The heat was harsh as it always is in the summer. Though instead of in ground training the cadets were having their first time ever in city training with the wooden titan targets. And to get to a city within walls, they had to there somehow. Hence why all cadets were following along the pathway towards the city walking. Carrying hefty bags of their needed things as they walked one after another. Thankfully the walls of the city came to view.
Alia, now 17, walked beside Marco and Jean as Sasha and Connie walked in front of them talking each other's ears off about their excitement to see the city. Over the years Jean and Marco had joined the trio of friends from conversations turned further hang outs that started from being paired up in training.
The added people was nice for Alia seeing how she had more calmer people to be around while in turn finding herself closer to a certain boy who never seemed to stop staring at her every chance he got.
Before getting to know him she played as a little game but now that they were always on talking terms it became more then just a game but actual feelings of liking him. Not that she knew that. Alia always chalked it up as just seeing him as a friend even if they were a little too friendly with their banter at times.
"you ever been in a walled city L?" Marco's voice brought Alia from her wondering thoughts of the sight of the walls. Glancing towards the boy she answered him both physically and vocally as she shook her head. Her nickname that was once just from Connie became the nickname that all the group friends used for her. "No actually"
Alia answered lightly now gaining the attention of Connie who caught the question--his big ears always tune in listening to the back conversations that Alia had whenever she was around him. "Yeah because all you and your family did was hunt" He snorted out at the thought of the Kaspers ever going to the city as he remembered home.
The blonde girl was fast to kick Connie on the back of his knees to make him trip a bit as she gave him a half heated glare. She didn't comment on it though as she turned back to Marco who was smiling at the small banter.
"My dad saw hunting as a business" The girl continued off of Connie's interruption although the friends she's grown close with already knew how important hunting was in her family. Seeing how all she talked about in her stories of home was just of that. "We had no time to venture out see things because of it" Alia finished off lightly.
Jean joined into the conversation this time as he stepped from beside Alia to nudge her shoulder with his own. "Weren't you ever curious to see more?" His tone soft as ever for her compared to what he used for everyone else. Marco hummed on the other side of Alia to show he was curious of that answer as well.
Alia hummed at that question as she glanced between both boys that towered over it more and more by the years since meeting them. "Of course. Why do you think i decided to come to the Corps?" She now asked a question seeing how no one really knew why she joined besides Connie because he was from home. No one really asked her so she didn't say anything up until now.
At that answer Marco looked down at her shocked such a simple reason to leave your home behind and come into training for a military that would eventually lead to your death. Not that he had room to talk because he was wondering now if his reason was the same from when he first joined to now seeing how he's heard all about the Military Police gossip from all the cadets.
On the other hand Jean spoke up to question her as he stared down at her just as shocked as Marco. "You joined to see outside your village? Thats it?" The teen was trying not to sound harsh or judge the girl he liked but it was hard not to as he clenched onto the strap of his bag.
Not that he had any reason to say anything either since he wanted a quiet life within the walls. Even with his tone Alia didnt take it to heart as she nodded. She knew that people would react as such so she was prepared for it. "you know my father always told me that my mother lived a certain way"
Alia's eyes softened and shifted a bit as she mentioned her late mother. The memory of the woman was foggy but what she did remember was that she was always warm and sweet like a nice blanket in the winter. "The saying she abided by was; What's life without mistakes" She looked up to the bright blue sky.
"My father told me with that my mother used to live life on the edge--in her own way" Alia chuckled since her mother wasn't a die hard manic that lived to do crazy things. "To go through life on what you want truly whether it be your dreams or in the heat of the moment. And to simply enjoy what you have with it. Mistakes and all." The girl finished out with a warm smile as she thought about how her mother would be watching her in this long Journey.
Jean was the first to speak again out of the pair that was listening. His expression softer as he smiled along with Alia. "Mistakes and all huh?" He muttered out as he himself thought about what hes done in life. If he were truly enjoying it or going by too fast to get this dream of peace he had.
Those words would be stuck in his head for now as he walked quietly. Something that would stick for years without him even knowing it. Alia's smile widen as she watched Jean's expression. Her chest clenching just a little as she felt the wave of likeness for him grow a bit.
Snapping out of her small daze of looking at him and his beauty she turned to Marco who now spoke up. "that's beautiful" He gushed out now bringing the girl into a side hug as he raised his other hand towards the sky.
Bubbling up with loudness that could even match Connie and Sasha. "Well then! I am certainly enjoying my choice because of you guys!" The sweet boy let out a laugh watching as his usually sweet voice came booming causing a startle of other cadets.
Including Sasha and Connie who was quick to turn around in fighting poses. "The sweet as soured!" Sasha shouted out as she pointed to Marco. Connie nodded in agreement as he too shouted now. "Marco is evil! Run for your lives!"
The pair went off running past the fellow cadets. Marco was quick to follow after them--laughing loud and clear as he fell into their game. Usually he was one to follow rules but a little play around wasn't bad in their walk. Not after Alia's words of enjoying life with all the decisions you make.
Which left two behind in comfortable silence as they watched the three scatter away in laughter and screams. Alia took a moment to glance at Jean who was already staring at her. Sea green eyes locking onto honey brown eyes.
---
Getting into the city wasn't hard as the Cadets either split off to go home who lived within the city or followed along the orders where they'd be staying. Alia was quiet as she walked beside Jean still listening onto the conversation that was being shared between the group. With Armin added with them.
"Hey Jean, where do you live?" The sudden laughing Jean had silenced as Armin spoke up his question. The tension slowly thickening that Alia glanced towards the boy curious on why he suddenly seemed so up tight. "Does it matter?" He grumbled out with a spared glance to the short boy.
Trying his best to keep the mood light Marco continued the questions not knowing Jean's roughness all of the sudden either. "you're going to visit your home right?" He looked at his best friend "Thomas said he was going home" He then stated mentioning the fellow Cadet that lived within the city as well.
It was like comment after comment was fueling Jean to pop. "Im sure your mom would be happy!" Armin called out again--Connie and Sasha didnt say anything as they walked in front of the group distracted by the sights of the walled city. Leaving Alia to be the one to really see Jean's frustrations.
Reaching out to touch his shoulder she got ready to speak as well but was closed down with Jean's words. "Shut up already! it's none of your business anyway!" The teen finally snapped with a huff that half way through his glaring the two boys behind him he was staring at Alia who was looking up to him with a bit of shock on her face.
His usual calmness he had gone but back within seconds he sucked in a breath to rid his thoughts of his mother he always yelled at. "Alright" Alia mumbled out as she pulled her hand away from his form. The group was now surrounded in awkward silence from the tension.
---
The in city training came fast that the small mishap in the streets of the city was long forgotten. Alia was thankfully grouped up with her two knuckle heads that made the original trio come back together.
Flying through the air the blond took charge as always as Connie and Sasha flew beside her--the sounds of their gear blasting air and zipping lines being the loudest thing as they flew. "Wooo!" Sasha shouted out in happiness as she felt the wind through her hair. Connie was laughing away as he heard his second best friend be free.
Alia let out her own chuckle as she took a deep breath of the air herself that surrounded her. The gear they had was a miracle not only to kill titans but to be able to fly like this. It was truly a wish come true as she felt the shifts in her four pony tails of her usual hairstyle go with the wind.
The happiness she felt never ending even as she landed on a rooftop which Sasha and Connie were quick to land beside her. Like always her Sea green eyes found place of a certain boy who was flying away with his own team.
"We've found our next titans!" She nodded towards the direction of where the group was heading to. Once Connie got sight of them he let out a crackle again already taking off to get there first. "Thanks a bunch Jean!!" The bawled teen shouted making the move first to take out the wooden titan.
Sasha and Alia were right behind him raking out the titans beside that one before landing on their taken down titan. The blonde girl let out a soft sigh of content as she stared down her dear friend who was already shouting out in irritation. "Sorry Jean" She called out to him with a wave of her hand as he glanced towards her before he turned to Sasha.
Said girl was raising her blades up in the air cheering. "Yahoo! Yahoo!" Even dancing a little as she shook her hips from the happiness she had in taking down the training wooden titan before Jean and his team. "Hey you've improved!" Connie called out the girl as he landed on the roof behind her.
"I've always been this good!" Sasha defended herself as she turned to give him a glare. Alia took the time to glance back to Jean who landed on the ground. The sounds of Connie's reply going right over her head as she slicked her blade back into its holding place.
The blonde could tell Jean was much more mad then he needed be with that taken titans.
---
And boy she was right as she now stood on the side watching Jean yell at the pair for cheating when their training wasn't even a game.
"That's cheating, you thieving scum!" the teen shouted as he glared at the pair who was sitting quietly for once as they nibbled on their potatoes. "Huh?" Connie glared right back towards Jean as he stopped mid bite from the shout.
Jean of course didnt back down as he fought for his side "I found those targets first!" "Cheating?" Sasha gave Jean a bored look before smirking "I didn't expect you to sound so petty, jean" Her tone teasing and taunting as she sat beside her partner in crime. "There are no rules when it comes to hunting"
The girl reminded him in the same tone as she took another bite of her potato to chew on. Jean was fast with his reply too mad not let this go. "Keep your hunter logic to yourself, potato girl!" Alia sighed as she now watched the three continue to banter.
"Jean" She stepped in now actually stepping into their direction as she had her hands on either side of her hips. "We were assigned to that area. Not you remember?" Her tone was softer then her two meatheads since she didnt want the bantering yelling match to continue.
Connie was fast to agree as himself and Sasha were now standing. "That's right!" The short teen shouted before letting his shoulders fall as he dropped his voice to speak normally instead of yelling. "You know, youre acting strange today." He commented now stating out the obvious that Alia's been seeing since they've entered the city.
"all this shouting and everything." He listed off before making a taunting face taking the chance to tease the teenage boy. "Are you that anxious to see your mommy?" And with those words the fighting positions came from the three idiots.
Sighing Alia raised her hand up to cover her face before taking charge yet again like she always did when it came to the banters. "Stop that, you two!" The girl ordered her meatheads as she walked up closer to the three dumbass she called friends. "you too Jean"
Alia dropped her hand down to give him a stare she only gave the two knuckleheads in front of him. "Or you wont make it into the Military Police." Her words Harsh but true as she knew the Police Corps were more strict out of the three. Horsing around wasn't tolerated.
Though it seemed her words went in one ear and out the other as Jean declared a challenge to the pair who would never say no. Just great. It didn't help that a commander was here walking over to them after shouting out his agreement to the challenge that was set.
"But settling scores during training is outrageous!" The older man grumbled out as each and every cadet stood in their stance of salute to the man. After a long sip of his silver can he let out a soft sigh of the burning taste. "Do your fighting in the kitchen"
He offered that as the deciding fight. And in all honest Alia could not believe this was happening as she stared down at the ground. This was unbelievable and overall just too tiring for her to handle so whatever there was to come tomorrow she was staying out of it.
---
When Alia meant she was staying out of it she was no matter how much begging Connie and Sasha did. They may be on her team but she wasn't dealing with the troubles of today anymore. She needed a break so she sent them off with Reiner who looked rather happy to help out. So within the time of the morning the girl visited the city after she got permission. Alone at that.
Although she didnt have money the girl took the time to explore. Finding it relaxing and even happy as she looked around the streets she's never seen. Her meatheads were right, the city behind walls are way different then her village back home that was surrounded by fields of land.
"oh wow" She mustered up to herself as she looked the displayed fruits not really watching herself as she bumped into someone. With her fast reflexes the girl grabbed onto the person so they wouldn't stumble back and drop anything they were holding. "Sorry about that"
Alia whispered out respectfully as she looked down to the older woman she accidentally bumped into. A woman that looked much that Jean. The blonde girl once collected expression fell as she took in the form of the woman more closely.
She looked like Jean a lot.
"Oh it's quiet alright" The woman reassured as she dusted off her skirt lightly while one hand held a rather empty basket. Her attention though went down to Alia's clothing before she gasped. "By any chance do you know my Jean boy?!"
Alia blinked not prepared for the nickname being thrown at her that all she could say was "Jean boy?" The nickname settled into her mind easily it did fit the teenager from how childish he could be sometimes. "I am sorry i mean Jean Kirstein?" The woman corrected herself as she raised her hand up to her mouth noticing her small mistake.
"Right" Alia let out a soft chuckle as she nodded to answer the woman's question despite the reveal of nickname. "I do actually. He's a good friend of mine." She whispered out in a small daze as she thought of the said boy. Although he was a bit too much today he was someone that Alia found enjoyment in being around. Both alone or with people.
The woman took notice of the certain look Alia had in her eyes that she smiled. Thinking to herself that Jean should fix himself well if he were to get with this girl in front of her. "That's great" She hummed out with a small blush over her cheeks as she mustered up a question. "though if its not too much would be alright if you come with me to find some fruits for him and your friends?"
Alia looked at the woman for a moment--her smile widening as she saw the reason why Jean had a sweeter side to him. This woman was a treat. "I'd love to" Alia hummed out as she grabbed onto the woman's arm now walking beside her to shop.
"I am Koraline by the way dear, Jean's Mother" Koraline introduced herself as the pair walked along the small market. Alia smiled at the introduction before doing her own. "Alia Kasper, a friend of Jean's" She introduced herself back offering the woman a smile.
With that the pair spent the day talking and chatting up as they picked and chose fruits for the cadets. Laughing away as they told stories of Jean they had while at the same time talking about themselves with questions they had from each other. By the time they were making their way to the headquarters they were well past acquaintances.
The two were on their way towards the dinning room as it was now lunch.
"I am so glad to know that Jean boy isn't alone" Koraline whispered with a soft sigh suddenly that Alia gave her a curious look to continue. "growing up it was hard for him to make any friends. It was even harder for me to understand him without his father but how could I when he was bullied for it" The woman by now was tearing up as she told Alia her worries.
"I thought his joining would make things worse but to hear that he's been well eases my heart" She reached out to grab Alia's arm that was already looped around hers. "Please take care of him as he's too much out of my reach for me to do so" Koraline pleaded as she let a few tears roll. The right alone made Alia's heart ache. Such a sweet woman that cared about her son.
"Of course" Alia grabbed onto Koraline's hand in return "Though if im honest here...he takes care of me and our friends far more then i'd ever for him" At that confession Alia smiled as she chuckled at the gruff but sweet teen.
Koraline simply smiled now wiping away her tears. The thought of her son ever taking care of someone else when he couldnt even care for himself made her chuckle. But she would trust Alia's word for it just as she'd trust Alia's word to care for her son. It would be the only thing to ease her constant worries for the boy that seemed to hate her.
Both females had made it into the dinning room just as their conversation ended. In doing so Alia brought her hand up to her mouth to shout for the boy. "Jean!" She called out already finding him on his table deep in thought.
Instantly Jean snapped out of his daze as he heard her voice, ready to greet her with a smile and apology only to stop when he saw his mother beside her. Just as fast he tensed up as he got up from his seat to make his way towards them. Even before Alia's wave to come.
Everything after that was a blur to Alia. It was spending the day with a sweet and loving mom that just wanted to see her son to the said son to be screaming at his mother to leave despite her gift to the cadets. Though what took the cake was Jean actually shoving the woman out and slamming the door shut. Leaving the whole room quiet as ever.
Standing there in disbelief, Alia looked up at Jean who was still standing at the door. Holding the same basket that Koraline had handed to her amongst his yelling. Uttering to her to give it out when she could before she was wisped away with a loud bang.
Not knowing what to say exactly the girl glanced down to the basket before gently placing it down on the table. For once ever since she's been in the cadet training she was so angry she looked emotionless.
"Koraline..Jean's mom...hopes for us to enjoy" She muttered now breaking the silence of the room as she raised the small material that was covering the different fruits they had gotten together. For all the cadets to try since some of them didn't have the chance to taste some of these.
Quietly and slowly Alia turned away from the table and walked towards Jean--everyone still dead silent as they watched. Connie being the most anxious since he's only seen this side of Alia when it came to her brothers and to anyone who disrespected her family and his.
Jean may have gone too far in Alia's book this time.
The said girl didn't say anything as she stared up at Jean the moment she got to him. Her eyes voided of any emotion and cloudy that it had no shine to it like usual. That alone made Jean know that he fucked up. Heavily.
"Move" And yet she only said one word to them instead of yelling or shouting. That was all she said that made Jean tense up but in a different way then he had moments before. For once he wasn't on the side of where Alia was being friendly. It was as if he right back to square one of not knowing her.
No it was worse. As if he was the scum under her shoes.
Stepping out of the way all he could do was watch as the girl left the dinning room. The sound of the door closing behind her and her reseeding footsteps being heard in the room. That was until Connie spoke up. "You really fucked up"
Speaking the obvious as he now sat beside the basket Alia left behind. His form more relaxed he looked at the frozen Jean. Now the room was left with nothing but the sound of Connie biting into a sweet apple. Alia's favorite.
---
It was no surprise that Alia didnt go to the food war between the two teams even if everyone else of the cadets had gone. No the girl had taken the night to her own thoughts of the whole situation.
She had no right to be mad in a family affair even with her liking towards Koraline since she's only met the woman today. And she shouldn't judge Jean if she knew nothing on his part other then what Koraline had told her.
After all the teenage boy didn't talk much about his home life but rather just himself of common knowledge like everyone else did unless asked. So maybe that was on her part for not asking in the first place.
Alia was still learning how to socialize even with her newly found group of people she cared for. She was doing well in terms of talking on everyday conversations but she still learning how to talk about the personal stuff. The heaver conservations that were only ever held late at night and alone with a person.
She was having a hard time in doing that. Maybe it was because she herself was trying to open up as well with those types of conversations. The closest the gotten to talking about such things were with Connie and even then it wasnt in depth. And the boy's been her friend since she was 3 years old.
All of her wondering thought wasn't helping as the girl sat on one of the roof tops of the main quarters the cadets were staying in. Staying down at her lap the girl clenched her hand into a fist.
What should she do now that she's calmed down. Talk to Jean or act as though it never happened. And as much as she was leaning towards the ladder she knew she couldn't do that. It would be unfair to him.
It would be unfair to her.
"There you are" The sound of Jean's voice snapped Alia from her thoughts. Looking up from her lap she turned her head to see the said boy hosting himself up to get on the roof with her. It was only seconds and a grunt before he finally did so. "been looking for you everywhere you know"
His voice was clear but somehow shaky as he tried to play off her reaction to his presence. When he was sure she wouldn't throw him off the roof as Connie warned him she would--he walked over to her. Wasting no time in sitting down right beside her as silence wrapped around the pair.
It wasn't after a minute or two did Alia finally speak to ease Jean. The poor teen was nervously shifting around as he sat beside her. His eyes glancing towards her face and then away to try and make it less obvious he was looking. Even if it was like it always was.
"Your mom is a wonderful woman" Alia took the time to pull her knees up to her chest as she leaned her head down to rest against them. Her head turned as she forced herself to stare at him as she spoke. "It's clear she truly cares for you a lot"
The nerves that Jean had washed in an instant not from her words but the way her sea green eyes focused on him. It was shifting with shades again. Swirling with life and expression but for the first time every vulnerability.
As if it weight was taken off of his chest, his shoulders dropped as he pulled a leg up to rest his an elbow on his knee. His cheek resting on the palm of his hand while his head was turned to her as well. Their gazes never breaking as the personal and important conversation came to start.
"I know" Jean did know that and he was reminded of that not from Alia but of his once childhood favorite food was given to him by his higher up that found it by the basket his mother dropped off. An omelet. "She's done nothing but care for me from the very moment i was born"
The boy sighed feeling stupid for acting the way he had been over the last few years to the woman that was always loving even with her scolding. "Then why" Alia honestly asked as she stared at the boy who focused back onto her instead of his wondering thoughts.
His honey brown eyes zoning onto her form like it always did when she was in a room with him. "I want to say puberty but that would be lie." Jean spoke just as honest to the girl he came to hold of high levels in his eyes. Her opinion on him being a big thing for him even now after his fuck up. "I just...wanted to get away"
Jean took a deep breath in as he tried to comprehend his answer correctly for her so she'd be able to understand. "Her love just felt too overwhelming" Selfish of him to run just like that but a human had their reasons to feel however they felt no? "I love her and the love she has but growing up...what am i suppose to do wondering why I dont have a father who should be loving me the same?"
Alia was quiet as she listened to him. "And through it all...I was embarrassed of her love that neutered me" Jean finished off the best he could as he watched her expression closely. "but today after I ate her omelet...I was reminded on how her love felt" He continued again this time explaining onto why he wasnt as mad anymore. Knowing that Alia would ask anyway.
"How her love showed me love...taught me love.." Jean reached out to Alia, tracing his finger against the side of her face as he pushed back a strand of her hair that came loose of her four pony tails behind her ear. His actions gentle and not unnoticed by Alia as she took in his words.
Humans were interesting creatures. They loved, hated, screamed, cried, laughed...They did things that made no sense at time. But through it all they were creatures that never stopped feeling. Expressing those feelings and sharing them with each other. With actions, activities. And most importantly...
One punch. All it took was one punch and Reiner was out of the fight but then again he did take back the Jaw Titan back. Not that Eren needed it anyway as he got what he wanted hence why he was pulling back.
They had used all of their cards for the time being and in turn took a good chunk of Marley down. So it was a win on their part. And yet it sure as hell didn't feel like it.
Alia stood beside Eren who was sitting down against the wall. Both of them tied up with ropes by their wrists. And Zeke not far from them in a worse state then them as he was healing from the blast of the explosion Levi took him out with.
Leaning against the wall near the door, the blonde was quiet as she stared at her higher ups she hadnt seen in months. She wasn't expecting a welcome back and was full on expecting to be treated as a prisoner for her actions.
Going against their orders and following Eren was against what they had all been trying to work towards. Peace without killing anyone else and yet because of them they forced blood on all of their hands.
Forced a war.
Glancing out the window, she ignored the conversation happening. Her sea green eyes focusing on the fire and ruined buildings before her. That was until she saw a body connected to the air craft be shot.
With frowning eyebrows, Alia stood up from her place. A sudden bad feeling forcing into her gut as she moved without warning. Shoving past the fellow soldiers she pushed her way out the room.
"Alia!" Armin and Mikasa called out after her--but they didnt follow her per Levi's orders. "Leave her--the others will bring her back" His order being one to let her off this one and only time. Despite her disobey and actions--the short man owed her a favor.
Maybe two or more for saving his skin from all that time when they first met and found out about titans secrets.
Walking into the cheering room, the blonde turned her head to the opened doors of the ship. A certain sounds catching her attention and most likely Sasha's from the way she spoke to Jean. The trio hadn't seen Alia yet to ask her why she wasn't with the others in the front.
Narrowing her eyes, the blonde girl ignored Jean's calls for the others to quiet down. Her focus on just the doors before she caught sight of a body with an arm strap come rolling in. Thinking fast, Alia ran.
"Gabi stop!" Her warning and shout startling the others to look at her weirdly at the odd name--while the girl laying on the ground aiming a gun ignored her shout. While Jean and Connie turned at the sound of a body coming in, Sasha looked over at Alia.
Her back still faced away from the intruder. Reaching out to her friend, Alia let out a desperate cry. The rope on her wrists aching as she pulled Sasha's hands that were reaching out for her in turn.
An automatic action for the brunette to do when seeing how desperate and broken Alia looked at the moment. Suddenly the sound of a gun went off--and a sharp pain hit Sasha's back. Gasping air, the girl fell into Alia's form.
Both girls stumbling into the ground like dominos as silence filled the air.
Ignoring the pain rushing over with the added weight, Alia looked down to her friend. Shuffling as she tried to ease Sasha onto the floor against her stomach. It was hard with the restrains but she got it done.
"Sasha" Connie muttered in disbelief of his twin bleeding from the gunshot while Jean made a move to focus--the sound of the gun reloading made him turn back to the attacker. None of which mattered to Alia now as she looked up to her childhood friend.
Both of their expressions stiff and worried. Raising her hands up she pleaded with her childhood friend. "Cut these--let me check her wound" Her words coming out like a blurt as she waved her tied wrists.
Not even the sound of two more gunshots bothered them. Connie was stiff as he tried to process what was happening. "Constance!" Alia screamed out, reaching out to hit both her hands against his legs. Using his full name to show she needed him.
It was then he made a move--trembling as he reached out and cut her hands free with a spear knife he had. Quickly Alia moved. Snatching the knife from him before she started to cut Sasha's straps and uniform up.
By now her own hands were trembling, her chest pounding while her vision blurred from tears. Ripping the material of Sasha's shirt she tried to focus. The sight of Sasha's blood gushing out more made her uneasy.
This wasn't suppose to happen. Not her friends anyone but them.
Jean crouched down beside Connie as Alia looked up to them from the other side of Sasha. "I-I need supplies" Stuttering out her words she placed her hands over Sasha's wound to ease the bleeding.
Using her bare hands as Connie bent down to talk to Sasha. Cradling her face with one of his hands while the other brushed her hair out of her face. His tone shaky but soft as he whispered "Come on Sash...Stay with me okay?"
Sasha's voice was so soft that if he wasn't so close he couldn't hear her. "It hurts...It hurts Con.." Her hand trembling as she reached up to hold her twin's hand against her face. Connie nodded slowly in return.
Tearing flushing into his eyes as he brushed his thumb over the swell of her cheek. "I know..just...just stay with me" He continued to cox out to keep her awake. Jean took charge for Alia's request.
Looking up he looked towards the others who weren't beating up the two intruders. "We need Reigh and supplies! Now!" "Right!" One of the soldiers responded quickly, running off to find the girl and said supplies.
Turning back to his lover, Jean reached out to lightly touch Alia's hands for extra pressure. "What else? What else can we do?" He mumbled out as he stared to Alia who was trying to keep it together.
"We just need time" The blonde sniffled as she stared down to Sasha and Connie who was whispering to each other. The faster they get the supplies and Reigh--the faster they could help the wounded girl.
-----
There wasn't much they could do in a moving air craft because if they did any operations then they would only make it worse for Sasha. Though thankfully, after patching her up and slowing down the lost of blood, Reigh and Alia both confirmed one thing.
Sasha would be okay.
Connie sat against the wall with Sasha's head on his lap--or rather her face buried in his lap since it would only be worse if she laid on her back. By now, Sasha had knocked out from the pain so Connie was quiet.
Silently brushing his fingers through the brunette's hair as he stared down at her. It had been a scare feeling as though he'd loose his twin sister. So right now all he wanted to do was be by her side the whole ride home.
Reigh sat by Sasha's waist but on the other side away from the wall, keeping watch on her wound. But also be support for Connie who was still in a daze of it all. Alia stood behind Reigh instead of sitting.
Looking relieved but tired as she stared at Sasha's sleeping form. Slowly taring her eyes away, she looked down to her stained hands. The blood of Sasha's was drying up now little by little. Leaving Jean to be standing behind Alia.
His back facing the group as he covered his ears to collect his thoughts. That was too close to his liking. If Alia hadn't been there--Sasha would be dying or be dead already.
"Jean, Alia" Floch's voice broke the ire silence forcing the couple to finally look at the group. Gabi and Falco both beaten and kneeling in front of the redhead who held them by their hair. "Lobov's dead. They shot him and climbed aboard using his ODM gear"
Lightly shaking Gabi's head, Floch explained the situation of it all in a stern voice. Alia's eyes softened for a moment as she stared at the two kids she's come to know. One holding a gaze of sadness and guilt while the other was holding nothing but hatred.
Jean on the other hand dropped his hands from his head, taking in a breath as he looked at Floch. "I'll toss 'em outside. All right?" Like that would do anything. Alia stood up straighter as she glared at the redhead.
Though before she could say anything, Jean slammed his hands against the wall in front of him. Grunting as he glared out the window to watch the scene under them go by. "Do you really think tossing kids out of an airship.."
He leaned closer to the window to press his forehead against the glass "is gonna help us stop all this killing?" It was clear he was tired of all this--as was the rest of their squad. They had almost just lost one of them.
And here was Floch wanting to kill kids--kids that knew nothing about the reality of the world.
"let's just take them to the others" Speaking up slowly, Alia reached out to touch Jean's back bringing his gaze to her again. "I need to go back anyway--we're prisoners" Offering up that instead, the blonde looked over to the tweens again.
Gabi just scoffed--the ache of being beaten up did nothing to stop her hatred towards the woman she thought was a friend. Falco looked more relieved at that option instead of dying. Nodding he pleaded with his eyes for Alia to push that option more.
The stinging of his hair being pulled made him stop as he looked over to the man who was in charge. "Alright" Jean turned to grab Alia's hand lightly compared to how hard he hard the wall. "Grab rope and tie their wrists"
That order was enough for the soldiers to follow. Even Floch who looked like he wanted to go against the idea and kill the kids already. Of course Gabi's and Falco's tying was more rough and tight.
But for Alia, with Jean tying her up, he was gentle. Quiet as he stared down to her stained hands. "I'll ask Captain Levi to wash your hands once we're up there" Whispering softly he tied the knot of the rope.
Staring up towards him already, Alia hummed. She was just glad that she had gotten here in time to save her friend. That she trusted her instincts and saved Sasha unlike how she couldn't before with her friends all those years ago.
It gave her a peace of mind despite all the death they caused tonight.
------
Upon entering the room, Alia looked right at Zeke who greeted them. "Gabi, Falco. How did you get here?" HIs voice raspy since he was still healing from all the steam coming from him. Biting down a scoff she stepped from behind the pair who stared in shock.
Asking him the same question and how he was alive. Ignoring the conversation, the blonde looked right at Eren. His gaze haunting and dull but one she was used to. Through a simple gaze exchange--they said so much.
Eren knew that Sasha was going to get shot--and didnt tell her anything about it despite telling her so much before.
Stepping up after there was no answers for the kids, Levi walked past Alia who took her place back. This time sliding down the wall to sit down and hold her hands to her chest. "Who the hell are these kids?" The captain asked wanting an answer.
"They somehow killed Lobov, and then used his gear to climb aboard" Answering within seconds, Jean held onto the pair's shoulders. Keeping them in place as they were being talked about while standing right there. "This one shot Sasha before we could catch her"
Lightly shaking Gabi, Jean continued to speak. His face growing grim for a moment. "Thankfully with Alia and Reigh, she's going to make it but she's hurt bad" At those words the room tensed up.
Armin and Mikasa were fast to run past the group to leave the room and see the brunette's condition. Levi let them go as he glanced to Alia--her head dropped forward as she took breaths.
It was a good idea to have let her go then.
Eren's gaze never left Alia's form as he heard those words. He had expected full on for Sasha to die today and yet that wasnt the case because of Alia. The one girl who had been his side all this long had changed something he expected to never happen.
Not when everything he did never changed what he saw--but for her it did.
Nothing else was said when the front door of the cockpit was being opened. Hange and Moblit coming right out into the room they were all in. "We'll leave the rest to you, Onyankpon" Hange called out to the man before turning to look at the others.
Ponpon's response fast before the door was closed by Moblit. Hange looked at Alia--sighing in relief for a moment only to push up a hard face again. "Well, Zeke. It seems everything's played out just like you wanted. Wouldn't you say?"
Moblit stepped away from Hange for once, silently pulling out a rag before he kneeled down in front of Alia. Reaching out to the girl he waved his fingers, motioning for her to give him her hands.
Raising her head up, Alia did as told. Nodding at the older man in thanks as she felt a wave of warmth wash over her. The blonde had betrayed them by going with Eren and yet--they were still show care for her.
Even Moblit though she had a feeling it was because the older man knew Hange couldn't do it right now.
Zeke sat still, his gaze never leaving the two kids who were gasping at the new information they were learning. The beast titan shifter had betrayed them. "I did make a few miscalculations but aside from that, I would."
Answering the question the blonde didnt even make a reaction as Gabi muttered out his name in disbelief and slow hatred filling within her tone. "Huh?" Hange tore their eyes away from Zeke and to the kids.
"Wait, who are these kids?" "Miscalculations" Alia answered before Zeke could, her tone stiff as she glanced to the blonde man she didnt like. "They're more smarter then you thought them to be huh, Zeke"
Moblit, who was still cleaning her hands of the blood, squeezed her hand in warning. Alia took it and bit down her snippiness as she went silent again. Staring down to the man who's done nothing but be by her Hannie's side, she sighed.
Thankful that she listened, Moblit went back to wiping her hands. Brushing his thumb over knuckles to ease her anger for Zeke. It was then Jean snapped in Alia's place though his anger was against Yelena who was standing beside her savior.
At that point though, Alia stopped listening. It would only lead to an argument for the plan that came through. Not without a price for them to pay.
-----
Getting back to the island hadn't taken long that by the time they were landing, Eren and Alia were just about ready to be locked up while Zeke was taken somewhere else. That was until Reigh was stopping Hange and Moblit. Since Levi was taking care of Zeke, long gone by now.
"Can you lock up Alia until after?" The girl stood tall as she stared at the two who was about to take off with the pair onto the train. Not far behind Reigh was Connie and Jean who was holding the stretcher of Sasha.
Hange looked stiff as they stared at the girl who was pleading them with her ocean eyes. Debating in their mind if they should give their niece special treatment. "It's just because your doctors dont have experience like us to help Sasha"
Reigh pleaded as she reached out to touch Hange's horse who nuzzled into the palm of her hand. "It'll be a better success for Sasha if Alia is there to help me Hange" Reasoning again she stared back to Alia who was still tied by the wrists.
"Commander Hange" Alia for once wasn't using her nickname as she brought Hange's attention to her. "I'll go wherever you want me to--just let me do this" It was a request despite being a prisoner now.
From the way Hange's face twisted with emotion, Moblit spoke up this time. "I'll take her the moment she's finished Hange" The commander looked over to their long time underling. "You can take Eren now and we'll be right behind you"
And those words seemed just enough to get Hange to break. "Bring her to the cell right after" With that order, Hange took off with a few others, Eren under their watch as they left. "Yes Commander!" Moblit shouted back--turning to look at Alia who was eagerly holding her hands out to him.
Chuckling for a moment he got off his horse and walked over to her. Cutting her ties off within seconds. "Go do what you need to" Moblit cooed to the young girl he came to see as his own niece.
"Yes sir" Rushing off her horse, she followed Reigh who was already speed walking to Connie and Jean. Barking out orders to take Sasha to a tent for them to start the operation. It was all to save the brunette who was still knocked out from all the pain.
Another chance to truly get Sasha into a better place then she was right now. To fully save her.
"I send this message to the devils of Paradis. Consider this a declaration of war!"
Alia was crouched on a roof by the stage--one that wasn't taken over by soldiers but considering that Marley was still being careful so was she. And for once since being undercover, she wasn't in her small details of disguise.
Not longer was she wearing her eye contacts or the powdered dye in her hair she put on every morning. The blonde was in her natural born look as she stayed low on the roof building watching the play.
Even now as Eren was transforming and already killing people, she made no face. All of her emotions turned off and her face blank. It didnt matter of the people she came to know that were in the audience.
Not at all.
Raising her gun up she closed an eye to focus--the screams and terrified cries of the people below her going quiet. Numbness filling her as she started to shoot at the soldiers that were on roofs like her.
Reloading her gun she merely glanced at the sight of another strike of lighting coming from the ruined building. "Just as planned" Muttering to herself the blonde turned back to her main part of the mission.
Kill as many soldiers as she could with her gun seeing how she didnt have any ODM gear to go off on.
Ignoring the on going pumble of the war titan by Eren himself, Alia got up from her spot and took off running. Her spot now clear with soldiers now shooting back at her. "Gonna have to be better then that"
Running towards the edge of the roof she was on, the blonde jumped without any thought before landing onto the next. Building so next to each other was a plus without ODM gear. Putting her trust into Eren and her friends that she knew were coming, she turned over and started to shoot again.
Aiming for the soldiers near the canons that were aimed towards Eren first. It helped that familiar faces were now showing up.
Lowing her gun she looked to the side of her to see who was landing down right next to her. Just as planned, holding ODM gear just for her. "Somehow on time aren't you?" Greeting the person with a meaner tone she dropped the gun she was using.
"Is that how you thank your savior?" Snippily the person responded in kind in his tone, holding out the gear to her which she thankfully grabbed. "You're just jealous Eren didn't ask you to come with him oh dear Floch"
Alia purposely dogged on him as she pulled the gear into place. Floch didnt say anything but snare at her as he reached out to helped her tighten the gear into place for her. The pair never had gotten along.
They were comrades and worked together well even more so as they helped Eren out. One from behind the scenes and the other open--as Eren liked it. They didnt have to like each other to be good comrades.
Comrades that had one goal in mind, the save their people no matter what it took.
-----
It didnt take long for Alia to get into gear of using the ODM or helping out Floch and the others in creating more explosions. More of them doing the barrels while she watched their backs. That was until she shot a soldier just before they were latched and pulled back to be thrown off the roof.
The sight of the man she loved more then anything made her tense up while in turn he got on the roof faster when he saw her. All the anger and annoyance he had for Floch coming to an end. Before Alia could say anything--Jean was already clashing into her.
Pulling her into a tight hug despite what they were both wearing. It had been months away from each other and yet it felt like years. It was the most they've ever been apart since meeting each other.
"Ever leave me again and I'll divorce you" Was all he had to say as he held onto her. His arms wrapping around her so tight that he was scared he'd loose her again. As if she was a dream again.
It was his words that snapped Alia out of her small daze, slowly she returned the embrace. Wrapping her arms around his shoulders while nodding in response to his words. Alia didnt plan on leaving him--not after this.
Their moment was short and small but all the more heart clenching as it melted into their heads that they were back together again. "that sounds like a nightmare" Alia mumbled out as she moved a hand up to brush into his hair.
"Guess I cant leave now" Mumbling softly she turned her head to give him a lingering kiss against cheek. Already their hugging and such a kiss was bad during their attack right now so she kept it to a minimum.
It didnt help that Floch was already commenting. "If you two keep that up--you'll die holding each other" At his tone, Alia pulled back to glare at the redhead but she didnt bite back because he was right.
Jean on the other hand did say something as he kept one hand touching Alia. His hand resting over her back to just be sure she was real. "Says the one trying to kill off all the civilians--we need to keep their casualties to a minimum remember?"
The whole reason why he came to this rooftop from the beginning coming to mind again. Floch scoffed as he stared at the man who always was in charge these days. "Everyone here is an enemy"
Alia didnt say anything as she looked out to really see the town again--four months of being here coming to mind. Seeing how different it looked within just an hour after their attack. Pushing away her guilt she turned back to the conversation at hand.
"Look there" Floch pointed towards Eren's titan form that was nonmoving at the moment. "He's telling us something. That we have to fight." The redhead turned to Alia before staring at Jean again. "Even your own wife has been saying the same thing--it's why she came to support Eren all these months!"
Jean didnt say anything as he looked from Eren's form to Alia who was returning the stare. Her eyes soft but full of emotion. Floch continued to talk taking the lack of response to explain why they were doing this.
"We can't just cower behind our walls, waiting for death to come. We need to fight like he does. Like devils." With those words, Floch didn't even wait for a response as he went back to doing what he was.
Ordering the others to do the same as the couple was left alone. "Like devils?" Jean muttered to his lover who was standing in front of him. "Are we really stooping to their level Alia?" Hearing her name leave his mouth and in such a way made Alia's chest ache.
Months without actually hearing her name or his voice made it think was this really it?
"It's better then waiting for our deaths" Like she was ripping off a band-aid, she reached out to squeeze his shoulder. In a way to comfort him with the muddled thoughts he had that made second guess this whole plan.
Jean just sighed as he leaned down to press his forehead against hers. His wavering thoughts and feelings going still. As long as he had her back then he would mute it all. Forget about the death and push through this plan so they could all go home again.
Together this time. "Alright" Raising his head he placed a kiss over her forehead as to seal the deal. With that the both of them went on to help Floch to continue the attack.
------
Two other people landing on the same roof made Alia sit up straighter from beside Jean. Her two closest friends looked as dreading as Jean in what they were doing. And the moment they caught sight of her--their expressions shifted.
Relief.
"We've stalled their reinforcements" Connie was the first to speak as he kept his gaze on his childhood friend. Though his words were for Jean who wasn't mad at the lack of eye contact. "And the lights?"
Jean asked his question anyway as he stared at his two friends who were watching Alia closely--wanting to be sure she was real themselves. "All of them are in place now" Sasha spoke this time as she took a step towards the couple.
Step by step before reaching out and grabbing onto Alia's shoulders. The moment her hands touched Alia, Sasha shook the blonde. Just to be sure Alia was a real person as Connie couldn't help but chuckle for a moment.
Walking behind his twin, he crouched down beside the brunette who was now pinching at Alia's cheek. "Are things going all right?" Finally the boy turned to his friend who was smiling at the interaction.
The smile falling as the question was said. "They are for now at least" Jean glanced out to the battle field of the two titans fighting. "Sash" Alia groaned out as she tried to squat the brunette's hand away.
Of course, Sasha just pinched harder before letting go to pull Alia into a hug. "Looks like someone else is more of an idiot then I am" Sasha mumbled out as she hugged the blonde she missed.
Alia just hummed softly returning the small hug before Connie was forcing them apart. "My turn now" Huffing out his words he pulled Alia into a tight hug as he ignored Sasha's scoff. Their small moments again never lasting as they pulled apart.
Their attack was still on going--such reunites and greetings could be done once they're fully home.
"If we can take that thing out soon, we'll be fine" Jean brought back the topic as he and the others watched together. Sasha was standing behind Alia now, both hands on her shoulders as the blonde stayed squatted beside Jean.
While Connie was behind Jean, one hand on his shoulder and the other resting on Sasha to lean against her. "But that's a big if" Alia spoke up this time. "Anything could happen as always" Although their plan was working for now--not everything would follow the plan continuously.
"Right" Jean glanced back to Alia and up to his two friends who were listening in completely for once. "The only way to find out what will come next is to make it out of this mess alive. So focus."
The group was quiet for a few minutes watching Mikasa fight against the War Hammer titan while Eren stood on the water tower. Alia watched the only friend she's been with the last few months closely.
Watching the tilt of his head before speaking out her thoughts. "It seems like Eren's got an idea" Her voice brought the trio's attention to look at her. "He's going to take down that thing and steal it's power"
The way she said it and from her tone, there was no room to argue. Especially since they had an idea that Alia knew Eren's thought process more then any of them after being the one to stay by him all these months.
So with her words they went back to watching--waiting to see what was to come and how they could help during it.
-------
"Im starting to really wonder if this is really worth it L!" Alia and Sasha were beside each other as they stay hidden behind some shield. Their plan coming right back in track despite the added titan shifters.
A lot of their numbers were going down like flies and yet they were still pushing through it all now that Armin had taken out the port. It helped that the beast titan was being taken care of by Levi.
Letting out a dry laugh, Alia glanced towards her brunette friend who was already staring at her. "What else can we do now?" Holding a gun much like Sasha was, the blonde sunk deeper into the medal behind her.
The heat of an explosion thunder spear doing nothing to the both of them. Or to sway Alia's fear of loosing her friends. With Sasha by her side she somehow felt more in tune with the world then she's felt the last four months.
Being with her comrades/friends made it that way for her.
Sasha sucked in a breath as she grasped a little harder on her gun. "The forest is starting to seem darker then I remember" Her words would've been odd for anyone else in their group--even Connie despite being a hunter himself.
He hadn't been a hunter like Sasha and Alia had been since they were young. Alia took a deep breath in as she took in the words her brunette spoke out. "At least we've got each other and the others right?"
The brunette hummed, both girls preparing for the right moment despite talking as if they were alone hanging out. "It's sure as hell better then being in the forest alone" Alia had to agree on that.
As far as they went into this large forest of death and scare of the world, it was always better being beside someone. "Ain't that the truth" No other words were said as the pair loaded their guns.
In sync they took a breath in and out before finally peaking from behind their cover, aiming right at the cart titan's armor. Sasha took the first shot taking out one of the soldiers resided within the armor.
Alia took the shot right after as Sasha reloaded. Thankfully with two soldiers dead and both girls reloading, Jean came up from behind them. Darting up the building and coming in to cover them both as the cart tian came rushing towards them.
"you'll both pay for that!" The cart titan shouted only for Jean to respond in kind. "i think it's your turn to pay" Gliding against the ground, he shot his thunder spear right at the titan's head. Sliding under it before shouting out his orders. "Fire! Hurry!"
And without a doubt the soldiers above them all in the sky, shot their own thunder spears into the Cart's back. Like fire workers, it blew up the entire cart's armor. Killing each of the soldiers inside within seconds. And disarming the titan shifter in the process.
Standing up with Sasha, Alia watched the cart desperately crawl off the roof and fall to the ground in critical condition. "Let's go" The blonde muttered as she stared down to the ground. Her eyes landing on the commander and two tweens she knew.
Hardening her expression she stayed put despite her words as Sasha took off. The sight of Jean calling out to finish the titan made her stiffen. Even more when Falco stood out to block the attack.
"That dummy" Scoffing at the young boy's need to protect the titan shifter, she made a move. Gliding in to tackle the blonde boy she knew despite Jean's fire of his thunder spear. Falco grunted as the wind was forced out of his lungs.
He didnt even have time to recover fully as he was pushed on his side. "Alia!" Jean shouted out just when steam of the titan forced the spear away. "Im coming!" Alia shouted back as she stared down to Falco.
The young boy stared up at her in disbelief. "Annette?" He murmured out breathless but Alia just stared down at him. Her eyes watering as she felt her emotions rush up--the ones she was forcing down fully to continue fighting.
To continue killing all these innocent people she came to know and see. "I'm sorry" Squeezing his shoulder she took off before Falco could say anything else, rushing after Jean who was calling out for her again.
Falco didnt have time to fully process who he just saw as he turned to see Pieck come from out of her titan. Ignoring the new knowledge, he rushed to helped the warrior out. The Marley soldiers now shooting back at them.
"Take cover!" Jean ordered out, swinging by Alia who was already listening to his command. Tearing up as she tried to remain the soldier she was--no feelings. No feelings.
NO FEELINGS.
Was the one thing she kept repeating within her head.
-----
Settling onto a roof together, Alia took a moment to breathe. Collecting her thoughts as the others huddled together waiting. Raising her hand up to her face she covered her eyes.
𝓑𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓱𝓮, 𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼𝓮𝓵𝓯...𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓰𝓸 𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓲𝓽
The sound of her father's voice coming to mind. Holding her hand against her eyes she took deep breaths. Slowly but within seconds, the blonde calmed down. "Jean. Its here" Connie spoke up from behind her.
All of the soldiers staring in one direction as the sound of a flying craft was loud and clear. Pulling her hand away the blonde looked over in the group's direction before following their gaze.
"Yeah. It's right on time." Jean spoke up to Connie before turning his head to the woman he loved. He was the only one to really see the crack in her when she was tearing up. It was a side of her he hadn't seen in years.
Not since Bertholdt died really. It meant that she felt for these people they were all killing--that she wasn't fully disconnected from the world like Eren was. In his eyes at least and to him that was a good sign despite the pain.
It meant Alia hadn't disconnected from them despite leaving to follow Eren.
Sudden screams and shouts of Reiner's name had Alia look away from the flying aircraft. Turning her head she looked into the direction where she knew Reiner was--where Eren had been hiding before all this.
Standing up from her spot she spoke up to the others. "We haven't won yet" Despite Eren just eating the War Hammer titan and just about to take the Jaw titan as well, her words had the others confused.
"What do you mean?" Jean spoke up what they were all thinking but Alia didnt even have to answer it. Not when the strike of a familiar lighting came down from behind Eren. Reiner's titan form standing tall and straight with all it's glory.
Alia answered anyway as she stated the obvious. "Reiner's up"
Okay well getting into the Tybur's family as a maid was harder then expected. The rich and famous family was smarter then they led on to be from how strict they're income of workers was.
But then again Alia never had just one plan to rely on hence why she was currently sitting on top of the roof of the home the family was staying in. The night sky doing well to cover her form despite the lighten up fire lanterns that were along the street.
With her head close to the edge of the roof she quietly listened to the conversation that was being said in the private room. Her gaze locked onto the sky above her as she laid against her back.
The blonde's been listening in on their conversations and family routine for the last few nights. All of which was the same considering that the Tybur family acted as normal as any family. Despite their wealth they were a happy tight net family.
Not once bringing up the war hammer titan or conversations about it. And yet with that lack of information, Alia could sense that they were doing it on purpose. Not because they knew she was here but simply because they were in Marley territory.
Enemy territory--even if the rich family went on and on about being on their side--they were still Eldians. Keeping their guard up which was smart on their side.
But since she's been doing this for over a week, she came to a conclusion. The titan holder of the war hammer was none of the clear family members of the Tyburs. Not the kids nor the older adults.
Not even the blonde man that represented the family. Alia could tell that much and because of that her conclusion was simple. The maid.
"Ironic" Muttering to herself she continued to lay there and listen. Her eyes never leaving the sky. Although she came to this observation, she was still going to watch them during the night until the very night of the festival.
Laying the back of her head over her hands, she lightly moved one of her feet to rest over the other. Getting into a comfortable position as she waited the night to go on and for her usual time to leave to come.
Right before the full sun rising.
And right on time, somewhere in the house the sound of a violin being played gained her attention. Just as she was getting up to leave. Although shaky it was a sound she found herself to miss hearing.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 ~
Alia let out a huff as she stared at the music sheet in front of her. Despite being a soldier, she was given time to spend time with her cousin. Said cousin had more skills then just being a good cook hence why she was learning how to this in the first place.
Not that she was enjoying it but it was a good break for Niccolo from cooking even if he loved doing it. It got him to do other things he loved--since he was still on a leash of being told what to do as a volunteer.
"I dont get why you're getting so angry" Niccolo's voice brought her attention to him, the fellow blonde was sitting right in front of her. Sitting in his own chair and music in front of him as he held a volin. Much like her.
Alia raised a brow not saying anything but with her expression to reply to him. "For only just learning now the last few months, you're doing great." Niccolo sighed as he watched her more closely. "You're doing much matter then I had been in a year of learning"
At that note, the blonde girl actually let out a laugh. Getting to know Niccolo more and more with these lessons were nice. Having it been half a year of meeting him and growing close like this.
All through mostly because of these lessons. "Maybe cause I'm somehow more in tune with the world then you are" Playfully she poked fun of his up tightness that only went away when he was around Sasha.
And a little of her but the brunette made him ease down more then she ever could. In response, Niccolo just scoffed. His eyes narrowing at her as he purposely pointed out his bow towards her. "You know that kind of talk reminds me how much you are my father's niece"
Alia's eyes widen for a moment at the mention of the uncle she never met--a topic neither of them often spoke on. Seeing as Niccolo had no way of going back to see his parents while her own were dead.
Pushing up a grin she placed her violin on her lap for a moment. "If thats true then makes me wonder why you're so up tight" Egging him on with the teasing, she reached out with her foot to lightly kick his.
Niccolo glared at her even more, raising up another scoff as he returned the kick. "Keep talking and i'll force a hard piece on you to learn" His tone snippy and threatening--yet it didnt nothing to scare Alia.
The girl simply laughed as she raised her hands up in defeat, taking a moment to start playing again. All while her cousin took charge once more, starting from the top along with her.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 ~
Landing on her feet the blonde glanced up to the home she was just on. "Maybe Uncle Dieter will like a small lesson together" Speaking to herself the blonde started to walk her way back to her own home.
Crossing her arms behind her back as she avoided being seen.
-----
The sun beaming over the town wasn't anything new but it was sure as hell better then the heat back on the island when it was summer. Walking along the streets on her break from the hospital, Alia found herself watching the building of a stage.
It meant the festival was closer and closer now.
Seeing a few familiar faces, the blonde made her way towards them. Startling them of their obvious staring towards their commander. "Now what are you three knuckle heads doing" Wrapping her arms around their shoulders, she pulled them into a tight hug.
Or rather more like a neck hold despite there being three of them. "Nettie!" Gabi greeted her instantly and loudly--seeing how she was in the middle of the hold. Dropping her head back she looked up to the blonde.
Udo let out a groan as he raised his hand to tap out from the hold while Zofia simply leaned more into Alia's warmth. "Unhand me" The boy croaked as he kicked his foot to push his act out more.
Zofia just snickered, turning to face Gabi and Udo both as she purposely wrapped an arm around Alia. "Can't handle a loving embrace Udo?" The girl egged on her friend making Alia chuckle.
"You guys being sneaky eastdroppers or something?" Finally letting them free, she pulled away from the tweens. In sync the two younger girls faced her completely while Udo kept his back towards her. Rubbing his neck as he dramatically coughed.
Glancing his head towards the older girl, he answered for the trio. "You being a creepy watcher or something?" Which wasn't a answer but it made Alia chuckle. "Keep that up and i'll wrap you a bandage so tight even yours wont compare"
Udo was fast to poke her side as he shouted out his disagreement to that idea. Gabi laughed loudly at the interaction, joining in as the three started to poke each other. It didnt take long for Zofia to do the same.
The warrior candidates were acting just as their age despite Alia seemingly being childish for her own. Something the group could only ever do with each other and Alia for some reason. The blonde gave them comfort and open to be such a way.
-----
After hanging out with the three for the rest of her lunch break, Alia was coming back to the hospital just in time. Watching a patient be lead away from Eren, a patient that was his grandfather at that.
Seeing how she still had a few minutes left the blonde girl walked over to the bench. Simply nodding at the fellow nurses and doctors before she greeted her brunette friend. He didn't have much a reaction.
"What was that about?" Alia sat down beside him, watching as the nurse and doctor lead the older Jaeger away. Eren didn't answer but instead started up a whole different conversation. "Do you regret coming with me?"
Now that question made Alia nearly snap her neck from how fast she turned her head to look at him. His gaze baring into her soul as he played with his cane that rested between his legs. His thumb brushing over the wooden handle.
He was asking that after months of already pushing into this plan? Just as they were going to go further and declare a war against the war during the coming up festival.
Looking into his eyes she took a moment to answer him. "No" Answering him nonetheless, she reached out and placed her hand over his that held the cane. "I regret not being able to let you truly be happy"
Alia was with him through and through with what they were doing but she did wish that Eren didnt force so much pressure on himself. All for their friends. And she thought that her being here would ease that pressure.
Squeezing his hand ever so lightly she kept her eyes locked with his. Just as much as Alia knew him, Eren knew her the same. And yet he still asked her because sometimes he caught himself thinking.
Was this really worth it?
"I'll be happy knowing they're happy" Eren spoke up his reason for all this--it was simple in his mind despite his wondering thoughts. Such things always coming to stop when he remembered his friends. His family.
The blonde hummed--she knew that. It was the reason why she was following him. Not only to make sure the pressure on him was lighter but for their friends and family combined. But that didnt stop her from saying the thing they both knew.
"They'd be happier with just being with us" Eren didnt say anything after that. The both of them just sitting beside each other as they stared into their eyes--their souls. To others they were calm and at ease--to each other and inside they were screaming.
It wasn't just the pair but the people they left behind fighting. People of Paradis. Fighting for a chance to show they weren't devils but human beings that had lives. That were alive and breathing--normal just as everyone else in the world.
Fighting a fight that was already set in stone that they couldn't do anything in defense anymore. A fact that was sad and cruel just as the world is.
-----
Getting into the small ball that was being held for guests all over the world wasn't hard for Alia. Not when her Aunty and Uncle were being asked to play for entertainment. One thing that wasn't offered to Eldians often.
But then again with Lorelei's family being filled with Music prodigies for years and Dieter learning from his wife, it was no surprise they'd be asked. Hence they the uncle, aunty, and niece trio came to the event.
Although the older couple didn't know what Alia was doing--they trusted her enough to just be their niece. Never truly asking what or why she was doing such things. Alia was their family and that matter to them.
"You keeping up?" The sound of her uncle's voice made her glance at him. They were taking a moment to breathe from their playing. Letting the guest mingle and enjoy their food for now. The pair were sitting closer to each other seeing how they were playing the violins.
While the older woman, Lorelei, was on the piano still playing since she could handle such long performances. Even with her older age. "Yeah" Alia let out a small chuckle as she glanced around the ball room.
Watching for any details that could be use of her and of course keeping an eye out to four tweens who were waitering for the event. As extra help of course.
Seeing the way her eyes wondered, Dieter spoke up again. "Alia" At the use of her government name, the blonde finally turned her head to look at him. Darker shade of brown clashing against a lighter shade of brown. (she's wearing eye contacts remember)
"I know I shouldn't ask" His tone was as soft as his expression was. "but are you alright?" Although Dieter and Lorelei never asked that never stopped the couple from worrying for their niece.
That note clearer more then ever.
Smiling at her uncle, the blonde nodded slowly. "I'm more then alright Uncle" At least right now she was. Even as she was constantly under cover to put up an act--being with her uncle and aunt. Playing music.
This was a calming moment she was glad to have. Especially with what she knew was going to come.
"I'm just happy to be here with you" To ease his worries even more, she reached out and squeezed his knee. Dieter couldn't say anything back in response because Lorelei was already calling out for Alia. "Annette"
Turning their heads together despite only one of them being called, they both looked over to the older woman. Lorelei smiled at them both anyway. "Our next song is just the two of us remember?" Alia's eyes widen for a moment.
In excitement to play as the main part despite the song reminding her of home. "Right" Getting ready, Alia stood up from her chair and prepared to play. Dieter sat there with a smile as his wife already started playing the soft notes to begin.
-----
"You played wonderful Mrs. Kirstein" Alia looked up from the mirror she was staring at to see who was speaking to her. A familiar face. Standing up a little straighter she turned to face the woman, the pair was in the quiet room with no one but them.
Seeing how Alia wanted a breather and freshen up while the person in front of her needed to clean up her kimono from a spill. "I didnt know you'd be here, Mrs. Azumabito" The blonde was soft in her tone as she greeted the Hizuru woman.
The older woman just smiled as she held her hands over her stomach, in a stance of politeness. "Neither I for you" Alia didnt say anything for a moment as her eyes shifted. Of course Mikasa's distant relative wouldn't know she was here.
They hadn't spoken since the day Alia and Eren left their family behind. Mere months ago and yet things were different. Not in just looks. Which was surprising considering Reiner couldn't recognize Alia but this woman could.
With the lack of response, Kiyomi couldn't help but sigh. "I hope we can continue working towards a common goal, Mrs. Kirstein" Although the older woman was in for the money that could've been theirs with Paradis's help--she did care for Mikasa.
And Mikasa's chosen family even if she didnt show it clearly.
Alia didnt say anything immediately as she walked towards the door to leave. "Me too" Though just before she left she did respond. Leaving the older woman to herself as the blonde went back to the ballroom.
The ball itself was going to be on going for a little while longer and Alia still needed to play. Even with a familiar face she wasn't going to let it stop her from doing her job. To find out what she could and use it to her advantage.
For herself and Eren. For her people.
-----
Alia wasn't enjoying the festival like everyone else had been all morning. Her aunt and uncle invited her to go with them but she declined the idea. The blonde couldn't have fun when the plan was coming to a start tonight of all times.
So instead she was back sitting at the bench with Eren.
It was quiet between them for a few minutes but Eren broke it as always. "It's time" His words were short as he stared towards the hospital he's been staying at. Leaning into the bench he slowly let out a sigh.
Dropping his head back into the bench as he now stared up to the sky. "It is" Responding to him in kind she did the same thing as him. Now both of them staring up to the blue sky watching the clouds slowly float by.
They had already gone over what the plan was going to be and what was to come if everything goes as said. If their friends come at that. The pressure of it all being at most for them both.
Sighing again, Alia spoke up the one sane thought she was thinking. "Sometimes I wish I could be a cloud" Murmuring in a soft tone she tapped her fingers over her stomach lightly. At her random words, Eren actually chuckled.
Turning his head to look over at her that his stare made her do the same. Face to face they stared each other. "Why a cloud of all things?" Curious of her ridiculous words to be a cloud instead of anything else.
"So i can just float along and go wherever the breeze takes me" Alia answered as a smile brushed upon her face. "The clouds have it easy you see?" Raising her hand up to point towards the clouds she glanced to the sky again.
"Wouldn't it be a dream to just watch over the world as you go by?" Asking another question she dropped her hand and sighed in a daze of being a cloud. Eren hummed softly as he thought about her words.
Sometimes Eren was glad that he had asked her of all people to come with him. Not because she was loyal but because she could ease his thoughts. Make it seem like they weren't doing anything but living life.
It was nice because he knew that after today--things were just going to be hell. He knew that more then anyone.
Straying away from eyes that knew them, Alia and Eren walked off the train. Or rather Alia did as she helped Eren with his one leg. Tired and exhausted, the pair didnt say anything as they walked away from the train station.
That was until they stopped where the injured soldiers were. Injured beyond compare. "You'll be alright?" Alia whispered as she looked at her friend who returned her gaze. There was words being said in their stares.
They had to be okay. Continue to be okay and move forward without any regrets even if they had some. "I'll be fine" Eren answered as he pulled away and leaned into his crutch for help. "Just visit me for updates"
Alia stood there for a moment just watching the brunette limp away to the line of soldiers. "Sir yes sir" Speaking only loud enough for him to hear, she waited until he was behind the line before she took off.
Walking along with other soldiers to find their family members--you'd think being undercover would mean she didn't have any either but sometimes the world worked in mysterious ways.
Smiling at the sight of an older man and woman, her cousin's parents. "Look who it is" The woman called out to the blonde the moment she saw her. Not wasting a second she ran up towards Alia and engulfed the girl into a tight hug.
"Aunty Lore" Alia let out a chuckle as she returned the hug, wrapping her arms around the older woman within seconds. "Did you get tired of Uncle Dieter without me around?" Playfully she joked with the older blonde.
Her eyes falling onto the said man who was walking over to them with a wide smile. "Very funny" The man greeted in the same playful tone just as his wife pulled off Alia to let him hug the girl.
Despite their growing in age both older adults looked as if they never aged a day from their 20s. "You know I love you" Alia hushed the man softly as she hugged him back. Her arms tightening at the familiar warmth that reminded her of her dad.
"Of course he does" Lorelei stated as she watched with and content in seeing the two hug. A sight she was still getting used to but loving every second of it without her son around anymore. Pulling away from each other, Alia took a moment to look at the older couple again.
That was until she saw a familiar blonde not far from them--looking more tired then happy despite winning a whole war. As the married couple spoke between each other about dinner, Alia watched her old friend.
Although it had been years since she spoke to him, she could still read him like an open book. Act or not. His feelings were easy to figure out having experienced the same as him. It helped that she knew him for three years too.
As if he could feel her stare, he turned his head away from his mother and looked into her direction. Locking eyes with her but their expressions held different emotion. While she was emotionless and still, he was shocked and stiff.
Before he could even think about heading to her direction, Alia walked over to the couple that was bantering. "Come on Aunty, Uncle" Placing her hands against their backs she guided them through the large crowd.
"Im hungry for anything right now" She cooed down to them. Lorelei was fast to stop fighting her husband as she looked at the younger girl. "Then i'll make something fast and filling sweetie"
Dieter didnt say anything as he noticed how fast Alia was trying to leave. Sensing that something was up the older man took the time to look around the crowd to see what she had been looking at.
And when he did he caught sight of a warrior staring right them. Standing up straighter as he was guided away, the older man wrapped his arm around Alia. Pulling her into his side as he focused on leaving as well.
"And a nice cup of iced tea" He murmured out--one thought in his mind, to keep Alia safe for as long as possible. "Now that sounds like a plan!" The said girl gushed as she leaned into his touch, forgetting of the moment as she just went into the moment of happiness.
Something she only felt these days when she was with the older couple or Eren.
----
Although she had just came back from the war, Alia didnt get to stay long with the couple. Not when she had a job at the nearby hospital. Then again with how early the day was she didnt have to leave just yet.
Hence why she was outside smoking a cigarette to ease her thoughts while the older couple was asleep. The night had been fun not with just food but a little alcohol which Alia drank very little of compared to the married couple.
The three celebrated Alia's return to be alive and well coming home--it was odd for Alia to call their home her own now. Not that she wasn't thankful towards them to take her in and actually make it easier for her to be undercover.
It was lonely sometimes was all.
Squatting down by the front door, she stared up towards the sky that was hard to see with all the fog of the morning coming through. Her cancer stick stayed between her fingers as she held it up towards her face.
Her elbow was resting over her knee with her position comfortable despite the small stinging in her legs. The aftermath of being on the move so much as a soldier the last few weeks. And since she wasn't moving as much anymore it was aching now.
Taking a hit from the cigarette, she turned her head towards the direction of footsteps. Once again a familiar sight coming to her but it wasn't just an old friend but a young kid--his little cousin.
To which the young girl caught sight of Alia first, her smile widening as she called out to the blonde. "Nettie!" Seeing how Gabi was running right towards her, Alia put out her cigarette with the heel of her shoe.
"Gabi" Alia greeted the younger girl in a softer tone as she stood up from her position after flicking the cancer stick away. Just as Gabi came running into her arms, Reiner was walking over to them. "Off to go train this early already?"
Keeping her gaze away from Reiner, Alia continued to stare down at the excited brunette. Her fingers brushing some of Gabi's bangs behind her ear. "Yup!" The young girl answered with a wide smile and nod. "You off to the hospital already?"
The blonde girl hummed with a softer smile "The work never ends--someones gotta take care of the injured remember?" Gabi agreed with a nod before she pulled away to look at Reiner who seemed to in a blank state.
As if he was seeing a ghost. "Reiner! This here is Nettie! She's a medical soldier and nurse at the hospital!" Gabi spoke loudly not catching his stiffness until Alia reached out to place a hand on her shoulder. "As much as I'd love to get to know the all amazing Armored titan--Im sure he as business to attend to Gabi"
Snapping out of his daze, Reiner shook his head to rid his thoughts. This couldn't be the same girl he knew back on Paradis. For one her eyes were different and her hair as well. Besides it would be too risky for any of them to come here.
"She's right" Reiner mumbled as he turned to look down to his younger cousin who was pouting. "I've got a meeting and you have training remember?" Gabi tsked as she rolled her eyes. "Yeah yeah"
Waving her hand back to her older cousin she faced Alia once more. "Ill come by with the others later! Maybe have lunch with you so you can tell us more about the medical stories you have!" Gabi went right back to gushing excitedly to hear about usually horrid detailed stories.
Alia simply nodded "Ill see you then--dont work too hard" And just as fast Gabi was walking off to make her way to the Warrior's training building. Leaving Reiner behind to stand with Alia for a moment longer.
"you have a wonderful day Miss Nettie" Since he hadnt gotten her full name form Gabi, it was quite funny to hear him say her nickname with miss. Alia smiled politely as she pushed her hands behind her back.
Grasping her hands into a fist as she tried not to punch him--not over hate but a pay back from the last time he saw her. Having left her behind on a tree to die. "You as well Mr. Bruan" With those words exchanged the male walked after Gabi who was already shouting for him to hurry.
Alia stood there watching their forms quietly. Her thoughts muddled all over again but for a different reason now. Pulling out her pack of cigarettes she light up another one. Her habit worsening by the second of her clouded thoughts.
-----
"You're a weird one" Alia had just finished operating on a patient with Emery and yet the first thing the brunette had told her was that. Raising a brow at the woman, the blonde raised her head to look at her.
The pair was standing inside the doctors side operation room cleaning their hands of the blood. "What do you mean by that?" Curious of what Emery meant, Alia asked the obvious question. "I can get a read on you easily one moment and in seconds get blocked of what you're thinking all together"
Emery turned to lean against the sink as she dried her hands. Her brown hair pulled up into its usual buns while the mask she wore was pulled down to her chin. The brown hues of her eyes focused on the blonde she was talking to.
"I trust you because of the way you work and take care of our patients but i cant help but wonder what goes through that head of yours" To empathize her words she raised a hand up to point to the temple of her own head. "What is it you have to hide?"
It was a question that came more often then you'd think for Alia. That was normal considering she came around only months ago out of nowhere. Peering as someone that was related to Lorelei distant family of some sort.
All of which worked because Zeke got the paperwork done and Lorelei to make it happen with her family being long dead because of the war.
Not in the slightest concerned of the question, Alia took the time to dry her hands this time. Leaning into the sink with her hip instead of her back. "We all have our secrets dont we?" No one was as open as a book for anyone to read and see.
It's human nature to hide things that were precious to them and wanted to keep hidden. "Yeah" Emery tilted her head now focusing her eyes just on Alia. "But with the war finally being over wouldn't it be better to lean on someone?"
That was true as well--humans were social creatures both in negative or positive effects. Always seeking each other out for nearly anything so they could be able to feel. Be comforted. Be angry. Be sad. Everything.
Humming at the observation, Alia stood up from the sink. "How about I tell you story one of these days over a drink?" At the mere sound of that made Emery stand up straighter with more excitment.
A smile pushed over her face within seconds. "You've got yourself a deal!" Seeing how fast of a switch the girl had, Alia laughed. "Dont get too excited or i'll change my mind" Warning the girl, Alia walked away to leave the room for a breather.
Emery was fast to respond. "No takes back!" Warning back to the blonde that she couldn't take back the promise of opening up even if it was a little. Alia waved her hand just before the door closed behind her.
Maybe just maybe she could open up to someone--make a friend that could bring her some ease. Even if she knew it would mean probably back stabbing the brunette woman in the end. At least it wasn't now and would be later.
As much as Alia loved to make it seem like she was emotionless robot--she was as caring and loving as she's always been. Though this time it didnt take years to show it to these new people. That reason being because of the friends she made back all those years ago.
-----
Walking out to the court yard of the hospital was a sight--seeing as Eren was sitting next to Falco of all people. Deciding it was better to just watch from afar, Alia took a moment to smoke. Leaning against the wall of that surrounded the hospital.
Leaning her head back against the bricks, she stared up to the sky that was changing colors right before her eyes. Changing with shades as the sun was setting--a sight that was beautiful no matter where you were.
From what Alia came to notice as she stayed her longer and longer--being reminded of her home on the island.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 ~
Hange was practically brimming with happiness as they pulled their niece to dance along the sand. The sun rising in the early morning that it was no one but just them. Not even music to be played because of all the fun from the night before.
From the talent show to the on the spot wedding. Alia was exhausted and yet couldn't find herself to sleep like the others. Not even when Jean had laid with her. So here she was dancing with her Hannie.
"How does it feel to be married?" Hange broke the small moment of giggles, slowing down their dance as they stepped against the sand. Looking away from the sun the blonde turned to her Hannie.
The question bringing a more of a grin to her face instead of a smile. "Why dont you find out yourself by getting with Moblit?" Instead of answering she asked her own question that made Hange redden.
"wh-what?" Stuttering out their response, they glanced away to stare at anywhere but Alia's face. That alone made it clear that there was something certainly happening between the pair that's been with each other for years.
Alia raised a brow as the grin on her face widen. "Come on we're all not getting any younger--I wont be your flower girl at this point if you dont marry him" Egging on with her teasing and push for Hange to give in, Alia's grin formed into a laugh.
Especially getting louder when Hange shoved her into the sand. Just enough for her to stumble and land on her butt. "Alia Kasper!" Hange tried to scold the girl but the reddness in their face and squeak of their voice made it all the more obvious.
Alia's laughs got louder that it only made Hange retaliate even more. Kicking the water towards the girl, Hange glared at their niece. Both with annoyance but happiness. What Hange wouldn't give to keep this.
To give out their feelings to their close friend, and to be happy forever.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 ~
"Did you hear? The Tybur family is heading here?" "What?" Alia snapped out of her daze as she listened onto the conversation happening behind the wall she was leaning against. Their voices growing further and further away as they continued down the pathway away from the hospital.
Information of the one family she and Eren was focusing on for a certain titan. Looking over to the bench where she had seen him, she saw that Eren was alone now. Staring right at her already because he knew she was there.
Flicking away her cigarette, she stepped on the bud as she walked towards the bench. The two of them said nothing until the very moment she sat down. And unlike how Eren thought she would start it off--she didnt even mention Falco.
"The Tybur family is in town" At her words, Eren sat up straighter. Suddenly much more glad he had Falco take his letter to send back home. "My guess it's for the festival coming up" The blonde stared towards the hospital instead of the sky anymore.
Eren hummed to let her continue what she had found out. "I can figure out more about them if I snag a way into their home as a maid" Already forming a plan on what to, Alia leaned into her knees.
Letting her elbows rest over her knees as she stared down to her feet now. She may be following him but she always did what she thought would be good to help them out as he was doing the same.
Hence why they weren't side by side. Besides it was better for them to get information without using Zeke--they were still being cautious of him after all. Not that the older man knew it completely.
Taking Eren's silence as an agreement to her plan, she spoke up again. This time on the topic of what Eren first thought she'd bring up. "Falco's a sweet boy" Alia knew Eren was pushing aside innocence and people who were kind.
It didnt matter because they were all enemy to the island they came from. Alia knew that much and she was willing to do whatever was needed despite getting close to some of these people.
"Is he?" Eren murmured out--not shutting her down like he would with everyone else because it was Alia. The one person who came with him despite everything she had. That vowed to be by his side through it all.
Alia nodded slowly as she finally gave in and turned her head to look at him. Locking eyes with him as he returned her stare. "He reminds me of Armin sometimes" The blonde was soft as she spoke of their friends.
The brunette leaned further into the bench as he leaned his head back to look up to the sky as she had done earlier. Thinking of the past. "Does he?" His question similar to the one before yet it had Alia answering again to explain what she meant.
Two friends that left everything behind for their friends and family. Talking of the past that comforted them in a way only the two of them could understand.
(NOTE: Alia will be wearing eye contacts; act as though they have it but its not popular because it's still being tested to be allowed. Her eyes are now brown with them and her hair style is slightly different for the time being. And her hair is darkened with fruits everyday.)
War. Something that is seemingly normal and yet different to Alia because it's not the type she had been through before. This time it wasn't going against titans or with her ODM gear but against fellow humans alike.
With guns, canons, and fire power.
And yet it was all the same because it was just two sides going each other, death, and most of all people beside you who would give your life. Depending on what kind of blood you have that is.
Alia had gotten used to the mistreatment of Eldian blood here that was showed all because of an arm strap. Walking along the trenches, the blonde both fought as a soldier and helped as a medic of who was hurt.
After patching up a soldier she wasted no time in continuing her way down only to see the four warrior candidates she has come close to over the last few months. While Eren had a different route in their plans, she was to just simply blend in.
And of course not to get seen by Reiner which wasn't hard considering that Zeke was helping her in that part. As much as she disliked the older blonde, he was one hell of a comrade to have by your side.
Crossing her arms she interrupted the four children's conversation. "don't tell me you guys are having a whole conversation while in battle" Speaking up to gain their attention she grinned at the kids.
In sync all of them turned to look at her--slightly scared to see who had been ready to scold them. Though relieve washed over them as they caught sight of a familiar and sweet face. "Nettie!" "Annette!"
A combination of her mother's name she was going by and nickname of it was said. Alia chuckled at their surprised tones and excited of the four. Walking closer to them she wasted no time in squatting down to check on the only one that was bandaged.
Reaching out to his head lightly she brushed her fingers along the wrap lightly. Examining how it was wrapped as she stared down to him. "little snug isnt it Falco?" She cooed out the sweet boy who sheepishly stared up at her.
"It was Udo who wrapped it too tight when he got angry" Falco murmured out as he leaned into Alia's touch a little more. Said boy let out a small huff as he turned away with his arms crossed this time.
The silverish haired girl was fast to nudge Udo on his side. "He isnt lying you know" She playfully teased as she stared at him. All she got in return was a snippy response of her name. "Shut up Zofia."
The girl just laughed as she turned back to Alia who was giving them a small chuckle. Already redoing the wrap for Falco who was happy to sit still. "So Nettie!" The exciting girl who used Alia's nickname ever since meeting called out to the older girl.
"Who do you think is gonna be the next Warrior to take over?" The brunette eagerly asked for the medic that was one hell of a soldier from what they've heard from the others. Colt, Falco's older brother, even which was something considering he was the next to take over the beast titan.
Alia simply continued to help Falco, having grown used to be careful to her patients now that she was doing it a lot more then compared to her cadet days. "Well Gabi," Alia let a hum as she held Falco's face with both her hands.
Looking down at Falco who stared up at her in thanks for being so gentle then how Udo had did it. "It may seem like you are the best option," "Right! I told you!" Gabi was fast to cut off Alia as she stared down Falco who gave her a glare.
"But" Alia spoke up to stop the argument that was about to happen. Every single child was fast to look at her again. With their attention she stood up straight again with either of her hands on her waist. "You'd be surprise when a person's motivation comes into play to level the playing field"
Although she had looked at every one of the kids she stopped to look at the one who was still sitting down. Locking eyes with Falco as she said her words. "Especially as the time comes closer. People change fairly fast when their motivation spikes."
Offering the younger blonde a wink she turned back to the one who had asked her the question in the first place. "Now you guys better keep yourself out of trouble" Reaching out to them she patted each of them on the head.
Well the ones that had a helmet on and the one without a soft ruffle of his hair. "Or if you do, call my name and ill be there to patch you up in an instant" With those words she already started walking off to continue down the trench.
The warrior candidates watched her in awe and a bit of disbelief of her words. "Bye Annette/Nettie!" Only three of them called back to her as their goodbye for now. Gabi didnt say anything as she took in Alia's words. Not quiet understanding but she was fast to brush it off.
Only staring at Alia long enough to see the blonde simply raise her hand up as her goodbye before she was further into the trench. Sucking in a breath the brunette turned back to her original plan.
Tying up a few stick bombs into a net. Her wild and dangerous plan at that.
----
The loud sound of something going off made Alia glad she stopped to stand with fellow Eldians. Not far from the commander of their group and the four warriors, she looked out from the trenches to see Gabi of all people running back.
"It's like she has balls of steel of something" Muttering to herself she dropped her medical bag and grabbed the nearest gun to her. Grunting the blonde climbed out of the trenches and started to run right towards the crazy little girl.
Gabi's plan may have worked but Alia knew that even an explosion and rubble could leave one person alive. It her thoughts were right when bullets came flying right towards the brunette who was still running.
Lifting up her gun she started to shoot back as she ran towards Gabi. Keeping her aim pointed to the exploded trench made out of stone that was shooting at the younger girl. "You're crazy Gabi!" Alia shouted to the girl the closer she got.
In the corner of her eye she could see another smaller figure running right towards Gabi. Scoffing at the plan of these younger kids she continued to run. Tossing her gun to the side before she tackled both kids into a dug out hole.
Grunting she was fast to move positions so her body could go where the bullets were coming from. "Annette/Nettie?!" Both tweens shirked out confused at her presence but she didnt say anything as she held their heads down.
Trying her best to cover them with her body combined. Though thankfully a large hand out of nowhere came to cover all three of them. Breathless, Alia looked up to see the Jaw Titan. A version of it she was still getting used to.
"Hell of a timing" Mumbling out to herself she sat up slightly to let the two under her sit up as well since the jaw Titan was hovering them with it's whole body now. "Galliard!" Gabi gushed out to the titan just as it looked down towards them to see if they were okay.
"Thank you" The brunette smiled happily as she looked at the titan and then Alia who still had her arms wrapped around them both despite something else shielding them now. Though she got no response in return when Galliard took off.
At the sudden gust of wind, Alia pulled both tweens down again. "A warning would've been nice!" Her side of being snippy coming out because of the fact she was in life or death situation again. All she got was a laugh from Gabi and a sigh from Falco.
Huffing the blonde stared down the two. "I did say to stay of trouble didnt i?" Her tone was more soft now as the gunfire came to end when the Jaw titan took it out completely. "You did say you'd patch us up if we did though"
Being as snarky as ever Gabi responded in kind. Falco thankfully was smart enough to hiss at the girl. "Now is not the time to be snarky!" Although the shooting stopped going towards them it was still happening.
Eldian soldiers running past them as the next attack to continue fighting. "Now is the time we go back!" Alia scolded them both as she lifted them up and started to run back to the trenches they resided in.
Even with Gabi's complaints and Falco's scolding to the girl his age, Alia didnt stop until she had them back at the trenches. Moments like this reminded her of her old squad--chaotic and somewhat entertaining even with their lives on the line.
Alia had left them behind and yet was still being reminded of them through other people.
----
Breathless, Alia took a moment to regain her breathing before glancing to see Falco had helped a wounded enemy soldier down to their trenches. The sight of the younger boy helping the man despite being on opposing sides made her soften for a moment.
"can you interpret?" Falco had a kind smile on his face as he stared towards Udo who knew their language. The look on Udo's face made Alia sigh. Sitting up to squat between the boys she stopped the boy before he could. "It's probably not good"
Speaking for Udo she stared down at Falco who's face dropped. "How about you focus on your injuries and I'll take care of this man okay?" Speaking in a soft tone she lightly guided the younger boy aside.
Falco could only follow her command as he nodded numbly. The sound of the commander laughing and war surrounding him as he sat aside. Alia didn't say anything after to the blonde as she started to finish the treatment to the enemy soldier that Falco had started.
Their small conversation coming to an end when the Eldian soldiers came rushing back shouting around the similar things. "Retreat!" "Dont get caught in it!" "It's coming!" Which meant one thing.
With any emotion voided in her face, the blonde woman tied the last bandaged around the soldier before she stood up straight again. Her eyes focused on the air craft that was suppose to be their next attack.
"It's beginning" Gabi whispered out--not in her exciting tone but dry and dull. Everyone knew what was coming now. Like clock work people started to be dropped from the air craft. All having parachutes.
Floating over the enemy circle of camp like little fluffs from a dandelion before bright lights of lightening came of them and then titans. Falling right into the camp like raindrops. Grasping her hands into fists--she stared at the enemy land.
It didnt help the commander of Marley started to speak as the scene unfolded. "It's true. You people are devils." Alia didnt even turn to look at him as he spoke. "The Marleyans Im descended from were preyed upon in the same way. By Eldians like you."
His voice was full of disgust and venom. Alia still didnt say anything as she turned to look at the four warriors. Reaching out she lightly grasped onto Gabi's and Zofia's shoulders before leaning down.
Resting her chin over Udo's and Falco's shoulders. She didnt need to say anything to them as she pulled them into a hug. Her words were simple and said from her actions.
Even if they were devils--they were still human to her.
------
"Thanks to the incomparable bravery of the Marleyan army, Fort Salva fell and the mid-east fleet was sunk!" A man read out loud the newspaper to the crowd and within seconds there was cheers.
Jean ignored it all, grabbing himself newspaper as he gave the newsman a few coins for it. Keeping his head down he turned away and continued his way down the street. His attention now on the paper as he read it.
His thoughts muddled and clouded as he flipped through the pages for a moment. "Things sure are moving" He muttered more to himself as he closed the papers and stuffed it into his armpit. Raising his head up to stared up to the sky for a moment.
"Wonder if you're moving just as much" Sighing he thought about the woman he loved so much and still haven't given up on despite not having seeing her in months. He could only do what he always did.
Trust her.
-----
Alia was quiet as she leaned against a wall. Staring out towards the docks or rather more to the the sea. Although she was a soldier she had a knack of sneaking off for peace in quiet. That and because she was a good medic she had more privileges then others.
Maybe not as much as warriors but it worked.
Speaking of she was watching her favorite four kids calm down since the fighting was over. Instead of walking over to them since they hadn't notice her, she stayed put. Although they were sweet she was always sure to stay away from them when she knew there was a possibility Reiner would come to see them.
Raising her cigarette to her lips she took a long slow. A habit she started to get ever since Eren and her took off. Letting the warm smoke fill her lungs as she watched the kids and the water behind them.
Blowing out the smoke she lightly flicked at the cancer stick to rid the ash. The figure of someone coming up to the kids made her lean deeper into the wall. Not wanting to be scene because it was a familiar blonde.
Speaking of the devil and he shall appear.
Instead of watching any longer she got up from the wall and walked away from the docks. Holding the cancer stick between her lips as she shoved both her hands into her pockets. The sounds of the town kept her at ease.
Even after such a battle it was lively and comforting in a way. Even with the stinging in her eyes or the ache in her chest that never went away. It was a emotional pain rather then a physical one.
She knew what it was and why--it started the moment she went with Eren. And it hasn't gone away even if it had been months since then.
Walking along the streets she made her way back to where the soldiers were. By then she finished her cigarette and tossed it aside. "Annette!" Someone was fast to call out for her--gaining her attention within seconds.
Standing up straight she looked over to the woman she came to know. "What's up Emery?" Walking over to brunette woman that wore buns, funny how their hairs were similar and yet different. Hard to do so evenly everyday especially as medic soldiers.
"Give me a hand on some wounded soldiers?" Emery pleadingly asked--even with the war over, as medics it was never over for them. Not officially. "Of course" Alia agreed in an instant already knowing how tiring it was to do it alone.
Emery smiled widely at the blonde "Follow along!" She cheered as she guided Alia back to the medical area was. The sounds of wounded soldiers groaning in pain coming in fast. It was going to be a long afternoon.
But hey it was better then letting them die.
----
"You did not have those the last time I saw you" Was the first thing Alia said to Eren when she found him on the train full of soldiers. Most of them were either groaning and croaking from their injuries. Or listening in closely to Colt drunkenly tell what happened today.
Eren scoffed at her blunt and clear observations, sitting against the wall as he stared up to his long time friend. A friend he had became close to even more since it was only the two of them now.
Talking and planning. And yet somehow gaining more closeness despite being apart sometimes to continue their act.
"State the obvious why dont you" Eren muttered as he stared down to his sawed off leg with his one eye. Despite being as emotionally disconnected as he could get by himself--Alia had a way to always bring back his emotions with a single sentence.
Alia just snickered as she took a seat beside him. Settling in close and resting her hands over her lap. "Im just saying--if you wanted to be crippled I would have done it for you" She leaned her head against his shoulder. "I mean doing it alone must had you in tears"
Of course she was concerned for him since he would've been in pain but with her skills she would have done it a lot faster then him. The brunette simply nudged her head with his shoulder to try and get her off.
It didnt work. But then again he hadn't really been trying to push her off. "Shut up" His words had no real fire behind them. His head now resting back onto hers as he stared out to the many soldiers that were squished into the train cart.
The world was cruel still Eldians even the said to be good ones.
"I will for now but only because you're crippled" Alia mumbled out softly to egg him on a little more. Eren didnt say anything else in return. Nothing but just a pinch on her thigh which made her nudge her elbow into his side.
The pair were somehow childish as ever despite the loneliness they shared being without the rest of their friends. It was their way of distracting themselves. To forget what they were doing and the pain they must've caused in leaving.
Alia expected things to go at least a little better then what they had witness but after having a conversation with the head Hizuru clan, it was clear their attempts were going to fail. Even though she knew that she didnt say anything.
Or even go after Eren because from the one glance he gave her--he wasnt in the mood of talking to her. It wasn't until Mikasa had pointed out that he wasn't there did she actually go after to find Eren.
Trailing behind her friends the blonde took a moment to stare at the night sky. The need to find her friend not being as important to her as it was to the others as she was lost in her thoughts. Her body moving on its own to follow the others while being in a daze of the past.
The sight of the night sky and stars bringing her into the past.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 ~
It was so late into the night that it was just about to be morning soon. And yet the moon was still bright and high into the sky. With the talent show and then Wedding, it was no surprise for everyone to knock out.
Having been either drunk or so happy and energetic from the night they were out like a light. Well everyone but the newly wed that was sitting along the beach. Their feet and toes buried into the cold sand.
Watching the waves clash into the sand lightly that they could barely just feel it on their feet if the wave came high enough. Alia was sitting between Jean's legs, pressing against his back as she rested her head over his shoulder.
One of her hands were holding his against her lap while the other was playing with the ring on her chain. It was quiet between them as they listened to the waves. That was until Jean had broken it.
"What did you mean to be with you from afar or close?" The question out of nowhere had made Alia turn her head towards him in confused. Showing she didnt know what he meant. Squeezing her hand lightly, he leaned in to kiss her lips. "During our vows, you said that"
Explaining to her he took the time to trace his nose against hers. Keeping the closeness between them as realization came to Alia. "what did you mean by that?" Repeating his first question he kept his eyes locked onto hers.
Alia returned the stare, her chest aching as she thought about why she said that specifically. Though it wasn't like she could tell him why. Not if she wanted him to stop her when the time comes where she did have to go with Eren.
Raising her hand to cup his face she squeezed his hand with her other one. "We dont really know what will come with how things are going...you know that" Starting off slow she traced her thumb over his cheek.
Jean nodded her words. Of course he knew that. Everyone in their group did. Did they ever say it out loud though? Not until right now at least, this was the first time Jean was hearing it. From anyone in the squad.
Yet that didnt stop him from saying "You know I wouldnt ever let you go right?" It wasnt meant to be creepy or possessive. Alia knew that. What he meant was that he'd always be by her side for everything.
Like he always have been.
"I know" Turning her head back to the water to look out to the sea again, she leaned into him. Guiding his arms to warp around her completely so she could melt into his hold. "I know and im glad to know you wouldnt ever leave me"
Her words were like a double edge side for her. She was happy that he wouldn't ever leave her but here she was planning on leaving him to protect him and the others. Jean didnt say anything else after that.
Just simply holding her the way that comforted both of them. Burying his nose into her neck as he closed his eyes to just be with her. Feel her in his arms and to be glad that he had her cause he didnt know where he'd be without her.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 ~
Alia was brought back into the present as she caught sight of Eren and Mikasa standing next to an older man. Armin's call had brought the trio's attention to the squad. Which was only Jean, Connie, Sasha, Armin, and herself seeing how their higher ups were looking else where.
Ignoring the calls of her friends, Alia locked eyes with Eren. His expression seemingly blank but his eyes said it all. Mikasa hadn't accepted his offer to runaway. Or the way he had asked her.
With her shoulders dropping, Alia blinked slowly at her friend. Her hands gripping into a fist as she felt a rush of emotions hit her. Whatever is said during the meeting tomorrow would decide if they truly leave or not.
There was no other option or side they were going to take and wait for anymore. Feeling the a tear fall down her cheek, Alia let out a shaky breath. This was going to be it tomorrow.
"Hurry!" Connie called back to look at Alia who had been fast to wipe away her tear. Climbing up the hill after them she responded. "Give a girl a break! It's hard moving in the night!" Her words held some truth.
Connie scoffed at her words though as he stared down at her since she was the last one everyone was waiting for. "For a normal girl--Not for you!" Sasha let out a giggle as she received a glare from Alia.
Of course her twin was chuckling at the comment because he was thinking of it. Jean grabbed both of their heads and purposely pulled them back to make them stumble. "You two knuckle heads need to shut up!"
Alia could only laugh back as she watched the three banter, slowing down in climbing as she watched. She could forget about tomorrow and just focus on tonight. To have fun with them for her seemingly last night with them.
-----
(play song above)
After settling into the tent and sittiung down around a rug that was filled with food, Alia had to say although they didnt speak the same language--these people were far more welcoming then she thought they would be.
Maybe cause they saved the little boy earlier? Either way she was glad to watch Eren of all people take the first sip after it was poured.
While everyone else was watching in awe and anxious, she on the other hand was grinning. "We are most defiantly getting drunk tonight" With her her own words she reached out and grabbed the cup from Eren since she was sitting on the other side of him.
"Cheers!" Happily shouting out to the group and the adults that didnt understand her, she raised her cup and downed the rest of it. The burning of the liquor running down her throat easily.
Sighing at the sensation, she looked at the men with a wide smile. Holding out her cup for more of their burning alcohol. It wasn't their first time for the group of friends to drink but it had been awhile since they got to.
So why not enjoy and drink? Was the way Alia and Eren were thinking.
"L!" Jean murmured out ready to scold her but Connie was fast to grab his own cup. Shoving it into Jean's chest. "Come on Jean Boy! Let's drink!" Connie grinned widely as Jean turned to look at him with a glare.
Mikasa and Armin were already getting their cups from Eren to follow along. "Yeah Jean!" Sasha stated from beside Connie, leaning into her twin's side so they could press into Jean. "Let's drink!"
It didnt take long for Jean to fall into their pleads and drink along with them.
Still sitting beside Eren, Alia leaned into him. Watching as their friends get more drunk they were. From going to eat and stuff their faces to standing up and dancing away. Singing with slurs in their voices.
Wrapping an arm around the brunette, the blonde hummed. The flushness of her face bright as she hummed to the song both Connie and Jean were singing. Sasha forced into their hold as she focused more on eating despite standing.
"This is more like it" Alia mumbled softly to her friend. Her hold on him tightening as she glanced into his direction. The redness in his face matching her own as he hummed in agreement to her words.
Eren was more relaxed with alcohol running through his veins. "This is" Talking in the same tone as her, he slowly tore his eyes away from the sight of Armin clumsily dancing with Mikasa to the singing.
Easing an arm around her in return, the brunette rubbed her side lightly. Their hold comforting and relaxed for once as they melted into the scene of happiness going on. "I only hope we can have this forever you know?"
Alia didnt say anything for a moment as she stared at him. His words and expression combined made her remember just why she was so willing to follow him in the first place. All for the people they cared about and to have moments like this forever.
"Me too" Breathing softly the blonde gave him a sadden but soft smile. "So why don't we join them while we can?" Not taking no for an answer, Alia lifted the brunette off his feet. Tugging him to where Armin and Mikasa was.
Eren let out a small yelp when he nearly fell but he followed her anyway. The way she laughed as she greeted Armin and Mikasa made him focus on the girl who had been talking to only an hour ago. "Min! Mika!" Alia slurred out as she pushed Eren to the two who turned at the sound of her voice.
Grinning from ear to ear she grabbed onto her fellow blond "I'll take you and Mika takes Eren!" Gushing happily she started to dance with her dear friend. Armin let out a few giggles as he started to dance with her despite not processing her words.
Alia only offered Mikasa and Eren a glance before she turned back to her partner. Their giggles loud as they danced together terrible but happily. "Eren" Mikasa muttered out as she eased her hands over his shoulders.
"Mikasa" Eren returned the whisper, easing his hands over her hips like they had at the ball all those months ago. Although drunk the pair danced with more class and slower then Armin and Alia.
Going into a groove as if they were the only ones in the world dancing. A moment to remembered.
-----
Alia had found herself dancing with Sasha now. Both girls humming to a song themselves now. Hugging each other so close that if it wasnt for their small swaying you wouldn't think they were awake.
"So warm" Sasha cooed into Alia's ear, her nose burying into the girl's shoulder as she cuddled into Alia's warmth. The blonde let out a soft chuckle as the pair danced to the music of what was playing instead of their song.
Burying her face into Sasha's shoulder as well she replied. "You're the one that's warm" The close friends--practically sisters held each other even more. Giggling to themselves as they started to twirl around still holding each other.
Nearly falling as they did so.
----
"L!" Connie shouted for his childhood friend who had fallen with Sasha to eat more. With her mouth stuffed with a dessert, Alia raised her head up. She was on her knees beside Sasha who was still eating. "Can you go with Jean to grab more drinks! We ran out!"
To emphasize his words the boy flipped the bottle he was holding so it would be upside down and nothing pouring out. Nodding dumbly, Alia got up with a piece of dessert still in hand. "Coming!"
Connie gave her a cheer as thanks before he turned back to the man he was drinking with. "More is coming!" Even if the man didnt understand a word he was saying. Alia stuffed the dessert into her mouth the moment it was empty.
Her eyes hazed as she came to see Jean already standing by the exit of the tent waiting for her. "Let's just go ask for more from near by tents" Although drunk, Jean had enough soberness to make a good plan.
"mhmm" His lover hummed as she automatically came to grab his hand. Following him like a puppy as she continued to chew her dessert. Stumbling slightly she pressed her face into his back.
Stopping their steps for a moment despite being just a few feet away from the tent--Jean turned his head enough to look at her. "Careful" Being as caring and catious as always, he moved to wrap an arm around her instead.
Guiding her to walk as they made their way to the next tent over. Alia let out a small giggle as she nuzzled into his side. "Thank you" Her softeness and more affectionate side coming through as they walked.
Jean could only smile as he held her closer. The night was still young for more fun to happen but little nicks like this was nice.
-----
When Alia and Jean came back, they came back with more company and booze combined. It got even more loud and exciting that it wasnt just the tent they were having fun in. With the tent curtains wide open, the group disbursed to the other people around them.
Interacting with them all happily as they drunk the night away. Alia found herself next to Mikasa while the others were busy. Both of them tiredly leaning against each other as they took a moment to breathe.
With their backs against each other, Alia leaned her head back to press against Mikasa's. Their positions were oddly comfortable despite the wave of alcohol hitting them. "ahhhh" Mikasa cooed out as she expressed openly her feelings for once.
"tired already Mika?" Alia playfully teased as she turned her head to glance at the black haired girl. Mikasa of course pouted as she scoffed, turning her head to do the same as Alia. "Who said I was tired!"
Childishly, Mikasa snapped at the blonde with a soft glare. That only made Alia laugh even more though before the conversation could go any further--Sasha was tackling into them with a laugh. "What are you two talking about!?" The brunette squealed--all of the girls falling into the ground.
It only made them giggle and laugh as they laid there for a moment before they got up to join the boys back into the fun.
-----
Eventually the night did come to an end with everyone knocking out. Alia was laying on her stomach, her face buried into her arms as she used Jean's legs as extra cushion. Connie was laying against her back and legs.
His head dropped back between her shoulders while his arms were laid out like a starfish as he used Alia as a mattress. Connie's mouth was open wide as the sound of his snores were loud and clear.
Above Jean was Eren who was using his neck as a leg rest--it was a surprise he was even breathing. Beside the brunette was both Mikasa and Armin with the black haired girl curled closer to him.
Her feet barely brushing against Jean's hair. Armin was laid out about two feet away from Jean--laying on his side as he lightly brushed his forehead against Eren's shoulder. Leaving Sasha who was the only one who wasn't asleep.
The poor girl was throwing her guts up into a bowl not far from the childhood trio. On her hands and knees as she groaned at the feeling of all the food she ate come up. Though as she threw up she saw the shadows of four people enter the tent.
Just when she finished her last gag, she wiped her mouth and looked to see it was. Levi, Ponpon, Hange, and Moblit. Even if she felt like shit at the moment, she greeted them. "Hi captains, commander" Her voice cracking as she turned her head back to throw up some more.
Levi's face deepen in disgust as he watched her croak. Ponpon just stared in disbelief at the sight in front of him that all he could do was stare with his jaw dropped. Moblit sighed, bringing his hand up to his face as he shook his head.
Hange on the other hand was smiling from ear to ear. It was a sight but one that they thought was amusing. "Sure looks like they had fun without us" They mumbled out as the four stood at the entrance of the tent.
Their statement true. The group had the most fun they've had in months--maybe years.
-----
"There's only one corner where it continues to fester: the island of Paradis, where the empire's most loyal subjects fled in the wake of Marley's victory a hundred years ago. It is the island devils alone who pose a true threat to humanity"
Alia was glad she sat beside Eren instead of the others. The pair was alone in their sitting as the speech of the group who's been defending Eldians came to an end. The ending of the speech being the thing to tie down their option.
There was nothing else they could do. Not when the whole world thought of their home as nothing but devils and monsters. Sighing the blonde looked over to the brunette who already had a hard face.
"Ready?" Whispering to him softly she waited for him to look at her and answer. And answer he did. "Let's go" His tone gruff and stiff as he got up and walked out the meeting room. Not even taking a glance to the others.
Alia followed him of course but she turned to look back to her friends. None of them noticing the pair's movement--except Mikasa of course. Locking eyes with the girl, she offered a small smile. Her eyes sad as she gave her a nod.
A nod which Mikasa took as that Alia would calm down Eren for the time being before they would come back. So the black haired girl nodded back and turned away to talk to Armin.
But it wasn't that. Not at all.
Taking a deep breath, Alia turned back to continue following Eren. This was for the better. For the good of their friends and peeople. For them. So even if it hurt she continued to walk away from them.
Her feet moving heavy as her heart ached with a new kind of pain she's never felt before. One thought in her mind to keep her going.
Alia stood still as Reigh took her measurements for the clothing she'd be wearing on their trip to Marley. Since the outside world's sense of fashion was different from theirs it was no surprise they'd get some made. And for it to be Reigh to do it was kind of a surprise.
Seeing how the lighter blonde girl had usually took charge of medical things when it came to helping around. Then again she had accepted it when Yelena had asked her to. "You good at everything you do or are you hiding your weakness?"
Reigh was squatting down to measure Alia's waist when the fellow blonde had asked the question. Chuckling the girl shook her head lightly, holding the measuring line around Alia's waist.
"I've dabbled in sewing because back home since i hadn't come a warrior, my mother had me help around the house as much as possible" At the new information, Alia raised a brow but didn't say anything.
Standing up straight again, Reigh pulled the measuring tape over her shoulder. "And sewing it just different way of stitching up skin for a wound." Not wanting to go into too much detail she made a joke.
Alia just hummed as she dropped her arms since the measuring was finished. Following after Reigh to her desk before leaning against it. Just as Reigh sat down to write down the notes of the sizes she just took.
The pair had became decently close not just from teacher and student with medical stuff but just friends. Maybe not to know that much about their past because it was still a sensitive topic but enough to know of what they were today.
And that was enough for them. "If you say it like that--makes you seem like a doctor and tailor from hell" Continuing on with the joke she simply watched as the girl scribble in her notebook. Something that Reigh seemed to do a lot everyday.
Not for measures but for everything. Reigh let out a small snicker--the comment reminded her of something but she kept it to herself. "Hell. Funny seeing where im at right now" Although things were tense sometimes, jokes like that was something that only Alia could hear.
Her humor dark enough to joke about it a lot whenever she wasn't in the presence of her squad--she didnt want to chance them reacting bad to it hence why she did it with Reigh alone.
Rolling her eyes the blonde leaned into the desk more. Placing her hand beside Reigh's book as she spoke up. "Which makes you a devil right along us. Im sorry but the truth hurts" Reigh just laughed again.
This time looking up from her notebook to look at Alia who was now just hovering over her. Simply taking a moment to look at the girl who returned the gaze. "What's up with you?" The question was sudden that Alia raised a brow to show her confusion.
"I mean there's something in your head that you're worried about" Explaining lightly what she had meant, Reigh leaned into the palm of her hand. Her ocean blue eyes prickling with a curious glint. "Like you've got something to hide."
It was almost as though Reigh was reading her look a book. Alia frowned her brows, her eyes narrowing as she sat up straighter. "And why would you think that?" Her response more colder then she meant it to be.
Alia had been good in keeping her act of keeping her worries and thoughts locked up. Even to her own husband and childhood friend who knows her better then anyone. At least that's what she thought.
Not wanting to anger Alia, Reigh stayed in her relaxed position. Tilting her head as she examined Alia's expression and posture. "You just remind me of an old friend of mine" Instead of answering honestly and pressing on the matter she thought back of the friend.
"The way you choose to take up everything on your own to protect the ones you love" Reigh's eyes clouded for a moment as she remembered the old days. "My friend, Marcel, He used to do anything to make sure his twin brother and I would be out of trouble"
Alia's hardness melted away as she was shown a side of Reigh she hadn't got to see much of. A little more of her past. "You're doing the same but i dont know exactly of what" Shaking out of her thoughts, Reigh snapped back into reality.
"Yeah...well just keep it that way for me" Speaking softer now, Alia stood up from the desk. "And do me a favor--focus more on yourself and Connie" Wanting to end the conversation the blonde walked away to leave the room.
All Reigh could do was sigh as she watched the girl leave. "And what exactly does Connie have to do with me?" Alia stopped right at the door as she turned her head back to the still sitting Reigh. "Cause you're starting to fall for him."
It wasn't a tease but a serious observation. "And he's starting to fall for you too so take care of him for me" Before Reigh could even respond--Alia had left the room with a soft thump of the door being closed behind her.
Sighing the blonde stared at the wooden door. "Can't you care for him with me?" Her question went unanswered.
---
After leaving Reigh to measure who was left, Alia made her way towards where she knew her cousin was. Silently walking the pathway as she nodded to the people she saw both Eldians and Marley soldiers alike.
By the time she got to his cooking hut by the dock, she was met with him alone for once. Which meant Sasha was still waiting to be fitted herself. Having already heard her foot steps the blonde male had greeted her before she got to say anything.
"Finally made some time for your cousin?" His tone not as teasing as you'd think as he turned to look over his shoulder to her. Alia was leaning against the table that has yet to be plated with food yet.
Shrugging at his question the fellow blonde locked eyes with him. "Thought I might keep you some company with Sasha not here to do it" Speaking in a light tone she kept her gaze on him even after he turned back to the pot he always used to cook.
Niccolo didnt comment on her statement because she wasn't wrong. Whenever Sasha had the time to--she'd be right there next to him. Not only to eat but to learn his dishes he loved to make for her. Just to see her reaction of happiness every time.
Stirring the pot slowly he placed his free hand against his hip as he stared at the pot of clam soup he was making. Debating whether or not he should say anything about what he could till about her.
Like Reigh, he had gotten a good read on noticing things about Alia. Though not from a friend that reminded him of Alia but from his own father's stories about his little brother, Egon Kasper. Something he came to see that Alia was very much alike when it came to the Kasper ways.
Coming to just bite down his nerves he spoke up. "You know you can talk to me about things right?" Their relationship was rocky at first but after two years of getting to know each other--they came to find comfort in each other.
Niccolo could only hope that he'd get the same relationship when it came to his other cousin he has yet to officially meet still.
Having just been questioned and now again, Alia wanted to brush it off and be cold again. Or else she'd break and filter everything out again like she did when talking to Annie. But this was her cousin.
Her blood.
"I know" Keeping her tone soft she glanced out towards the sea. Watching as the waves came and washed over to hit the walkway of the dock. "Just somethings are better kept inside then said out loud"
The older boy didnt say anything yet as he took in her words. He already knew it wasn't because she didnt trust him but something else. And that alone frustrated him even more. It was because of Alia he had came more open in knowing these devils.
In knowing the squad he now called friends. In knowing the one girl he truly felt like he loved. Not that he's said anything to the brunette yet.
Placing a lid over the pot, he put the wooden spoon aside before he faced her fully this time. Crossing his arms over his chest as he examined her just as she looked off into the distance. "Can you at least tell me you'll lean on someone about this?"
Not wanting to push further since he had his own secrets that she respected as family--a silent agreement they had in learning more about each other. Caring for each other.
Taking a deep breath in, Alia turned her head back to him. "Yeah" She was being honest since she was helping her friend who was leaning on her in return. "But in return can you do me a favor?"
Relieved that she was talking to someone about it he nodded at her question. Confused a bit but happy to oblige to her request. "Anything" He said without a doubt as he stared at her. The expression she wore growing more serious as she walked over to him.
Pushing a finger against his chest a little hard to emphasize what she was going to say. He took it with a small grunt. "Don't break Sasha's heart" It was a simple request. One that Niccolo was already planning on doing because he'd never want to hurt Sasha.
"I didn't plan on breaking her heart but done" Lifting a hand up to grab onto hers he tugged her close before wrapping her up in a hug. Tightening his hold as he rested his chin over her shoulder.
Having been used to such affection from her friends now, Alia returned the embrace. Holding her cousin with the same tightness he had for her as she closed her eyes. Burning this moment into her head. This feeling because she had a feeling it would be her last one in awhile.
Closing his eyes in return he sunk into the hug. "I'm gonna be here for you just as much as I am for her." True to his words he slowly pulled back to look at her. Showing with his eyes alone he meant what he said.
Offering up a smile, Alia placed her hands on his shoulders. "And I am for you" Even if it may not seem like it. With those unspoken words she squeezed his shoulders. "For everyone" Finishing off her sentence she stepped to go behind him.
Grinning as she lifted up the lid of the soup he was making. "As you are when it comes to feeding such deliciousness for everyone" At that comment, Niccolo puffed up his chest feeling more cocky at the praise.
The man knew he was a good cook but he sure as hell did like the compliments.
-----
(Imagine her with a longer skirt and her hair pulled into just two pony tails with a hat that matches. Also no stripes!)
Watching her favorite trio from afar, Alia stood beside Eren as they waited for the boat to get to the docks of Marley. Leaning against the wall with him as she listened to the three's conversation from afar.
Playing with the material of her gloves at the odd sensation, she glanced away from her three knuckleheads. Her attention focused on the brunette who was seemingly more moody then ever.
Not that she blamed him because they were in enemy territory and whatever they may hear will decide if they go through their plan or not. To be honest she was in the same boat as him--literally and mentally.
"Before anything is said and done" Her words got Eren to look at her instead of the ocean. No longer in his thoughts but with her in the presence. "Maybe try asking Mikasa to runaway"
It would mean going against everything they were preparing for.
Eren knew that she knew that but he also knew she'd never say anything without reason. Especially when it came to him and their friends. "And why would I do that?" Curious for a moment, he crossed his arms over his chest.
Drawing his head back to lean against the wall he was leaning on as he waited for her answer. The blonde girl took a moment to look at Jean speficially while he scolded Connie and Sasha about something.
"It's the option that puts your and her happiness first and the one you haven't even thought of" Thinking about it now, she's thought about running away with Jean. Her friends and family she loved but Jean was her whole heart by now.
With everything that's been going on the thought crossed her mind many times. To leave everything behind and live a life that would be worth living even if it meant being a coward in a way.
But the reason why she hadn't said it until now was because she knew that Jean would have trouble in agreeing with her. Having gone through so much that he continued to go forward because he was strong.
Something she knew Mikasa would probably continue to do the same. But asking the question didn't hurt. At least in Eren's case because he was playing the card hand of something far more worse then Alia.
She may be willing to help but he was the one to be the devil. The one to take it on fully. There was only so much she could do to be a devil herself. Demon maybe but not a devil.
Taring her eyes away from her lover, she locked aways with the brunette. Their eyes staring into each other's souls. "Forget about us, the world and just live out your last years with the one you love most"
Alia wouldn't blame him if he did and she was sure the other's wouldn't either. At least after they realized the pressure Eren had been forced into all these years. "I mean it sounds like an option that's a hell of a lot better then what you think is the last one"
Instead of getting angry at the girl, Eren simply looked away from her this time. His eyes finding home to where Mikasa was standing as she stared out to the city that they were heading to. Pondering the thought of what Alia told him.
"Maybe" His answer made Alia feel a little better. So keeping their conversation there, she got up from the wall. Placing a hand over his shoulder and squeezing it lightly before she walked off. No other words needed to be said after that.
An understanding between them both being said just as Alia walked over to jump against Connie's back--startling the boy to nearly fall off the boat. Luckily Jean was fast to pull them back just as Sasha burst into laughter.
------
The moment they got on Marley grounds, Alia was laughing. The sight of her Hannie, Connie, and Sasha run after a car as if it were alive. With Jean embarrassed, he was fast to wrap his arm around her waist.
His other hand raising up to push his hat further into his face. "Act like you dont know them" And being his lover she followed his command easily. Giggling as she raised her hand up to cover her mouth.
"They never cease to crack me up" Walking along side him she walked over to the food venders with Jean. The pair still within eyesight of the group as they curiously looked at the stuff they've never seen.
Instead of responding her, Jean politely asked the worker for some of whatever it was. Thanking the worker he glanced back to the blonde who was already eyeing the food he held. "Here you go"
Holding it out to her he couldn't help but smile as he watched her take it happily. Her eyes brightening with life as she took a bite of the item. "It's so warm!" The blonde squealed out as she bit into the bread.
A filling spilling out from the thing before she took another bite. The scene of her enjoying such goodness had Jean smiling more. It was the first time since their wedding he was seeing her so happy and content.
Biting into his own bread, he did the same as her. Humming at the taste as he looked back to see Ponpon to be bringing back the three idiots. The couple's moment coming to a fast end as Sasha went over to the vender by them.
Her reaction to such coldness had Connie wanting to taste. Walking together towards the two, Alia watched with curiosity as her childhood friend took a nip of the creamy thing Sasha was holding.
The brunette girl holding it out to her twin as he gasped at the taste and feeling. "What is this stuff made of?!" Connie shouted out. Both of their reactions had Jean wanting some as well. Letting Alia go he quickly came beside Sasha to order as well.
"I'd like one too! Please sir!" Asking a lot more eager then he had before. "Me too!" Connie shouted right after since Sasha was devouring hers already. Alia stood behind the three with an even wider smile.
Eating the warm sweet she still had as she watched. It didnt help that Jean was holding out his ice cream to show Armin and Mikasa excitedly. Finding herself curiously looking to find the one person who wasn't eager to try things--she looked to see Eren stuck in his thoughts again.
Deciding better that Mikasa to talk to him this time, the blonde stood alone for a few minutes to enjoy her dessert. Watching her friends still growing excited to try more of such things they haven't had before.
Alia knew that moments like this wouldn't be around as much anymore so she simply watched. Locking it into her mind to remember as she did with all her precious memories.
The hallways were dim as Alia walked behind Marco and Hitch. The newly found couple was always around each other these days that it came to no surprise for the sweet boy to switch over regiments.
Going into the MP regiment as he originally planned back in their training days. Though it wasn't just because of Hitch but because of his missing arm. With more and more labor happening it was hard for him to keep up.
Not that anyone was mad at his decision because all the squad wanted for him was to be happy. Even if it meant a crying Hange since Marco had been in their squad leaving themselves and Moblit to be the remaining original of their squad.
"So" Alia spoke up as they continued their way deeper into the seemingly dungeon of the prison they had underground. "How's the Military Police treating you?" The blonde asked pointing her question to her friend she hadnt seen as much anymore.
Marco smiled sweetly as ever as he gave Hitch a glance--the girl reddening slightly as she stared away from him. Hitch was still getting used to having him around a lot to the point that they were always next to each other.
Of course following their professional side of not doing anything out of line but then again, Marco wasn't as innocent as he seemed. That much was clear.
"It's not bad" The boy answered in a gentle tone as he finally turned to the still fairly new, Alia Kirschtein. "Not as powerhouse as it was before either so that's a win" He continued on. Not explaining too much of what he did.
Nothing but the fact that he was doing better and wasn't in much pain since he wasn't doing physical labor anymore. "Im glad" Alia cooed out as she moved up to walk closer to the couple.
Pushing her hands to grab them both as she offered them a grin. "Do tell me if you start popping any nieces or nephews for me" It was just a joke since the couple had only been going out for a couple of months now.
Yet that didnt stop her from knowing that they were doing more then good seeing how much happier they were whenever they were around each other.
Marco offered her a chuckle as he narrowed his eyes at her. "I think that's more your job then ours right now" Returning the tease in kind he squeezed her hand lightly. Hitch would've snapped back at Alia if Marco hadn't said anything.
But since he did, the girl grinned. Leaning into Alia's side as she pulled the blonde's arm into her chest. "Yeah" Joining in on the teasing this time she lightly dug her chin into Alia's shoulder. "Pop a few out and be sure to name one of them after me wont you?"
Although Hitch wasn't as close to her as Mikasa and Sasha was--the pair of girls had became good friends. Not just from talking about Annie and to the frozen girl but on life all together.
They were so different and yet worked so well as friends that such teasing was normal for them. Alia just rolled her eyes at the couple, thankful that they made it to their destination. Pulling away from them in an instant she turned to face them.
Walking backwards to the closed room as she gave them a mocking wave of her finger. "Don't go kissing to much while I talk to our friend" Ignoring their teasing she gave them a pointed stare before smirking when Marco responded in kind.
"Knock three times before you come back out and you won't see anything you dont want to" The sweet boy returned the smirk even as Hitch smacked his chest. Blushing red as she now scolded him.
Leaving the lovely couple alone, Alia turned back around and entered the room she was wanting to go into. The last time she came here had been before she got married or even before the ball. So there was a lot of catching up to do.
For one side of it at least.
Upon entering the room she was met with the same crystal that held none other then Annie. Unlike the others, it had been only Armin and herself that came to talk to the once traitor. Even if they didnt know if the blonde could hear them or not.
Hitch had talked to Annie as well whenever she had the time to but everyone else? There was still a distance for them to be able to come here at all. Like they couldn't forgive her for what she had done.
It was a surprise that Marco had even agreed to coming with Hitch to take Alia here. Then again the sweet boy had came to an understanding. His near death experience being something he couldn't ever get over.
But at least now he knew why the three traitors had done it. And that was enough for him to come to terms to them. Not like he could even do anything in return as vengeances. One was stuck in a large crystal ball, another dead, and the last one far from the island.
Not that Marco would ever want to get his revenge anyway.
"Hey Annie" Greeting the frozen girl as always, Alia took a moment to settle on her knees. Sitting in front of the crystal that Annie was stuck in. "Been awhile since I last saw you--sorry about that"
Staring up to her old friend, she locked eyes onto Annie's face. The expression the girl last had was sadden from what Jean told her but right now it seemed peaceful somehow. "But I came to update you on big news"
Alia's tone picked up in happiness as she grabbed onto the chain she was wearing. Pulling it out from under her shirt she raised her chin to show the ring more better. "Not just an engagement but Jean and I actually got married."
Imagining the way Annie would react--emotionless maybe or blunt of how she already saw this happening from a mile away. The thought made Alia smile as she let go of her chain to let the ring rest over her shirt this time.
"The ceremony was small but we're going to have another one with our families" The blonde girl placed her hands onto her lap lightly. Rubbing the palm of her hands over her thighs to ease her saddening thoughts.
"Maybe..." Looking up from her hands she looked up to Annie again. "Maybe when that time comes you can be there and be in my wedding huh?" It was a wishful thought. Not because of the fact Annie was in crystal.
But because if the blonde ever came out it wasn't as though she could walk around freely on their island. Or even be allowed to continue living after everything she did years ago. Thinking about it now, Alia couldn't help but seeing herself now doing what Annie did.
Not exactly the same but simply doing whatever she had to do for her people. For her family.
Since she was always by Eren in his side of what they should do from what he saw--not that he told her everything but enough for her to know more then everyone else they knew. Alia had a feeling that the happiness she's been experiencing wont last long.
Not with how things were going.
Dropping her gaze to Annie's feet the happiness she had in revealing her marriage washed away. "hey Annie" Alia's tone was softer now. Scared to be revealing this but it was better then keeping it inside all the time.
Hiding it away from everyone while at the same time constantly telling the one person who came to her that she'd be there--she needed to tell someone. So why not tell the one person she knew who wouldn't be able to tell anyone else.
"I don't know when but I have a feeling I wont be seeing you for a long time" Not wanting to reveal everything she curled her knees into her chest. Sitting on the ground completely as she curled into a ball for comfort. "But do me a favor and take care of the others for me?"
It was a stupid plead but Alia wanted to ask someone to do it since she wouldn't be able to herself. Slowly lifting her head enough to look at the frozen girl , her vision blurring as she started to tear up.
An ache in her chest growing by the second as she got stuck in her thoughts. "What Im gonna do may hurt them but it's all for them. For everyone here." Alia blinked letting her tears fall easily that she didnt even wipe it away.
"And most of all, for Eren so he won't be doing this alone" Whispering away she confessed to the frozen friend that could do nothing but listen. No matter how much Annie wanted to answer back--to be let free and hold the girl that she came to understand.
That she came to respect--to hold Alia like she had done back then when she first was caught seeing Marco. And yet Annie couldn't do anything but just listen to Alia cry. While in turn Alia knew nothing of Annie's thoughts.
Too much stuck within her own as she let out her fears she had been holding. This was her one release she would give herself because when the time comes--she wouldn't back out. Not when Eren was relying on her so much.
----
The heat was scorching that Alia didnt know how they were still working at this point. Wiping away her sweat from her forehead, the blonde carried a couple of iron rods. Following behind Mikasa easily since they were the only ones that could lift so many at once.
All while Eren, Connie, and Jean were pounding down the nails to make the track. Connie and Jean was talking amongst each other as they worked on the same wooden paddle. With Sasha running around with the only water barrel they had.
Ready to drink it all herself that Armin was fast to chase after her. The sight made Alia groan now placing down the iron rods. "Sasha! Quit hogging the damn water!" Her shout doing nothing to stop the brunette in actually chugging the water down.
Armin was on his knees right behind the girl as he breathed heavily to catch his breath at his fail attempt in stopping her. Before Alia could even make her way to the pair a familiar shout made her turn in the opposite direction.
"Hey!" The sight of two incoming horses made everyone in the group to look in their direction. And of course it was none other then, Hange and Levi coming towards them. Coming to a stop of their work the squad huddled together.
Coming in close just as their higher ups got off their horses and came to them for a small break. "Phew! It cant be easy, working your butts off when it's this hot out!" Hange exclaimed in a tired tone. Sweating buckets themselves with their uniform.
Alia leaned in to rest her elbows on both Eren's and Jean's shoulders as she chuckled at her Hannie's statement. In doing so, Jean had to lean down slightly to continue letting the girl lean against him and Eren both.
"Yeah, well" Speaking up Jean, nodded his head to Eren. "We have to be here to watch over this moron, right?" In turn the brunette just scoffed as he glanced at Alia for help but all she did was grin at him.
Jean wasn't wrong. Eren snarled again as he pulled his shoulder away from her to make her stumble a bit. Which of course her lover was fast to grab onto her waist to ground her. That didn't stop Alia from getting her revenge.
Kicking out she pushed her foot right in the back of Eren's knee causing him to stumble this time. His luck matching Alia's because Mikasa was already catching him. Their small interaction going unnoticed as Levi's voice brought everyone's attention to him.
"You brats got taller. It's like you're sprouting up just to spite me" The comment made Sasha actually snort in laughter. Armin not far behind her as he covered his mouth to try and hide it. Connie was stiff as a bored because Levi was staring at him when saying it.
He would've laughed to but he didnt want to chance getting hit by his deadly captain. Jean snickered quietly just as Alia actually let out a laugh herself. "You sure you aint just shrinking captain?"
At that teasing question, Hange laughed and in a chain reaction made everyone burst into laughter. Everyone but Levi as his glare harden. The short man was scary but over the years of being on his squad--they all had became close to him.
With a stuck up his ass or not he was fun to tease just because of his reactions. And as annoying as it was for Levi, being around such brats was nice. Though he would never admit it.
"Watch your mouth Kirschtein--or else your ass is grass" Levi muttered in warning that only made the group laugh even more. Their moment of happiness being short but something worth remembering as always.
------
The sun was setting and it was finally time for them to head back. Thankfully with their newly made tracks they could just use the engine of a small built train and ride in the wagon of it. Hence why Armin was in the front fueling the engine.
Everyone else was in the wagon sitting on small boxes. Sasha and Mikasa had their backs facing Armin. Jean and Connie on either side of the wagon facing each other. And finally Alia and Eren sitting across from the girls, facing Armin.
Alia was leaning back more then the others, het feet resting over Jean's lap as she stared up to the sky. The news that Hizuru wasn't going to help them was a harsh pill to swallow but the plan they had now didn't sound so bad.
To show the outside world about them and actually go over seas sounded exciting and entertaining even if it was a mission.
"So the plan is to infiltrate Marley and set up a base there, huh?" Breaking the silence, as always Jean took charge. Bringing one of his hands to grasp onto Alia's leg, his thumb rubbing over the revealed skin of her ankle.
Continuing on the conversation, Sasha spoke up. "I like it" She gushed softly as she looked over to Jean and then the others. "Hange has a plan for everything, am i right?" The brunette girl grasped her hands together.
"It's exciting. We'll all get to chow down on food from a distant land." Alia didn't look away from the sky as she shook her head. "your hunger is showing" Her small comment was only heard by Eren.
Said brunette was trying to hide his grin by biting down on his lip just as Connie was commenting in agreement at her words. The twin's small interaction was clear that they hadn't really listened to Hange's plan at all.
They were treating their mission as if they were going on a trip.
"If we can just find a way to convince the world that all we want is peace, maybe our situation will change" Armin spoke up from the front--quietening down the twins as he stared out to the sun in front of him.
His words optimistic as ever though the silence that came after to the group didn't make it sound all that believable. Watching as the clouds go by, Alia crossed her arms over her chest. Pondering at the thought if that would really work.
If it did then she and Eren wouldn't be doing all these sneaking around in making sure they had different options.
Snapping out of her thoughts she glanced to the said brunette who broke the silence this time. "If we only had a little more time left. My time will be up in just over five years." Eren looked up from his lap--giving Alia a small glance before he looked to the others.
"We need to make a decision soon." His words clear as he spoke to his friends. "About who to give my titan to" At the mention of that, Alia sat up. Holding the edge of the box she was sitting on with both hands.
Her feet still on Jean's lap as she stayed quiet. The pair had already chosen who would be given his titan next but that plan was to themselves.
After a beat of silence, Mikasa was the one to say something. "I think it should be me" But within an second Jean shot down her statement. "No. Not an option." Staring at the girl he used to like he raised his hand up.
His ring clear as day on his finger. Since they were no longer hiding the fact they were married--he was wearing it as it should be. The way he wanted to which he didnt force on Alia since she still wore hers on her chain.
"We dont even know if Ackermans are able to turn into titans" His defense clear on why he shot down that idea. "And even if you could, Hizuru would be furious about it. You're their long lost heir, remember?" Yet another reason why it wasn't a good idea for Mikasa to take it.
Alia hummed in agreement as she nodded--not speaking up yet as she tilted her head to rest over Eren's shoulder. "It cant be you for more reasons than I can count" Jean finished off his agrument easily.
In turn the black haired girl looked at him with a fallen expression of being shot down so easily. "Alright then, who do you think it should be?" Pointing his thumb to himself, Jean answered in seconds. "This guy"
The group went quiet as they listened to his reasons why. "first of all, Im a whole lot smarter than Eren. We'd replace this suicidal maniac with a gifted leader who shows good judgment in all situations. A rare specimen who can perform whatever duty is required" All of which were good reasonings.
Yet the thought of Jean taking over as titan holder made Alia make a face. Hiding the fact that she was she looked up to Eren since he still wasn't saying anything. He in return offered her up a shrug as they let their friends talk it out.
"I dont much like getting his hand-me-downs," Jean turned to look at the pair who was already glancing back to the others. "but hey, Im the best candidate we've got." Finishing up his statement, he rubbed his hand up and down Alia's leg.
A silent comfort for her since he knew he wouldn't like the idea if it was her saying what he was. Alia just turned her foot into his side as a small affection back to him before Connie spoke up. "Sure, expect we cant afford to lose someone that valuable after just 13 years, moron"
The name calling made Jean raise his chin. "ha?" Connie didnt back down though as he gave his good friend a serious look. "You should aim to become the regiment's next commander." A clear sign that he and everyone else on their squad believed of Jean's leadership skills.
"I'll inherit Eren's titan myself" And then his next statement just made it worse. Alia snorted softly at the thought of her best friend taking the titan. Like she'd ever trust him with that much worth.
He was smart and quick on his feet but taking such a responsibility would be too much for him to bare alone. Connie ignored the snort as he continued on his sentence. "Yeah. That should work, right?"
Before Eren could even answer, Sasha was already speaking up. "No that wont work at all. You're way too much of an idiot" The bluntness in her words actually made Alia giggle just as her childhood friend turned to Sasha confused. "Eh?"
"Use your head, Connie. This is a really important duty" Sasha continued "We can't entrust it to someone who's slow, like you" The brunette girl continued to insult her twin. "huh?" Connie said again as his eyes widen at her words.
Sighing, Sasha rubbed her head lightly. "Ya really get my goat sometimes." Staring straight at Eren she spoke with confidence. "I'll inherit it, okay? Im an experienced veteran, and I've proven that im someone can rely on. By process of elimination you've gotta use me"
"Wrong." Finally Alia said something. Bringing everyone's eyes on her as she raised her hand up. "From the very get go--It should be me as the inheritor" Raising a finger she started to count out the reasons why.
"I am the best option out of all of us. From experience, lack of needed time to be a soldier, and from smartness of not being an idiot." Alia grinned as she sat up proudly. Connie and Sasha were the first to scoff.
Shaking their heads in disagreement. "Like hell you are!" Connie snipped at his childhood friend. "You are the most needed soldier! what the hell are you saying?!" Sasha bit right out after.
Jean grabbed onto her leg a little tighter as he stared at her. He didnt say anything since she hadnt for him when he was saying why he should take it but he was showing through his actions that he didnt like the idea.
Mikasa and Armin had nothing to say either because Alia was right. To an extent.
Before the argument could go any further, Eren shut them up by finally talking. "im not planning on handing it down to any of you" He of course glanced towards Alia. Giving it to her was their very last option they'd go for.
The last of last that Eren made it that way because he didnt want to give it to her. "Why not?" Asking the question everyone was thinking, Jean stared at the brunette who had the board.
"Because you're important to me. More then anyone else. " His answer wasn't what anyone expected--such words were never truly said between each other now in days. Almost like how the Kasper family used to be but their squad--their made family was more open to interacting to each other.
Just not enough to be able to say that so openly.
"I hope you'll live long lives." Finishing off his thought, the group went silent. Reddening one by one as they stared away from each other for a moment. Alia leaned into Eren's side, wrapping an arm around his shoulders.
Since she was able to see this side of him more then the others, she was glad to see him be able to say it out loud to the others. And after a moment of silence, Jean finally got the courage to look at Eren.
The sight of Eren's red face and Alia poking his redden cheek with a grin made him snap. "Ha? Hold on! What are you turning red for?! The hell kind of mood are you trying to set here?!" That got everyone to stare right at him.
Alia's smile widen as she shook Eren lightly. "Come on Jean! Its just the lightening of the sun!" Covering for the brunette she leaned back again. Dropping her head against the wagon as she stared up to the sky. Their moment settling in as everyone went quiet again.
They were all important to each other whether they said it out loud or not. They knew that and it was why they were all trying so hard to make sure they'd be happy. With whatever time they had left in this world.
Alia and Jean hadn't said anything about their engagement. At least for the time being because there was so much they had to do before they could even think about having a ceremony for a wedding.
It wasn't just work they had to deal with but a small talent show that was being held at the camp of volunteers. Although there is still tension with other sections of their military, with the scouts it was friendly enough to have such things.
Not only to drink and enjoy something for once but in a way to give back for not being able to join the ball that happened. In doing so, the couple thought it was better to just keep their engagement a secret for now.
Hence why Alia was wearing her ring on a chain around her neck--much like how Jean was doing the same with his. The blonde girl was currently learning from Reigh more about medical stuff that she had knowledge of.
The pair was still preparing for the talent show but multitasking. Alia had wanted to know about the medical field because there was so much their island didn't know were possible in saving that Marley knew.
That was until Reigh placed down a box of trinkets on the table for others to use for this talent show. The lighter blonde girl turned to Alia who was right behind her doing the same thing with a different box.
"So" Reigh turned around to lean her back against the table, crossing her arms over her chest as she glanced down to hidden chain around Alia's neck. "When's the wedding?" So much for secrets.
Alia didnt say anything as she moved to sit beside the girl she has come to know over the year and a month. Watching as others of both Marlen soldiers and Eldians combined set up for this small show.
Deciding best to answer honestly she shrugged. "Dont know but when the talent show happens...is when we'll announce it to everyone" Reigh hummed, smiling softly at the thought of how the couple would reveal it.
"maybe you guys can have it right after the show" Putting up the idea the light blonde looked over to Alia again. Already having a feeling that she wasn't one for big wedding in any way. "Have the ceremony small now and do another one with your families another time"
The idea of doing it that way never crossed Alia's mind but thinking about it now it would be nice to get over the official wedding and have another one with their families when they had free time.
Not only with their families but with all their friends that included Historia. Pondering the thought, Alia chuckled. "You just telling me that so you can see it happen?" She was just teasing of course.
Reigh let out her own chuckle as she raised her hands up in defense. "You caught me--" She playfully waved her hands as if she had truly been caught. The movement made both girls giggle as they went back to just leaning against the table relaxed.
"But i heard from a little birdy that they got themselves a certificate to pass over weddings for this specifically" At those words, Alia raised a brow at Reigh. Hinting for the girl to continue on what she meant exactly.
Because she herself didnt know who she was talking about. Reigh found herself smiling a little more as she glossed her eyes over the familiar faces she knew. Trying to find who she was talking about before her eyes landed to the person right beside Jean.
"Why who else but Marco" Reigh revealed with a grin as she watched Alia's face change into one of a shocked one. "The one person who's been rooting for your relationship from the very beginning from what i hear"
Alia didnt say anything back as she stared at her dear friend--the sweet boy was unaware of the stare as he joked with Jean. Laughing as her lover made a face to complain. The blonde knew that Marco has always supported them.
But to actually do something as actually being allowed to pass over weddings just to make sure they would get married at any time took her back. Marco always just wanted happiness for his friends.
And clearly he was going to do anything and everything to make that happen even if it was being a sly fox in doing so.
Taking the silence with a grain of rice, Reigh actually laughed because she knew there and then that Alia was going to go through with it. Not because she had offered the idea but because Alia wanted to marry Jean.
The sooner the better.
-----
The talent show was fun and still on going. It wasn't just Eldians preforming but Marley soldiers as well. Though with the next act coming on, it was the first one of both sides doing it together. It was surprising but not surprising at the same time when everyone watched who was going on.
(Performed by Sasha and Niccolo; but no marriage question)
It was no surprise for the Levi squad to be sitting together. All on one table near the stage because more then half of them had performances to do after but still they wanted to watch the others.
Connie was at the edge of the table cheering the loudest at his twin's song. Practically standing on his seat as he clapped. "Let's go Sash!" He shouted between his loud claps. Marco of course was right beside him, holding his waist to keep him from falling.
The sweet boy was cheering as well but after Connie stood up he was fast to scold his friend. "Connie, you're gonna fall!" He warned out in a worried tone. Although he enjoyed seeing his friends get their needed consequences sometimes--he didnt want them to get hurt.
Armin and Mikasa was behind them across the table, clapping much more quietly then Connie. They had smiles on their faces that were so wide their cheeks were probably hurting. The black haired girl turned to Eren who was right beside her.
"That was cute right?" Her tone soft as she leaned in closer to the brunette to hear his response between the cheers. Eren let out a small chuckle as he leaned into the table, not bothered by her closeness.
If anything he was enjoying it with the way his face was reddening slightly at the feeling of her breath against his cheek. "It was cute but more funny" He hummed out agreeing with her words but still taking the chance to make fun of his friends.
Something he didnt as often as he used to but the fact that he was doing it now made it clear he was just in the moment. Enjoying it.
Levi sat on the other end of the table, scoffing as he leaned into the palm of his hand. He was trying to make it seem he wasn't enjoying it but the little curl of his lips showed he found it entertaining.
Seeing everyone let loose for once.
Bringing his cup of tea up, he sipped it lightly. His little grin not going past Hange who was beside him. "You should clap already for them" They teased out lightly only to get a glare in return.
"Im serious" Hange grinned despite the glare they were more then used to. Moblit, who was next to them just sighed at the small banter. Turning his head back to the stage he watched as Sasha and Niccolo bowed.
The cheers still on going from the small love song they shared. Alia and Jean were next to each other of course. With Jean beside Marco but instead of helping his best friend he was staring at the blonde.
She was smiling softly as she stared at her cousin and best (girl) friend together on the stage. Sasha by now had jumped into Niccolo's arms to be carried off the stage. Throwing kisses to the crowd happily.
"You seem happy" The lighter brunette boy muttered as he leaned down to her. Wrapping his arm around her shoulders to bring her in close. Alia looked up to him in return as she easily wrapped her arms around his waist.
Her eyes filled with nothing but happiness right now. "Because everyone else is happy" She cooed out as she turned her head to see Reigh walking over to their table to grab Connie. It was almost their time to go on stage too then.
Jean followed her gaze with a raised eyebrow, seeing how fast Connie got down to follow Reigh quickly. Bursting with excitement to show the others what he had planned as well. "Everyone is just gonna get more happy tonight"
Alia hummed in agreement at Jean's statement. Things were just going to get even more happier.
(Performed by Connie and Reigh)
It was Sasha's turn to cheer loudly for her twin, though she wasn't standing on her seat. Instead she was standing on top of the table. Practically jumping up and down as she screamed on the top of her lungs.
"That's my twin! My twin!!!" Her voice cracked as she waved her hands around in the air. Instead of Marco trying to settle her down it was Niccolo. The blonde was holding onto her waist as he lifted her up and actually carried her down to the ground.
With both hands on her waist he looked down at her as she took breaths to calm down from her screaming. "Sasha, dear, you can cheer from right here" His voice soft and tired but still wanting to support her he held her still.
"Yeah im not even going to try" Marco mumbled out as he glanced away from the pair. The sweet boy was now looking around the table to see everyone else. Their reactions similar to when Sasha performed.
Though they were more in awe and surprise because no one was expecting for this pair to be doing a number. Seeing how no one really saw the pair hang out together. But then again Connie was sneaky when everyone else was busy with their pair.
Getting up from their spots, Jean and Alia made their way over to the back of the stage. The crowd still cheering for Connie and Reigh that the two hadn't even walked off the stage yet. "Did you know about them two?"
It was Jean's turn to ask about a relationship much how Alia did for Marco and Hitch during the ball. Being cheeky as ever, Alia just let out a small laugh. Responding to him in the same exact way he did for her.
"Whatever do you mean my love" Holding his hand into her own, the blonde looked back to him as they got to entrance side of the stage. Just in time for Connie and Reigh to be walking off of it with wide smiles.
Jean just smiled down at her as he got his answer. Finding her answer well deserved he grasped onto her face with one hand. Yelena currently calling out their names to greet them of who was coming up next.
Brushing his thumb over her cheek lightly he leaned down to place a kiss over her lips softly. "You ready?" He murmured against her lips softly as he leaned back just enough to look into her eyes.
Alia returned the smile, leaning into his hand as she answered him again. This time in a softer and loving tone. "With you? Always" Giving one another one last kiss they pulled away and walked onto the stage to perform.
(Performed by Alia and Jean)
Unlike how the crowd had cheered for the others, everyone was quiet as they stared in wonderment. All because the song had the words of marriage inside and the ending pose with Jean on his knee.
One of his hands resting over his chest while the other was holding onto Alia's. His eyes never leaving hers as she stared down at him. Both of them seemingly breathless from the dance.
It was just them right now as they stared at each other. That was until, Marco let out a shout. "You're engaged!" The moment clicking in his head as he remembered the necklace they both started wearing.
Snapping the couple out their daze they turned to look at the table together. The others by now hadnt been in shock as they thought about the news as well. Reacting together they shouted as well.
Sasha was pointing at them as she squealed. Jumping up and down once again with Niccolo following her movement since he was holding onto her. Connie was shaking the closest person to him which was Marco.
Reigh had stepped away since she sensed Connie's movement though her smile never went away as she watched Alia and Jean. Armin had stood up from his seat as he raised his hands up to his reddening face.
His friends were going to get married.
Mikasa was blinking slowly as she took in the information before turning to Eren. The brunette was smiling so wide but kept it hidden with his hand. He was beyond happy knowing they were going to get married.
Knowing they were going to be happy and that was what matter right now.
Hange of course was running around too excited to maintain it seeing how their niece was going to get married. Moblit didnt even bother to stop them as he was chuckling at all the reactions. Leaving Levi to sit there beside his fellow veteran.
An actual smile pinched over his face as he stared at the once kids he knew be actual adults. Marriage. Something he's never thought about but seeing now was a sight he liked. Happiness.
By then the crowd was all cheering loudly now--such news needed to be celebrated even as the talent show was going to go on. Amongst the cheers, Jean looked back to his fiancé who was already staring right back him.
Her eyes brimming with love. "Let's get married now" Leaning down to hold his face she spoke to him. "Right now while we have everyone here" Those words alone made Jean's chest ache with love.
"And your brother? My mom?" He mumbled out as he stood up from his knee. Alia just smiled at him. "We can have another one with them...but let's do it now" Cupping his face lightly she licked her lips as she explained to him why she was so eager.
"i dont think I can wait any longer seeing how happy everyone is at the news" Jean didnt see why he could refuse. Not when he was just as eager to marry her as well. Their family could share another ceremony another time.
But here and now with a small one with their friends--that just felt right. "Alright" Agreeing to her words he nodded. "let's get married right now"
----
It wasnt until after the talent show ended did the couple tell the others what they wanted to do. And with the news they were fast to make it happen despite how late it was. And instead of being right on the dock they made it was at the beach.
Surprisingly everyone wanted to be there on both sides of Marley soldiers and Eldians. And with the limited amount of time given to them the set up was still beautiful with how the moon looks against the water.
On either side was a mix of Marley soldiers and Eldians. Making a walkway for Alia to come down when the time came. While Jean stood by the water with Marco being the one to officiate the wedding.
Eren was behind Jean as the best man--seeing how he was Jean's other best friend. Sasha was behind Eren and then Armin. Leaving Connie as his maid of honor, Mikasa behind him, and to make it even Moblit was behind Mikasa.
They hadnt walked down the aisle as normal bridesmaids would but it was a given seeing how two out of three of them were men.
Standing at the other end of the aisle, Alia stood between Levi and Hange. Something that was a given on Hange's part but still a surprise for Levi.
30 Minutes Ago
While everyone was getting the ceremony started, Alia grabbed onto Hange and Levi both to stop them. The blonde girl was confident as she held each of their hands into her own. "I wanted to ask you both something"
Hange although excited, went silent as they looked over to Levi who was in the same boat. the short captain took charge in speaking for them both. "What's wrong? Thinking about stopping the wedding now?"
His harsh but blunt words received a smack from Hange against his arm. Alia didnt find it offensive as she chuckled. Shaking her head lightly she held onto their hands a little tighter. "No it's not that"
She hummed as she brought their attention back to her instead of bantering between each other. "I want you two both to walk me down the aisle" Now that made Levi's eyes widen in shock.
Hange started to grin, turning their head to stare at their long time friend who was rarely taken by surprise. "You hear that? She wants the both of us to walk her down" It was a light tease that made Levi pinch their side.
They winced as they pouted at the returned attack. "You sure you want us both?" Levi spoke up wanting to be sure he heard his subordinate correctly. Alia smiled at his words of being wary. That if she was truly sure about what she wanted.
He was mean sometimes but always caring in his own way. It made Alia want him by her side in this moment even more.
"I am sure" She cooed out as she glanced towards the direction where the crowd was settling in. "I wouldn't want it any other way sir" Keeping his title up she turned back to the pair she was asking to walk with her.
In response, Levi tightened his hand around her own. "It's your wedding. Dont call me that right now" Just as fast his soft side was pushed away as he scolded her. Hange rolled their eyes now snickering.
"And what should my niece call you tonight?" Their question meant as a tease and joke but Levi took it lightly as he kept his gaze on the blonde girl in front of him. "Levi. Just Levi for tonight." His tone softer again.
"It's your night after all" Ending the conversation there, Alia hummed in response. "Well then...Levi, Hannie, will you walk me down the aisle?" And for once in sync the older veterans spoke together to answer her. "Of course"
Present
(Play the music up top)
The three walked down the sand together as the music played softly and live. Everyone's eyes were watching them. Even if they weren't dressed correctly it was still a beautiful sight to see. Levi and Hange standing on either side of Alia.
Her arms linked with theirs the whole time but her eyes never leaving Jean's the moment they locked onto each other. The stir in her chest coming to live more then ever. It was really happening.
Meeting him at the end, Hange and Levi moved to stand beside Reigh and Niccolo who was in the front row. Letting Alia and Jean join hands together as they came to settle in front of Marco.
Time seemed to fly by as Marco spoke the words needed to be said. Waiting until the very last moment of when the couple needed to say their vows. And with no time to truly think about it the pair spoke what was on their mind.
Jean had gone first. "Words can not describe the way I feel about you in all it's worth" He squeezed her hands lightly. "And when the day comes where we do this better and with our families...I'll tell you better then this" Alia just offered him a small chuckle as she returned the squeeze.
A silent way for him to continue their short vows. "But one thing i know is....𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐫𝐨𝐫𝐬 𝐨𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝...𝐥𝐨𝐨𝐤𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐨 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐞𝐲𝐞𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐤𝐞𝐬 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐡 𝐢𝐭. You make it all worth it."
Alia took a deep breath in as she tried not to cry right now. Her eyes watering up as Marco spoke up for her to say her own vows now. The sounds of the waves crashing lightly to their feet being the only thing heard.
That was until the blonde spoke her piece. "𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐚𝐫𝐞 𝐮𝐧𝐛𝐞𝐥𝐢𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐛𝐥𝐞 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐭𝐡𝐚𝐭?" Starting off playfully she got a few laughs from everyone. Even Jean as he gave her grin. "But that thing about you always had me curious of you"
Bringing his hands up to her face she placed a soft kiss over his knuckles. "Everything about you made me want more...not only for comfort and love but because you were a creature I can always find myself needing to know more of"
Speaking against his hands she never let her eyes stary from him as he took a breath in to calm himself like she had done. "Someone that I will always want to be with" Burying her nose into his hands she placed another kiss before she held his hands between them again.
"Please continue to be with me...from afar or close...and know that im always with you.." Choosing her words lightly she ended her vows. And with that Marco spoke up again. His smile wide and bright.
Holding his hands over his chest he spoke with pride and happiness for his friends. "you may now kiss the bride"
Not needing any other green light--the couple leaned in and kissed.
"I heard the meeting between Hizuru didn't go well" The now 20 year old Alia, glanced towards the one friend that came to her for everything in his head. They were sitting in one of the rooms of the palace to be alone.
The others were currently preparing for the ballroom party that was being set to welcome that Hizuru foreigners. It was a set party that was going to happen whether the meeting went well or not. To show the outside world they were no monsters.
Eren leaned back into the couch he was on even more, dropping his head back into the cushions. His thoughts muddled as he took a moment to explain to her what exactly had gone unwell during the meeting.
Alia was leaning against the ledge of the window slit. Both of her hands resting on either side of her as she kept her gaze on the boy she's come to listen and follow with anything he had in mind.
Their goal was simple. To protect everyone that was dear to them no matter what they had to do. It hadn't changed not even with the plans they were going along with that Zeke had set.
"It's not even the threatening of the rumbling that got to me" Finally speaking up, Eren turned his head to look at the girl. His cheek resting against the couch as he clenched his hands together on his lap.
His tone was full of tiredness as he started to explain. "It was the fact that Historia would have to breed children--not one but multiple." His own words were making his hands grip harder on each other.
The blonde girl hummed not liking the idea either but she kept her feelings at bay. Dropping her head back against the window behind her as she thought about what their next move should be.
They didnt have enough cards in hand yet to actually make a different move that was away from Zeke's plan. Nothing besides waiting on time again despite their needed time growing little and little by the months.
And it wasn't as though she had to say that out loud because it was the thing they had been already doing for over the last year. Waiting. Watching for a new option to come to them and still act as they are for this plan.
Closing her eyes the girl took a deep breath in before she got up from her spot. Her movement doing nothing to make Eren move beside watch her. Waiting until she got close and eventually sat down beside him.
Placing a hand over his knee she looked at him with a certain glint. "How about we just enjoy the time we have while we wait" Alia truly was on his side for whatever he'd have plan but with nothing to do but wait.
She always told him the same thing. To enjoy the time they were going to be waiting on. And every time even now, Eren sighed at her words. Raising his hand up he went to cover his face because he didnt want to wait.
It was tiring to wait so much.
Though before he could cover his face fully--Alia grabbed onto his hand. Pulling it down to rest on her lap as she pulled his eyes onto her again. "Im serious" The blonde kept her eyes soft as she traced her thumb over his hand.
Much like how she used to do when comforting her younger brother when he got too overwhelmed. Ignaz. Their once unaffectionate family now filling with nothing but affection because they were two of them left.
In their immediate family at least. "Take a breather and actually enjoy yourself" Alia tilted her head slightly as she gave him a slowly growing grin. "Give Mikasa a dance or two tonight" Despite being emotionless for most things at the mention of the girl, Eren couldn't help but redden.
"What are you on about now" Gruff he grumbled out to the girl he came to trust more then anyone these days. Tugging his hand away he actually did cover his lower face but only because she let him.
Alia rolled her eyes, now standing up from the couch as she slapped his thigh. The brunette was fast to wince as he glared up at her. Rubbing his thigh at the stinging of her slap. "She just found out she's some princess of another country. Support her tonight but actually paying attention to her."
Just when Eren was going to open his mouth to say he does pay attention--Alia glared down at him. "not that from afar crap--both of you need to actually have fun. I mean it." Pointing at him much like a mother does scolding her child she walked towards the door.
"Because of today's meeting it feels like there's a stick up your asses even more then usual" Grabbing onto the handle of the door the blonde glanced back to Eren. He was staring at her with an annoyed but soft expression.
Her words were getting through him despite the teasing. Like usual. "Just be happy while you can be" No longer teasing, Alia gave him a sadden look. "Cause who knows if we're ever gonna be able to these days"
Their lives werent as life or death without any titans but with the whole world against them--was their happiness really a given for them. To last forever? Offering up a nod the brunette stayed in his seat on the couch.
Their conversation small but as understanding as ever. Alia nodded back before opening the door and leaving the room. Closing the door behind her she walked towards the direction where she knew where her girl friends were at least.
They had a ball to get ready for still.
-------
"It's weird be getting ready without Historia and Mikasa" Sasha was soft spoken for once as she sat still in front of Alia to let the girl do her hair since she already done hers. Brushing away the knots of the brunette's hair, the blonde girl looked up.
Staring at Sasha through the mirror they had. "I get what you mean" She hummed in agreement. The last time they had such a ball they had all gotten ready together but with the time having gone by it was no surprise they weren't getting ready as one.
Historia had been queen for over two years now and was used to being dressed alone like this. While Mikasa wasnt with them because the Hizuru group wanted to dress her in traditional Hizuru country wear.
Even if their real reasonings to come their island was for money--the group had put up their act of caring for Mikasa by doing this. And as much as the pair wanted to be there for the girl, they couldn't do much when the Hizuru group wanted to dress Mikasa alone.
Sighing the brunette girl played with the material of her dress lightly. The quietness between them settling in fast but it wasnt uncomfortable. Being around each other was always one of comfort seeing how close they were.
Even more so since they were alone in the room as they got ready.
"At least we'll be with them during the ball for a little while" Alia spoke up again as she went back to doing Sasha's hair. Running her fingers through the brown locks that she helped do every once awhile besides now.
Even as soldiers they did things like this to remember the days of their true fun when they were in training. It was nice and distracting for them with everything that's happening. And will happen in the future.
Sasha couldn't help but flutter her eyes shut, melting into Alia's touch as she hummed. Just thinking about the ball was nice. Even if they had to act even more professional then usual. "I hope there's good food"
Now at the mention of food, Alia chuckled. Narrowing her eyes as she grinned "Won't be as good as Niccolo's though" Sasha was fast to redden at the mention of Alia's cousin. That only made Alia smile more.
Even if he was once a soldier of Marley--it was no secret to the squad that Sasha was getting close to him. Closer then anyone else that it wasn't considered just friends at this point.
"You sneaky little.." Was all Sasha could say as her face redden even more at the sight of Alia's cheekiness coming through with the teasing. The blonde girl let out another laugh, pulling Sasha's hair into a pony tail.
Before tying a ribbon around it. "Im just saying--it's gonna be nice to say that you'll be joined into my family officially" At those words, Sasha groaned. Raising her hands up to cover her face that was bright red at this point.
It was as if steam was blowing from her ears at this point. Maybe it was a good thing none of the volunteers could join them in the ball besides Yelena and Ponpon. Or else Sasha would have to deal with this teasing all night.
No longer feeling as lonely as they did--the pair filled the room with laughter. Bringing up the air be lighter as Sasha turned around to smack Alia. Grumbling to shut up while Alia herself couldn't stop laughing.
Finding the moment nice because she truly did think that having Sasha officially as family would be nice. Not as though she wasn't already but knowing that Sasha would be happy with Niccolo and content with good food for the rest of her life was even better.
It meant that her friend would be happy but so would her cousin. And that thought alone made her hope for them to get together already. More then anything.
-------
(once again play the song at any time)
It wasnt much of surprise for Sasha to latch onto her twin and take him right to the table of food. Connie didn't really mind because he would much rather stuff his face with Sasha instead of dance.
The last time they had attended to a ball and he danced with Sasha--lets just say his feet as never felt so much pain before. "Connie! New desserts!" Sasha cooed out loudly that even from a distance away the group could hear her.
Said boy wasn't much better as he gasped at the sight. "holy shit!" His pouty mouth loud and clear that the sight of Captain Levi heading their way was bound to happen either way. Marco sighed as he glanced to his other friends.
Huddled together to avoid interacting with others as much as possible. At least Eren and Armin was while Jean and Alia was standing next him--watching with a sigh and chuckle as their two knucklehead friends get in trouble.
Gathering up just nerves the sweet boy looked around for anyone he was familiar with besides his friends. And when he did he was glad to see a familiar face. Hitch.
"I'll see you guys later" Ushering out a few words he walked away from the couple who simply offered him a confused glance. Though watching him they knew exactly why he was walking away.
Alia raised a brow as she made a side eye to her lover who was already holding her waist. "Do you know something I dont?" Her question light as she watched Marco greet Hitch. The girl instant to offer him a shy smile. Nodding at what seemed to be a question before the pair held hands and walked out to the dance floor.
Jean of course just gave her a grin as he glanced away from her. As if trying to slyly hide the obvious answer. "Whatever do you mean my love" It was the way he said it that made it even more clear to Alia.
There was something going on between Marco and Hitch without her knowledge. But then again it wasn't as if she was always on tabs of her friends seeing how her circle had widen not only to her cousin but to a certain sister of a traitor as well.
Simply just nodding the blonde kept her gaze on Marco and Hitch for a moment longer. A warmth filling her chest as she watched how happy they were despite being shy and nervous as they danced.
"Sure" Looking away she glanced over to her two last friends who were standing together. Mikasa still nowhere in sight. Placing a hand over Jean's chest she grinned. "How about we help our friends find themselves a partner to dance"
Jean followed the direction of her eyes before he grinned along side her. "As you wish" Guiding her towards the last standing boys the couple stopped right in front of them. Armin ever the gentlemen greeted them first. "Alia, Jean"
Being polite and professional at the same time instead of using nicknames because they were still being watched. Eren of course narrowed his eyes at the sight of them. Catching onto their little mission within seconds.
"Armin" Knowing better to take out the one that would be easy to persuade, Jean reached out to his friend. Taking the lead as he pulled him along to another direction. "How about we find you a partner eh?"
Said blonde boy didnt have much a problem in being led away. Chuckling despite the clear revealed plan. "Alright" Was all he said as he let Jean lead him to scope out the large ball room for a lady for him to dance with.
Afterall it couldn't be Historia again--the woman had other duties to withheld as a queen. The squad could talk to her more privately when the night is deep into the ball.
With that, it was just Alia and Eren left. Standing shoulder to shoulder now, the brunette watched as his two friends walked away. The feeling that their little mission wasn't over yet strong because she was still beside him.
Not just for company.
"What do you planned" Sighing the boy merely glanced at her as he kept his head straight. His arms crossing over his chest as he stood tall. He hadnt moved not because he wanted to avoid talking to anyone.
But because he was waiting for Mikasa to show up. He was taking Alia's advice to enjoy his time. At least for tonight. Especially since he knew that his childhood friend would be in her thoughts about the news she just found out today.
Alia didnt say anything for a moment because the sight of Mikasa walking through the doors with some of the Hizuru group behind her---had the blonde girl smiling. The black haired girl looked as breath taking as ever.
It was as if she was right in her element in terms of looks. Like the clothing she wore was meant for her alone. Looking around in a small daze, Mikasa locked eyes with Alia. Relieved to see the first familiar face.
Only to look beside Alia to see Eren. The black haired girl's eyes widen in awe seeing Eren already staring at her. His gaze in pure awe and the sight of her. Eren knew that Mikasa was beautiful but seeing her in that moment--it was as if his breath was being taken away.
"It seems like I dont need to do anything" Alia hummed as she stepped away from Eren. Mikasa was already walking her way over to them. Her eyes never leaving Eren's as he stared right back at her.
The words that Alia said going in one ear and out the other. Not that she minded because she could already tell that the pair would have fun tonight. Without anyone meddling for once.
Just as she turned away she was met with Jean of all people. His grin had changed into a smile as he stared down at her. Their little plan/mission had worked and now they were finally alone. Alia of course had returned the smile.
Reaching out to grab his hand as he already led her to the dance floor without needing to be told to. "Who's got Armin's arm tonight?" Alia asked as the pair got ready to dance. Moving their hands in sync to lay in its place.
She had placed her hands over Jean's shoulder while he held her waist. One of their hands connected to each other still as they got into position. "Yelena surprisingly" Answering with a chuckle he nodded his head towards where the odd pair was.
Alia turned her head to see and the sight made her snicker. It was clear Armin was being polite and as gentleman as ever. While Yelena was doing the same but with a more stiff expression. It was clear there was no romantic feelings between the pair.
But hey they were still being civilized and friendly enough to be dancing together.
"Huh" Alia mumbled out as she turned her head back to the one person she's been wanting to truly see all day and night. To feel next to like this. Their times of actually talking to each other or hang out awake was limited.
Both from their own jobs and to the point that they only saw each other when they went to sleep. So this was nice. And certainly something they've been needing.
-----
After dancing to a few songs and chatting with the squad--Alia and Jean had ditched the ballroom party for a little bit. Growing back to their old roots as they made their way around the seemingly empty palace besides guards.
Finding their way onto one of the roofs of the ballroom, the couple sat on the very top. Settling next to each other and sighing of relief. The music of the ballroom was muffled but still heard as they sat down.
With their hands joined together between them--Jean let out a small breath. His eyes already locked onto the girl who was staring up to the sky. Their night in itself had been fun and content.
And yet Alia couldn't shake off the feeling that something was missing even now as she sat beside her lover. Feeling his gaze she turned to look at him. Their eyes finding home to each other.
"What's with the staring" Lacing their fingers together she leaned in closer to the boy she loved. Or rather man with the years going by so fast. Jean copied her actions, leaning in close to the point they were breathing in one another's breath.
Tracing his fingers over her hand lightly he answered her. Well answered her with a question he's been wanting to say for over the last year. "Marry me" Maybe it wasn't a question but a plead. One that had Alia's eyes widening at.
"Marry you?" Repeating his words under her breath she sat there frozen for a moment. She loved Jean more then anything in the world but never had she truly thought she'd end up marrying her.
Despite how peaceful things were right now--with the stuff she knew now, made her always thing she'd die in the end. Die somehow. Not that she was scared of death because she was happy experiencing this.
Experiencing everything and what was to come but the idea of marriage. Never occurred to her until this very moment.
Raising his free hand up, Jean cupped her face lightly. Tilting his head slightly so he could bring himself closer to her. Their lips barely gazing as he spoke again for her but more correctly this time.
"Will you marry me, Alia?"
The blonde blinked again at his full blown question. Yet the feeling she felt all the way back then when Connie asked her to join him to the corpse--a stir in her chest but it wasn't quite the same as before.
It wasn't a stir as a hunter but a stir of feelings. Of love. All because it was him. Jean. The man that had been there for her in every step of the way since they've met. Whether it be supporting her beside her or from afar.
He was always the one.
Leaning into the palm of his hand she kissed him softly at first. Just a peck before she spoke against his lips. "Yes..." Fluttering her eyes open she looked up towards him. Repeating her words this time for him.
Alia didnt go back for the meeting with the other sections of their army like the others instead she had stayed back at the camp. Staying with the volunteers per her request to Captain Levi to be able to talk to the soldier from before.
Her friends were worried of course so Jean had stayed behind as well so she wouldnt be alone. That eased the worries of the squad to an extent because they all knew the lover of the girl would be able to support her.
Hence why the couple was currently standing outside one of the tents where the soldiers were being kept at. The two of their own soldiers that were keeping watch of the tent didnt say anything to their higher ups.
Not even sparing them a glance as they stood there despite having stood there for minutes already.
Reaching out to place a hand over her lower back, Jean finally said something. "If you dont want to we can just take watch" It was comforting because he could tell she was having an debate in her head.
Wondering if she should really go in or just ignore the soldier. Alia didnt take her eyes off the tent though. "I want to talk to him" Speaking softly she stood straighter.
𝓑𝓻𝓮𝓪𝓽𝓱𝓮, 𝓬𝓮𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓻 𝔂𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓼𝓮𝓵𝓯...𝓪𝓷𝓭 𝓰𝓸 𝓻𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓲𝓽
Taking a deep breath in she locked eyes with her lover who was standing beside her. "I want to talk to him" Repeating her words in a more stronger tone she waited for him to respond. Jean stared at her closely.
Examining her features and the details of her expression before he offered her a nod. "Then I'll be right behind you" Pushing her softly, he guided her to enter the tent filled with what was left the soldiers.
Instantly heads were turned to look at who was entering. Of course most of them were glaring at the pair but decided to stay quiet because they knew better. Already some of their own people had sided with the devils. They had no plan to fight at the moment.
Ignoring each and every one of them, the couple stopped to the soldier who had a feeling they were here for him. He sat up straighter despite being tired with everything already. His eyes exhausted as he greeted them.
"What is it you want" His words rough as he fiddled with the rope that was keeping his wrists tied up. Jean by then had let go of Alia and just stood there with his arms crossed over his chest. Staring down at the soldier and the others to keep watch.
Alia took the chance to squat down much like how she had done when first capturing him. Curling her knees to her chest she wrapped her arms around her legs. Her chin resting over her knees as she stared at him.
She would be assuming this but somewhere in her heart told her that he was related to her. A gut feeling. "My names Alia Kasper" She spoke in a softer tone as she blinked at him. Watching his reaction slowly as he heard her name.
His face went from tired to shocked within seconds. His eyes widening and his mouth shaping into an awe. As if something was clicking within his head before he spoke up in response to her.
"Egon Kasper" It was just another name being said but it was her father's. Alia sat up straighter as she looked at the soldier who had said his name without her even saying anything. The blonde boy grasped onto his shirt a little tighter.
From the way she reacted just a mere sitting up made him know she knew that name. "A man i've never met but someone i've known for a long time because he's related to my father." At those words Alia's eyes widen this time.
Jean, who was still standing behind Alia, reached out to grab onto her shoulder cause he could tell that she was in a shocked state instead. Though he didnt get to say anything when the blonde soldier continued to speak.
"My father's brother in fact" His words were softening as his expression dropped into more of a soften state as well. No longer filled with disgust as he thought about the dots that were connecting inside his head.
It was going to be a long talk between them that was for sure.
-------
A man sat quietly by himself. Staring out the window as he leaned into the palm of his hand while the other traced over the mug of his coffee. The soft music of his record being played in the living room while was lost in his thoughts.
The brunette and older man was always in this state ever since his son had gone off to the military to fight their people. Or rather the people that treated them like shit more then half the time but nonetheless it was home to them.
For him it may not have been home since he was born but it took care of him ever since he arrived at the young age of 18. The years have gone by so quickly and yet no matter how much time did go by his thoughts of his old home never left him.
Not even now as he thought about if his son had figured out yet that where he was heading to was his old home. The blonde son of his was always about food or being a soldier but he was smart.
Sighing the man glanced away from the sky and down towards his mug. Letting his thoughts wonder back into the past all over again. His home.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 ~
"Yous an idiot for leaving me behind" Egon muttered to his older brother of two years. He was barely 13 years old and yet he had no problem in stating his opinion. Especially when it came his only family member left to be leaving him behind. "Honestly Dieter it's like yous tryna kill yerself"
Dieter, the 15 year old, sighed as he glanced up from his plate of food. Leaning into the palm of his hand as he gave his younger brother a sadden expression. He knew it was fucked for him to leave behind everything he knew.
And brother at that when their parents were gone. "You's aint gonna be alone" Speaking up in a louder tone to reassure the younger boy he offered him a small grin. "yous got Annette and Hange dont you?"
All he got in response from Egon was he glare and a scoff at the mention of his childhood friend and her little whatever. "They aint you" Deciding not to comment on them the 13 year old stared up his older brother.
Not of an angry expression or annoyed anymore but softened for once. Something that the younger boy only did with him on few occasions. And it wasnt much of a surprise for him to be like this now of all times.
Dieter was leaving to become a scout and probably never come back. Taking in a deep breath he held his gaze with his brother again. "You will be perfectly fine. Yous strong yer hear?" It wasnt a good enough way to end the conversation or rather argument but it was better then nothing.
Egon just sighed as he went back to eating. He didnt have much to say to that besides just push it back. If his older brother was going to leave and die then he'd just continue on with live as he wanted.
If Dieter was doing what he wanted then he would to--and that was to stay right here and hunt as their family always did.
Three and a half years later
Dieter could not believe he was alive to be seeing what he was seeing. It was a large pool of water and the sky shining against it. And yet despite the beauty of it all he couldnt take the time to watch.
Not when there was titans roaming around behind him as if trying to find just him. Wasting no time he instantly started walking into the water--waving his arms around him to start swimming.
His chest heaving as he swam away from the shore he was just on because there was no way in hell he'd be able to make it back to the wall. Not when it would be days trip to get there. With his gear long forgotten and broken--it was a surprise he was even alive right now.
Clashing against the waves--he continued to swim despite it all. It was as if the whole world was against him. Yet he wouldn't stop fighting. Not when his gut feeling was telling him to continue. So that was what he did.
What seemed like hours of swimming, the 18 year old was exhausted. Barely keeping his eyes open as he held onto the floating device that came to him somehow. Maybe the world wasn't against him.
Closing his eyes he slowly dozed off. The tiredness of the day hitting him like a bunch of bricks as he knocked out. Not knowing if he'd wake up alive or if he'd be strong enough to continue on in this large water.
~ 𝐅𝐥𝐚𝐬𝐡 𝐛𝐚𝐜𝐤 𝐄𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 ~
Lifting the mug up from the table, Dieter took a sip from it. Letting the warmth of his coffee fill him. Just as he did drink, his wife came into the small living/dinning room. Her cheek pressed against the doorframe as she watched him.
"You should come to bed" Her tone was soft as she gained his attention. Turning his head to look at the woman who left behind the life of such a lavish life to be with him because of his blood. Standing up from his chair he left behind his empty mug.
His smile soft as he greeted her with a soft kiss over her forehead. His hand grasping onto her waist as he hummed at her words. "Let's go to bed then" Speaking in the same tone, he guided her back to their shared bedroom.
The woman simply smiled as she got him to come along. Knowing it was better to bring him back to the present instead of the past. There was no point in worrying about the past and instead to simply focus on now.
Especially with their son that was off fighting.
Even if she had grown up with certain views--the decision to be here now with him made her glad she never agreed to such views. Not when she was happy right here with him.
----
Things were going good now that they had a plan to fight back. Not literally fighting but it was better then just being sitting ducks. Even if it was because of Zeke's help. Alia was quiet as she watched her friends grow excited with the new knowledge they were learning from their new friends.
Leaning against the wall she stood beside Eren, who was in the same boat of just watching. Though his reasoning to watch was far different from hers. Alia was just content right now. Niccolo, her newly found cousin, had came to her to a certain type of relationship.
An understanding even. Even if he was standoffish right now at least they knew stuff that was hidden from them. Alia learning much more then him but it was better then nothing. While Eren was more focused on making this worked.
That this wouldn't in any way hurt the people he cared about. Including Historia.
"Oh, by the way." Sasha spoke up in between the excited chatter as she stared at the new man they came to know more about as he taught them of the outside world. "Why is your skin so dark, Onyonkopon?"
The blonde girl tilted her head as she thought of the same thing. She's never seen someone with such dark skin but then again she wasn't opposed to the man because he was helping them. The thing was just name really confused her.
So she decided to quietly give him a nickname in her head. Ponpon. It was easier then saying his name constantly in her head.
Ponpon stood straight and surprised at first before he smiled. Bringing his hand up to hold his chin. "Because our creator thought that things would be more interesting" Alia blinked as she thought about his choice of words.
Creator?
"If the world were occupied by many kinds of people." Ponpon continued on. "I'd say that applies to you subjects of Ymir as well. We exist because we were wanted." Huh. Alia stood up from her place against the wall.
Placing a hand over Jean's shoulder as she leaned against his back. Her chin resting on her hand over his shoulder. Just as Armin spoke up to ask the question she was wondering about at first as well. "Wait, we were created? By who?"
"By the one who gave power to your founder Ymir. It was God" At that answer, Alia glanced up to her lover who was already glancing back to her at the answer. What in the hell did he mean by that?
Thankfully, Ponpon, corrected his statement at the sight of their faces. "Well that's what some people believe. We're all free to think as we like right?" At that statement, Alia hummed. That much was true.
Leaning off her lover she glanced back to Eren who was already staring at her. A silent conversation being said between their eyes. Things were changing for them but would it be for the good or the bad in the end.
Either or they were being much more cautious as they continued with what their captain said. For now they'd take in these things and burn it into their minds for later use. It wasn't as though they could do anything yet anyway.
Simply to just stay put and continue on as things were.
-----
"What the hell is this food?" Connie mumbled out as he stared down at the food he's never seen before being laid out. Sasha was right beside him--leaning into his shoulder as she drooled over the sight of new food.
Jean of course was on the other side of Sasha speaking up his own question "Is it even edible?" Marco was fast to elbow him from beside his best friend. "Niccolo wouldn't make it if it wasn't" The sweet boy muttered out in a small huff.
Alia let out a small chuckle as she stood across from her friends, standing closer to the said cook who was stirring whatever was in the pot. Curiously she stepped closer to her cousin to look at the pot since it did smell really good.
Armin and Mikasa were on the end of the table, the blonde boy staring in awe like Sasha while the black haired girl was narrowing her eyes. "Smells pretty fishy" At that comment--Marco spoke up again. "Because it's from the ocean Mikasa."
The sweet boy sighed as he raised his hand up to his face. "Honestly guys why comment on it if you aren't even trying it" His words were clear and loud as Yelena, the main person who was the reason this was possible, spoke up.
"Have you never had seafood before? Niccolo's a master when it comes to Marleyan cuisine" At that statement, Alia looked up to her cousin. Raising a brow as she softly spoke up to him. "Master huh?"
The blonde man just offered her a small huff. Their relationship getting better by the day when they talked that such teasing was alright to an extent. "if you dont like how it looks, then dont eat it"
Was all he said as he gave her half hearted glare to which she grinned. Their small interaction long forgotten when the sound of Sasha's cries were heard. "It's so good!" The brunette girl shouted as she stuffed her face.
Together the pair of cousins turned to watch as the foodie girl ate. Which in turn made the others want to eat as well. "Slow down!" Connie snipped out as he reached out to eat as well. Which made Jean shout out as well.
"No fair, Sasha!" Diving right in after his friends, Jean let out a small sigh of content when he started to eat. Marco couldnt help but actually laugh at how their tune changed. Not as eager the sweet boy let them eat. He'd wait until there was left some for him.
Sasha by now was in tears. "You're a genius! This is the best food i've ever eaten!" At that, Alia turned back to her cousin to see his reaction at the comment. His face in awe and flushed at Sasha's words.
Grinning at the sight the blonde girl crossed her arms over her chest as he tried to push down his reaction by speaking up. "Hey. Stop eating like some kind of pig. There's plenty so take your time"
His words softening as he went right back to stirring whatever he had in the pot. Alia's grin turned into a smile as she walked away from the small layout. Leaving her friends behind to eat as she walked off.
Something in her gut telling her to find Eren since he hadn't been with them.
And yet on her way to look for him a familiar striking blonde made her stop. Stiffening in a tense position she watched the blonde person stop what they were doing having felt her stare.
Turning their head in her direction, Alia's eyes widened. Why did this person look like a certain traitor. Sensing on why she was staring the person, they stopped what they were doing and turned towards Alia and walked over.
She didn't move even when they stopped in front of her. She didnt want to assume again but the first words this person said made it fall into place. "I look like him dont i?" Alia licked her lips as she took a deep breath in.
"Like Reiner" The name felt like poison coming from her mouth because she hadnt said that name in over a year. "My brother" The blonde spoke up in a softer tone--already knowing what their brother did to them.
Not wanting to judge because of just family--because Reiner had been someone important to her once, Alia let out her breath slowly. "What's your name" Even if it felt like the wide world seem so small with familiar people--Alia swallowed down her thoughts.
She shut them out and asked to know this person. This girl in front of her because she was a volunteer to help them. No hate in her eyes and actually kindness. If she was here then it meant Zeke trusted her no?
The girl looked relieved at the question as she reached out and held her hand towards Alia. "Reigh Bruan." Reigh smiled at Alia when she grabbed onto her hand. Shaking it lightly. "But my friends call me Rei"
New faces brought up old ones and yet new things that were going to help them. So Alia pushed the past away and just focused on now. Cause if she didn't then she'd lose time in helping her people.
Alia was sitting next to Eren as per usual these days. Or rather her back was pressed against his using each other as back rests despite being in what the Levi squad called home these days. They were in the front porch area.
The blonde was reading, the book laying over her knees as she played with the edge of the page she was reading. Her fingers rubbing the thin piece of parchment as she took the time to relax. The boy behind her was watching out to the field where their shared friends and comrades were.
Sasha and Connie were one upping each other in a game of wrestling with Marco commentating the play by play. Jean was beside his best friend with a wide smirk as he bet on Sasha winning while surprisingly Armin was betting on Connie.
Leaving Mikasa to be with the pair that was attached to the hips in their own quiet bubble. The black haired girl was sitting on the stairs of the porch more focused on Eren which wasn't much of a surprise.
It was peaceful as they did their own thing as a group. Their chores done early for once with how long they've been doing it to get on par of Levi's likings the last year or so.
The sun was barely grazing down as a sunset that from it's lasting warmth had everyone in a daze of happiness. Even if they were separated into two groups at the moment.
"what are you reading" Eren's voice was soft as he glazed his eyes from the group to Mikasa. Locking eyes with her despite his question being for the girl behind her. Said girl had flipped to the next page of her book.
Her focus on the thing but with how quick she was answering showed that she was listening in on him and her friends not far from her. "A book" The answer itself was blunt and straightforward.
And yet unlike how Eren used to be, he didn't snap back at her bluntness with anger. Simply he scoffed, leaning his head back to press against hers. His eyes never once leaving Mikasa's. "And what's it about?"
"A girl" Before the brunette could ask another question to know about the story Alia was already explaining to him. "She falls through a hole and enters a rather odd world compared to her old one"
Brushing her fingers along the page she spoke in a small daze. "She's trying to find a way back home but goes through just as odd and weird things in doing so" At her soft voice yet slightly dazed tone, Eren actually turned his head.
Breaking his eye contact with Mikasa as he curiously glanced over Alia's shoulder. The story seemed familiar but different in some way. Though just when he caught sight of the drawn out picture of the girl in the story eating something only to get smaller--Alia had closed her book closed.
Her attention snapping up towards the direction where their friends were but that alone made Eren know something was up. She wouldn't have looked at them unless...
Turning his head up to follow where she was looking, he caught sight of their captain and Hange right beside him riding on horses. Fast. It meant that something was wrong. In sync the pair got up from their spot.
By then Sasha had stopped fighting Connie having heard the horses steps as well. Which in turn caused her to lose with Connie on top of her. Looking in the same direction as Sasha since she hadn't instantly started complaining about cheating like usual.
That had everyone else looking as well.
Within seconds their captain and Hange was in front of them not even getting off their steads as Levi barked out orders. "We've got company down at the ocean! Up and out now!" His tone clear and loud to show already this was serious.
Company meant enemy.
Within seconds the squad was moving to get ready and leave. Getting into action of no longer messing around but being soldiers. After all that was what they still were despite titans no longer being a problem to them anymore.
Now at the cables with Levi and Hange both waiting at the front of the small cabin, the silence that surrounded the group was broken. "Wonder what they had plan coming here" Connie glanced over to the others.
Dragging along his horse as he rubbing the snout of the animal. Of course everyone had glanced their head in his direction thinking the same thing. "Who cares" Sasha was next to speak up as usual.
Her tone loud as always as she settled onto her horse. "I'm honestly more interested in what they have on board to eat" At that statement everyone chuckled. Connie snickering as he glanced to Jean who was always fast to comment.
"Of course you'd be interested on their food" His tone filled with a false snippiness. Marco shook his head from beside his best friend "I mean who wouldn't be?" Siding with the foodie girl this time the sweet boy backed her up. "They've got things we've probably never even heard of"
Alia took the chance to speak up as well now. "How much do you wanna bet they got cold food meant to be cold" Her words were meant as a joke but that just made Sasha squeal at the thought. "Look now you've got her started"
Jean came up to Alia on his horse as he sighed at the now chatty kathy ramble Sasha was getting into. The five of them were leading the group towards Levi and Hange leaving behind Armin, Mikasa, and Eren to follow behind.
At the sound of their soft laughs growing slightly distant, Armin glanced towards his two childhood friends. "You two okay?" The blonde boy asked now as the group started to ride with their captain into the direction of where the sea was.
Though this time not for a fun time but for something more intense. Mikasa was the first to answer as she glanced to Eren then back to Armin. "Yeah...just cautious" The black haired girl muttered honestly.
Both Mikasa and Armin had turned their heads to look at Eren who had yet to say anything. Stuck in his thoughts and quiet as ever. The brunette had a cloudy gaze in his eyes as he looked out to the sky.
"All good" Finally speaking he answered his friend despite it not being true at all. Both Mikasa and Armin knew he was lying but they didn't push any further. More focused on the task at hand like always.
Eren watched for a moment as a bird flew over the group, matching their pace for a moment before it took off completely into the distant. Soaring through the air like it was weightless. Something he wished to do more then anything with the dark thoughts he had.
To be free.
---------
Gathering what was left of the soldiers once they took over the lone ship wasn't hard. Though what Alia most at the moment was the one of the soldiers. Staring down at the fellow blonde that was the enemy solider, she ignored the conversation of her squad behind her.
Her arms crossing over her chest as she squatted down in front of the man who was glaring at her. "What's your name?" Her question had not only surprised him but her squad as well since they had all shut up.
Bringing their attention to the girl who was usually quiet on their missions like this. More quiet then before and yet here she was speaking up to their enemy. The blonde man stared at her with frowned eyebrows.
His face filled with confusion and disgust to be so close to the devils but nonetheless he couldn't help but answer her. "Niccolo Kasper" Instantly Alia tensed up at the last name that matched her own.
It couldn't be. No. Right?
"Kasper" Whispering softly she ignored the baring stares of her friends as she tilted her head. Examining the man more closely but not moving at all. Taking in every detail of him as she thought about how large and yet small the world really was.
This soldier was just spouting out about how her and her friends were devils and yet it looked like he himself was one with that last name. Probably half devil or a quarter but that last name combined with familiar features.
It was clear to her that he was related to her. Somehow in someway he was.
Ever the one to break the ice, Connie, who was now squatting down beside her stared at the confused soldier. "Don't he look like Uncle Egon but with blonde hair like yours?" His question blunt and no bite in it.
As he was genuinely curious and taken back at how such a soldier looked like Alia's father. Sasha who now squatted down on the other side of Alia, spoke up now. Her hand cupping her chin as she gazed upon the guy as well.
"He sure does look a little like you L" The brunette girl murmured out as she scratched her cheek with her pointer finger. By then the others of the Levi squad had surrounded the trio. Though by standing behind them as they all looked at the soldier together.
The small conversation doing much more to get them to grow interested to actually get a sight of what the two idiots meant. And when they did they were all in awe to see how similar the soldier did look like their quiet friend.
Marco was the next to talk as he leaned down, using Connie as a holder for his balance as he held onto his shoulder. "Surely it'd be odd for him to be related to you no?" His words were soft as he thought about it.
It would be weird for someone from the outside of their island was related to any of them but then again it wasn't impossible right? "Odd but not completely impossible" Jean did the same thing as Marco.
Though he had both his hands on Alia's shoulders. His chin resting on the top of her head as he stared at the soldier who was staring at them with even more disgust then before at their words. He was related to these devils?
It was written all over his face. Before anyone could say anything else, Levi, was walking up to them. "What are you knuckle heads doing" His words stern as he gained their attention. In sync they all turned their heads to the shorter man.
The sight of them acting less like soldiers but as idiots annoyed him but made his heart light a little. Knowing they weren't in the dumps with their enemy as much as they used to be when it came to titans.
It meant they were healing little by little and that alone made him content despite their idiot side. "Doesn't this guy look like Alia sir?" It was Eren to speak up surprisingly. At those words the short captain looked at the said soldier.
Narrowing his eyes at the blonde before he glanced back to his squad. "Enough chit chat--We can talk about this later" Walking in closer he kicked at the members that were squatting to get them to stand up.
"We dont have time for this right now so hurry up and get up" In that command everyone listened but without a few complaints. Since Connie was the closet in the kicks, he whined as he got up reluctantly.
Sasha of course laughed as she pulled her twin along so he wouldn't be hit again. Marco moved on the other side of Connie with his own chuckles. While the childhood trio was already the first to walk away from the group to go to Hange who was waving them over.
Leaving Jean and Alia behind. The blonde girl was still staring at the soldier who had yet to say anything after saying his name. Coming behind her, Jean lightly grasped onto her waist. Easing his thumb to rub over her hip.
"We can question him more later" His words soft enough just for her to hear. Knowing it for the better, she nodded slowly. Turning away from the soldier but her eyes lingering onto him for a moment.
After one year of the death of her father it was weird to be seeing someone that looked like him. With different features of course but still. "Yeah" Walking with Jean she spoke up as she finally tore her eyes away from the blonde solider.
"We can ask him later" With that the pair followed after their squad to talk about what they'd be doing now. New information about more ships coming and what they're next move would be now.
-----
"You know sometimes I wonder what goes on in Hange's mind" Jean muttered from beside Alia as the couple watched their commander shout to bring the attention of the soldiers on the new ship.
The sight of Eren's titan form behind it not really being as an Awe sight to them anymore because of everything that they've gone through last year. Alia stayed in her squatting position behind the rocks.
Leaning into the palm of her hand as she then watched Levi bring in the soldier that was seemingly related to her. They were too far to actually be able to hear Hange talk but they both knew it was as crazy as ever with the way Hange worked.
"If we ever actually found out then we'd go mad" Responding to her lover, the blonde girl glanced away from the scene to look up at Eren's form. Her thoughts clouded for a moment as she thought about what her friend had been acting lately.
Although he talked and hung out with the group he was reserved to an extent to everyone but her. For a reason that is because she wouldn't let him be distant with her. Repeating to him time and time again that she was on his side.
Always. No matter what he decided to do.
Blinking away from her thoughts she looked over to Jean who was already staring at her. His gaze focused as ever. He was the one to really know the closeness between Eren and herself these days.
Everyone in the group did but he didnt brush it off like the others. "what's up?" Alia mumbled out as she raised a brow at his gaze. Jean didnt say anything yet as he simply leaned down and squatted down behind her.
Wrapping his arms around her shoulders as he rested his chin over the top of her head. He had his own wondering thoughts and doubts he was going to trust her and Eren both. Whatever they had planned on their own.
"Nothing" Answering her softly he turned his head to bury into her shoulder just as she was raising a hand to hold his forearm. Thankfully their moment wasnt interrupted. Their friends not far from them but still had enough respect to leave the couple alone.
For now since they would be moving soon after the sound of that gunshot going off. Someone else of their enemy soldiers taking command. Which meant it would be time for negations. And more knowledge for them.
A win win.
--------
Alia wasn't really focused on the conversation going on between her friends. They were all sitting by the rocks watching the camp of tents as they talked about what happened. Sitting beside Eren, she leaned back into the palm of her hands.
Staring up at the sky instead while her feet was stretched out in front of her. Touching the calves of Jean who was standing in front of her. The movement didnt bother him as he stood beside Connie's sitting form.
Sasha was on the other side of Jean dozing off with Mikasa beside her. Already pulling her pony tail to wake her up. Leaving Armin beside the black haired girl and Marco on the other side of Connie.
It was calm between the group as they talked about the situation at hand. Though what really made Alia come into the conversation was Eren speaking up. "You're right. We've been lucky" Turning away from the sky the blonde girl looked over at her friend.
Resting her cheek against her own shoulder as she watched his expression from the side. Everyone else turning to look at him since he was talking. "We managed to intercept that ship by pure chance"
Alia let out a small scoff as she blew air at Eren to get him to look at her despite wanting to continue talking. "Pure chance or not--we're not completely helpless" She was going to follow him through and through but they had to keep their options open.
Even if it seemed limited right now. Eren simply just stared at her as he spoke up his defense against her words. "If Marley comes to this island in force, we're finished." Alia just glanced back to the sky.
"That's why we have to do something" She turned to look at the others and then him again. "Right?" Having gotten close to him over the past year, she had a good grasp on the way he thought now.
What goes on his head because he would confined in her about such things and more. Eren's defensive eyes softened at her words. He could tell she was reading him like a book. "Right" Responding in kind he glanced to his friends that were listening to them.
"If we do something it'll be easier for us to plan for whatever comes next" At the brunette's words, Jean walked over beside the pair and sat down between them. Easing himself as he wrapped his arms around the two of them.
Relieved a little to see that they were actually letting the group in on their thoughts. "Well whatever you two have plan. Dont hold back and let us on it." His once snippy tone strong as he glanced between them both.
Jean had a good idea that they were close these days for a reason and he didnt want them to break away from the group for not trusting them enough. He was going to make sure at least for now they'd stay and confined in the squad.
It was finally time for their first expedition outside all the walls--having only been a year later since their victory on retaking wall Maria. A 19 year old Alia was waking up from her sleep with Jean laying with her.
Since they were known for always switching from both Boys and girls dorms the two were finally given a bed to share in the back of the boys dorm to themselves. Not a bunk but a section for them alone.
Which was made possible because all the boys had made it since this was their place to stay for awhile now. Per Hange's accepting it to happen. Though that didnt stop Alia from going to sleep with the girls every once in awhile to have girl time alone.
Laying on her side the girl stared at the sleeping lover of hers. The room still quiet to show that the other boys were still sleeping. Silently she raised her hand to play with his now slightly longer hair. Shifting herself closer so their noses would be touching.
Sharing the same pillow now, she continued her soft touches with one hand on the nape of his neck. Playing more and more of the strands of his hair while her other hand moved to cup his face lightly.
Jean groaned softly at the touches, nuzzling his cheek into her hand as he automatically wrapped his arms around her. Tighter this time as he tugged her so their bodies would be pressed up against each other.
The blonde girl just let out a small chuckle as she was dragged against the bed. Her lips barely grazing his now with the closer position. Fluttering his eyes open the boy woke up with one of his favorite ways to wake up.
Sea green eyes being pulled to look at honey brown ones.
Leaning in closer, Jean placed a soft kiss over her lips. Greeting his lover with a warm kiss of good morning that she returned. Tracing her thumb over his cheek she pulled back with a soft hum.
"Your hair's gonna longer" She examined out softly. Her other fingers still playing with his hair that was now reaching his neck. Jean just hummed at her words as he closed his eyes again, to focus on the feeling of her wandering touch.
Despite being soldiers there wasnt much life threatening missions for them. Their jobs over the last year was helping rebuild the way back to Wall Maria while the trap Hange made took care of the titans.
Life was good as of right now compared to how it was just a year ago.
The only thing now that had everyone anxious was what they'd be finding when they go out past the walls all together. But for right now, in this morning, the couple was content just being with each other.
---
Getting ready and eating breakfast seemed brighter even with the anxiousness everyone had. Connie and Sasha were bantering as usual, Armin and Mikasa were chatting together, while Marco and Jean were making sure their knuckleheads wouldn't get into a food fight.
Leaving Alia and Eren to their own quiet conversation at the end of the table. Over the year they had grown close even with Eren more depressed state these days. The blonde had known everything he saw about what was to come.
And in turn she told Eren that she'd do everything to make sure none of their friends would die. That he would make it out alive even if it was the last thing she did. Eren usually thanked her even after he told her that he'd never let die in his place.
There was an understanding between them that just made them just give simple glances to read what was the other thinking.
"Is anyone else excited to finally see the sea Armin's always on about?" Conie spoke up as he glanced around the table he forced to turn to him. The once side conversations coming into one as he brought up the expedition they'd be having today.
Sasha had too much food in her mouth to really answer that Marco spoke up first. "Of course im excited" The sweet boy turned to glance at Armin, who was always talking about such things whenever someone asked. "Im more excited to actually take home one of those things...what were they called again?"
Armin smiled widely at the question Marco was giving him. "Shells" He answered without a doubt. Marco nodded as he laughed. "Yeah! I cant wait to get shells to show my mom" Jean chuckled at how excited he was before he joined in as well.
"I wanna see if the damn water is really as salty as Armin says it is" He scoffed not believing a word of it. "you're gonna regret those words!" Connie called out in a teasing tone as he waved his wooden fork at the boy.
Which in turn caused Jean to be snippy as he shot out his arm to reach the boy. Connie was fast to grab onto Sasha as a shield as he laughed. Thankfully Marco had grabbed onto Jean to hold him back which was easy despite the one arm.
Having trained for over a year, he got strong and use to his one arm. Armin just let out soft laughs as he glanced back towards Mikasa to resume talking. Alia turned her head away from the scene as she looked at Eren.
Once again he was staring off into space in his thoughts. Not wanting to startle him, Alia gave his foot a light kick. Her chin resting in the palm of her hand as he came out of her thoughts to look right at her again.
"The Sea" Was all she said as she took the time to tap her fingers over her cheek lightly. In her time of supporting whatever he wanted to do, she was making sure he was in the moment as well. To enjoy life like she was taught.
For a mere moment, Eren's eyes brightened. The sea. Something he had always dreamed to see before he forgot about it and remembered only because of Armin. It seems now he forgot again but was reminded by Alia this time.
"The sea" Eren spoke softer as he glanced out to the window near their table. "I wonder if it's as big as it's said to be" His words curious and for once not holding any pain like it always did when he spoke these days.
Alia smiled softly, a little relieved that he was thinking about something else right now. "I bet its even bigger then the eye can see" She whispered out to egg on his wondering thoughts of the sea. Even if it was for a moment, seeing Eren be free of wonder was a nice sight.
Something she could hope he'd see more as time went on.
---
When the scouts finally caught sight of a titan, Alia got off her horse the moment Eren did. Easing her hand against his head lightly as she shushed her horse. "Easy Flecken" She cooed out softly before she turned back to the sight of Eren reaching out to the small titan.
"Hey! Careful" Floch called out to the brunette but Alia stepped in behind him to grab his shoulder. "Relax" She grumbled out to the boy she didnt really like much.
Glancing back to Eren she spoke again. "He's a subject of Ymir...probably suffered a lot before he was turned into a titan" Her words soft and lingering. Ever since they've figured out that people of their blood were titans.
Alia and Eren became a little bit empathic to the monsters that terrorized them and the only peace they could offer their people was death before they killed anyone else. "Let's go" Eren ordered out lightly as he stepped away from the titan.
"we're close" He walked back to his horse to get on. Alia stood there for a moment before she reached out and touched the titan as well. Leaning in to press her forehead against it before she whispered softly for the creature to only hear her.
Her hand tracing against its skin lightly as she spoke. "I wish you peace" Ushering those words she stepped back and got on her horse just as Eren was taking off. Leaving behind a worried Floch she went after her friends who took off as well.
Catching up pretty fast before slowing down to ride beside Jean and Marco. Both boys turning to look at her with a different type of expression. "was that really necessary?" Marco spoke more kindly then how Jean wouldve asked.
The blonde girl looked between both boys for a moment before she answered. "I get that they were monsters all our lives but they were once people" She grabbed onto the reigns of her horse a little tighter.
Memories of seeing her father, brother, and practically sister coming to mind. Just how mindless they were as titans before they had met their end. She was glad that Connie didnt have to see Karen even if he had to see his mother everyday lay on his childhood home.
Alive but not hurting anyone with her deformed body.
"They were forced to come here against their will and changed into monsters...they have no idea what their doing and no control" Her gaze soften then from the pain she had thinking about the past. "Its only fair to stop and give them a soft peace before we end up killing them"
Marco could only nod as he stared out to his comrades. He couldnt imagine feeling what he knew Alia was feeling. But even if he understand it, he would offer some support. Even if the reason why he almost died was from a titan.
If he could care about the traitors who forced him into the situation then he could forgive the person he didnt know that was under the titan who ate his arm.
Jean just stayed quiet as he rode a little closer to Alia. Seeking her presence to be near him while in turn giving her his presence. Something they both knew would ease her wondering thoughts.
Which she silently thanked him by brushing her foot along his as they continued to ride.
---
When they came closer to just sand and a large wall, Eren had slowed his pace down to purposely get to a certain blonde. Seeing his movement, Alia picked up her pace to meet him so they could meet at the middle without anyone around them.
"what's up?" Her question light and curious as she looked up to the large walls that reminded her of their walls that kept them in. The brunette kept his gaze out to where she was looking as he answered her. "Its here"
Still confused, Alia glanced around the walls to the sand before it clicked just as Eren explained to her. "This is the place where they'd turn the Eldians into titans" With her jaw dropping she glanced back up the giant wall.
Imagining just what Eren described to her of what he remembered about his father's memories. "This right here huh.." She muttered out as she turned her head away from the wall to the rocks. "If thats the case that means just right over there is..."
Trailing off her words, Eren finished off for her. "is the sea" His eyes brightening only a little because he was reliving the memories of what was once his father's. That alone made Alia smile as she reached out to him.
"The sea" She spoke louder now grabbing onto him with a little struggle since they were still riding. The small mishap made Jean call out to her from behind. "Alia! Be careful or else you'll fall!"
At that warning Alia laughed as she let the surprised Eren go. "Sorry!" She called back to him as she turned to look at him. Their horses slowing down just as they made past the rocks. "Just excited for what we're about to see!"
Alia didnt have to give them any hints as the group came to a full stop. The sea right in front of them in all it's beauty as they stood on top of the hill. Every single one of them looking out in awe at the sight.
Being the first to move, the blonde took off with a loud laugh. Forgetting about everything for a moment as excitement filled her. "L!" Her friends screamed for her to stop. "Alia Kasper!" Even Levi but she ignored them as she forced her horse to jump down the small hill to land in the sand.
Slowing down the pace she rode along the sand water with her horse as the others followed after her. Skidding to stop she quickly got off her horse and struggled as she pulled off her boots.
Nearly tripping as she toss them behind her before running right into the water. By the time she was knees deep into the water the others were getting off their horses. "It's so cold!" She squealed out as she turned them.
Kicking out her feet to splash their forms as they were doing the same of taking off their boots. Marco was fast to run into the water as well after. Laughing along with Alia as he crouched down and splashed the water too.
Connie and Sasha came in right after, joining in the fight with their own happiness filling them. Jean was the last to come though he didn't splash as he leaned down to grab some of the water. Bringing it up to his face before screaming out.
"That's salty!" He gasped at the fact that the water was so salty. Giggling, Alia ran over to him and hugged him from behind. Nearly causing them to fall if it wasnt for Jean to grab her arms. "Careful Alia!"
The girl just let out a small laugh as she pulled back for him to turn before she went back against him. Her eyes brightening with life as she held onto him. "I love you" She gushed out as she leaned up to kiss him.
This moment was just too good to let go without a kiss. Jean returned the kiss as he held her face in both palms of his hands. Muttering between the kiss as he melted into it. "i love you more"
Marco suddenly let out a loud scream as he was shoved into the water by Sasha who was being pushed by Connie who in turn was falling with them. Like a dominos one by one in the water. "Guys!" The sweet boy groaned out as he caught himself with his arm.
Glaring back to his friends he sighed when he saw Sasha splashing Connie to no end. "What the hell Connie! You could've drowned us!" The foodie girl grumbled out but all she was getting was laughs from the boy.
Connie returned the splashes with the same intent to get them both soaked. That was until Marco and Sasha were teaming up on him. "Hey! no fair! You guys are tag teaming me!" He grumbled but his words were now being ignored as the fighting continued.
Moblit was right beside Hange, grabbing their wrist before they could touch anything. Just as Levi was warning out to them that it might be poisoned. "Careful Commander" He whispered softly.
Reaching down to grab the shell he lifted it up for Hange before glancing up at the person he cherished most. "We cant have our commander getting hurt some this" Hange just let out a giggle as they grabbed the shell lightly from his second in command.
"I'll be fine" They reassured just before sitting down in the water to get a closer look at the thing. Moblit just let out a chuckle as he squatted down beside them. Leaning in closer to take a look with them.
Armin was already admiring a shell while Mikasa was walking in the water like it was her first steps. Both of them not needing to say a words as they smiled each other. This was the beauty of the world they were only seeing now.
Turning to the boy who was just staring out to the sea, he spoke up. "You see, Eren?" The blonde cupped the shell towards his chest. "It's just like I told you. A body of water so big that merchants could spent their whole lives and still not get all the salt out."
Alia pulled away from the kiss from Jean, her eyes in a soft daze as she leaned in to hug him. Her head resting over his chest as she turned to look out to the sea. Though in the corner of her eyes she looked to see Eren in a daze himself.
Being as silent and brooding as ever as he responded to the boy. "yeah...the sea." Pulling away from Jean, Alia walked over to the three. Her hand nearly moving away from Jean if it wasnt for him grabbing onto it.
Before Alia could hear anymore of that conversation she was being pulled right back to Jean. His other hand cupping her face again as he forced her to look at him. Pushing up a cocky grin he spoke lowly to her.
"Enough worrying about him for a minute and focus on me" His words daring but soft as he grasped onto her hip instead of her hand. Alia stared up at him with a surprised expression as she let his words sink in.
Alia had been spending more time with Eren, worried that he might break at any moment that she wasnt really spending time with Jean unless it was going to bed. Jean hadn't said anything until now.
And all Alia could do now was nod at his small request. "Focusing on you it is" She whispered as she leaned into his hand. Bringing her hand up she placed it over his chest while her other hand moved to press over the nape of his neck.
"Good...just us two right now" Jean whispered out now leaning down to place another kiss over her lips. Capturing her breath as he sealed this moment for nothing else but them. Alia melted into it completely.
Letting this memory be burned into her mind forever.
