The boys of the 104th were not too different, as they all stood there for a long while. Jean's jaw almost dropped, but he quickly regained composure. Eren, for some reason, was just staring at the food, but he did look at the girls and nodded in approval. Reiner was a bit more vocal, a small "Wow" escaping his lips. And for Marco, he couldn't help but smile, looking at the girls with admiration.
Finally, the whispers and stares died down when a bald man in a military uniform finally approached you.
"That's Commander Pixis," Marco whispered to you.
He was indeed a peculiar-looking man, with a bald head and a very distinctive mustache that looked like it could have its own personality. But his face was too relaxed. Too...jovial, given the circumstances.
"So, you are the children of the 104th, hmm?" He said, his voice gravelly yet surprisingly warm. "I heard a lot about you. Shadis might be a hardass, but he does know how to pick 'em." He then took a closer look at you and your sister. "You're the Almonacid kids, right? I heard your father was a good man. Hard worker. And you...you've certainly grown strong." The compliment made your sister smile. You just nodded.
He then turned to Eren and Mikasa. "And you two...I've heard about your mother. She is a strong woman. A true survivor." The comment earned a nod from both of them.
Then, he looked at the rest. "And the rest of you...Well, I'm sure you're all...something." He then clapped his hands together. "Alright! The reason you're here is to show the public that the military is not just about fighting and dying. It's also about...celebrating life. So, go on. Mingle. Eat. Drink. Just one drink, mind you." He said, taking out a small canteen from his jacket to drink. He winked, obviously ignoring his own rule. "But mostly, have fun. You've earned it. I'm sure the nobles won't mind a few fresh faces." He said, before taking another swig and leaving.
You were left confused by the Commander. 'This is the man in charge of the defense of the southern wall?' You thought to yourself. However, even in his lack of seriousness, you could notice a spark of intelligence in his eyes. He was a man who knew what he was doing. As for you...That remained to be seen.
"Huh...How did the Commander know about us?" Eren asked, a bit of confusion in his voice. He had expected some more serious and imposing figure, not a...drunkard?
"He's the commander, Eren," Marco said, his voice a bit more calm and understanding. "He knows about everyone." Marco then looked around the hall. His posture was a bit nervous, but he tried to hide it. "I guess we should try to make the best of this. It's not every day we get to...you know, do this."
Jean, on the other hand, was already scanning the room, a predatory glint in his eyes. "Alright. Strategy. I'll make my move. I'll talk to that lady over there. The one with the...blue hat. Marco, you come with me. For...moral support. Eren, don't do anything." Jean smoothed his hair, trying to appear more sophisticated. He adjusted his tie. Then he took a deep breath and marched forward. Marco followed, his expression a mix of amusement and concern.
But then, he was immediately stopped by a short woman with glasses and silvery hair, whose glare alone seemed to pin Jean to the spot. She was dressed in a sharp military uniform, her insignia that of the garrison forces.
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"And what do you think you're doing, Cadet?" Her voice was like ice, each word clipped and precise. "You are not going anywhere without first having some manners taught to you."
"Who are you?" Jean sputtered. His face had turned a shade of red.
Her glare turned deathly. "Squad Leader Rico Brzenska. Your senior officer. You will address me as ma'am."
Jean straightened up. "Yes, ma'am. I was just..."
"Just about to make a fool of yourself, I can see that." She gave him a once-over, and it wasn't a flattering look. "You should all be thankful, Lord Garnis had requested to see you cadets, something about the next generation of soldiers, and the only reason you are here is that you are in the section with the highest grades," She said, not even trying to hide the contempt in her voice. "He gives us extra funding because of his fear of the Titans. So make it worth his while. He wants to be impressed." She said, with a bit of resignation in her voice.
"Think of this as a mission for humanity," Rico said, her words dripping with sarcasm. "Make sure to show your best face to the higher-ups. Don't embarrass the military." She then pointed a gloved finger at Jean. "Don't mess this up. I'm keeping my eye on you. All of you." Then she spotted you and Emelina, her eyes drawn to the silver hair that made you stand out. A flicker of recognition, perhaps? Or just curiosity. She said nothing, but her gaze lingered a moment too long before she moved on.
"Now, since none of you really know how to dance," She said with a dismissive wave. "Try not to." She was clearly enjoying the power she had over you all. "But if you must...Try to dance with one of your seniors first. Me included, but be ready to be judged." She said as she walked away, her back straight, her steps precise and a bit too...militaristic for a ball.
"Well, that was...something," Jean said, his face still red from embarrassment.
"I think I'd rather fight a Titan," Eren mumbled, a bit of a scowl forming on his face.
Reiner, on the other hand, seemed to take the challenge to heart. "Alright, then. Let's show her what we're made of." He said with a wide grin on his face. Jean seemed to compose himself. "Yeah!" He then turned to Marco. "Let's go! I'm not going to let some woman with glasses tell me what to do." He said, trying to muster some of that confidence he had earlier.
Before they could leave, another woman approached. Her hair was also short but brown, and her demeanor was a stark contrast to Rico's. She looked tired and a bit anxious. "Oh, thank goodness. Are you the 104th cadets?" She asked, her hands clapping nervously. "Please, please, follow me. Lord Garnis is waiting for you." She then ushered the five of you towards a more secluded area of the hall, towards a group of nobles who were already engaged in a lively conversation.
You glanced towards Krista and Annie one last time. Krista smiled back, her lips formed the words 'Do you like it?' and Annie...Well, she kept her usual cold expression. Trying not to be affected by the world around her. However, upon noticing your gaze, she gave you a small, almost unnoticeable nod. A nod that said: 'Enjoy this while you can.'
Then you turned your attention to the nobles. Lord Garnis was a round man with a red face and a booming laugh. He was surrounded by a group of people, all hanging on to his every word.
"Ah! The cadets!" He exclaimed, his voice cutting through the noise of the ball. "The famous 104th! The hope for our future!"
'That seems like an exaggeration...' You thought. A very large exaggeration. But you couldn't deny that appreciation felt...good, you guessed?
"Come, come! Let me have a look at you," Lord Garnis said, waving you closer. You and the others did so, trying to look as presentable as possible. He inspected each of you with a critical eye, his gaze lingering on each of you for a second. "Strong. Spirited. Full of life. I like it."
He then pointed to a young woman, maybe a year or two older than you, who had a bored expression on her face. She had her blonde hair in a way that was trying too hard to look dishevelled. "This is my daughter, Victoria." He said.
His daughter was a woman with long ginger hair in a quite elegant and complex white dress that gave her an air of high society. She had a long nose and a pair of sharp green eyes that seemed to be analysing everything. She seemed not to want to acknowledge your presence at all for a few seconds. Finally, she gave you all a very faint, almost condescending smile.
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"So these are your charity cases, father," Victoria said, her nose turned up. "They look...certainly look strong." She placed a particular emphasis on the word "strong," as if it were a common, unrefined trait. Her gaze then settled on Eren and Jean. "They even come in copies."
Jean flinched, his jaw tightening. He said nothing.
Victoria's gaze then drifted towards the dance floor. A band played a waltz, the music filling the hall. She let out a small sigh, a puff of bored air. "I am sure you must all be... thrilled to be here." She said, the words a thin veil for her disdain. She then turned to her father. "Father, can I go now? This is dreadfully boring."
"Not yet, my dear," Lord Garnis said, his voice a bit too cheerful. "You must get to know our future protectors." He then turned to you all again. "Don't be shy! Talk to her! Impress her!"
Victoria's lips curved into a small, tight smile. "Yes, please. Do try." She said her words were a double-edged sword. "I'm simply dying to be impressed."
The air around your group went from tense to suffocating. Annie and Mikasa were already glaring daggers at her. At the same time, Krista gave her a sweet, almost double-faced smile. Emelina was both amused and angered, while Adelaide just had a quiet smile that hid her feelings.
As for the boys? Eren was just trying to hold back a scoff while Marco began to think about how to handle this problem. Meanwhile, Reiner and Jean were at a loss for words. And for you? Well...The bliss of your previous encounter with Annie and Krista made everything else seem less important. A small smile formed on your lips as you looked at the nobleman and his daughter. You were not thinking about anything other than the fact that you were with the girls you liked.
-x-X-x-
It was Marco who spoke. He stepped forward, a polite smile on his face that didn't quite reach his freckled cheeks. "My Lady, Lord Garnis," He began, executing a passable bow he must have practiced. "It is an honor to be invited. We are grateful for this opportunity to..." He paused, searching for the right word, "...represent the future of the Military."
Victoria didn't even look at him. She was studying her nails, perfectly trimmed and cared for. Just as she opened her lips to throw a new wave of insults. Marco spoke again. But this time, he looked at the lord and not at her. "We're well aware of the difference in our stations. And we appreciate that you're giving us this chance."
'At least. He knows where we stand. A small hint of respect came from the face of the young lady, but it was quickly replaced by boredom.
The Lord gave him a nod, and only then did Marco look at Victoria, his eyes filled with a genuine, earnest smile. "If you'll excuse my forwardness," He then said, "I am just glad I get to see such a beautiful woman in real life." A small but well-timed compliment.
Victoria raised a brow, surprised by the straightforward compliment. Her expression softened for a fraction of a second as if deciding on a quick course of action. Then she regained her composure. "I must admit," She began. "I did not think you had eyes capable of appreciating beauty, let alone words to express it." She then turned her back to him. "I'll dance with you. But that is all you're getting from me. A dance."
"Of course," Marco said.
"And the rest of you," She said. "Just... Try not to touch anything." She then held her arm out to him. "Shall we?" she said.
Everyone from Jean and Reiner, to Emelina and Krista were dumbfounded by how easily Marco managed to charm the noblewoman. As for you, you gave a respectful nod to him. Even Lord Garnis was surprised, but then he let out a booming laugh. "Hah! Good for you, boy! Now you see? That's the spirit!" He then patted your back. "Now go. Try to have some fun."
After Marco and the young woman left, your group seemed to breathe a collective sigh of relief.
"Well," Jean said, crossing his arms. "I guess he handled that better than I could have."
"I wonder how," Reiner said, placing a finger on his chin. He seemed to be analyzing the situation, a rare display of thoughtful contemplation from him.
Lord Garnis then turned to the rest of you. "Now, you." He said. "Strong, charming, and capable, I know that most nobles can be a bit...unsupportive of your duties...But I am sure that after what happened four years ago. You all understand why we need strong and capable people like you." He then gestured towards the other nobles. "I hope that tonight's little get-together will not only serve as a celebration of the 100th year of the reign of the royal family but also as a means to remind these folks of the threat that looms over us all." His face seemed to get serious at that moment, far too serious for the merry atmosphere of the ball.
Just what kind of person was he? A drunk and philanthropic noble? Or a man who understood the gravity of their situation? It was hard to tell.
"I am sure they understand," Emelina said, her voice smooth as silk. She had stepped forward, a small, confident smile on her face. Her silver hair seemed to gleam under the light of the chandeliers. "We appreciate your support, Lord Garnis. It is not often that we are recognized for our efforts." She then gave a small, respectful bow. "But our duty is to humanity; thankfully, I believe that all of us here are humans. So I see no reason not to celebrate."
"A perfect sentiment, my dear." Lord Garnis said with a warm smile on his face. Emelina's words were driving him away from the seriousness for a while. He seemed to be quite fond of your sister. "Please, enjoy the night."
And with that, he left, leaving the group of you to your own devices. The tension seemed to dissipate, replaced by a more relaxed atmosphere.
"So," Jean said, breaking the silence. He cleared his throat. "Now what?"
"Now, we enjoy the party," Reiner said. He then gestured towards the refreshments table. "Let's get something to eat." The girls, and especially Eren, were quick to agree.
But before you could join them, you felt a small hand on your arm. You turned to see Krista. "Not so fast," She said, her blue eyes sparkling with mischief. "I believe you owe me a dance." She said, holding out her hand.
You thought that was a bad idea, after all, you remember what Rico had said.
"I don't know how to dance," You said, your voice a bit rough.
Krista just smiled. "I'll teach you." She said, her smile widening. "It's easy." 'It has to be easy,' She thought. 'If not, then what kind of lady would I be?'
You couldn't say no to that smile. You took her hand, and she led you to a corner of the dance floor where you wouldn't be in the way. You felt two glances at you at that moment, one from Reiner and another from Annie, who had been watching you from a distance, probably wanting to approach but couldn't. She wanted to keep your complicated relationship a secret.
Krista placed your right hand on her waist and took your left hand in hers. She then placed her other hand on your shoulder. "Just follow my lead," She whispered. She then began to move, her steps small and deliberate...and inexperienced. "Okay, so we move like this," She said, as she took a step forward, and you instinctively took a step back. "And now you move forward." She then moved her right foot, and you tried to move your left, but you ended up stepping a bit out of rhythm.
She laughed, a small, sweet sound that made your chest feel warm. "No, no, like this." She said, her patience never wavering. She then moved, but also failed to get the right footwork.
You were both clumsy, like two puppies trying to walk for the first time. But it was fun.
"I thought you said something about teaching me," You said, a small smile on your face.
"I am," She said, her pout was not convincing. "I'm just... not a very good teacher...and this is my first time dancing too..." She admitted.
"Well, maybe we should just stand here," You suggested. She pouted again, but this time she wasn't pretending. "Don't be mean! I've read about this. We just have to count. One, two, three. One, two, three." She said, her brow furrowed in concentration. She then tried again, and this time, you both managed to get a few steps in. "See? We're doing it!"
The music swelled, and you found yourself lost in the moment. The simplicity of dancing with Krista made it more heartwarming somehow, even when the steps were awkard or the timing was off, you just laughed it off and tried again. Her small hand felt warm in yours, and your hand in her hip seemed to fit perfectly. This was a simple moment, but a precious one. And one that you were determined to cherish. But then, Krista stopped.
"I am scared," She confessed, her smile fading.
You stopped, surprised. "Scared? Of what?"
She looked at the nobles, their eyes ever so watchful, their whispers a constant reminder that you didn't belong. "Just don't leave me alone, okay?"
"I won't," You said, your grip on her waist tightening slightly. But even then, you noticed some of that mental strength fade away from her; you couldn't tell the reason why, but she then regained her composure with a sigh. "It feels stupid, but...I am both happy and scared. I always wanted to be at one of these events since I was a little girl...and now...Here I am." She looked down at her dress, then at you, her eyes glistening.
"I think that if you weren't here, I couldn't even stand up," She said with a trembling smile. "But having you with me...makes me feel like I can face anything...even this fear."
You felt a lump form in your throat. You didn't know what to say. So you just held her as you continued the dance. The music is slowing down with a new song being played. Slow enough that both of you could actually dance properly without much trouble. Each step gave her a bit more confidence.
You didn't know how to dance, but you were starting to learn. You were learning from her.
You moved together, the awkwardness fading, replaced by a silent understanding. Your feet seemed to know the steps now, forwards, back, and then turn. She looked at you for a long while. Her eyes traced the cut on your cheek, her fingers grazing it gently. "Does it still hurt?" She asked.
"Not anymore." You said. The truth is that you had forgotten about it completely. The pain had been a fleeting thing, a memory.
"Good," She said, her fingers lingering on your skin. "But still...I hoped it would remind you not to make a girl cry." A small, playful smile formed on her lips.
"I won't forget," You said, your gaze unwavering. "I promise."
"I will make sure you remember it," She replied. She then pulled you closer, her body flush against yours. The music swelled around you, a soft, romantic melody that seemed to be made just for the two of you. "And for the record...I will tell Annie to make sure you remember it, too." She then looked over to her, who was standing near the refreshments table, Annie's face unreadable as she watched you both. Perhaps, living vicariously through her.
"Annie?" You followed her gaze. "I want to ask her to dance, but I am not entirely sure if I should."
Krista's pout was a work of art, a perfect blend of annoyance and a dare. "You really should... but only after me." She then pressed a soft, lingering kiss on your cheek, right next to the cut. "If she doesn't want anyone to see you two together, then...I will figure something out."
"You are enjoying this a bit too much," You noted.
She just smiled, a small, secret smile that promised a world of mischief and pleasure. "Maybe a little." She answered, "But so are you." She then rested her head on your shoulder. You continued to dance, enjoying this quiet moment as if it came out of a book. Of course, you were not the only ones having fun.
Marco was happily dancing with Victoria, who seemed to be a rather strict but soft teacher. Reiner was chatting with some noble ladies with a certain charismatic charm he had. Emelina was gracefully swaying back and forth from social groups, not dancing with anyone, though many young noblemen seemed to desire to approach her.
You then scanned the hall for the other members of your squadron. Jean went to the seniors of the garrison in defeat, actually asking one of them for a dance. To everyone's surprise, Rico accepted. She led him to the floor with a brisk, almost clinical motion. His awkwardness was painful to watch. He tried to lead, but she corrected him with sharp, precise steps and muttered instructions.
Eren? Well, he was seemingly attracting many young and impressionable noble girls just by his sheer indifference to the party's social expectations. He seemed to be trying to enjoy the food, but then they'd surround him, asking questions about Titans and how he would fight them. The look on his face was one of pure determination and discomfort at the same time. Mikasa merely kept watch, though some seniors attempted to talk to her about her grades and performance. From time to time, you could see her eyes staring at you and Krista, the intent not so dissimilar to the one Annie held before.
Adelaide was also being approached by a young nobleman, who seemed to be quite taken with her. She was trying to be polite, but you could see the discomfort in her eyes. You caught her gaze for a second. She offered a small, strained smile, then quickly looked away.
Your attention then returned to Annie. She was still standing near the refreshments table, a small, almost invisible wall of space around her. Her cold gaze was enough to deter any potential dance partners.
She seemed to be aware of your gaze on her. She didn't look at you. But she took a small, delicate pastry from the table. She brought it to her lips, her movements slow, deliberate. She bit into it, her eyes still fixed on some distant point. The gesture was so simple, so ordinary, yet it held a strange allure. You wanted to be the one to hand her that pastry. To see her smile as she tasted it.
Maybe you really should seek her out now. Take her to the dance floor, if only for a minute. To show her that she was not invisible. That she was seen. That she was desired. But then...the perfect excuse arrived.
The music ended. The dancers stopped. A round of applause filled the hall. Krista let go of you, her hands lingering on your shoulders. She then turned to the stage. Commander Pixis was there, a glass in his hand.
"My dear friends, fellow citizens of humanity!" He started, a slurring to his words that betrayed the amount of alcohol he had consumed. "Thank you for joining us in this grand celebration of our great history!"
His speech was long and rambling. He talked about the glory of the royal family, the strength of the Walls, and the bravery of the soldiers. He told jokes that only the nobles seemed to understand. His words were a mix of patriotic fervor and drunken nonsense. But then, he said something that interested you.
"And to our brave young cadets," He said, his voice finally holding a semblance of seriousness. "This next dance is for you. I want to see you shine. Show us your moves. Show us your grace."
You were all called over. Some looked excited, others nervous. Rico came over to pair every single one of you with another of the cadets.
"Cadet, you will dance with Annie," The stern female squad leader said. She looked from you to Annie, a shy surprise in her eyes before her expression returned to its usual state of disapproval.
She had overruled Krista's attempt to dance with you again and ignored Emelina's quiet suggestion that perhaps her brother would be more comfortable with someone else. This wasn't a suggestion. It was an order. But it was a gift. You looked at Annie. This was the perfect chance to keep your relationship a secret. A public dance would be a risky statement. A dance arranged by a superior officer? That was just following orders.
The five pairs were placed in front of each other at the center of the ballroom. You stood just a few meters away from Annie. Meanwhile, Reiner was paired with Krista, Jean with Mikasa, Eren with Emelina, and Marco with Adelaide. A quiet arrangement that did lend itself to some speculation, but most would think it was just random.
"Come now, don't be shy," Pixis's boomed. He took another sip from his flask. "The dance will commence in a few seconds. I want you to show our nobles that you are not just killing machines. You have grace and hearts, too."
"Hearts too..." Reiner said, looking at Krista. He held out a gloved hand. "My lady," He said with a bit of an exaggerated, theatrical tone that nonetheless seemed to make her amused. She accepted his hand.
Jean was a bit nervous to dance with Mikasa. She seemed not to mind, but neither enjoy the moment. Her attention, as expected, was on Eren, who was now frowning at Emelina.
Marco and Adelaide had polite smiles on their faces, but their interactions felt stilted. Formal. A courtesy dance.
You stepped toward Annie. You offered her your hand. For a second, she didn't move, then she placed her gloved fingers in yours. Her skin felt soft even through the thin fabric.
That single point of contact made her look at you. Her face was a mask that showed only indifference. But in her eyes, you saw the real emotion within her. Happiness, excitement, and a taste of embarrasment.
As the music began to swell again, your other hand settled lightly on her waist. The fabric of her dress was smooth and cool under your palm. The cut on your cheek, which she had avoided looking at until now, seemed to burn with a phantom heat when her gaze finally landed on it.
"A dance, Cadet Leonhardt," You said, the words quiet but enough for her to hear.
"Cadet Almonacid," She replied, her lips barely moving. Trying to keep that aloof, untouchable persona. But her grip on your shoulder tightened. "You've learned, right?" She whispered, her voice so soft that it made you want to close the distance between you both.
"Enough to not step on your feet," You replied, a hint of a smile on your lips.
The band struck up a waltz. It was a faster tempo than the song with Krista. But this time you were more prepared. Her small body felt even more so as you held her hand and guided her movements. She looked surprised for a moment at your sudden ability. Though not quite a natural, you had the intent to make her enjoy this. You stepped forward, she stepped back. You guided her into a turn. Her movements were precise, efficient, and yet there was a grace to them that belied her usual detached demeanor.
Her posture was ramrod straight, her chin held high. She was a soldier on a parade ground, not a girl at a ball. But her eyes, those guarded blue eyes, were fixed on yours. A silent conversation was happening between you, a conversation that no one else in the grand hall could hear. Then her body softened, allowing you to lead her more.
The glimmer in her eyes turned more playful. "You're not bad," She said, her words a concession. But you wanted to have a bit more fun with her, so you repeated what you saw another dancing duo do. You held one of her arms and then her hand, extending them both until finally you brought her into a spin.
A small gasp escaped her lips as she twirled, her white dress flaring around her like a blooming flower. She stumbled a bit as she came back to you, her body colliding with yours. Her hands flew to your chest to steady herself, her head coming to rest against your shoulder. For a split second, her guard was down completely. She looked up at you, her blue eyes wide with surprise and something else... A blush of pink colored her pale cheeks.
"S-sorry," She mumbled, her breath warm against your neck.
You didn't say anything. You just held her, your hand resting on the small of her back, feeling the delicate curve of her spine. You wanted to freeze this moment. To keep her in your arms forever. But you knew you couldn't. The music was still playing. The eyes of the nobles were still on you. So you brought her back into the dance.
You continued to dance with the same passion as before. With each step, you could feel her relaxing more. The stiffness in her shoulders eased. The tension in her back melted away...and that was enough to make her smile...Not just a half-smile or a shy one. A real, genuine smile. A smile that reached her eyes. She was having fun.
The band played on, the music a swirl of violins and cellos. The other cadets were also dancing. Jean was trying to keep up with Mikasa's precise steps, a look of intense concentration on his face. Eren was being dragged around the dance floor by Emelina, who seemed to be enjoying his discomfort.
No more words were needed between the two of you; sharing in this moment was enough. A way to reaffirm her feelings and for you to show her that you weren't just playing with her emotions. This was your way of showing her what she meant to you. Your dancing caught a few stares from the nobles and the seniors.
You both twirled again, this time in unison. The frills on her white dress made enchanting twirls that caught surprised stares. You felt her grip on your shoulder tighten, her body moving with yours in perfect harmony. And then the music stopped just at the right moment as she was dipped, your arm supporting her back as she leaned over your arm.
She looked up at you, her blue eyes wide, her lips slightly parted. An invitation perhaps...and you were tempted to accept it. So tempted that you found yourself leaning closer to kiss her right there on the dance floor, in front of everyone.
It was only her body attempting to stand up straight again that stopped you. For a moment, you just stayed there, looking at each other. The world seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you in a bubble of silence and unspoken words. She then broke eye contact, and she quickly turned away, a faint blush coloring her cheeks. The small condescended world of only the two of you was broken by the music stopping.
"Bravo! Bravo!" The drunken cheers from Pixis could be heard all over the hall. "What a show! What passion!"
The clapping started then; there were more claps of politeness than anything else, after all, not everyone had liked your public display. You then released Annie from the dip, your hand lingering on the small of her back for a second too long. She then turned around and walked away, trying to hide her blush from you. Your lips turned to a small, proud smile. You had done it. You had shown her that she wasn't invisible. That she was seen. That she deserved to be happy. And a part of you that she also saw understood that she was yours.
"Not the best dance I have seen..." One of the nobles whispered, just within earshot of you. "But at least, they have passion." A backhanded compliment and probably the muster the nobles could muster.
"Cadets, swap partners!" The command cut through the air from Rico, who was looking unimpressed but professional, not at you this time. A new order. A new dance. You were about to be partnered with Adelaide, your childhood friend, whom you had saved twice and who was now determined to stand on her own two feet.
You gave her a nod, and she gave you a more than just polite smile back. "Adelaide," you said as you approached her.
"Conrad," she replied, her green eyes meeting yours. Her blonde hair was still styled with that braided ponytail of hers, a few stray strands framing her face and her yellow dress. "I heard you made a spectacle of yourself," She said, with a bit of a playful, confident tone.
"I try my best," You replied, taking her hand and leading her to the dance floor. The touch made her recoil a little for a second. She didn't expect that her childhood friend had become such a capable dancer. But she had to admit to herself that seeing him dance with Annie had made her feel a small pang of jealousy. A pang that she quickly suppressed. After all, they both had their own private affairs that she couldn't be a part of. But it did not mean that she didn't want to be close to him.
But just as the music started again, you heard a loud metallic noise as if something had been cut far above. You noticed a chandelier falling just a few meters away from you, its crystals shattering on the floor with a deafening crash, a spray of glass and metal.
There was no hesitation in your movement as you got in front of Adelaide, already glancing over to Krista and Annie. Both were completely fine; however, the noble women next to them were screaming in fear, a chorus of panic that was then joined by others. A few fragments of the glass had been ejected with enough force to cut into the faces of the nearby guests.
"What sort of cheap chandelier is this?!" A nobleman shouted, clearly angry at this turn of events.
But your mind wasn't there. Instead, your focus shifted upward. You then noticed cloaked figures on the ceiling of the ballroom. It was just a pair of them, and they had a musket aimed directly at someone. You couldn't tell who, but your eyes followed the barrel to one fat noble. He seemed important. The other cloaked figure was preparing to fire another weapon, likely another musket.
Then you saw a flash from the barrel. Moments later, the fat noble held a hand to his chest as blood began to pour from the wound. He fell. And the screams got louder. Chaos began to erupt as the senior officers and the military police were trying to evacuate the people in an orderly manner. But it was too late. The panic had already set in.
The second cloaked figure prepared their musket again. Aiming it at a rough-looking noble with a frown on his face. The shot rang out. But this time, someone else took the hit, a young noblewoman who had her life ended before she could even scream.
"Guards!" The military police were attempting to get inside, muskets on hand, trying to fight their way through the panicked crowd to get to the assassins
Everyone's faces of the 104th showed a mixture of shock, determination, and a touch of confusion. Just what had just happened? Why here, and why now? However, the voice of Rico boomed over the panic with a surprising authority. "To me, all of you! Now!" She commanded. "Eren, Marco, Reiner, secure the exits! Adelaide, Krista, and Mikasa, get the nobles to the back! The rest of you, with me!" She then pointed at the two figures. "Take them alive!"
"Right!" The cadets responded in unison. Their training kicked in. The panic was replaced by a sense of purpose.
"Down with the corrupt nobility! Long live the White Doves!" The other assassin shouted. Before preparing their own escape. However, they were not the only ones; another group of three appeared on the balcony in front of them. They aimed their muskets at the nobles and began to shoot.
Then you saw Rico running past you, and you followed. Emelina and Jean were by your side. All three of you ran past the panicked crowd and towards the balcony. The push of the nobles trying to escape was intense. "Move! Move! Make way!" Jean shouted.
The seniors and other soldiers within the ballroom were also trying to get to the assassins, but the crowd was too dense, and the assassins had the higher ground. One of them shot at Rico, who managed to dodge the bullet by a hair's breadth. The shot grazed her heel, leaving a red line on her uniform. She grunted in pain, slowing down.
"Keep moving!" She shouted, her face a mask of pain and determination. The wound was not fatal, but it would slow her down.
Then you saw the seniors get to the other balcony; however, the assassins were prepared, throwing an explosive device right as they started to get to the other balcony. The explosion threw the seniors back, injuring several of them.
"These guys!" Jean shouted in frustration. Still, running already on the stairs to get to the section where the balconies were.
"We need to get up there," You said, your eyes fixed on the assassins. They were reloading their muskets, preparing to shoot again. But upon noticing you, one of them patted the other on the head.
"Time to leave, my brothers," The leader of the group said. They hastily left the balcony and were getting ready to go through a hallway. Only to throw a smoke bomb that made it hard to see where they had gone. The hallway was divided into two directions as the smoke covered the exit.
You had to make a quick decision. Pursue into the unknown and attempt to capture one of them, or wait until the smoke clears to see the direction they went.
Unwilling to wait or be patient, you rush directly into one of the directions where the assassins may have gone. You run and run until the smoke clears, and then you see one of the assassins moving into one of the rooms.
"Conrad!" Emelina shouts behind you, following you closely.
Eren also seems to have run ahead with you; his green eyes were a blaze of fury and determination at the assassins. "Wait for me!"
You don't have many seconds to think, and if you want to catch them all, then you have to trust Emelina, Jean, and Eren to do the rest while you confront the assassin.
"I'll take this one!" You yell, your footsteps echoing as you take a different route that leads to the same room, using the layout of the building to your advantage.
"You'd better not die, you idiot!" Emelina shouted, taking her own path.
Eren and Jean also went their separate ways to flank the assassin. It was a classic pincer movement, a strategy you had drilled countless times during training. But this was no mere drill, and as soon as you entered the room, you felt a kick against your chest, making the breath leave your body for a moment. The kick had been either lucky or too precise. However, before the assassin could kick you again, you managed to grab the assassin's leg and pull. The assassin went down, their hood falling and revealing a young woman, her face scarred and her eyes burning with hatred.
.
-------------->
.
The difference in strength was all too clear, and you had seen the objective of the assassin. Trying to leave through one of the window openings that faced a steep, but not deadly, fall. She had some guts, or more precisely...ODM gear on her, which only you noticed after her initial attack. "What a waste," She then grunted. "Another one of the monarchy's dogs." She then pulled out a small, one-shot pistol from her back. Which she quickly aimed at you.
"You talk too much," You said, your foot connecting with her wrist, sending the pistol skittering across the floor. "You should be more worried about yourself."
"Arrogant whelp!" The assassin snarled as you held her in a lock that Annie had taught you. The assassin attempted to break free, but you were too strong. You held her in place; your grip would not falter.
But it wasn't your grip or determination that faltered, but hearing the pained scream of Emelina that made you lose your composure.
"EMELINA!" You shouted; she was several rooms away, and there was no way to get here without leaving the assassin. You gritted your teeth between doing your duty and doing what you were always meant to do.
That single second was enough for the assassin to headbutt you. The impact made your vision go white for a second, but it seemed to have done even more damage to the assassin than to you. "Dammit! What are you made of?" She grunted.
"Shut up!" You shouted, trying to make a decision.
But the second of inaction allowed her to break free with another kick. But this one didn't meet your chest; instead, she aimed for your legs, a kick with all her strength. She was strong, you had to give her that. But without wasting any more time, she jumped outside and used her ODM gear to escape.
"Get back here!" You shouted, but it was too late. She was gone. You then immediately reacted, rushing towards where Emelina's scream of pain had come from. Your boots slammed against the marble floors, the sounds of distant shouting now almost indistinguishable from the frantic pounding in your ears. One of the doors hung open to one of the other balconies.
You burst into the next room. The door led to a small balcony with a single stone bench. You found Eren and Jean, dumbfounded, looking at a broken window. Emelina was on the floor, holding her arm, a shard of glass embedded in her bicep. Blood seeped through her white glove, even though her dress was already ripped at the thigh to allow her to run. Her face was composed and calm, which was contrary to what you had expected after such a blood-curdling scream.
"Conrad," Eren started, "Did you manage to get them?"
"She got away," You said, shaking your head. You then inspected Emelina's wound, your hands moving with a surety that belied your racing thoughts.
"No better luck than us then," Jean said, kicking a piece of glass near the window. "He jumped."
The wound was deep. You pressed your handkerchief against it, trying to stem the bleeding. Emelina didn't flinch. "It's just a scratch," She said, her voice even. "Stop your worrying."
"I heard the scream, I was worried," You told her, wrapping the makeshift bandage tight.
"I guess I am not as resistant to pain as I've thought," Emelina admitted, a wry smile on her lips. "Still, they managed to get away. I don't think you can count that as a failure, given the circumstances."
"They sure knew how to fight," Eren mumbled, looking at the broken window.
"They had military training," Jean added, then a loud, resolute yell from the stairs called out to the rest of the group: "Cadets, report!"
"That would be our cue," Emelina said, getting up slowly. You kept her steady, her arm draped over your shoulders.
"Let's go," Eren said, leading the way back to the grand hall. The chaos had subsided somewhat. The floor was littered with shattered glass, upturned tables, and spilt drinks. Blood was on the floor, with military personnel and senior soldiers now securing the area. The 104th cadets were all gathered, their faces grim.
Pixis was also there, his flask now empty, a stern expression on his face. Rico stood beside him, her heel bandaged, her glasses slightly askew, but her gaze as sharp as ever. Her eyes scanned the assembled cadets, a flicker of something—disappointment? approval?—crossing her features before she smoothed it over.
"Report," she said, her voice cutting through the silence.
"Sir, ma'am," Reiner spoke, stepping forward. "We secured the main exits as ordered. No other hostiles were found."
Marco, who had been tending to a minor scrape on his own arm, spoke up next. "We managed to evacuate most of the nobles through the back corridors. Some... were injured." A shadow crossed over Marco's freckled face. "But mostly because of the hastiness of their escape."
Mikasa stood by the refreshments table, a napkin held delicately between two fingers, cleaning the remnants of some noble's spilt wine. Her only worry had been Eren, and he was safe. The chaos around her was a distant hum. Krista was helping a noblewoman with a cut on her arm, her gentle touch a soothing contrast to the violence that had just occurred. Annie stood alone, her back against a pillar, her white dress now stained with a small speck of blood from the shattered chandelier.
"They all managed to escape," You said, stepping forward. Your arm remained firmly around Emelina. "We pursued them into the upper rooms; however, they didn't stay long."
"Your report is noted," Rico said, her tone clipped. "But the mission was to capture them. A failure to do so is a failure nonetheless." Her gaze settled on you and your sister. "However, given the circumstances, it is as best as we can hope for, from a group of cadets." Her gaze lingered a little longer on your sister's arm before she gave a small nod.
Pixis stepped forward, his face grave. "What a mess. This whole night..." He then looked at the dead nobles on the floor. "So much for a peaceful celebration."
"Sir," Emelina said, stepping forward, "I remember their faces, I can describe them." She said, her mind clear and focused despite the pain she was in.
"I would wait until the military police come with those sorts of questions," Commander Pixis said, his flask was empty. "Now, best you go back to the barracks. All of you."
"Understood!" The cadets responded in unison.
As the 104th began to disperse, Rico stopped you and Emelina. "Cadet Almonacid, wait. Your arm needs proper medical attention. The infirmary is a bit far for you to go alone on foot."
"I can handle it," Emelina insisted, no longer showing any pain or concern over her wound.
Rico shook her head, but then let out a sigh. "You two are certainly...alike. Get patched up as soon as you get back." She then turned to her wounded heel, not wanting to show her own pain in front of the two of you.
Soon, all the cadets were gathered up and sent back to the barracks. There was a brief intermission as Marco said his goodbyes to the daughter of Lord Garnis, Victoria. But then it was back to the barracks.
The ride was silent and heavy. You were still holding Emelina close; she didn't mind, and neither did you. She even leaned her head on your shoulder, a rare sign of vulnerability from her.
Finally, the silence was broken by Jean's frustration. "Tch, what a mess. And we didn't even get a single one of them. And all because I..." He then stopped himself, looking at you, then at your sister.
Reiner, however, put a reassuring hand on Jean's shoulder. "It's not your fault, Jean. You did your best. We all did."
Marco nodded in agreement. "Reiner is right. We were caught off guard. That's all there is to it. The important thing is that most of us are safe."
Jean leans against the wall of the carriage, rubbing the back of his neck. "I guess. But if we had captured one of them, that would have been a sure ticket into the Military Police." He gave a small, self-deprecating chuckle.
Adelaide was quiet. She looked at your sister, her face a mixture of relief and lingering concern. But her eyes also lingered on your arm, which was still around Emelina. The fabric of your suit was now stained with a small amount of her blood. A small, insignificant detail, but one that seemed to hold a lot of meaning to her.
When the carriage finally arrived at the barracks, the silence seemed to follow you out of the carriage and into the cold night air. The celebration was over. The party was a memory. And all that was left was the aftermath.
"We should get you to the infirmary," You said to Emelina as the other cadets started to head back to their respective rooms.
"I'm fine," Emelina insisted, her back ramrod straight. "But a little bit of bandaging won't hurt. But I think I will go ahead, you should likely say goodnight to your fan club," Emelina said with a nod of her head towards Krista and Annie.
You watched her go. You then walked until most of the other cadets, including a tired Reiner and Jean, were heading to the dorms. In a small secluded corner of the barracks, you found both Annie and Krista waiting for you. Their dresses were a mess, but they were both fine.
"I am glad you both are safe," You said, placing them both into a hug. Neither of them resisted it. Krista hugged back, pressing her face against your shoulder. Annie's hands rested on your back, her touch hesitant but present.
Krista was the one to break it. "I am glad you are fine too, Emelina, too..." She let out a sigh, "It was all so sudden...We were having so much fun and then that..." Her voice trailed off, as if she couldn't bring herself to say the word.
"Chaos," Annie finished, her blue eyes fixed on the cut on your cheek, perhaps still guilty over doing that to you. "I am surprised, such things didn't happen sooner." Her expression remained unreadable, her shoulders squared.
"Still..." You tried to find a way to end the conversation.
"Let's just focus on the fact that we are okay," Krista insisted, her usual upbeat self starting to return, albeit with a hint of weariness. "Still, I am happy for the moments that we had before that..." She then got on the tips of her toes to give you a quick, chaste kiss on your lips.
Annie saw this and crossed her arms. Her face a bit too serious now, "This is not the place for this."
Krista giggled. "Someone wants a kiss too~" She teased, pulling Annie to her side. She then looked at Annie, who was now looking at you. Her blue eyes were a silent invitation. Or maybe it was a challenge. You couldn't tell.
"Fine." You answered as you brought them close. You leaned in, giving Annie her own goodnight kiss. Her lips were soft, a little hesitant. The kiss was a bit different. Not as passionate as the previous ones, but a little more gentle. Perhaps, enough to distract her mind from whatever she was thinking.
Annie was the one who broke the kiss, her cheeks slightly flushed. "Thanks..." She mumbled.
"No problem," You replied.
"You'd better go check up on your sister," Krista said with a sigh. "We should all get some rest."
"I know," You said, giving them one last hug. "You two should go back to your room and get some sleep, too. The night has been... long."
"We will," Krista said with a nod. "Don't worry about us." She then took Annie's hand, pulling her towards the female dormitory. "Let's go, Annie."
"Right," Annie replied, looking back at you one last time before disappearing into the darkness. Her expression was unreadable as usual. But for a split second, you thought you saw a small, almost imperceptible smile on her lips.
You stood there for a moment, watching them go, before you turned and walked towards the infirmary. The hallways were deserted, the silence broken only by the sound of your own footsteps. When you finally got to the infirmary, you found Emelina sitting on one of the beds, her arm now properly bandaged.
"Took you long enough," She said, a small, teasing smile on her face.
"I had to say my goodnights," You replied, sitting down on the bed next to hers. "How's your arm?"
"It's fine," Emelina said, her gaze softening. She then moved a bit closer to you, her good hand reaching for yours. "It was just a scratch. Just like I've said, it's been a while since I felt real pain," She admitted, a flicker of surprise in her silver eyes. "I guess I am not as tough as I thought I was."
"I guess this night was full of surprises," You replied, still a bit concerned for your sister's well being.
"So, did you have fun?" Emelina asked, her voice a bit too casual.
"I did," You said. "The dancing was... unexpected...But the death of the nobles..." You then looked at your hands. "I don't know why they did it."
"Who knows," Emelina said with a shrug. "The rich are always the ones with the most enemies. Let's not worry about it. We did our best."
"I guess," You said, leaning back on your hands. Your sister then leaned her head on your shoulder, her platinum hair tickling your neck.
"It's been a while since we were alone like this," She said, her voice soft. "Just the two of us."
"Yeah," You replied. "It has." You then felt her relax as usual. "I do hope you have been having your own alone moments with the two of them." She then teased.
You didn't answer her, but then she looked at you. "What? You can't deny it, I know the looks they gave you. They want you, and you want them." She then let out a small chuckle. "You know...I've been hoping they could convince you to join the military police with me." She then confessed, "That way, we can both be safe, and I can protect you."
You looked at her, surprised by her confession. "The Military Police?"
"Yes," She said, her voice earnest. "If you convinced them as well...Then you could all live in Wall Sina. The three of you...and me." She paused, chuckling. "Father and Mother would finally have the life they wanted. A life without fear. Without having to worry about you running off to get yourself killed. A life where we could be a family again. A real family."
This was new information. The thought of you and your sister joining the Military Police with the two girls, away from all this chaos, away from the Survey Corps...it was tempting.
She then looked at you, her silver eyes pleading. "Please, Conrad. Promise me you will think about it." Yet, her eyes also hid the manipulative aspect of her request. She was not just asking you to think about it. She was asking you to choose her over your dreams. Over your vow with Eren.
"You know I can't do that," You said, your voice firm.
"Why not?" She shot back, her grip on your hand tightening. "Is it because of Eren? Because of a stupid journal written by some dead soldier? He's not your family, Conrad. I am." Her voice turned cold, the words deliberate and harsh. "This is not a game. People die. You saw them die on the ball, did you not? What kind of brain do you have where you think fighting Titans is a good idea?! Especially in a Survey Corps that is considered nothing but a meat grinder. We can finally get back what we had before, if not more... But for that, you have to leave that stupid dream behind."
She took a deep breath, calming herself down. "Just think about it...That's all I'm asking." Her plea was a fragile thing, a thin thread stretched taut between the past she cherished and the future you had chosen. "Don't Krista and Annie...Adelaide even... deserves a safe life too?" You knew she did not mean those words, after all, you still remembered those harsh words of hers in the tent so long ago, but she was willing to use them to convince you.
This was a tactic. A familiar one. Her words wrapped around the image of Krista and Annie, twisting their hopes into a tool to serve her own. You'd seen this from her before, the way her charm could sharpen into a weapon, her care become a calculation. "I want them safe...but..." You wavered for a moment. What Emelina said was the logical thing to do after all. The selfish dream of being with them in a safe place, away from the Titans... But your eyes then looked at your sister's arm, the fresh bandage was a stark reminder of the night's events. The interior was not as safe as you thought, nor was Sina. Nowhere was safe. The world inside the Walls was just as treacherous as the world outside.
Your own feelings mixed with worry and the desire to honor the sacrifice of Griffin. The death that should have been yours, the duty you held to him to finish what he started. You then pulled your hand away, not with force, but with a slow, deliberate finality. "It's not a game, you're right about that," You finally said, your voice low and steady. "This is my choice."
Emelina's shoulders slumped. Her face was a canvas of disbelief and frustration. She opened her mouth, then closed it. The silence in the infirmary was a weight, pressing down on both of you.
"You were always so stubborn," She finally said, her voice quiet, bitter. "Ever since we were children..."
"And you always tried to keep me out of trouble." You said, standing up from the bed.
"...If you go out there, I won't be able to protect you," Emelina admitted, her gaze now fixed on the floor. She looked smaller now, more vulnerable.
"You don't have to," You replied. "I can protect myself." You then turned and walked towards the door. "Rest, sister." You told her, your tone was not harsh, but it was final. You left her there.
'I wonder how much you will hate me for making sure you are safe...' She thought to herself as you disappeared behind the door. A single, solitary tear traced a path down her cheek, her pride not allowing for more.
-x-X-x-
Trost
Barracks
The next day, all ten of the cadets who went to the ball were called one by one to be interrogated. They asked for your origin and your reason for joining the Training Corps. They also asked about the events that took place at the ball. You were all treated like suspects, but your main saving grace was the fact that all of your ODM gear was accounted for and in the armory.
The Military Police were thorough. They checked your rooms, your belongings, and even the soles of your boots. You were all kept in separate rooms until finally, you were all released and allowed to resume your duties. The news of the assassination at the ball was all suppressed, and the nobles were all told to keep their mouths shut about it. However, there were rumours of small pamphlets circulating in Trost, praising the "White Doves" for their actions against the nobility.
The rumours did spread, and you ten were poked with questions about the events. But there was nothing for you to tell, other than the chaos you had to live through. The final grades were to be announced in just a few more days, and luckily, your leave was approved. A week. Just enough to visit your parents in the small house that they had managed to acquire for themselves after working as refugees for a few months.
"Ready to go, brother?" Emelina asked, her arm now fully healed, a small scar now the only reminder of the night. She wore her standard cadet uniform, her silver hair tied back in a tight ponytail. If she was upset about what occurred at the infirmary, she didn't show it. Then again, you doubt you can read through her facial masks.
"Ready," You replied, your own uniform freshly washed and pressed. The silver-grey hair that marked you as foreign made you a beacon for unwanted attention, but you had grown used to it. Meanwhile, you were not the only ones on leave. Eren, Mikasa, and Armin were also going home, as were Jean and Marco, who also had family living in Trost.
"Conrad!" You heard someone call your name. You turned to see Adelaide, her blonde hair in the usual ponytail she used. She looked bright and confident. Her green eyes met yours, a small smile on her face.
"Finally, we are able to go see our parents again," She said. "It's been so long." Her happiness to see her own family was a palpable thing.
"A fair bit too long," You replied.
"You know," She started, her eyes glancing over to your sister, and then back at you. "I will be sure to visit, I am sure that dinner Eren's mom is preparing will be enough for all of us." She then laughed at her own suggestion. Trying to bring back the good times in a way.
"You better believe it!" Eren shouted from behind her, already making big gestures.
"Eren's right," Mikasa muttered with an almost silent smile.
Last night, you managed to convince both Annie and Krista to take leave. Krista, as an orphan, did not really have a place to go, but she quickly agreed to go with you to meet your parents. After all, your relationship with her was already an open secret. Which meant a lot of broken hearts, Reiner's included, which provided yet another reason to go on leave.
Annie, on the other hand, was a bit more reluctant. "I don't have anyone," She said, her face a mask of indifference. "I don't see the point."
"The point is to rest," You had insisted. "And I'd be happy if you came. Both of you."
Krista immediately threw her arms around your arm, her head leaning against your shoulder. "See, Annie? It'll be fun. We can finally meet his parents." She had said, trying to convince her.
"I will go later," Annie said, her blue eyes fixed on you. "I have some...errands to run in the morning." You knew that was a lie. You also knew that you shouldn't press. She had her reasons, and she still wanted to keep you two a secret. You didn't like it, but you respected it.
"Fine." You had told her, but not without giving her a quick, firm kiss. A promise that she would come later.
***
Trost District
Morning
The house in Trost was small, made of reclaimed brick and mortar that still smelled damp. Your father's hands had built it, or at least helped to. You stood on the threshold, the midday sun warm on the back of your neck. Your mother was inside, her humming a soft counterpoint to the clatter of dishes. They had been lucky to be able to get such a place, after all. You and Emelina finally knocked, with a short Krista behind you, a little surprise for your parents.
The door opened. Your father stood there, a towel in his hand, wiping dust from his forehead. His face, lined with the memory of Shiganshina and a thousand days of quarry work, broke into a grin that crinkled the corners of his eyes. "Conrad! You're home," He said, before pulling you into a hug that smelled of sweat and sawdust. He held you at arm's length, his hands on your shoulders. "Look at you. You've grown a lot, my boy."
Then his gaze shifted to Emelina. The hug he gave her was heartwarming. "Oh...How much I've missed you both." He muttered, you did know if the tear on his cheek was from happiness or from the sadness of seeing how much you both had changed.
"Reynald?" Your mother's voice, far too familiar, called from the kitchen. "Who is it at the door?"
Your father then turned to your sister, then to you. "It's your children," He said, with a proud smile.
Your mother rushed out, her apron still tied around her waist. She stopped dead in her tracks, her hands flying to her mouth. "Oh, my darlings," She cried out, wrapping her arms around you both. She smelled like flour and something herbal, the scent of home. "Look at you! You're both so...strong!"
She then looked over your shoulder, and her eyes widened in surprise. There was Krista, with a small, shy smile on her face. "Oh," Your mother said, her smile faltering for a fraction of a second. Trying to process this new information.
"Mother, Father," You started. "This is Krista. She is...my girlfriend."
The word was like a stone dropped into a still pond. The ripples spread out in the sudden silence that filled the small house. Your father and mother exchanged a look you knew all too well. The look that meant they had a million questions, but didn't know where to start. Perhaps, worry as well for the safety of their son. After all, getting attached was not a wise thing in the military, but if it made him happy. Then they would also be happy.
Your mother stepped forward and pulled Krista into a hug of her own. "Oh, you poor thing," She said, her hands patting Krista's back. Krista flinched from the sudden contact, but then she relaxed, returning the hug. "My son is a lucky boy; I hope he has been treating you right." Your mother's gaze was warm, but as she glanced at you, you felt a slight pang. There was a different kind of worry, more related towards your abilities to keep her happy. Not that you couldn't, but how much this world was allowed to have such blissful moments.
"Don't worry, I will make sure he does," Krista said with a sweet smile that masked her own nervousness.
This simple statement made your father's smile grow wider. "That's the spirit." He said with a deep laugh that came from the very depth of his stomach, a laugh you hadn't heard since before Shiganshina fell. "Now, let's not stand here at the door all day. Come in, come in."
You felt Krista holding onto your arm as you were ushered inside by your father, the questions of how the training was, how many friends began to be thrown both your ways. But then, you felt someone's hand on your own. You turned around to see a cloaked figure standing behind you. For a moment, your body tensed, ready to strike. But then you saw a familiar face underneath. It was Annie, in civilian clothes that looked better on her than any dress at the ball.
The surprise was on your face as she gave you a small, almost shy smile. 'I came' was all she said. You did not need to ask more. Your mind went blank for a second as the reality of her being here, with you, at your home, hit you. You didn't even notice your mother and father looking at both of you with confused looks.
Emelina, who had been watching the entire exchange, simply placed a gentle hand on your arm, her smile a mixture of amusement and deep satisfaction. 'It seems I was right, after all,' was what her smile seemed to say.
'Oh, you have to be kidding me,' The expression on your father's face was a mixture of disbelief and a slow dawning amusement. You were now caught. And this was the worst case you could have imagined for a secret that you weren't even sure was a secret at all. Your mother seemed just as confused and concerned for you.
"And... who is this?" Your mother finally managed to ask, her gaze shifting from you to Annie, her hands nervously playing with her apron.
"She is a..." You started.
"His other girlfriend." Krista beat you to it, her smile a little too bright.
You could feel the room getting warmer, or maybe that was just you.
Your father's face looked like he had been hit by a brick. He opened his mouth, then closed it. Then opened it again. "You..." He started, then looked at your mother for help.
Your mother, on the other hand, was the one who seemed to be handling the whole thing better. She then looked at you, then at both girls, then at Emelina, who seemed to be enjoying the whole thing a little too much.
"Conrad," Your mother said, her voice calm but firm. "You will explain. But come inside first." Her gaze was direct, but there was no anger. Only a deep-seated worry.
You felt a tug on your sleeve. Annie's face was unreadable, but you could see her nervousness as she gripped her white sleeve. Krista was not letting go either, her arm still linked with yours.
"I...am happy you are both here." You said in a somewhat pathetic attempt at breaking the ice.
Krista simply squeezed your arm tighter, her smile never faltering. "You should be," she said. "Now, introduce us properly."
"Alright, alright, everyone inside," Your father said, running a hand through his hair. He took one last look at Annie, then at you, and then sighed, gesturing for the group to come in.
Annie hesitated for a moment at the door, her gaze scanning the modest living room, a simple table, two chairs, and a small hearth. Perhaps, too familiar with her old home, but she then stepped inside.
"So," Your father said as he sat at the small table. You, Krista, and Annie all stood there, unsure. Emelina leaned against the wall, watching the scene. "Lunch first," Your father then declared. Your mother gave a silent nod, already making her way to the kitchen to heat up the soup. You could hear the clatter of bowls.
The soup was simple: vegetables, a little bit of chicken meat. But it was warm and delicious as well. You sat with Krista and Annie to your left and right, respectively. The quiet scraping of spoons against bowls filled the small room.
"So..." Your mother started, her eyes darting between you, Krista, and Annie. "It's a lovely surprise for us all. Krista, was it? How did you and Conrad meet?"
"We're in the same training corps, ma'am," Krista replied, her voice sweet and polite. She had a natural way of disarming people, even when the situation was as tense as this. "He saved my life, you know." Remembering that night when the bandits came for them. Your father and mother listened, and the story only deepened the confusion in their faces.
Your mother nodded slowly, a thoughtful look on her face. She then turned to Annie. "And you?"
"I've been training him," Annie said simply, not offering any more information. Her gaze was fixed on her soup, her spoon stirring the liquid in a slow, deliberate circle. "In hand-to-hand combat."
"So you are all soldiers," Your father said. His voice was gruff. The pride in his tone was quickly replaced by a deep-seated worry that you could almost feel.
"We are," Emelina answered for the group. She had a small smile on her face, a mask that she had perfected over the years. "Should have expected as much, mother. He has a habit of making himself the hero." You could hear the subtle jab in her words, a jab that only you would understand. "But you shouldn't be worried. We are all capable of taking care of ourselves."
Your father looked from Krista to Annie, then to Emelina, and finally to you. He didn't say anything. But at last, he seemed to allow himself to relax a little. At the very least, it seemed that they could protect themselves. That was all that mattered to him.
"I...see." Your father managed to say the words, catching in his throat. He looked at his wife, who gave a small, reassuring nod. "As long as you are all fine with it...I guess it is all good...In my time, I've even—" He was quickly jabbed in the stomach by your mother, a sharp, quick movement that made him flinch a little. He looked down at his wife, who had a playful but stern look on her face. "What was that for?" He asked.
"We are having a meal," She said, her tone a warning. "No need to inconvenience them with your youthful escapades."
Krista gave a soft smile at the exchange, finding it both amusing and endearing. "It's quite all right," She said, her blue eyes sparkling. "I am sure you both have some interesting stories." She was trying to keep the mood light.
Annie, on the other hand, kept her walls up. She didn't trust this situation, or at least, could not believe that she was here. This domesticity she had not experienced for a long, long time. So she took a spoonful of the soup, its warmth a small comfort in the midst of the unfamiliar territory. The taste was simple, yet it held a depth that she hadn't expected. It was...pleasant.
Your mother, seeing her eat, gave a small, satisfied smile. "You like it?" She asked, her gaze soft. "I can make more."
"It's good," Annie replied, her voice quiet. "Thank you." The words felt strange on her lips. A simple, genuine "thank you" to a stranger. But she was starting to feel less like it was a mistake coming here.
"Well, it's good to see our son has good taste," Your father said, a proud smile now replacing his worry. "You will have to work a lot to make sure both are happy." The words were meant to be a tease, but they held a deeper meaning. What you were doing was not an easy or light matter.
"We will," Krista answered before Annie could. The words hung in the small, warm room. "You don't have to worry about that."
A comfortable silence settled over the table, broken only by the sounds of eating. To break it, your mother spoke about the upcoming dinner at the house of Adelaide's family. "Conrad, you are going to Carla Yeager's house tonight, correct?" She asked.
You nodded. "Yes, I promised them I'd be there."
"We were also invited," Krista added with a bright smile. "Adelaide said her parents are preparing a small celebration for their daughter's return."
Annie tensed. Another social gathering. Another opportunity for questions she couldn't answer.
"You should all go," Your father said. "It's good to have friends." He then looked at you. "Especially, since all of you are in the military now."
Emelina chuckled, "I think their bonds are fairly close by this point. It has been three years."
Your father let out a loud laugh at this, the deep rumble filling the room again. Soon, the conversation became more relaxed and lively; your parents' acceptance and support were palpable, even if their worry was present. Emelina and Krista did most of the talking, weaving tales of training and camaraderie. Annie remained silent, but she listened. The stories were of a life she shared, yet felt so foreign described this way, stripped of its blood and fear.
You watched Annie as the conversation flowed around her. She was a statue carved from ice, beautiful and distant. Her eyes kept darting to the door, an escape route. She was a guest in someone else's life. It was only when you held her hand beneath the table, her fingers cold at first, that she seemed to settle.
At last, you were home, and perhaps, your family had just grown a little bit more.