A year had passed since Eren joined the Levi Squad, immersing himself in their rigorous training and daily routine. He had grown accustomed to Levi's fastidious cleaning habits, a necessity in the underground's grimy environment. Petra had taken on a mentorship role, teaching Eren culinary skills and showcasing her endearing qualities.
The other squad members had become friendly rivals, pushing Eren to improve. Hange's enthusiasm for Titan research, though initially captivating, had begun to overwhelm Eren. Levi, however, had proven an invaluable sparring partner, helping Eren hone agility and physical strength. Opting out of the three-year cadet program, Eren chose to train under Levi's guidance, seeking to accelerate his development.
Year 843
The sun's warm rays cast a golden glow over the training grounds, the sound of clashing fists and feet echoing through the crisp morning air. Eren and Levi danced in a flurry of movement, their sweat-glistened bodies a testament to their intense training. The Levi Squad watched with keen eyes, their faces set with determination.
Petra cheered, her voice ringing out across the grounds. "Woo, Eren, you can do it!" Her gaze lingered on Levi, but she quickly shifted her attention back to Eren, her encouragement unwavering.
The atmosphere was electric, the air thick with the promise of growth and determination. The fight scene unfolded with a life of its own. Eren landed a solid kick on Levi's forearm, but the captain easily blocked it with a raised eyebrow. "Not too shabby, Eren. Keep going." Levi's tone was laced with a hint of amusement, his eyes gleaming with a fierce intensity.
Eren gritted his teeth, his movements a blur as he launched himself at Levi. The two clashed in a whirlwind of punches and kicks, their bodies weaving in and out of range. Eren's determination was palpable, his refusal to back down a testament to his unyielding spirit.
"Boom.." Eren cried as he launched a flying kick right at Levi though before he could raise his leg his response was cut short as Levi landed a swift punch on his stomach, sending him crashing to the ground. "You almost caught me off guard, good one, Eren." Levi's voice was laced with approval, his eyes gleaming with a hint of respect.
Eren glared up at Levi, his face set in a scowl. "Not fair, Levi. You're a pure Ackerman with awakened abilities... I'm just a kid." The familiar excuse tumbled from his lips, but Levi merely chuckled, his eyes glinting with amusement.
As they fight ended, the morning sun cast long shadows across the grounds, the air thick with tension. The Levi Squad watched in rapt attention, their faces set with awe. Guntur helped Eren get up , his eyes gleaming with pride. "Your movements have gotten better, Eren. It's about time you start learning the ODM gear."
Eren shook his head, his damp hair sticking to his forehead. "No, I'm not good enough... I need to be like Captain Levi, he's really fast."
Oluo chimed in, his voice laced with a hint of teasing. "Well, it's because Captain Levi is short—" But before he could finish, Levi's fist shot out, connecting with Oluo's stomach in a swift, precise strike. Oluo crumpled to the ground, his tongue bleeding, his eyes wide with shock. Apparently that idiot accidentally bit his tongue.....again.
The morning air was filled with the sweet scent of blooming flowers and the sound of birds chirping, a stark contrast to the intense training session unfolding before them. Petra's eyes widened in alarm, her hand flying to her mouth. "Oluo!"
Oluo struggled to his feet, his face pale, his eyes fixed on Levi with a mix of fear and a bit of anger. "That's not fair, Captain... that's a total sucker punch!" He pulled out a piece of cloth from his pocket, dabbing at the blood on his face, his movements shaky.
Levi's expression remained impassive, his eyes gleaming with a hint of amusement. "You should watch your mouth, Oluo. Or next time, it won't be just a sucker punch." The morning sun cast a golden glow over Levi's face, his eyes glinting like steel.
"Get ready, Eren. We're heading to Wall Sina after breakfast," Levi said, his eyes fixed on Eren.
Eren sighed, "But why? We were there just a week ago. What's the issue this time?"
Levi's expression remained stern. "The royalty has summoned Erwin to receive a medal for his recent successfull expeditions beyond the walls."
Eren looked perplexed. "Commander did all that work for just a medal?" he asked, confusion etched on his face. Levi shook his head, a hint of disappointment in his eyes while the others started to laugh out loud leaving Eren mkre confused. "Idiot, it's an honor if the royalty himself summons you for an award," he explained, his tone patient but firm.
Eren raised an eyebrow. "And why are we tagging along?" he asked, his curiosity getting the better of him.
Levi's gaze intensified. "We're providing security for the ceremony, idiot. We're the royalty's personal bodyguards."
Eren's eyes widened as understanding dawned. "Ohhh... I see."
Levi's reputation as humanity's strongest soldier preceded him, and Eren was his trusted partner. Their secret assignment was to serve as assassins, with Eren assisting Levi to gain experience and a hefty payday.
Eren asked, "So, how much are we getting paid this time?"
Levi gazed up at the sky, where birds flew freely. "About seven hundred thousand, I'd say."
Eren nodded and replied. "Well, I guess we have no choice. Let's get moving."
After savouring every last bite of Eren and Petra's handmade meat soup and fresh eggs, the trio set off towards Mitras(Capital) alongside Erwin. "Ugh, I hate long journeys," Eren complained, as the heavily guarded cart heavily guarded by military police soldiers rumbled towards the Stohess District, en route to Wall Sina and eventually the capital.
Erwin offered a gentle smile. "Sit tight, Eren. We'll be heading back the same day." Eren gazed out through the small holes in the cart, his voice laced with sarcasm. "Guess His Majesty isn't generous enough to spare a room for the Survey Corps' commander."
Levi, seated beside Eren, swiftly smacked him on the head. "You really are an idiot, Eren. Someone might hear you!" Eren winced, rubbing his sore spot. "Ow, that hurts, Levi!"
Erwin intervened, his calm demeanor a balm to the tension. "Now, now, both of you. Let's not start a fight here, shall we?" The three scouts continued their arduous journey, which spanned four days, until they finally reached the heavily guarded city of Mitras. The cost of entry was exorbitant, equivalent to a person's life savings.
As the cart rattled through the Capital Mitras this was Eren's first time there, As he gazed out at the bustling streets, his eyes widening at the grandeur of the city. Mitras, the capital, was a marvel of architecture, with towering spires and grand mansions that seemed to touch the sky. The streets were paved with cobblestones, polished to a shine by the constant foot traffic. Merchants and nobles hurried about, their fine clothes and jewels a testament to the city's wealth.
As they entered the city, the air grew thick with the scent of exotic spices and fresh bread. Eren's stomach growled in response, despite eating supper before entering Mitras. Levi shot him a warning glance, his eyes gleaming with fear that Eren might do something stupid. Erwin smiled, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Patience, Eren. We'll be at the palace soon enough."
The city was alive with activity, the sound of hammering and sawing echoing through the streets as new buildings rose from the ground. The palace loomed in the distance, its walls a gleaming white that seemed to glow in the sunlight.
Eren's eyes widened as they approached the gates, guarded by soldiers in shining armor, the weight of history and power palpable in every stone and brick. As they passed through the gates, Eren felt a shiver run down his spine. This was a city of kings and queens, where the fate of humanity was shaped and forged.
The cart came to a halt before the majestic palace, its grandeur looming above them. The three companions disembarked, their footsteps echoing on the cobblestone driveway as they entered the resplendent castle. As they stepped inside, the heavy wooden doors creaked open, revealing a breathtaking interior that exuded opulence and splendor. The palace's imposing façade, adorned with intricate stone carvings and majestic spires, seemed to whisper tales of ancient history and royal legacy.
As their eyes scanned the grand palace, their gazes were met with a magnificent statue of a woman, her stone eyes gleaming in the sunlight. She held a horn in her right hand, its surface etched with intricate patterns, and raised her left hand in a graceful gesture. The statue stood tall, surrounded by a fountain that cascaded water into a large pool, creating a soothing melody that filled the air.
As they proceeded further into the castle, they marveled at the opulent decorations that adorned the walls and ceilings. Golden chandeliers hung from the high ceilings, casting a warm glow over the lavish furnishings. The floors were made of polished marble, reflecting the light and adding to the grandeur of the palace. Velvet drapes in deep crimson and emerald green adorned the windows, billowing in the gentle breeze.
The walls were adorned with intricate tapestries, depicting scenes of battles and conquests, while the ceilings were painted with vivid murals, showcasing the history of the kingdom. The air was thick with the scent of old books and parchment, hinting at the vast library hidden within the castle walls. Every step echoed through the halls, a reminder of the palace's grandeur and the weight of history that dwelled within its walls.
Erwin's voice broke through the marveling gazes of the duo, "Eren, Levi, please retire to the guest quarters while I attend to my audience with His Majesty." With nods, they acquiesced, following the guard who escorted them to their temporary lodgings. As they entered the spacious chamber, their eyes adjusted to the warm, golden light that spilled from the crystal chandelier.
Their room was adorned with velvet drapes, marble floors, and a grand chandelier that cast a warm glow. The room was furnished with intricately carved wooden beds, plush couches, and a roaring fireplace that crackled with warmth. Eren's eyes widened as he took in the opulence, feeling like a noble himself. Levi, meanwhile, strode over to the window, gazing out at the palace gardens with a hint of curiosity. The guard bowed before departing, leaving the duo to their temporary quarters.
"Man, so this is where the king lives!" Eren exclaimed, his eyes wide with wonder. Levi, however, remained fixated on the meticulously manicured gardens, his gaze piercing through the tranquility. "Hey, Levi, wouldn't it be amazing if we lived here ?" Eren asked, interrupting Levi's reverie.
Levi's response was laced with a hint of warning. "No, Eren. If we indulged in the luxuries of the nobles, we'd become as oblivious as they are. We'd forget our purpose. We can't afford to let that happen. Remember, our mission is to eradicate every last Titan." Eren's face lit up with a determined smile as he nodded in fervent agreement, marking the first time he'd heard Levi express such conviction.
Soon curious Eren asked Levi, "Hey, Levi, what do you do with the money we earn from protecting the royalty?" Levi lounged on the bed, his eyes fixed on the spacious chandelier that loomed before them, and replied, "I send it to the underground to help the poor. As for my monthly scout captain's pay, I spend it all on tea."
Eren's eyes widened in surprise, "Wait, tea? I thought that was free!" Levi chuckled, "No shit Sherlock, only food, scout jackets, and lodging are free. Other luxuries like tea come at a price." Eren nodded, taking a moment to process this new information.
Levi, still reclining on the bed, asked Eren, "What about you? You've accumulated millions. What's your plan for it?" Eren settled into the comfortable bed beside Levi and replied, "I'll give it all to.... Grisha,
every penny he could've spent on me or mom. Then, I'll take mom and we'll live in Wall Rose." Levi didn't respond, already succumbing to the bed's comfort and drifting off to sleep. Eren soon followed, his snores filling the room.
Soon, Erwin entered the room, finding the two Ackermans fast asleep. He woke them, a feat they didn't appreciate, and informed them of the ceremony's schedule and the need to be ready on time.
Erwin departed, leaving Eren and Levi to prepare for the evening's ceremony. As they relaxed, Eren expressed his frustration, "Being an assassin is such a hassle... Can't the military police handle their own security?" Levi, half-asleep, responded dryly, "They're the ones who hired us, idiot."
Eren nodded, "True, the pay is good, but this is my last job. After tonight, I'm focusing solely on fighting Titans." Levi concurred, "Same here. I plan to resign and return to the front lines. I don't want to get too comfortable with these luxuries." With that, both Eren and Levi got up to take showers and prepare for the ceremony, readying themselves for their final assignment as royal assassins.
Later that night
"Hey, Eren, are you ready?" Levi called out, tightening his shoelaces. "Coming!" Eren replied, finally emerging from the restroom after what seemed like hours. "So, what do you think? How do I look?" Eren asked, striking a pose in his crisp white shirt with full sleeves, black pants, and a coat draped over his shoulders, complete with a neatly tied bow at the collar.
Levi raised an eyebrow, his tone dripping with sarcasm. "Just below average." Eren shot back, mimicking Levi's mocking tone, "Well, we're dressed the same, you know..." Levi chuckled, his eyes gleaming with amusement. "Well, it varies from person to person, kid." With that, Levi knocked on the main door with a gentlemanly flourish, and the guards outside escorted them to the entrance of the grand ceremony.
As they entered the grand hall, Eren's eyes widened in awe. The spacious area was filled with nobles and dignitaries, their luxurious attire shimmering in the light of the magnificent chandelier. The room was alive with music and laughter, the sound of instruments and dancing feet filling the air. To one side, a grand buffet was spread, offering a sumptuous array of dishes and drinks. Guests mingled and chatted, their faces aglow with joy and anticipation.
On the dance floor, couples twirled and spun, their movements graceful and effortless. The musicians played with skill and passion, their instruments singing in perfect harmony. The atmosphere was electric, the excitement palpable as the guests awaited the start of the ceremony.
Eren and Levi made their way through the crowd, their eyes scanning the room for familiar faces. They nodded and smiled, exchanging greetings with the nobles and dignitaries they knew. As they moved deeper into the hall, the sound of music and laughter grew louder, the energy of the room enveloping them like a warm embrace.
"I must say, the arrangements aren't half bad," Eren remarked, attempting to sound like a refined noble as they searched for a vacant table. The music grew louder, and the sound of dancing feet on the beautifully tiled floor intensified.
A waiter approached, inquiring, "What may I fetch for you, gentlemen?" Levi requested a simple cup of tea, while Eren, with a mischievous grin, asked for "everything you have." The waiter's expression turned perplexed as he took their orders.
Levi's eyes narrowed, his voice low and disapproving. "You idiot, we're here as bodyguards, not guests." Eren's expression turned serious, "Come now my dear Levi, even heroes need a moment to relax." Levi's stare was deadly, but Eren merely laughed awkwardly, aware of his mistake.
Just then, Erwin appeared, dressed in the same attire as the duo. "Well, well, it seems you two have coordinated your outfits," he remarked Eren chuckled, "Damn, commander, we look like brothers, don't we, Levi?" Levi's expression remained stern, but a hint of amusement flickered in his eyes.
Erwin's eyes narrowed slightly at Eren's comment, but he smiled wryly and replied, "Indeed, you two seem to have coordinated your attire. However, let us not forget our purpose here. We are not guests, but guardians. Keep your wits about you, and your eyes open for any potential threats."
Levi nodded in agreement, his expression still stern, while Eren chuckled and saluted mockingly, "Aye, aye, commander! We'll keep our eyes peeled and our swords sharp!" As Erwin left to greet the nobles the waiter returned with their orders, and Eren dug in with gusto, while Levi sipped his tea with a hint of disapproval. As they ate and drank, they surveyed the room, their trained eyes scanning the crowd for any signs of danger, ever vigilant and ready to strike.
After relishing every last morsel of the meal, Eren, now satiated, attempted to discreetly dislodge a stuck piece of meat from his teeth. "Hey Levi, when does the ceremony start?" he asked, trying to sound nonchalant. Levi, who had ordered another flavor of tea, replied, "It should begin in a couple of minutes."
Eren's eyes sparkled with mischief as he stood up and approached Levi. "Shall we dance till then, my good man?" he asked, his hand extended in a mock-gallant gesture. Levi's eyes widened in disbelief, his face pale with rage. "Do you want me to kill you, you damn idiot?" he hissed, his hand shooting up to smack Eren's head with lightning speed. Only Eren felt the sting, but a small tear escaped his eye as he glared at Levi. "I was joking, no need to be so serious," he muttered, rubbing his sore head.
Their banter was interrupted by the herald's booming voice, announcing the king's arrival. The music and laughter ceased, and the guests turned towards the throne, their faces filled with respect and anticipation. Eren and Levi took their places among the crowd, their eyes fixed on the monarch as he prepared to begin the ceremony, their earlier antics forgotten in the face of royal pomp and circumstances.
King Fritz, the venerable ruler of the empire, emerged with grace and dignity, his regal attire fitting for a leader of his stature. Accompanied by his loyal ministers and chiefs, he made his way to the throne. The king's advanced age was evident in his long, straight white hair and small beard, which framed his wrinkled face and accentuated his wise, yet weathered, features.
His small eyes twinkled with a deep understanding, gained from years of ruling the empire. The elegant clothes, adorned with intricate embroidery and precious gems, seemed to shimmer in the light, befitting the majesty of the king.
The ceremony commenced, and a dignified herald announced, "Erwin Smith, 13th Commander of the Scout Regiment, please step forward. His Majesty wishes to bestow upon you a prestigious award for your triumphant expeditions beyond the walls."
The grand hall erupted into applause as Erwin approached the throne with dignified grace. King Fritz presented him with a shimmering medal, which he accepted with a humble bow. A knight then presented the royal sword, adorned with precious gems and stones, on a crimson cloth. The king raised the sword, placing it upon Erwin's shoulders, a symbol of highest honor.
As the crowd applauded, Eren whispered to Levi, "Wow, Erwin sure is popular!" Levi nodded in agreement, though his focus seemed elsewhere.
Just as the king began his speech, the doors burst open, and a frantic guard rushed in. "Your Majesty... the Anti-Personnel Control Squad... they've attacked us!" The guard's voice trembled. "K-Kenny the Ripper... he's leading them!"
Levi and Eren exchanged a shocked glance, their eyes widening in disbelief. "What the...?" they muttered in unison, their faces set with determination. Without hesitation, they charged outside, ready to face the unexpected threat.
The atmosphere shifted from celebratory to tense, as the sound of clashing steel and screams echoed outside, foreshadowing a fierce battle to come.