As the evening descended, casting long shadows across the room, Petra and Hanji arrived with a bundle of clothes for me to borrow. Amidst the assortment of garments, there were several oversized shirts, their soft fabric offering a semblance of comfort amidst the turmoil of the day. Though they hung loosely around my frame, I welcomed their embrace, grateful for the modesty they provided in this unfamiliar setting.
With the night drawing near, I began the ritual of preparing for bed, a solitary task made less daunting by the presence of Hanji, who had graciously offered their assistance. Together, we conducted a thorough sweep of the room, banishing any lingering traces of dust that might disturb my rest. Hanji's deft hands worked swiftly, ensuring that the bed was made with precision, while also attending to the shower, ensuring it was in proper working order.
As the final light of day faded from the sky, I found myself alone once more, the silence of the room enveloping me like a comforting shroud. Glancing at the clock, I realized with a pang of regret that I had missed dinner. But hunger seemed a trivial concern in the face of the overwhelming emotions that threatened to consume me.
Sinking onto the edge of the bed, I hugged my knees to my chest, a sense of desolation washing over me like a wave. The events of the day weighed heavily on my mind, each thought a jagged edge that threatened to pierce the fragile veil of composure I had managed to maintain. With a heavy sigh, I allowed myself to succumb to the depths of exhaustion that beckoned, the weariness of body and soul pulling me into the embrace of sleep.
As sleep enveloped me in its grasp, I found myself plunged into a realm of darkness, where haunting memories lurked in the recesses of my mind. In the depths of my subconscious, vivid flashbacks of the titans assaulted my senses, each scene more harrowing than the last. I watched in horror as the monstrous creatures loomed over me, their grotesque forms casting long shadows against the blood-stained earth.
In the nightmare, I was frozen in place, unable to move as the titans descended upon us with a ferocity that defied comprehension. The once verdant fields around me were now painted crimson, the air thick with the metallic tang of blood and the sickening stench of death. I could hear the screams of my comrades echoing in the distance, their cries of agony piercing the silence of the night.
As the nightmare unfolded with relentless brutality, I felt a surge of terror coursing through my veins, paralyzing me with fear. In the dream, I remained a helpless bystander, unable to muster the courage to fight back against the encroaching darkness. The sight of the titans' merciless onslaught etched itself into my consciousness, leaving scars that would linger long after I awoke.
Suddenly, with a jolt, I was torn from the clutches of the nightmare, my heart pounding in my chest as I gasped for air. Sweat soaked my brow as I struggled to make sense of my surroundings, the remnants of the dream still clinging to my consciousness like a dark cloud.
In the dim light of the room, I realized that I had been yelling in my sleep, the echoes of my distress reverberating off the walls. Quickly, I clamped a hand over my mouth, stifling any further outbursts as I glanced around anxiously, fearful of disturbing the peace of the night. As the adrenaline slowly ebbed away, I sank back onto the bed, my breaths coming in ragged gasps. The memory of the nightmare lingered like a shadow, casting a pall over the stillness of the room. In the quiet solitude of the night, I found myself grappling with the aftermath of the dream, the raw emotions it had stirred within me refusing to be quelled.
I stole a glance at the clock, its hands ticking away the early hours of the morning - 2:30 am. How the heck did I sleep through the whole evening after everything that went down earlier?
I hadn't realized I had drifted into slumber just after 8pm. Rising from the bed, I became aware of the constriction of my dress, a reminder of the day's tumultuous events. With a sigh, I shed the uncomfortable garment, slipped into a loose white t-shirt, and oversized shorts, their fabric enveloping me in a sense of makeshift comfort. Despite their bagginess, I managed to manoeuvre my injured arm through the openings, securing it in place with practiced ease.
As I lit a small candle on my desk, its flickering flame casting dancing shadows across the room, I felt the weight of exhaustion settle upon me like a heavy cloak. With a weary sigh, I made my way to the shower, briefly turning on the faucet to splash chilly water on my face in a feeble attempt to ward off the weariness that threatened to engulf me.
I felt awful, tiredness had hit me harder than I thought. I then felt my stomach gurgle, reminding me that I didn't eat last night. I put on some long socks and grabbed my key, opening the door to my dorm quietly.
I peered down the corridors and saw it was dead silent, no candles lit in any dorm. Everybody must be asleep. I brought my candle out with me and closed the door behind me, walking towards the kitchen. In the kitchen, the sink was full of plates and cups left on the side. On the table, was a plate covered with another and a note on top:
'ELARA, YOU DIDN'T COME TO DINNER SO WE SAVED YOU SOMETHING - HANJI'
I smiled as I lifted the cover, revealing thin slices of meat and potatoes drenched in a savoury sauce. Without hesitation, I reached for the fork and took a tentative bite. The flavours exploded in my mouth, and I found myself devouring the meal hungrily. It was surprisingly delicious, whoever had prepared it certainly knew their way around a kitchen.
With the plate emptied, I rinsed it off and submerged it in the sink, my stomach now content. Glancing over at the counter, I spotted an array of tea blends. "Maybe a cup of tea will help me relax and sleep," I mumbled to myself, eyeing the assortment.
Struggling to read the labels in my half-asleep state, I grabbed a cup and filled a tea strainer with a random blend. Turning on the stove, I waited for the water to boil, taking a moment to gaze out the window. The full moon cast an ethereal glow across the sky, and for the first time in a while, I found myself lost in the beauty of the night.
A few moments passed as I began to hear a small whistle of the kettle on the stove, so I rushed to turn it off before it made any further noise. I grabbed my cup and began pouring in the tea, seeing the herbs and blend mix in the strainer and began to darken the hot water. It smelt rich and inviting, with a robust aroma of black tea leaves infused with the citrusy fragrance of bergamot oil.
I blew on it slightly as I held the cup in my hands, feeling the warmth take me away. The scent climbing inside of me, it smelt strong, maybe this would keep me awake more than put me to sleep. I touched my lips onto the cup and took a small sip, before pulling away in slight confusion.
"I need something sweet in this" as I chapped my lips at the taste. I found a small pot of honey besides the original tea pot and took the honey dipper, pouring a small amount into the tea. As the golden ooze flooded into the cup, I stirred it slightly and took another sip, feeling the sweetness take me to another world.
As I savoured the warm and slightly sweetened tea, lost in my own thoughts, a voice pierced through the quiet of the kitchen, startling me.
"What are you doing up at this hour?"
The voice was deep and stern, sending a shiver down my spine.
I turned towards the source of the voice, and in the dim light, I could barely make out a figure standing in the shadows. My heart raced as I struggled to see who it was. "I-I'm sorry, I didn't mean to disturb anyone," I stammered, my voice trembling.
As the figure stepped closer, the light revealed their face, and I felt my breath catch in my throat. It was Levi Ackerman, his expression unreadable as he studied me with piercing eyes. I couldn't help but feel a twinge of fear at being caught alone with him in the middle of the night.
"I couldn't sleep," I added, trying to steady my voice. "I thought some tea might help."
As Levi narrowed his eyes at the teacup in my hands, I couldn't help but feel a surge of nervousness. His scrutiny made me feel like he could see right through me, into the depths of my thoughts. "Having trouble sleeping?" he asked, his tone clipped and matter of fact.
I nodded, feeling a bit unnerved by his intense scrutiny. "Yes," I admitted as I sheepishly moved my feet around.
"I heard you yell in your sleep," he interjected, his voice cutting through the silence.
I blinked in surprise, caught off guard by his observation. "Oh, uh...sorry about that," I stammered, feeling a flush of embarrassment rise to my cheeks.
Levi shrugged nonchalantly. "Not your fault," he remarked dismissively. "Just curious why you're still awake," he added, his tone laced with a hint of scepticism.
I hesitated, unsure how to respond to his direct question. "Couldn't shake off some nightmares," I admitted reluctantly, hoping he wouldn't press further.
I gestured to the empty chair opposite me, "Would you like a cup of tea?" I offered, hoping to break the tension between us. Levi hesitated for a moment before nodding, his demeanour softening ever so slightly, taking a seat opposite me.
Pouring Levi a cup of tea, I instinctively added a touch of honey, anticipating his preference. He accepted the cup with a subtle nod of thanks, a rare sign of acknowledgment from him. However, as he brought the cup to his lips, his expression shifted, a flicker of displeasure crossing his features.
"You used my earl grey tea?" he questioned, his tone carrying a hint of incredulity. My heart sank as I struggled to come up with a response. "Er, I couldn't see the labels?" I offered weakly, my nerves getting the best of me.
Levi's tongue clicked in disapproval, but he took a sip nonetheless, his eyebrows lifting ever so slightly. Was it a sign of approval? He set the cup down with a sigh, acknowledging the effort.
"Not bad," he conceded, a rare expression of gratitude from him. I nodded, relieved, as we settled into an uneasy silence, his penetrating gaze fixed on me while I did my best to avoid his eyes. My fingers trembled slightly as I brought the teacup to my lips, trying to find solace in the warm embrace of the brew.
Feeling the weight of Levi's gaze, I cleared my throat, attempting to break the tense silence. "Uh, did you... have trouble sleeping too?" I ventured, hoping to shift the focus away from my earlier outburst.
Levi's eyes flickered with something akin to surprise, though it was quickly masked by his usual stoic demeanour. "Not much of a sleeper," he replied curtly, his tone clipped and precise.
"Oh," I murmured, deflating slightly at his terse response. "Insomnia, huh?" I probed cautiously, trying to strike a balance between curiosity and sensitivity.
Levi's expression remained impassive, but I detected a subtle shift in his demeanour. "Something like that," he conceded grudgingly, a hint of resignation colouring his words.
I nodded, understanding dawning in my mind. "Must be rough," I offered sympathetically, hoping to convey my empathy without overstepping any boundaries.
Levi's lips twitched in a ghost of a smile, though it was gone in an instant. "Comes with the territory," he replied cryptically, his tone tinged with a hint of bitterness.
"Right," I said, unsure of how to respond to his cryptic remark. "Well, at least we're not alone in our sleep struggles," I added lamely, attempting to inject some levity into the conversation.
Levi regarded me with a level gaze, his expression inscrutable. "Guess not," he conceded gruffly, before lapsing back into his characteristic silence. As I took another sip of my tea, I couldn't help but notice that Levi was still in his uniform, the pristine Scout attire a stark contrast to the casual setting of the kitchen.
Swallowing my nerves, I ventured to ask, "Why haven't you changed out of your uniform?"
Levi's gaze flicked to me, his expression unreadable. "None of your business," he replied tersely, effectively shutting down any further conversation on the matter.
Feeling a flush of embarrassment, I hastily stood up and reached for the teapot, intending to pour myself another cup of tea. Before I could do so, however, Levi interjected, his voice cutting through the silence. "Earl Grey tea isn't exactly conducive to inducing sleep," he remarked dryly, his tone tinged with a hint of amusement.
I felt my cheeks heat up at the realization of my mistake. "Oh," I mumbled sheepishly, setting the teapot back down on the table.
Levi's lips quirked in a faint smirk as he reached for the tea blends on the counter. "Allow me," he said, selecting a different blend from the assortment.
"Lavender tea," he explained, pouring hot water into a cup and steeping the fragrant herbs.
I watched him carefully, noting the precision of his movements and the focused expression on his face. As he handed me the cup, I accepted it with a grateful nod, the warmth of the tea soothing my frazzled nerves.
"Thank you, captain," I murmured, taking a hesitant sip of the lavender-infused brew.
Levi inclined his head in acknowledgement again, his demeanour still guarded but slightly less aloof. "Don't mention it," he replied gruffly, his attention returning to his own tea as we settled into a companionable silence, the fragrant aroma of lavender filling the air.
As the warmth of the lavender tea began to seep through me, I couldn't help but feel the fatigue creeping in. I noticed Levi's sharp gaze fixed on me, his keen observation not escaping my notice.
Attempting to shake off the drowsiness, I shifted in my seat, willing myself to stay awake. However, a sudden chill ran through me, causing me to shiver involuntarily. Levi, ever vigilant, immediately rose from his seat and retrieved a blanket from a nearby cupboard.
"Here," he said gruffly, draping the blanket over my shoulders. "It's not much, but it should keep you warm." Grateful for the gesture, I nodded my thanks and wrapped the blanket snugly around me, feeling the comforting warmth chase away the cold. As we sat in the quiet kitchen, the only sound the gentle crackle of the candle flame, I racked my brain for something to say, eager to break the silence and for me to stay awake.
"So, uh, how long have you been awake?" I mumbled, hoping to keep the conversation going.
Levi's gaze softened ever so slightly as he glanced away for a moment before meeting my eyes again. "Long enough," he replied curtly, his tone giving away nothing of what he might be feeling.
I sensed a reluctance to delve further into the topic, so I shifted gears, searching for a safer subject. "Do you always drink lavender tea?" I asked, gesturing towards the cup in his hand. Levi's lips quirked in the faintest hint of a smile. "Only when I need to relax," he admitted gruffly. "Earl grey is for keeping alert, not inducing sleep."
Feeling a blush creep onto my cheeks at the realization of my mistake, I murmured an apology. "I didn't know," I confessed sheepishly, feeling foolish for assuming otherwise. Levi waved off my apology with a dismissive gesture. "It's fine," he said, his tone softening slightly. "Just don't make that mistake again. You'd be making my tea from now on".
Taking the hint, I nodded, silently resolving to remember his preference in the future.
As the warmth of the blanket enveloped me, I couldn't help but feel a sense of comfort wash over me. Despite my efforts to stay awake and engage in conversation, the fatigue soon overwhelmed me, and my eyelids grew heavy. I leaned back in my chair, feeling the soft fabric of the blanket against my skin, and closed my eyes for just a moment.
"Hey brat, wake up" he said annoyingly, but I couldn't fight the sleep no more. I then heard a huff emit from him. In that fleeting instant, I heard Levi's voice change; soft and almost tender.
"Rest well, Elara," he murmured, his words barely audible over the sound of my own breathing.
With those simple words echoing in my mind, I succumbed to sleep, the warmth of the blanket cocooning me in a sense of security as I drifted off into peaceful slumber.
*****
Stirring from my slumber, I winced as pain shot through my bruised ribs and broken arm. Blinking against the harsh light filtering through the curtains, I found myself staring up at the familiar ceiling of my dorm room. Confusion and panic gripped me as I tried to piece together how I had ended up here. With a rush of blood to my head, a throbbing headache set in, adding to my disorientation. Groggily, I yawned and sat up, swinging my legs over the side of the bed.
Glancing out the window, the sun was high in the sky, indicating that I had slept far longer than intended. Hastily, I made my way to the bathroom, relieving my bladder and splashing water on my face to clear away the remnants of sleep. Returning to the bed, my eyes fell upon the blanket draped over the duvet, the same one that had kept me warm last night. My fingers traced its familiar texture as a sudden flashback hit me like a bolt of lightning.
Images of sharing tea with Levi flooded my mind, the memory causing my cheeks to flush with embarrassment. I recalled the kindness in his gesture as he brewed me a cup of lavender tea to help me sleep.
It seemed to have worked all too well. As I pondered how I had ended up back in my dorm, a nagging question tugged at the edges of my mind. Had I walked here in a daze, or had someone carried me?
I shrugged off the unsettling thoughts and neatly folded the blanket before setting it aside on the bed.
Determined to shake off the lingering haze of sleep, I opted for a shower to kickstart my day. As I turned on the faucet, the pipes groaned in protest, a reminder of the neglected water system in the room. The water that eventually flowed out was tepid at best, failing to provide the comforting warmth I craved.
With a resigned sigh, I braced myself against the lukewarm stream. Despite the less-than-ideal temperature, the water worked to wash away the grime and remnants of the previous day's struggles. As I lathered soap over my skin, I couldn't help but notice the dark bruises marring my ribs, a stark reminder of the ordeal I had endured. Each tender touch elicited a wince of pain, serving as a harsh testament to the severity of my injuries.
Surveying my reflection in the tiles, I couldn't help but feel a pang of dismay at the sight of the bruises on my face, evidence of the violence I had faced. Despite the physical toll, I refused to succumb to tears, clinging to my resolve as a fighter. The cleansing ritual continued as I washed away the dirt and blood from my hair, pondering whether the persistent headache was a result of a blow to the head during the chaos.
With each passing moment under the stream of water, I felt the weight of exhaustion settle over me, a reminder of the toll the recent events had taken on both my body and spirit. Yet, even in the face of adversity, I remained determined to persevere, to emerge from the darkness stronger than before.
I shut off the shower and stepped out, wrapping myself in a towel before proceeding to dress. Wrestling with the bra proved to be a minor struggle, but I eventually managed to fasten it in place. Surveying the clothes that had been graciously provided, my eyes fell upon a delicate plum-coloured dress, likely belonging to Petra.
It was a knee-length garment adorned with buttons running from the bust to the collar, with a subtly frilly skirt and convenient pockets. Despite my cautiousness due to my tender ribs, I decided to don it, feeling a sense of gratitude for the thoughtful gesture.
As I slipped into the dress, I took a moment to tend to my bruised ribs, applying ointment generously provided by Petra. With that task complete, I proceeded to towel dry my hair and hastily bandaged it up, mindful of the time ticking away. After slipping on my boots, I retrieved the blanket and began to search for my key, only to realize it was nowhere to be found.
"Where on earth did I put it?" I muttered to myself, scanning my desk and the surrounding area in vain. A thorough search of my old dress and the bed yielded no results either. Frustration mounting, I scratched my head in bewilderment. Had I left it in the kitchen? The thought nagged at me as I sighed in exasperation, realizing I would have to retrace my steps.
Leaving the room with the blanket in hand, I closed the door behind me and ventured into the empty corridors. The absence of fellow occupants only added to my sense of disorientation, leaving me to ponder where my misplaced key might be.
As I reached the kitchen, I saw sat in a chair reading some papers. It was Mike. Of all people it had to be, it was him. I felt something run down my forehead, it was either my wet hair or I had a nervous sweat.
"Good morning," I managed to muster, despite the sinking feeling in my gut as I faced Mike.
"Morning? My dear, it is afternoon," Mike replied with a smile, his tone light but his words heavy with the weight of missed time. "I didn't want to disturb you. Erwin said you needed to head back to the palace and sort some ordeals out, so I was instructed to help you with that task." "Ugh, great. What a great start," I muttered under my breath, feeling the weight of the day settling in even more heavily now.
*****
As I sat at the kitchen table, Mike busied himself preparing lunch, the clatter of pots and pans a comforting background noise. The aroma of food cooking filled the air, and despite my earlier apprehension, I found myself relaxing in his presence.
"So, Elara," Mike began as he chopped vegetables with practiced ease, "today we're heading to the palace.
You'll need to collect your things and officially resign from your position at the palace. We'll also arrange for your belongings from your house in Sina to be gathered."
I took a deep breath, gathering my thoughts before replying. "Sounds like quite the day ahead."
Mike nodded thoughtfully, his gaze briefly flickering up to meet mine before returning to his task. "It'll be a busy one, but I'll be here to assist you every step of the way." I offered him a grateful smile, touched by his offer of support. "Thank you, Mike. It means a lot."
With lunch prepared, we sat down to eat, enjoying the meal and engaging in light conversation. After we finished, Mike rose from the table and gestured towards the courtyard. "Shall we head to the stables and get started?". I nodded as I also stood up.
As Mike left the kitchen to prepare in the courtyard, I took a moment to glance around the familiar space, hoping to catch sight of my missing dorm key. My eyes fell upon the cup I had used last night, triggering a flood of memories from the evening's tea with Levi.
Curiosity piqued, I approached the cup and peered inside, half-expecting to find nothing but remnants of tea leaves. To my surprise, nestled at the bottom of the cup, lay my missing key.
A rush of conflicting emotions washed over me as I contemplated how it had ended up there. Did I absentmindedly place it there myself before retiring to bed? Or had Levi carried me back to my dorm, leaving the key behind as a silent gesture of care?
As I held the key in my hand, its significance seemed to deepen, a silent reminder of the unexpected connection forged between myself and Levi amidst the chaos of our shared world. With a sigh, I slipped the key into my pocket, leaving the mystery unresolved for now, but carrying with me a newfound sense of intrigue and curiosity.
I quickly ran back to my dorm and locked my door, to then see a slight note stuck to the door handle which I didn't notice beforehand.
'Your key is in your teacup'.
I quickly took the note and pushed it into my pocket. So, Levi knew where it was then? I rushed away after locking up and headed to the courtyard. The sun was up in the sky, and it was beaming down hard. The warmth encapsulating my skin and bringing a smile to my face.
As I reached Mike by the horses, I noticed a cart hitched to one of them. "What's the cart for?" I asked, curiosity piqued. Mike smiled, patting the horse gently. "This is for transporting your belongings back from the palace. It'll save us multiple trips."
I grinned in appreciation, feeling a sense of relief at his practicality. "That's incredibly thoughtful of you, Mike."
As I prepared to mount Mike's horse, Mike indicated towards one of them. "Hanji brought this horse for you," he explained. "Any ideas for a name?" I gazed at the horse, considering for a moment before inspiration struck. "How about Luna?" I suggested, a smile spreading across my face. A stunning black mare with a silky mane, its eyes as dark as night.
Mike nodded in approval, a faint smile gracing his lips. "Luna it is," he agreed, his voice carrying a note of certainty as he mounted his own horse. With a brief pause to adjust his position in the saddle, he then proceeded to outline the day's agenda in a steady tone.
"First, we'll head to the palace to take care of your affairs there," he began, his gaze focused ahead as he spoke. "Then, we'll make arrangements for your belongings from your house in Sina. Once everything is sorted, I'll return here to headquarters."
I absorbed his words, nodding in understanding before a flicker of confusion crossed my features. "Am I staying at the palace?" I asked, seeking clarification.
Mike shook his head gently, his expression turning serious. "No, you're going to the Prison and the Courtroom," he clarified, his tone carrying a hint of gravity. "You're to witness a sentence since you were involved in the incident."
"A court case?" I echoed, feeling a mixture of apprehension and curiosity bubbling within me. "I've never been to one."
"Get used to them," Mike replied with a wry smile, his eyes reflecting a hint of amusement. "Erwin wants you to tend to Eren Yeager in the prison and utilize your medical training while you're at it."
As he kneeled down to assist me into the cart, I felt a surge of gratitude towards him. "I've put some medical books in the cart for you to read during our journey," he informed me, his voice tinged with thoughtfulness.
"Thank you," I responded sincerely, watching as he secured the bridle on our horses before setting us in motion. With a deep breath, I settled into the cart.
*****
As we arrived at the palace after a few days of travel, the bustling presence of scouts signalled the impending court case. Mike helped me down from the cart, his concern evident in his question. "I'll be waiting here for you. If you need anything, I'll be right here. Do you know how long you may take?"
"Maybe an hour or so, but I can't guarantee it, I'm afraid," I replied, appreciating his support. "I can check you in as a guest if you wish?"
He shook his head politely. "Thank you, but I'm already known here, so no guest list is needed for me. I'll be waiting here, however."
I nodded in acknowledgment before making my way towards the palace gates, greeted by unfamiliar guards. "Good afternoon," I began, announcing my presence.
"My name is Elara Reinhardt, and I work at this palace. I'm here to hand in my resignation and to collect my belongings."
The guards scrutinized the paperwork, their gaze flickering to my bruised face, betraying their curiosity. "Were you in Trost?" one of them inquired, his tone tinged with concern as he observed my injuries.
Feeling a wave of embarrassment wash over me, I averted my gaze and gripped my arm. "Yes, I was there, and nearly met my end during the Titan outbreak. Now, may I please enter? I have much to attend to."
Their expressions shifted, revealing a mix of disbelief and sympathy as they exchanged glances. "Ma'am," one of them hesitated, his voice laced with solemnity.
"It says here that you died in Trost, and they're currently clearing out your area within the palace and your home."
My frustration surged, igniting a spark of anger within me. "Who said I died?" I retorted, unable to contain my indignation as their revelation caught me off guard. The guards recoiled slightly, startled by my outburst.
"We didn't receive a letter from you or any family stating you were alive. It's palace rules. We received only one for Alice Nedler, but that's all. Since your last destination was Trost, it was presumed you had--"
"Well, I'm alive and kicking!" I interjected, my frustration escalating as I began to cause a scene. The guards swiftly produced some paperwork and presented me with a sheet. "Of course, please sign here, Ms. Reinhardt. Do you need any assistance?" they inquired as I hastily scrawled my signature.
"I'm perfectly fine, thank you," I replied tersely, steam practically emanating from my ears as I marched towards the palace entrance. Inside, the hustle and bustle of maids preparing for the military and scouts flooded the halls, reminiscent of my own frantic days.
Rushing to my dorm, I was taken aback to find the door open, and my belongings being removed.
"Hey now, leave those alone!" I exclaimed, spotting Lily amidst the chaos.
"Elara?!" she exclaimed, abandoning her task to embrace me tightly. Tears welled in her eyes as she took in my appearance. "My sweet Elara, oh my goodness, what happened to you?"
Pushing her gently away, I met her gaze, my arm a stark reminder of my ordeal. "I was in Trost during the titan breach. I'm fine don't worry. I'm leaving the palace, though. Has anything been disposed of?" I inquired, noting her disbelief at my presence.
Lily's expression softened, tears streaming down her cheeks as she processed the situation. "You never wrote to anybody, and we all thought you were dead.
We heard that Alice was alive, but we didn't hear anything about you," she explained, her voice trembling with emotion. Despite our brief acquaintance, it was evident that I had left a lasting impact on her life.
"Oh, Lily," I sighed, enveloping her in a gentle hug. She scrutinized my bruised face, her concern palpable as she took in the extent of my injuries.
With Lily's assistance, we gathered my belongings and made our way out to where Mike was waiting with the wagon. He greeted us with a warm smile and helped load the boxes onto the cart.
"Thank you, Lily," I said gratefully, giving her a hug before turning to Mike. "I'm going to go resign now."
"Need any company?" Mike offered, his tone tinged with a hint of flirtation as he glanced at Lily, who blushed in response. I chuckled. "No, I think I'll manage. You two seem to be getting along just fine."
Mike flashed a charming grin at Lily, who giggled softly. "I'll catch up with you later, Elara. Take care," Lily said, her attention shifting back to Mike.
With a nod, I left them to their conversation and made my way back to the palace. As I approached the route to the resignation office, a sense of unease settled over me. It was always deserted, a stark contrast to the bustling activity elsewhere in the palace. Nevertheless, I pressed on, determined to complete this final task before leaving.
As I approached the familiar door of Lord Pembroke's office, a flurry of emotions swirled within me.
Nervousness prickled at my skin, mingling with a tinge of fear and a hint of excitement for the unknown future that awaited me beyond this moment. He was the one to relieve me of my duties, so surely now he'd be happy for me to leave and get out of his hair.
As I approached the familiar door of Lord Pembroke's office, a tumultuous mix of emotions churned within me. Summoning all the courage I could muster, I raised my hand and knocked firmly on the door. A muffled voice from within called out, "Enter." A moment later, the door creaked open, revealing Lord Pembroke seated behind his desk.
His eyes widened in shock as they fell upon me, disbelief etched across his features. "Elara Reinhardt," he stammered, his voice betraying his surprise. "But... I was informed... you were... I mean..."
I squared my shoulders, refusing to allow his astonishment to undermine my resolve. "Yes, I'm alive and well, despite what you may have been led to believe," I stated firmly, meeting his gaze head-on.
Lord Pembroke's shock quickly turned to anger, his jaw tightening as he struggled to regain his composure. "And what, may I ask, brings you here today?" he asked, his tone laced with thinly veiled hostility.
"I've come to tender my resignation," I replied, my voice unwavering despite the tension that crackled in the air. "It's time for me to move on, to pursue other opportunities."
Lord Pembroke's eyes narrowed, his expression darkening with each passing moment. "You dare to defy me?" he spat, his voice dripping with menace. "You were marked as KIA, Reinhardt. You have no right to simply waltz in here and demand to leave."
I stood my ground, refusing to be intimidated by his threats. "With all due respect, Lord Pembroke, my decision is final," I asserted, my voice steady. "I appreciate the opportunities I've been given here, but it's time for me to forge my own path."
As I braced myself for Lord Pembroke's response, he suddenly exploded with rage. He shot up from his chair, his fists slamming down on the desk with a resounding thud. Papers scattered in all directions, and I instinctively took a step back, startled by his sudden outburst.
"How dare you!" he bellowed, his voice echoing off the walls of the office. "You think you can just walk away from your duties, from your obligations?" His words reverberated through the room, but I refused to back down. Drawing upon every ounce of courage I possessed, I met his furious gaze with unwavering determination.
"I belong to no one, Lord Pembroke," I declared, my voice ringing with defiance. "I am not a possession to be owned or controlled. I have made my decision, and nothing you say or do will change that."
Lord Pembroke's face contorted with fury, his eyes blazing with anger. But despite his intimidation tactics, I stood firm, refusing to yield to his demands. As Lord Pembroke advanced toward me, his expression twisted with fury, I felt a surge of adrenaline coursing through my veins. Despite my best efforts to maintain composure, I couldn't suppress the trembling in my limbs as he drew nearer.
"You cannot simply resign, Reinhardt," he spat, his voice dripping with contempt. "You are bound by duty, by obligation. You will not leave this place."
I squared my shoulders, meeting his menacing gaze with steely resolve. "With all due respect, Lord Pembroke," I retorted, my voice unwavering despite the fear that churned within me, "I am not bound by chains of servitude. I am a free individual, entitled to make my own choices and forge my own path."
His eyes flashed with indignation, but I refused to cower under his oppressive presence. "You have no authority to dictate my future," I continued, my tone firm and unwavering. "I am twenty-eight years old, well beyond the age of consent. I am not a child to be kept under your thumb. I have made my decision, and I will see it through."
He pulled out a sheet of paper and handed me a pen, he was letting me go and sign it. I waltzed up and took the pen, and eagerly signed it, then the other sheet and folding it up, placing it into my pocket. He quickly grabbed my arm, causing me to wince before he spoke, "you'd never be welcome here again", before letting me go harshly.
With determination coursing through my veins, I declared, "I'm leaving, and I'm taking these with me." My fingers clenched tightly around the resignation papers, a tangible symbol of my liberation from Lord Pembroke's oppressive grip. As I turned to depart, a sharp pain shot through my arm, and I glanced down to see a bruise forming, imprinted with the unmistakable shape of his hand.
Ignoring the pain and the fear that threatened to overwhelm me, I reached for the door handle, my gaze never leaving his menacing figure. With a steady hand, I swung the door open, keeping a cautious eye on him as I stepped out into the corridor. With a final glance back at the man who had tried to hold me captive, I pulled the door shut behind me.
Then, without a moment's hesitation, I ran. I ran with all the strength and determination I could muster, my heart pounding in my chest and my ribs protesting with each breath. But despite the pain and the exhaustion, I kept moving, driven by the burning desire to escape from the clutches of oppression and forge my own path to freedom.
As I sprinted through the palace corridors, my heart pounding with each frantic step, I caught sight of a familiar group ahead. Mike, accompanied by Lily, was engaged in conversation with Erwin and Levi, their expressions grim and serious. Something was amiss, the tension palpable in the air, as if a dark cloud loomed overhead.
My hand reached out involuntarily, and my breath came in ragged gasps as Lily spotted me and sprinted in my direction.
"Elara?!" Her voice pierced through the chaos, drawing the attention of the others. With a burst of energy, I propelled myself forward, only to stumble and crash to the ground. Gritting my teeth against the pain, I scrambled to my feet and pressed on, driven by an overwhelming need to reach safety.
Lily's arms enveloped me as I collapsed against her, my sobs echoing through the empty corridor. With gentle hands, she lifted my tear-streaked face, her eyes flashing with anger and determination. "Pembroke," she muttered, her voice laced with fury, and I nodded in confirmation, my own anger simmering beneath the surface.
"Mike," she commanded, her tone unwavering. With a resolute nod, Mike strode forward with purpose, his resolve mirrored in his determined gaze. Meanwhile, Lily draped her maid jacket around my trembling form, offering a comforting embrace in the midst of turmoil. Erwin and Levi came forward and saw the situation as Lily held onto my bruised arm.
As Erwin approached, his authoritative presence brought a sense of reassurance amidst the chaos. His hand found its way to my shoulder, offering a silent comfort that eased the tension coiled within me. At first, I flinched instinctively, but as his touch lingered, a wave of relief washed over me, grounding me in the safety of his presence. Just as I opened my mouth to speak, Lily's gentle tap on my arm urged me to remain silent, her eyes filled with determination as she stepped forward to address Erwin.
"I am the head of the maids here in the palace," Lily declared, her voice resonating with conviction. "I've harboured suspicions about Pembroke for some time now, and today's events have only confirmed my fears. Bullying is not prohibited here, and clearly force too. I intend to pursue legal action against the man who dares to call himself a Lord."
Erwin, ever composed, extended his hand to Lily in a gesture of solidarity. "Erwin Smith, 13th Commander of the Survey Corps," he introduced himself before turning his attention to Levi. "This is Captain Levi" he said, pointing to the man who looked directly at me.
"Levi, take Elara outside to the cart. I'll handle things here with Lily."
With a nod of understanding, Levi stepped forward, his eyes widening in concern at the sight of my battered arm. I handed Lily her jacket back but she shook her head, until I heard Levi click his tongue in disapproval.
He took the jacket off me and handed it back to Lily, before gently wrapping his cape around me and an arm around my waist, guiding me with a steady, reassuring presence. I leaned into his touch, the weight of the recent events pressing heavily upon me.
"I'm sorry," I whispered, my voice barely above a murmur, tears threatening to spill.
"Don't apologize," Levi replied, his tone gentle yet firm. "Let's get you out of here."
As we turned the corner, I stole a glance back, witnessing the scene unfolding behind us. Mike emerged, dragging Pembroke from his office, while Lily stood resolute, her arms crossed in defiance.
Erwin remained steadfast, a pillar of strength amidst the turmoil. With Levi by my side, I took one last look before we disappeared from sight, leaving the chaos of the palace behind us.
As Levi and I walked in silence, the weight of the recent events hung heavy between us, palpable in the air. Ignoring the curious glances cast our way, I leaned in slightly, seeking solace in his presence. Though he initially recoiled from the contact, a flicker of understanding crossed his features, and he reached into his pocket, retrieving a handkerchief.
Wordlessly, he handed it to me, a silent gesture of support. I nodded gratefully, accepting the handkerchief and placing it gently under my eyes, the fabric offering a small comfort.
Arriving at the cart, Levi surprised me by leading me towards a nearby carriage instead. Opening the door, he motioned for me to enter, and I complied, sinking into the seat. He stepped inside and tapped in the direction of the driver. As the carriage began to move, the silence enveloped us, broken only by the soft sounds of our breaths.
Levi's stoic demeanour faltered slightly, his typically impassive expression betraying a hint of uncertainty. Uncertain of how to offer comfort, he sat beside me, his posture rigid yet somehow reassuring. In the quiet of the carriage, emotions simmered beneath the surface, threatening to spill over.
Leaning back against the seat, I allowed the floodgates to open, the weight of the day's events crashing down upon me. Tears welled in my eyes, unchecked and raw, as I struggled to contain the torrent of emotion. Beside me, Levi shifted uncomfortably, his usually guarded facade faltering in the face of my distress.
Then, with a quiet sigh, Levi tentatively reached out, his hand hovering uncertainly before coming to rest on my shoulder. It was a small gesture, yet in that moment, it spoke volumes of the unspoken bond between us. Despite his gruff exterior, Levi Ackerman was offering me the comfort I so desperately needed. And for that, I was grateful.
*****
The rhythmic clatter of the carriage wheels against the cobblestones echoed through the silent evening air as Mike and Lily bustled about, sorting through the remnants of my former life. Their voices drifted through the open window, the occasional clink of objects punctuating their conversation. The news of Pembroke's imprisonment brought a sense of relief, yet the weight of the day's events still hung heavy in the air.
Inside the carriage, Levi's presence provided a silent comfort amidst the turmoil. His gaze remained fixed on the passing scenery, his typically stoic expression softened by the dim light filtering through the windows. Dressed in a sombre black suit, he exuded an air of quiet strength, a stark contrast to the chaos that had consumed us earlier.
"How are you feeling?" Levi's voice broke the silence, his tone gentle yet probing. I shifted uncomfortably, unable to meet his gaze as I absently traced the lines of my arm. The events of the day had left me emotionally drained, words catching in my throat as I struggled to articulate the tumultuous storm raging within me.
A heavy silence settled between us, broken only by the distant sounds of the city outside. Levi leaned back in his seat, crossing his legs with a subtle air of resignation. Despite his outward calmness, I could sense the underlying tension in his demeanour, a silent acknowledgment of the weight we both carried.
As the carriage rumbled on, the weight of the day's events bore down on me, leaving me grappling for words in the suffocating silence. Levi's presence beside me was a steady anchor, his typically stoic demeanour a reassuring presence in the dimly lit carriage.
"Erm," I whispered, my voice barely above a hoarse murmur, the dryness of my throat betraying the turmoil raging within. Levi's steady gaze shifted to me, his expression unreadable as he waited for me to speak. "Don't worry about talking for now," he reassured me, a gentle brush of his hand through his hair betraying a hint of unease.
I mustered the courage to meet his gaze, only to look away just as quickly, the weight of his scrutiny feeling almost suffocating. Nodding at his words, I touched the tender cut on my forehead, feeling the dried blood crack beneath my fingertips.
"I'm sorry for causing that scene and having to make you leave your stance," I offered, my voice trembling with a mix of apology and self-reproach. Levi's eyebrow arched slightly, a subtle indication of his surprise at my words. He nodded in acknowledgment, his response terse yet oddly comforting.
"Don't make me repeat myself, brat," he interjected suddenly, his tone sharp and commanding. I swallowed hard, the tension in the air palpable as I fell silent, chastised by his rebuke.
The carriage came to a halt, jolting me from my thoughts as Levi stood and gestured for me to follow suit. Stepping out into the cool evening air, I took a deep breath, the looming silhouette of the courtrooms casting a daunting shadow over our path.
Levi's voice broke through the silence, his instructions cutting through the tension like a knife. "Clean yourself up. I need you to follow me to the prison to tend to Eren Yeager," he commanded, his words leaving little room for argument. With a silent nod, I gathered my resolve, steeling myself for the challenges that lay ahead as I followed Levi towards our next destination.
*****
Sorry it took a while!!! Birthday week and anniversary with my partner came up so we had some time off together.
I hope you enjoy this chapter! I love the twists in this 🥰
Until next time!
Levi-Summer ✌️