effects of the alcohol and the infectious energy of the soca party, tugged at Levi's sleeve, his eyes pleading.

"Please, Captaini," Eren begged, his voice slightly slurred but filled with earnest enthusiasm. "Just one more hour. I swear, I’ll be good. I just… I want to dance a little more."

Levi shot him a flat, unimpressed look. "We’re not here for a vacation, Eren," he said sharply. "You need to get your head in the game. This is serious."

Eren pouted, his shoulders slumping. "But I’ve never seen anything like this," he insisted, glancing back over his shoulder at the three women who were still giggling and waving him over. "Just look at them… they’re so happy, and I… I just want to be a part of that for a bit longer."

Mikasa folded her arms, her expression a mix of exasperation and concern. "Eren, you’re not thinking straight," she said. "You’ve had too much to drink. Come on, we need to get back."

Eren, however, wasn’t giving up that easily. He turned to Jean, trying a different approach. "Jean, come on," he said, his voice filled with a playful whine. "Help me out here. Just an hour. We could all use a break."

Jean snorted, clearly amused by Eren’s desperate attempt. "Don’t drag me into this, Eren," he said with a chuckle. "I’m not the one in trouble here."

Sasha, who was always up for a good time, grinned. "I don’t know, Captain," she said, looking at Levi with a mischievous glint in her eyes. "It wouldn’t hurt to let loose for just a little bit longer. We’ve been working so hard… and it is a celebration."

Connie chimed in, nodding enthusiastically. "Yeah, Captain," he added. "It’s just a street party. What’s the harm? We’re all here, and we can keep an eye on things."

Levi’s eyes narrowed as he looked over his squad. It wasn’t just Eren now—everyone seemed to be in on this little rebellion. Even Hange had a slight smirk on her face, clearly enjoying the situation.

Levi sighed, rubbing the bridge of his nose. “Alright,” he finally relented, his tone gruff. “One more hour. But if any of you cause trouble, we’re leaving immediately, understood?”

Eren’s face lit up like a child on his birthday. “Thank you, Captain!” he exclaimed, practically bouncing with excitement. He immediately turned back to the women who had been waiting for him, waving and calling him over.

As Eren rejoined the party, the women greeted him with cheers and pulled him back into their dancing circle. The rhythm of the music seemed to flow through him, and Eren, much to everyone’s surprise, picked up the dance moves with surprising ease, his body moving fluidly to the beat.

Hange chuckled, watching the scene unfold. “You know, I think Eren might have found his hidden talent,” she quipped, leaning closer to Levi.

Levi rolled his eyes but couldn’t help the faint smile that tugged at his lips. “That’s one way to put it,” he muttered, his gaze following Eren as he danced with the women, his earlier seriousness momentarily softened.

Armin,, smiled as he watched his friend. “It’s nice to see him having fun,” he said softly. “We’ve all been through so much. A bit of joy is a good thing.”

Sasha nodded, her light brown eyes sparkling. “He’s a good dancer,” she observed, a hint of admiration in her voice. “I wouldn’t have guessed.”

Armin chuckled. “Neither would I,” he admitted. “But it’s good for him. For all of us.”

Jean clapped Connie on the back. “Guess we’re partying a bit longer, then,” he said with a grin. “Might as well join in.”

Connie grinned back. “Why not?” he said. “Let’s make the most of it.”

As the scouts slowly began to relax and join in the festivities, the mood lightened considerably. The tension of their usual duties and the constant pressure of their mission seemed to melt away under the warm Androsian sun and the vibrant energy of the party.

Levi, still standing on the outskirts, watched his squad as they mingled with the locals, dancing and laughing in a way he hadn’t seen them do in what felt like forever. He felt Tiana’s hand slip into his, and he glanced down at her, his expression softening.

“See?” Tiana said gently, her voice full of warmth. “Even the strongest soldiers need a break sometimes.”

Levi squeezed her hand lightly, his thumb brushing over her knuckles. “I suppose you’re right,” he conceded. “But just this once.”

Tiana laughed, leaning her head against his shoulder. “Just this once,” she echoed, her heart full as she watched her friends and allies embrace the moment of joy amidst their shared struggles.

For a while longer, the scouts let themselves be swept away by the music, the laughter, and the spirit of Androsia, finding a rare and precious respite in the midst of their ongoing battle.

But Mikasa stood at the edge of the party, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her expression darkening with every second. She watched Eren, her eyes narrowing as he spun around in the middle of the circle of three beautiful Androsian women. They were all dancing around him, their movements sensual and rhythmic, their hips moving in perfect harmony to the lively beat of the soca music.

Eren, clearly lost in the moment, was grinning from ear to ear, his face flushed a deep shade of red. He was trying to keep up with their fluid movements, but his steps were uncoordinated, swaying more from the alcohol than the rhythm. One of the women twirled close to him, her dark, shimmering skin brushing against his, and Eren let out a laugh, his eyes bright with joy.

Mikasa's grip tightened on her crossed arms, her knuckles turning white. She could feel her heart pounding in her chest, a mix of frustration and… something else. Something she didn’t want to acknowledge. She tried to tell herself that she was just worried about Eren’s safety, that he was making a fool of himself, but deep down, she knew it was more than that.

Jean, standing beside her, noticed her tense posture and shot her a sideways glance. “You okay, Mikasa?” he asked, a smirk tugging at his lips. He could tell something was up. “You don’t look too happy.”

Mikasa’s jaw clenched. “I’m fine,” she said shortly, her eyes never leaving Eren. “I just… He’s making a fool of himself.”

Connie, who was dancing nearby, overheard her and laughed. “Come on, Mikasa, lighten up!” he called out. “It’s just a party. Let Eren have some fun!”

Mikasa’s frown deepened. “Fun?” she muttered under her breath. “He’s drunk and surrounded by those… women.” She shot a glare at the trio dancing around Eren, their hips swaying seductively as they kept him in the center of their little dance circle.

One of the women, noticing Eren’s slightly dazed expression, leaned in close, her lips brushing against his ear as she whispered something. Eren’s face turned an even deeper shade of red, and he laughed again, a sound that was both embarrassed and delighted.

Mikasa felt her stomach twist. “He’s just… he’s being irresponsible,” she said, trying to keep her voice steady. “He could get hurt.”

Jean chuckled, clearly amused by Mikasa’s obvious irritation. “Or maybe he’s just enjoying himself,” he said. “It’s not often we get to see Eren like this, you know? Having fun, being carefree.”

Mikasa shot him a sharp look. “Carefree doesn’t mean he should be acting like… like that,” she snapped, her tone harsher than she intended.

Armin noticed the tension building in Mikasa’s posture. He gave her a gentle smile, trying to ease her frustration. “Mikasa,” he said softly, “maybe it’s okay for Eren to have a little fun. We’ve been through a lot, and he’s just letting off some steam. It’s good for him.”

Sasha nodded in agreement. “He’s with friends,” she added. “Nothing’s going to happen to him here. Everyone’s just enjoying the moment.”

But Mikasa wasn’t convinced. Her eyes were glued to Eren, who was now attempting to mimic the women’s dance moves, much to their delight. They laughed and encouraged him, their hands guiding his hips as they showed him how to move to the beat. Eren, clearly emboldened by the attention and the alcohol, was all too eager to comply.

“Come on, Eren!” one of the women giggled, her hand resting lightly on his chest. “You’ve got to loosen up those hips a bit more. Like this!”

Eren tried to follow her lead, his movements clumsy but earnest. “Like this?” he asked, his voice a mix of curiosity and amusement.

The woman laughed, nodding. “Almost! Here, let me show you.”

Mikasa’s grip on her arms tightened even further. “This is ridiculous,” she muttered under her breath. She was just about to storm over and drag Eren away when she felt a hand on her shoulder.

It was Hange, wearing her usual playful grin. “Easy there, Mikasa,” Hange said. “Eren’s fine. Besides, you know how stubborn he can be. If you try to pull him away now, he’ll just resist more.”

Mikasa huffed, clearly not pleased with the situation. “I don’t like this,” she admitted, her voice low. “He’s acting like an idiot.”

Hange chuckled. “Maybe, but he’s a happy idiot,” they said. “And sometimes, that’s okay.”

Levi, standing beside Tiana and observing the whole scene, couldn’t help but smirk. “He’s your problem child,” he muttered to Mikasa. “Better go handle it if it bothers you that much.”

Mikasa shot him a glare but didn’t move. She knew Levi was right in his own way. Eren wasn’t in any real danger; he was just… Eren. Even if he was making a spectacle of himself, he was surrounded by friends, and in this moment, that was enough.

Tiana leaned closer to Levi, her voice soft. “Maybe we should let them enjoy this, just for a bit longer,” she suggested. “There’s so much pain in our lives… a little joy doesn’t hurt.”

Levi nodded, his expression thoughtful. “Just don’t let it go to their heads,” he replied. “We have to get back to work eventually.”

As the party continued, Mikasa finally let out a resigned sigh. Maybe, just this once, she could let Eren have his fun. But she’d keep a close eye on him, just in case.

And for a moment longer, the scouts allowed themselves to get lost in the music, the laughter, and the warmth of Androsia, finding a rare moment of peace in a world that often offered so little.

…

As the sun began to dip lower in the sky, casting a warm, golden glow over the lively street party, Levi checked his pocket watch. The hour he had reluctantly granted the scouts was finally up. He straightened, pushing away from the wall where he'd been leaning, and clapped his hands together sharply to get everyone's attention.

"Alright, time's up," Levi called out, his voice cutting through the music and chatter. "Let's wrap it up and head back."

The scouts groaned in unison, but they knew better than to argue with Levi when he used that tone. Most of them were already starting to make their way out of the crowd, waving goodbye to their newfound Androsian friends.

But Eren… Eren was another story entirely.

At this point, Eren was thoroughly wasted, his face flushed bright red from the alcohol coursing through his veins. He had his arms draped over the shoulders of the three beautiful Androsian women, his movements loose and exaggerated as he swayed to the fading beat of the soca music.

"Do we really have to go?" Eren slurred, his voice thick with alcohol and reluctance. "I mean, we’re having such a great time… aren’t we, ladies?"

The women giggled, clearly amused by Eren's drunken antics. "Oh, we were having so much fun with you!" one of them cooed, batting her eyelashes playfully. "You’re a real charmer, soldier boy."

Eren grinned, his eyes half-lidded. "See?" he said, turning to the scouts with a dramatic flair. "They don’t want us to leave either! We could stay a little longer, right?"

Mikasa stood a few feet away, her arms crossed tightly over her chest, her jaw clenched. She was doing her best to keep her composure, but seeing Eren draped all over those women was making her blood boil. She could feel a knot of jealousy tightening in her chest with every passing second.

Jean snickered, nudging Connie with his elbow. "Oh man, he’s going to regret this tomorrow," he muttered. "Especially with Mikasa looking like she’s about to murder someone."

Connie chuckled, nodding in agreement. "Yeah, he’s really pushing his luck today."

Levi strode over to Eren, grabbing him by the collar with a firm yank. "Eren," he said, his voice low and threatening. "We’re leaving. Now."

Eren let out a dramatic sigh, but he didn’t resist, letting Levi drag him back a few steps. He turned to the women, his arms still outstretched as if reaching for them. "My loves!" he called out, his voice overly theatrical. "I will never forget you! You have stolen my heart with your beautiful smiles and your… your incredible dancing!"

The women burst into laughter, clearly entertained by Eren's drunken farewell. "Oh, we’ll miss you too, soldier boy!" one of them called back, blowing him a playful kiss.

Eren, not to be outdone, blew a series of exaggerated kisses back to them, his lips smacking loudly in the air. "Mwah! Mwah! Mwah!" he exclaimed, swaying slightly as he leaned into the gestures.

Mikasa was fuming now, her hands clenched into fists at her sides. "Eren, you idiot," she muttered under her breath, glaring daggers at him.

Levi didn’t waste any more time. With a firm grip still on Eren’s collar, he began dragging him away from the women and back toward the rest of the group. "You’re done," he said flatly, his patience clearly wearing thin. "Stop embarrassing yourself."

Eren, still lost in his drunken haze, continued to blow kisses over his shoulder, a dreamy smile on his face. "I’ll be back for you!" he called out, much to the continued amusement of the women. "Don’t forget me!"

The scouts were all trying—and failing—not to laugh at the spectacle. Even Armin couldn’t suppress a chuckle. “Well,” he said “looks like Eren had a bit too much fun.”

Sasha grinned, her eyes dancing with amusement. “He’s definitely a character,” she replied. “But hey, at least he knows how to have a good time.”

Jean clapped his hands together, still snickering. “Alright, let’s get our resident drunk back to the house,” he said. “Before Mikasa explodes.”

Connie snorted, nudging Mikasa playfully. “Come on, Mikasa,” he teased. “It’s just a bit of fun. Don’t be too hard on him.”

Mikasa huffed, her cheeks puffing out in frustration. “He’s making a fool of himself,” she muttered. But even she couldn’t deny the relief that came with seeing Eren safe and sound, even if he was acting like an idiot.

As Levi continued to drag Eren away, Tiana fell in step beside him, chuckling softly. “He’s quite the handful, isn’t he?” she remarked.

Levi sighed, shaking his head. “He’s a damn fool,” he muttered, though there was a hint of fondness in his tone. “But I suppose he’s our fool.”

Tiana smiled, leaning into Levi slightly as they walked. “Well, at least we know he’s enjoying himself,” she said. “Even if it means you have to play babysitter for a little longer.”

Levi smirked, glancing down at her. “As long as it’s just this once,” he replied. “I’m not in the mood to drag his drunk ass around every time we come to town.”

Tiana laughed, squeezing his arm gently. “Deal,” she said with a grin. “But you have to admit, it was pretty funny.”

Levi chuckled, his stern expression softening slightly. “Yeah,” he agreed. “It was.”

And with that, the scouts, with a drunken Eren in tow, made their way back through the winding streets of Androsia, the sounds of the party still echoing behind them as they headed back to their temporary home.

…

Eren woke up the next morning with his head feeling like it was split open by a Titan's punch. He groaned, pressing his palms against his temples in a futile attempt to keep his skull from cracking apart. His mouth felt like sandpaper, and every thump of his heart sent waves of pain pulsing through his brain.

“Ugh… what the hell happened last night?” he mumbled to himself, his voice barely more than a hoarse whisper. He blinked his eyes open, wincing at the blinding sunlight streaming through the window of the beach house.

As he slowly sat up, the room spun around him, and he had to shut his eyes tightly to keep from throwing up. He let out another groan, rubbing his face with his hands. “What did I do?” he muttered again, struggling to remember.

Jean, who was leaning against the doorway with a smirk on his face, couldn’t resist chiming in. “Oh, not much,” he said with mock innocence. “Just declared your undying love to three Androsian women, blew a thousand kisses, and made a complete ass of yourself in front of everyone.”

Eren’s eyes snapped open, and he stared at Jean in horror. “Wait… what?” he croaked. “I did what?”

Connie, who was lounging on a nearby chair, snickered. “Yeah, man. You were like, ‘I’ll never forget you! My loves!’” he imitated, blowing exaggerated kisses in the air. “And then Levi had to drag you away like a misbehaving puppy.”

Eren’s face turned a deep shade of crimson. “Oh, shit,” he muttered, burying his face in his hands. “I’m never drinking again.”

Mikasa, who had been sitting quietly on the edge of a bed, folded her arms and gave Eren a disapproving glare. “You were making a fool of yourself, Eren,” she said, her voice laced with frustration. “And in front of strangers, no less.”

Eren winced at the sharp tone in Mikasa’s voice, feeling a pang of guilt. “I’m sorry, Mikasa,” he mumbled, still rubbing his temples. “I didn’t mean to… I just… I guess I got carried away.”

Jean snorted. “Carried away is an understatement,” he said. “You were practically ready to propose to those women.”

Connie laughed. “Yeah, we were just waiting for you to get down on one knee.”

Eren groaned again, his cheeks burning with embarrassment. “Shut up, both of you,” he muttered, but there was no real bite in his words.

Armin, who had just walked in with a glass of water, shook his head with a small smile. “Here, Eren,” he said, handing the glass over. “Drink this. You’re going to need it.”

Eren accepted the glass gratefully, chugging the water like it was the elixir of life. “Thanks, Armin,” he said after a long gulp, his voice sounding slightly clearer.

Tiana entered the room with a knowing grin on her face. “Well, well, if it isn’t our resident party animal,” she teased. “How’s that hangover treating you?”

Eren shot her a sheepish look. “Like I got run over by a Titan,” he admitted. “I don’t even remember half of what happened.”

Tiana chuckled. “That’s probably for the best,” she said. “Though, I have to say, you’ve got some moves, Eren. The way you were dancing with those women…”

Eren’s face turned redder, and he looked away. “Please stop,” he groaned. “I’m already dying of embarrassment here.”

Hange, who had been watching from the doorway, couldn’t resist joining in. “You should have seen the look on Levi’s face when he had to pull you away,” they said, grinning widely. “He was not impressed.”

Eren’s eyes widened in horror. “Oh no… Captain Levi… was he mad?”

Jean snorted. “Mad? More like annoyed as hell,” he said. “But hey, at least you gave him something to do. He was getting bored just standing around.”

Mikasa, still sitting with her arms crossed, huffed. “I don’t think Captain Levi found it entertaining,” she muttered. “You’re lucky he didn’t just knock you out and drag you back unconscious.”

Eren groaned again, feeling like his headache was getting worse with every word. “I’m never going to live this down, am I?” he muttered.

Connie grinned. “Nope,” he said cheerfully. “Welcome to the life of Eren Jaeger, perpetual embarrassment.”

Levi finally entered the room, his expression as stoic as ever. He took one look at Eren’s sorry state and shook his head. “Get yourself together, Jaeger,” he said curtly. “We’ve got work to do today. And don’t make me have to babysit you again.”

Eren gulped, nodding quickly. “Yes, sir,” he said, straightening up as best he could despite his hangover. “I’m sorry, sir. It won’t happen again.”

Levi’s gaze softened ever so slightly, a hint of amusement in his eyes. “See that it doesn’t,” he said, his tone less harsh. “And try not to get yourself killed before we even start the day.”

Eren managed a weak smile. “I’ll do my best, Captain,” he said.

As Levi turned to leave, Tiana gave Eren a playful wink. “You might want to keep a lower profile today, Eren,” she advised. “Let the hangover remind you not to overdo it next time.”

Eren nodded, wincing as he stood up. “Yeah… lesson learned,” he muttered, determined to avoid any more embarrassing antics—at least for the rest of the day.

And as the scouts prepared to head out for the day, Eren silently vowed never to touch a drop of alcohol again… at least until the next party.

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BBMCT: Begin Medical Research at AIIMS Hospital BBMCT: Begin Medical Research at AIIMS Hospital

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