Mikasa's POV
Finally after a long and tiring journey Mikasa and Grisha entered the vibrant city of Odel, the sounds of merchants calling out their wares and the clanging of hammer on anvil enveloped them. The air was alive with the smell of freshly baked bread and roasting meats.
People of all shapes and sizes hurried past them, going about their daily business. Grisha led the way, expertly navigating the crowded streets until they reached the outskirts of the city, where the imposing castle loomed before them. The castle's stone walls seemed to stretch up to the sky, its banners fluttering in the gentle breeze. Mikasa's heart fluttered as she realized that Eren was somewhere within those walls.
As they approached the castle entrance, a guard stepped forward, requesting their identities. Grisha responded, "I am Grisha Yeager, Eren's father, and this is Mikasa, his cousin. We're here to see him." The guard nodded, granting them entry. As they entered, Mikasa's gaze fell upon the winding cobblestone path leading into the castle's interior.
A servant greeted them, saying, "Master Eren is currently training with Master Levi in the training grounds. Please, make yourselves comfortable in the castle." Mikasa remained silent, while Grisha nodded curtly, his expression firm. "I'd like to see Eren train," he requested, his voice laced with a hint of urgency. The servant hesitated for a moment before responding, "Very well, please follow me."
Grisha's concern for Eren simmered beneath the surface, but he kept it hidden, aware that his own presence was the root of Eren's struggles. The servant led them to the training grounds, the sound of clashing fists growing louder with each step.
"Keep your focus, Eren! Don't let your gaze waver for a second," Levi instructed, his eyes narrowed in intensity. Eren, drenched in sweat, nodded fervently as his fists blurred in a flurry of attacks aimed at Levi's agile form.
However, his blows continued to miss their mark, with Levi dodging each strike with ease. Seizing an opening, Levi swiftly landed a knee to Eren's abdomen, sending him grunting in pain. "Don't leave any openings for your enemy..." Levi lectured, following up with a lightning-fast punch that sent Eren crashing to the ground.
"You've improved in hand-to-hand combat, Eren... but there's still much room for growth." Levi offered constructive criticism as Eren stood up, ready to engage again. "Why can't I land a single blow?" Eren muttered, his eyes blazing with frustration, as he charged at Levi with renewed ferocity. "That's not how you fight, idiot," Levi said, countering Eren's wild kick.
But Eren had anticipated this, using his momentum to fuel a powerful kick aimed squarely at Levi. "Good try... but not enough," Levi said, grabbing his left leg with his right arm and delivering a swift headbutt that sent Eren stumbling back. "Aghhh!" Eren grunted, his anger boiling over as he launched a futile punch at Levi, only to be met with a fierce blow to his back that sent him crashing to the ground once more.
Mikasa, her overprotective instincts flaring, tried to rush to Eren's side, but Grisha's firm grip on her shoulder held her back. "Uncle, he's hurting Eren," Mikasa protested, concern etched on her face. Grisha calmly reassured her, "Don't worry, Mikasa, this is just how training is."
Meanwhile, Levi approached Eren, helping him up from the ground. "That was a good fight, Eren. You almost had me there." Eren clenched his teeth, frustration and self-doubt evident on his face. "Why can't I beat you? Not even once? I'm such a disgrace... I can't even land a punch." Levi offered words of comfort, "You're wrong, Eren. Lately, sparring with you has become enjoyable. I can finally use some power and I think that by the time we're done, I'll be able to fight without holding back."
Eren's expression changed from despair to shock. "You were holding back? All this time, you didn't fight with your full strength?" Levi chuckled, realizing the absurdity of Eren's question. "Idiot, you'd have been dead long ago if I used my full strength." Eren nodded, a hint of a smile on his face. "That's fair..."
Levi continued, imparting valuable wisdom. "Today's lesson is this: never let your nerves get the better of you. When your anger takes over during a fight, that's when you seal your fate. Always remain calm, analyze your opponent's fighting style, and use it against them." Eren nodded, a faint smile still on his face. "Thanks, Levi..."
Just as they were about to conclude their conversation, their attention was diverted to the approaching figures of Grisha and Mikasa in the distance. Eren's eyes widened slightly as he whispered a resigned curse under his breath, "Well, fuck..." He had been anticipating this moment, knowing that this day would come soon.
Eren took a deep breath, composing himself as he walked towards Grisha and Mikasa. "Dad, Mikasa?" he said, his voice neutral, as he extended his arm for a handshake. Grisha's expression softened slightly, while Mikasa's gaze was fixed on Levi with a hint of warning.
"What are you guys doing here?" Eren asked, suddenly his voice exploded," Wait is aunt Karol alright?" Thinking their sudden visit could be regarding the disease. Grisha replied,"We came to see you, son. Recently you haven't been coming to Shiganshina so I decided to pay you a visit ." Eren nodded, feeling a mix of relief and awkwardness.
"Let's head inside," Levi suggested, breaking the silence. "We can catch up and rest for a bit." Eren shook his head, leading them towards the castle. As they entered, he excused himself, "I'll just go take a quick shower, I'm covered in sweat." Grisha nodded, "Take your time, we'll be here." Eren headed off, feeling a sense of normalcy wash over him, grateful that his father's visit was just a social call.
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As Eren emerged from his shower, he felt refreshed and rejuvenated. He dressed warmly, donning a full-sleeved shirt followed by a black undercoat and black trousers, finishing his outfit with his signature red scarf wrapped around his neck to protect him from the chilly winter air. He made his way to the common room, where Petra and the others were keeping Grisha and Mikasa engaged in lively conversation.
Eren smiled, noticing the warm atmosphere, and took a seat beside Mikasa, who was sitting awkwardly amongst the elders and their discussions. Grisha, caught up in a story, didn't notice his son's arrival at first, but when he did, he smiled and continued his tale, including Eren in the conversation with a nod. The room was filled with laughter and chatter, creating a sense of warmth and camaraderie, a brief respite from the tensions within themselves.
As Eren engaged in conversation, he noticed Mikasa's expression. Was she bored? Is she tired from the journey? But her eyes betrayed a hint of happiness as she sat beside him their shoulders were in contact making her heart race.
After their discussions Grisha excused himself since he had a patient to treat within the district but before departing Eren asked Grisha for permission to take Mikasa on a stroll, and Grisha agreed. Before leaving, Eren caught Petra and Hange giving him a discreet thumbs-up, while Eld, Gunther, and Oluo exchanged knowing smiles, hinting at mischief. Levi, meanwhile, was staring at Eren his expression unpredictable.
As they walked through the hallway, Mikasa asked, "Eren, is this where you live?" Eren nodded, leading her to his room to grab some money, in case she wanted to purchase something. Upon entering, Mikasa's gaze wandered across the tidy space, taking in the shining floor, neat bed, and side cabinets adorned with books.
Soon her eyes then landed on the dolls she had gifted Eren, sitting side by side on his worktable. Her face lit up, cheeks flushing, and a warm smile spread across her face. Seeing Eren treasure her gifts made her heart skip a beat.
Mikasa's eyes sparkled with delight as she approached the worktable, her fingers reaching out to gently touch the dolls. Eren watched, a soft smile on his face, as she examined each one, her expression radiating excitement.
"I'm glad you kept them," Mikasa said, her voice barely above a whisper, her eyes shining with happiness.
"Of course, I did," Eren replied, his voice filled with warmth. "They're precious to me, just like the person who gave them to me."
"Shit why did I say that." Eren thought cursing himself.
Mikasa's cheeks flushed deeper, her heart pounding against her chest due to Eren's words. She felt a deep connection to him in that moment, a sense of belonging she couldn't quite explain.
As they stood there, surrounded by the quiet of the room, Eren broke the silence, "Hey, Mikasa? Would you like to go to the market with me? I heard they have some new stalls selling interesting things."
Mikasa's face lit up, "Really? I'd love to!"
Eren grinned, "Great! Let's go!"
As they walked through the market, Mikasa couldn't help but feel a sense of wonder. The vibrant colors, the bustling crowds, and the enticing smells of food and goods on display all captivated her senses. Eren, too, seemed carefree, his eyes sparkling with excitement as he led her from stall to stall.
At one point, they stopped at a small vendor selling handmade trinkets. Mikasa's eyes landed on a beautiful silver necklace with a tiny crystal pendant. Eren noticed her interest and smiled, "Try it on!"
Mikasa hesitated for a moment before Eren gently lifted the necklace and fastened it around her neck. The crystal sparkled against her skin.
"It suits you," Eren said, his voice filled with sincerity. "You look beautiful, Mikasa."
Mikasa's cheeks flushed, and she looked away, trying to hide her smile. But Eren's words had touched her heart, and she knew she'd treasure this moment forever.
As they finished purchasing the necklace, Eren suggested, "Hey, want to check out the town's famous botanical garden? I heard they have a new exhibit on rare flowers."
Mikasa looked down, a hint of a smile on her face, "I-I've never seen a botanical garden before... But if you think it's nice, I'd like to see it."
Eren's heart warmed at her gentle response, "I think you'll really like it. It's just a short walk from here."
As they strolled through the garden, Mikasa couldn't help but be charmed by the vibrant blooms and soothing water features. She walked closer to Eren, her eyes fixed on the flowers, "They're really beautiful... I've never seen such colors before."
Eren smiled, noticing her proximity, "Yeah, they're really something. My favorite is the cherry blossoms."
Mikasa glanced up at him, her eyes sparkling, "Mine too... I mean, I've only seen them in pictures, but they're so pretty."
Eren's gaze met hers, and for a moment, they just looked at each other, the air filled with a sweet tension. Then, Mikasa looked away, her cheeks flushing slightly, "Let's... uh... see what else is here."
Eren chuckled, "Okay, lead the way!"
And they continued their leisurely exploration, Mikasa's shyness still evident, but her comfort around Eren growing with each passing moment.
As the day wore on, Eren and Mikasa left the garden, walking side by side as they began their journey back to the castle. The sky transformed into a kaleidoscope of warm hues, signaling the approaching sunset.
Mikasa nodded towards the horizon, " Eren look, the sunset... it's beautiful!"
Eren smiled, "Yeah, it's my favorite time of day."
They walked in comfortable silence, watching as the sky turned pink, orange, and purple. The air cooled, carrying the sweet scent of blooming wildflowers.
As they crested a gentle hill, the castle came into view, its stone walls glowing golden in the fading light. Mikasa's eyes sparkled, "It's so pretty... like a painting."
Eren chuckled, "I'm glad you think so. I've always loved this view."
They paused, taking in the breathtaking scene. Eren turned to Mikasa, his eyes shining with friendship, "Thanks for coming with me today, Mikasa. It meant a lot to me."
Mikasa smiled, her expression soft "Yeah me too, Eren. I had a great time." Eren noticed her shivering lips raising his doubt. Was she hiding something? Was there something bothering her?
The sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm orange glow over the landscape. Eren and Mikasa stood there, side by side, enjoying the peacefulness of the moment.
Suddenly, Mikasa's trembling plea, "Eren..." made Eren come to a halt as his gaze shifted from the horizon to Mikasa, his eyes locking onto hers with concern. But before she could muster enough courage to say the words she had locked deep inside her heart, tears began streaming down her face, and she dissolved into heart-wrenching sobs.
The past two months of isolation had taken a toll on Mikasa, and the ache of being separated from Eren had finally surfaced. Eren's face contorted in distress as he rushed to her side, embracing her tightly. Mikasa's tears soaked into his coat as he held her, his voice soft and comforting, "Mikasa, what's wrong? Why are you crying?"
Mikasa's sobs gradually subsided, and she managed to stammer, "I...I had so much fun today...with you...I'm so lonely without Eren". Mikasa's voice was barely audible but she continued," You are my only friend.... Please don't leave me alone... Please keep visiting me" Her words trailed off, but Eren's expression conveyed his understanding.
Eren's eyes widened in remorse, and a faint smile appeared on his face, "Sorry, Mikasa...I was so blind to my own pain...I hated myself for what I said to mom...But I realize now that pushing you all away only leads to more hurt..." He shifted his hands from her waist to her shoulders, his grip gentle but reassuring, "Don't worry,...I promise that I'll visit soon."
Eren's wide smile and warm gaze dispelled Mikasa's fears, and she knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, their bond would remain unbroken. She hugged him again but this time with a wide smile. Their heart beard in perfect rhythm but Eren his heart started to beat faster his face bloomed though the red scarf acted perfectly camouflaged his crimson cheeks.
Soon their grips loosened on each other and a gentle winter breeze caressed their faces, Mikasa's eyes sparkled with some tears, and her nose twitched before she let out a delicate, snuffly sneeze. Eren's face lit up with a warm smile as he chuckled, "Ah, Mikasa, you should've worn something warmer! You'll catch a cold if you're not careful."
Mikasa's cheeks flushed a deep pink, matching the rosy hue of her nose, before noticing Eren who swiftly unwrapped the scarf from his neck it's soft fabric dancing in the air and he tenderly wrapped his scarf around her slender neck.
The soft fabric seemed to envelop her in a sense of security, and she gazed up at Eren with gratitude, her eyes shining like stars on a winter's night. As the scarf's warmth seeped into her skin, Mikasa felt a sense of comfort wash over her, knowing that Eren was there to take care of her. "Thank.... Thank you Eren..." Mikasa stuttered.
Eren's smile softened, his emerald eyes crinkling at the corners as he gazed back at Mikasa. "Anytime, Mikasa," he whispered, his voice low and gentle. For a moment, they just stood there, the only sound the soft rustling of the wind through the trees. Mikasa's heart raced, her pulse pounding in her ears, as she struggled to find the courage to express her true feelings.
She wanted to tell Eren how much he meant to her, how much she valued their friendship, but the words got stuck in her throat. Eren's eyes seemed to bore into her soul, as if sensing her inner turmoil.
The silence between them grew thicker, like a blanket of unspoken emotions. Mikasa's gaze remained fixed on Eren's, her eyes searching for a glimmer of understanding. Eren's expression, usually so guarded, seemed to soften ever so slightly, his eyes gentle as he looked at her.
Mikasa's heart skipped a beat as she felt a flutter in her chest. She wanted to reach out, to touch Eren's hand, to bridge the gap between them. But fear held her back, fear of rejection, fear of ruining their friendship.
Eren, sensing her hesitation, took a step closer, his eyes never leaving hers. "Mikasa," he whispered, his voice barely audible over the wind. "I...think... I'm..."
But before he could continue, Mikasa's nerves got the better of her. She looked away, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment. "Eren...I-I'm cold!" she stammered, interrupting him.
Eren's expression faltered for a moment, but then he nodded, his smile returning. "Let's get you back to the castle then," he said, his voice gentle.
With a shy nod, Mikasa and Eren walked back to the castle, the snowflakes dancing around them. But their time together was drawing to a close. Grisha, Mikasa's guardian, approached them at the entrance gate, his expression stern. "How was your day Mikasa" he said, his voice firm but polite Mikasa couldn't reply everytime she tried to speak her voice cracked.
Grisha noticing the crimson scarf didn't continue the topic and said," Well son if you'll excuse us now.."
Eren hesitated, not wanting their time together to end. "Hey, Dad, why don't you guys stay? We have plenty of room... You can stay here at ease," he persuaded, but Grisha's response was resolute. "Son, I have to treat some patients in Shiganshina."
Eren nodded, understanding, but his eyes lingered on Mikasa, not wanting her to leave. After a warm farewell hug with Grisha, he turned to Mikasa, his smile wide. "Have a safe trip, guys." Mikasa stuttered, her cheeks flushing, "S-see you later, Eren."
As Mikasa and Grisha departed, Eren watched them go, feeling a pang of loneliness. He had grown accustomed to Mikasa's presence, and the castle seemed emptier without her. The crimson scarf that seemed to glow in the fading light was still wrapped around her neck, was a reminder of their time together, and he smiled, knowing it would keep her warm.
"See you later, Eren," Mikasa's words echoed in his mind, and he felt a sense of longing. He hoped their paths would cross again soon.
As they vanished in the horizon, Eren turned back to the castle, lost in thought. He wondered what the future held for them, and whether their friendship would continue to blossom.