Fic Updates

Fan Fic Posts & Updates for Vesuvian-American

[vesuvian-american-fics]

My AO3!!

Here are the fandoms I have written for so far! Will Update as I go!

The Arcana Game: A Mystic Romance

Hunter x Hunter

Attack on Titan

Haikyuu!!

And here’s what I plan to write for in the future!

Death Note

My Hero Academia

Jujutsu Kaisen

Demon Slayer

[ojie-litrell-deactivated2023072]

🤎🚬🪴

This is officially my favorite Levi art. LIKE BRO LOOK AT THAT-

[vesuvian-american-fics]

better with time. Ch 19

the expanse between.

Conny is home but no one is there to greet him, besides a titan with a little something to say to him. Levi rushes out of Wall Sina to make his way to Wall Rose and make sure you're okay, but before he can do that, he has to work to get Pastor Nick to talk and explain the titans living inside of the walls. (AO3)

Words: 1,532

You swallowed dryly, at a loss for words. This... This was Conny’s home.  

Conny’s home had been destroyed by a titan. Its awkward limbs hung out from every flattened wall or crushed window. Your eyes darted to Reiner’s to gage his reaction. His chestnut eyes were dead, his skin ashen grey, you could see the way his pulse jumped underneath the flesh of his neck. The blonde hairs of his neck and broad shoulders stood on end. His fists were clenched until his knuckles were white. Bertholdt was right there beside him. Moist with the dew of a cold sweat, Bertholdt placed his hand on Reiner’s shoulder, offering comfort to his friend.  

“Reiner...” He murmured. Only then did Reiner finally come out of his head, a new found determination in his eyes.  

“Conny. Let’s have a look around the village.” He said, sounding like a cool-headed leader. Reiner cleared his throat before pulling on the reigns of his horse, taking her around the corner and away from Conny’s childhood home. Reluctantly Conny followed Reiner, taking a few stolen glances back to the titan whose eyes were eerily similar to his own.  

“Bertholdt, how do you think this could happen.” You asked quietly, it was just the two of you alone now as the others searched the village of any survivors or clues as to where everyone had gone.  

“I don’t know.” He replied flatly. Bertholdt was a timid type, you didn’t know him very well but he reminded you in ways of Armin. Or rather, Armin’s potential. You thought about how the two of them might get along and how Bertholdt could be a good role model for Armin the way he supports Reiner. They reminded of Eren and Armin’s relationship. Wholey equal but one always seems to have a bit more bravado and leadership than their quieter more docile friend. You thought of the parallels for a while more before you decided to speak again.  

“When we arrived, I noticed the village’s horses were all still in their stalls. Do you think... that maybe–-”  

“I hope not. I should catch up with the others now.” He cut you off before you could even finish articulating your thoughts but you understand. You knew full well what you were suggesting and the idea wasn’t pleasant. You gave the lanky brunette a small nod before allowing him to walk away without another word.  

You sighed; you wish you could be more helpful out here. You wish you learned something so that you could be of use. Your shoulders sagged; the stress of the day was wearing on your body. In all of the months you’ve been “you” again this is the longest you’ve been on your feet, the longest you’ve spent in the sun. You were weak, you needed a place to rest when it was safe. You don’t want to drag everybody down because you can’t keep up. Lost in your thoughts you didn’t notice Conny standing next to you once more.  

“Y/N. What do you think happened to them. They’re all gone.” His voice sounded meek and sorrowful. You couldn’t help the sad frown that formed on your lips at the sound of his voice and the prospects that his family was alive were slim to none.  

You opened your mouth to speak to him, to be of comfort to the boy before you were interrupted by a third voice, much deeper and raspier than any you’ve ever heard. A voice you don’t recognize a voice you can't place the origin of. It was loud, it rattled your bones, sending a shiver down your spine. But the voice did not sound menacing. It was devoid of human emotion however the words themselves were kind. 

“Wel...come...home...”  

“Wel...come...home...” 

“Wel...come...home...” 

The look of horror on Conny’s face told you everything you needed to know. The way his eyes stared ahead into a much larger but matching pair. The titan that was crushing his home, the titan that had hazel eyes that were so similar to his own, the only other thing that could make such a sound just spoke. 

“Wel...come...home...Con...ny.” 

... 

In Wall Sina that evening, a carriage is loaded and ready to set off out of the inner city and towards Wall Rose. 

Levi crossed one leg over the other, patting the spot next to him before folding his arms over his chest. 

“You can sit right next to me.” He said, his voice alone left no room for debate. Pastor Nick took his spot next to Levi without a word. He made no eye contact with anyone around him. He simply just looked ahead, working hard to keep his vow of silence. Mikasa sat across from Levi, and next to her was Eren. On Eren’s other side, Armin was taking his seat after meeting up with Hange on the way to the carriage. Hange’s hair was a mess but their eyes were excited, a telltale sign of progress in their research. 

“Um, who is this?” Armin asked politely, point his finger toward Pastor Nick. 

“Ah! This old guy? Armin this is Pastor Nick, Pastor Nick this is Armin.” Hange acquainted them cheerfully.  

“Nick here knew of the titans in the walls and decided humanity was better off not knowing about it.” Levi said dryly, unimpressed with the way the pastor held his head up high when he was mentioned seemingly taking pride in the information he kept hidden. 

“Huh? He knew?!” Eren asked perplexed, his nails digging into the wood that made up his seat in the carriage. 

“Yes, he knew. He’s kept his silence about it and hasn't given us anymore information.” Levi cut in brandishing a pistol from the belt of his trousers. 

“But I have my own ways of making someone speak. It won’t be hard.” He added, nudging Pastor Nick roughly with the gun. Armin swallowed deeply, clearly uncomfortable with the use of force in that manner, but he knew well enough that what he was comfortable with in the moment didn’t matter.  

“Threats dont work Levi, trust me I tried that already.” Hange commented, a silence filled the carriage before they continued addressing everyone. 

“I wonder if he’ll be able to keep his silence after seeing things first hand.” Levi commented through his teeth, irritation lacing his words. He didn’t have the time to babysit Pastor Nick and get information from him, what Levi was far more concerned with was finding your location and finding you alive. He wasn’t quite sure yet why the thought of you in danger out in the world right now irked him beyond belief, but what he did know was that when you were back under his watchful eye, he’d feel better. You’d be safe, and then he could think about making you useful for the time being so you can stand on your own two feet and he’d worry less. All of this was giving him a killer of a headache, it was going to be a long night trying to find the missing scouts in Rose. 

“No! It’s wasting time! If he knows something he should just tell us!” Eren barks, standing up from his seat, but his rage was quickly snuffed as a sharp pain shot through his skull. He still wasn’t feeling himself after everything he’s been through the past few weeks. After Annie, Eren’s stress was through the rough, there was a lot of warring feelings and chaos in his head that he struggled to deal with alone. Who else would betray him? Who else would betray humanity within the walls? Who else wanted to put an end to everything he held dear? His friends, his family, his pride, his freedom.  

“Eren, calm down and sit.” Mikasa said softly, lowering him down to his seat and wrapping him back up in a spare blanket she brought to keep him warm. Levi rolled his eyes secretly at the way Mikasa cared for Eren. “Babied” would be the word Levi used, but he was working on his patience with the brats, per your advice. 

“You’re correct Eren, but he won't tell us using humane means. So, what if the reason he doesn’t talk is because he knows of something far more important than the fate of humanity?” Hange theorized pinching their thumb, pleased with the hypothesis they came to. Armin was on the same train of thought, his ears perked up at the idea. He hummed to himself as he thought of the prospects of something more important than keeping the remains of humanity alive. 

“Something more important than the fate of humanity?” Eren asked in disbelief. The idea was preposterous enough, but Pastor Nick’s visceral response to the words worried his soul. 

Pastor Nick shifted uncomfortably in his seat; cold beads of sweat threatened to slip past his furrowed brows. Levi closed his eyes and let himself surrender to the troubling thoughts in his head for the time being. They had a few more hours left in their ride and for now he wanted quiet time to think things over. Tomorrow will be a long and hard day for everybody, and he can't wait for it to be over. 

[freyzrc]

quick one of levi :D

[vesuvian-american-fics]

better with time. Ch 18

i'm home.

You ride with Reiner to Conny's village, exactly where the titans are coming from. (AO3)

Words: 1,841

Hours earlier within Wall Rose .

Panic shoots through you like ice. Goosebumps raising on your neck and a steady tremble overtakes you. Cold sweat dampens your forehead, your eyes dart between your friends. You can call Sasha and Conny that now, friends. Conversation with Bertholdt and Reiner was a bit strained and forced but interesting nevertheless. Historia and Ymir were damn near strangers to you but that didn’t stop you from turning to them and gauging their reaction to the bad news. They looked stressed of course. You breathe in deeply through your nose and slowly out your mouth.

Calm down. Just breathe.

You can handle this, you had nightmares of this day coming. Of course, they always ended in your painful death, but you’re not alone now like you are in your dreams. These are trained professionals. That also happen to be children much younger than you, even despite being a hundred years their senior. Stuck in your own haze of anxiety and panic you’ve missed everything Nanaba said, all the instructions she just gave.

“Y/N! Stick with me!” Reiner shouts, already headed out the door with the others. You almost trip over your own two feet in your haste to catch up to him. He is as reliable as he claims. You don’t know his history with Bertholdt, but you trust him. Bertholdt is intelligent and his quiet nature is welcome in the sea of young boisterous teens. He’s got a good head on his shoulders, so you’re happy to stick with these two. Even if Bertholdt would rather keep you at arm's length. A twinge of relief calms your jitters, that is until, Conny being distracted bumps into you. You snap your head to him, waiting for an apology before that look of horror much like yours moments ago is mirrored onto his once cheery face.

“My family is to the south... And the titans are... Coming from the South...” He says, large owlish eyes unblinking, mouth slack, unshed tears budding on his lashes. Your heart sinks. You have no words to offer him, you can imagine what he’s thinking and there's no way you can comfort him the way you’d like when you all are headed to board your fleet or horses and head South towards said titans.

You just gave him a sad look, a look he seemed to recognize through his fog by the way his bottom lip trembled in the way they do when you know someone's about to let loose and cry. You were about to speak before you were cut off by Nanaba’s voice cutting over the crowd.

“Get those horses ready, stat!” She barks, before using her gear to shoot up to where Miche is on a rooftop overhead. They looking towards the south. Can they see them from there?! Awkwardly you twiddle your fingers and bounce from one foot to the other, watching helplessly as Reiner saddles up his stallion. He’s quick with his work, he gets on the horse and pulls you up behind him without waiting for you to be ready. With that he snaps the reins and the horse pulls away from the base you all are abandoning.

You wrap your arms tight around his middle, turning your head to get one last glimpse of the safe haven that was just shattered. What will the day bring? Will you survive it with what little skill you possess? You feel like a burden, you miss the you that was locked away in the dungeons for only a moment before steeling your resolve. You can't waste your new life feeling useless. You don't want to be worthless to Hange... To Levi.

I’m not dying before I see them again.

...

Hours later within Wall Sina.

Only minutes after Levi was alerted of the situation in Wall Rose.

“Damn those things. Nothing for weeks and weeks on end and the second-–” Levi cuts himself off with a grunt as he forces open the door to Hange’s makeshift lab here.

“There's titans in Wall Rose. They came this morning and only now are we finally hearing about it, get ready to go...” He says, a cold bite to his tone but it doesn’t faze Hange. It stressed them a bit of course, the rush, and complications of it all. They’re worrying most about you, but at the same time in their gut they know your safe. Or so they hope at least. As a friend, they’d hate to lose you. Fuck the scientific advancements that could come from studying you, now in their heart, Hange just wants to see you safe by sunrise.

“Any word on where Y/N is?” Hange asks, their large brown eye still staring down into a microscope eyeing a piece of the wall at a molecular level. They hear Levi click his tongue in annoyance, probably upset that Hange can read him like a book. He’s worried about you.

“Everyone headed south and after that, if any of them are still alive they’re doing a perimeter of the wall to find the hole.” He informs, grimacing at the prospects of your survival and the rest of the scouts.

“They’ll be okay, those are some of our best out there and Miche is with them of course.” Hange muses, changing out the slide in the microscope with one that holds some of that odd crystal Annie is encased in.

“They haven’t seen Miche since this morning... He was holding off the titans.” Levi mentions, voice flat, an octave deeper than usual. Hange’s lips form into a flat line, and their brows furrow in concern, but they don’t speak. They silence between to two is understood. They hope he’s okay, only time will tell.

“Anyway,” Levi clears his throat to change the grim subject. “I’m going to get the priest ready to come along with us.” Levi says, pulling his coat closer over his shoulders.

“The priest?” Hange asks, confusion lacing their words.

“I want to show him what his silence can bring...” Levi said, and without another word he was stalking down the hallway.

“Be ready in half an hour or we’re leaving without you.” He calls, not bothering himself to wait for an answer, Hange knows well enough that time is ticking.

...

Back in Wall Rose.

The early afternoon sun was torturous on the back of your neck that was exposed to its rays. You could see the beginnings of a sunburn on Reiner’s neck, his cheeks were flushed from the heat, his shirt was starting to feel damp against you. Gross. Miche spoke in hushed tones to Nanaba and the others at the head of the formation. Nanaba looked stressed but she quickly regained her composure and gave Miche a curt nod before he pulled away from her and towards the crowd of titans running now in a full sprint towards you.

The thought of sacrifice made your mouth grow dry. Miche was heading towards the titans to buy everyone some time. You had heard previously, from Hange of course, that he was second only to Levi himself. Being clueless as you are to how things work here; you don’t know if that’s a good enough or not. You just hope that he’ll survive this. He seems strong, and Levi seems even stronger. Something about the way he carries himself make you feel like he could protect you. Protect the scouts, rather... you’re more of a burden to him right now, you think. He wouldn’t waste whatever skills he has to help you, someone who's hardly any help to him, right? You pouted at the idea of being abandoned, it was a recurring though you had recently. Just cooking and cleaning horse stables wasn’t enough to secure your life here. You needed to be more useful to them all, especially now, seeing as Reiner was so kind as to carry your extra weight around and keep you safe. You want to repay he scouts, Erwin, Hange... and repay Levi. You want him to see you as useful. You wanted him to need you around-––

You were taken from your thoughts as Nanaba gave orders to split up. Since you were on the back of Reiner’s horse you had no choice but to go where he wanted, and he wanted to follow Conny to his home town. Conny was grateful, and so was Sasha as she would break away to go back to her home deep in the woods. You prayed she’d make it back to you safe by the end of the day. Somehow, seeing her brown hair grow blurry the farther and farther she rode away gave you anxiety. You didn’t want this to be the last time you saw her.

You too were moving in another direction, pulling around the titans’ flank and heading straight to Conny’s village. You watched as he stumbled over his words, describing how to get to his home, his Adam's apple bobbed up and down as he swallowed loudly.

“Please! Can I check on my family first?” He pleaded, of course he was allowed to go find his home first. Any sane person would want to run straight to their house with news like this and see if his family was alright. It would be cruel to deny him that right, seeing the way he is now. A shadow of him former, childish self.

You were studying his features as you noticed his large eyes widen just a fraction more. He snapped the reins to rush his horse forward, Reiner and Bertholdt did the same. The village was eerily quiet, the homes were destroyed and your heart dropped so hard it felt as if it had fallen onto the beaten path beneath your feet.

Conny rush to the center of the town while Reiner and Bertholdt follow the sound of Conny’s voice. He’s calling for anyone to come out, his family, a neighbor, hell even a stranger to show themselves. You watch as he pulls his horse quickly around a corner and out of sight.  Reiner nearly crashed into Conny’s horse, not expecting him to just be frozen here, staring up in horror at what you could only assume was his old home.

His childhood home that now was a blonde-haired titan flattening it.

And it might be crazy, but this titan’s eyes, they’re so round and golden they look so much like Conny’s...

“Conny! Get back!” Reiner barks, pulling on Conny’s arm. But he’s ignored, Conny just continues to mumble incoherently.

“Conny...” You say, quieter now, you rub his back to coax him out of whatever haze his mind is in right now.

“It’s... My house. This is my house...” He finally whispers, his eyes glossed over as unshed tears begin to build up in his eyes. His voice is trembling as he fights to hold his composure. Your heart sinks, you swallow thickly as you try to gather your thoughts. You share anxious eye contact with Reiner, sweat is beading at his brow.

“It’s... my house....”

[paikan-deactivated20220114]

2021.3.21

[vesuvian-american-fics]

better with time. Ch 17

miles apart.

Levi spends the day daydreaming about his past and how you fit into his life now. Now that he trusts you, is this just friendly concern, or something else he doesn't understand. His frustrating thoughts are interuppted by titans breaching Wall Rose. You're in Wall Rose. (AO3)

Words: 1,556

“That brat...” Levi grumbled, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. He watched from his office window in mild irritation as you were pulled onto the back of Reiner’s horse. He was beginning to trust you, but even still there was someone in the 104th Cadet Corps that was a titan beside Eren and you. Any interaction you had with someone was going to give him a headache. Levi and the other higher ups were already looking at Reiner and Berthodlt. Only because they had a close relationship with Annie back during their training days. Bertholdt was a good kid, Levi thought, just lacking in the confidence area and unfortunately attached at the hip to Reiner. Reiner was strong and had good leadership, and close to Eren, that could be concerning only if he were a titan.

Levi pinched the bridge of his nose as he let his thoughts reck havoc on his brain. He sighed before finishing his cup of tea, it had already gone cold but he’d hate to waste the last sip over something so petty as the temperature of the beverage. He gulped it down, only slightly grimacing over its lacking warmth. Watching as the horses pulled off towards the horizon Levi found his eyes landing on you once more. Concern bubbled inside of him, why? He wasn’t entirely sure. Just hoping that nothing would go wrong the first time you spend your day away from him.

No.

He’s just hoping you're not fooling them all. That sounds better. He’s not worrying about you like that. He’s just worried that he somehow let your friendly nature, your humor, and your company dull his senses. He’s worried that now that humanities strongest soldier isn’t around, you, or some other titan in the group will kill everybody. Makes sense. His time off from expeditions was nice, having you around was... Interesting to say the least. A step from routine, now that you can talk you aren’t so much of a bore. He’s put you to good use and now Hange has someone else’s ear to talk off instead of his.

He sighed. No use imagining the worst-case scenario, there are other things to handle for the day. He and Hange have to get to Wall Sina and handle the situation with the pastor. Pastor Nick was hiding things from us, titans literally inside the very walls themself. Today’s task was to get even more information out of him. Levi placed his empty teacup down onto his desk gently before rubbing both hands down his face.

“Tch. That prick.” He spat, anger with the Pastor and the system of the walls swirled in his gut. A rough knock rapped against the wooden door separating him from the hallway, Levi pulled his blazer over his shoulders and headed towards it. Opening the door, he was met with Hange and Armin, who stood anxiously behind the taller section commander.

“Hange.” Levi greeted lazily; his eyes slid over to Armin who looked out of place but he didn’t question it.

“Levi!” Hange shouts, Armin chuckles awkwardly at Hange’s excitement. Armin always thought Captain Levi and Hange were like oil and water, but upon further investigation, they’re more like peanut butter and jam. Levi’s salty and Hange is sweet in their own way, polar opposites but a great duo when combined. Armin found it endearing, it was always amusing to watch them interact.

“Let’s get this over with.” Levi responded coldly. The three of them were off in a carriage toward the wall, in the opposite direction of you.

...

They arrived midday, the entire ride Levi’s mind was busy. Busy with thoughts of the investigation on your end, from time to time he wondered how you were. How were you holding up without him, or no, no. He means, ow were you holding up without Hange?

Yeah... That was a troublesome thought that often would thrust its way to the forefront of his mind. Were you okay? Not if could you be deceiving him, or how you could be a really impressive liar all these months, or even if you were conspiring with other titans. Those thoughts used to plague his every waking thought when you first got here. Now? Now he wasn’t sure what changed, but he didn’t think a liar would be capable of stirring his thoughts like this. He’d always keep a true liar at arm's length, something in him could just sense the ill intent. However, in you, he never got them feeling. He just felt curious and intrigued underneath his façade of suspicion. He also felt, funny enough, a bit of sympathy.

Some weird woman finds out she's over a hundred years old and only by luck is she alive. Her whole family dead and gone and she couldn’t remember them if she tried, can’t even remember herself.

There are times Levi would wish he could forget his past. Forget it all and hope for it to never come back so he could feel some sense of reprieve from his hidden grief. But that’s a lie. His life was hard but he didn’t want to forget it. He wanted to remember his mother. Her face, her hair, her scent, her soft voice always comforting him. The warmth of her touch, her love, and her name. Kuchel was a good woman despite her circumstances. He wouldn’t hate her if she were cruel, but she wasn’t.

He didn’t want forget his friends, Isabel and Farlan. He didn’t want to forget the times they had, the laughs they shared. The peace they brought him. He didn’t want to forget the pain he felt when...

He didn’t want to forget that. That would be a disservice to their memory. He didn’t want to forget any of his comrades. They lived on in his memory, their deaths will be meaningful. He won’t let them go in vain. He didn’t want to lose anybody else.

Only by a miracle will everyone’s lives be spared, but miracles weren’t real. Just childish hopes and dreams. He didn’t have the privilege to believe that his friends would live. So, he just hoped it will be meaningful. He hoped he’d live so they could continue on in his memory. His thoughts were about to drift back to you before the carriage they rode in came to a harsh stop, making Hange awake with a startle.

Now what was a miracle, was the fact that somehow Levi’s jumbled miserable daydreaming drowned out Hange’s incessant snoring. He shook his head before opening the carriage door and hopping down. He winced at the pain that radiated from his thigh. It was healing well enough, but still too much of a risk to get back to fighting. He scowled at the limits of his body, how pathetic this leg made him feel. Annoyed with the memories of the Female Titan. He clicked his tongue before shuffling out of the way to let Hange out of the carriage. They gave Levi a knowing glance before turning to Armin and ushering him off.

“Sent him off to go to Eren and Mikasa. They’re somewhere around here. But never mind that, Levi my friend! Come with me to my lab!” Hange exclaimed.

“I’ll pass. Where’s the sorry excuse for a pastor?” Levi asked, a bored look to his expression. Hange pouted a bit but after catching a glimpse of Moblit walking about looking busy, they recovered.

“He’s in custody, ask Erwin, bye! Moblit! Wait up!” Hange squawked and with that, they dashed out of sight. Levi sighed in defeat. Half of his day was already gone and nothing was going as he had wanted. With nothing else to do, Levi stalked off towards Erwin’s office. The sun was beginning to set already and nothing had been done. With luck, Erwin would be a bit easier to work with that Hange today.

“Only one thing could make today worse.” He mumbled under his breath as he searched for the Commander. After about twenty minutes of searching, Levi finally caught a glimpse of that neat blonde hair. Erwin was a tall man, it would always be easy to spot him in a crowd, that is if Levi had the vantage point to see over a crowd given his own height. Picking up the pace a bit to catch up to the man, just as Levi was about to speak, he was interrupted by a scout. He didn’t recognize the man but he did recognize the look of fear stricken on his face. Levi knitted his brows together; he held his breath for the worst. Please don’t say it.

“Titans! Titan’s breached Wall Rose!”

Levi clenched his jaw. Of course they would. Levi shot Erwin a knowing glance before he walked off to prepare. He’ll be damned if he stays stuck in Wall Sina when you’re in Wall Rose. Was it someone in the 104th? Was it you? No. He didn’t believe for a second you did this, and that irked him. A few months ago, you’d be the first person he blamed, but he’s coming to terms with that fact that he trusts you now. He just hopes you’ll survive on your own until he gets to you. Until, someone gets to you. He cursed to himself, a painful migraine making him wince.

“Damnit!”

[burialspirit]

small feitan

[vesuvian-american-fics]

True Bloodlust Author's Cut Ch 2

I Shouldn't Cry Because I Love It

You almost ruin a mission by not following Feitan's orders. This is him punishing you for it. (AO3)

Words: 2,329

“You remember rules?” Feitan asked, his voice cold and seemingly uninterested. The only way you could tell that he wasn’t as bored as he wanted to let on was that large bulge that strained painfully against his black jeans. You nodded your head in agreeance, not realizing your petty mistake before feeling the harsh snap of Feitan’s favorite whip against your back. White hot pain shot through your nerves, you yelped in pain but not before a wicked grin spread across your face as the pain was slowly but surely becoming pleasure.

“Pathetic. I said... do you remember rules?” He asked again, even more venom seeping into his words. The furrow of his brows, the cold glare to his narrowing eyes, it sent a chill through you.

“Yes.” You spoke clearly for the man before you to hear loud and clear. No mumbling or stuttering. He clicked his tongue, he was irritated with you, you could tell. He had hoped you’d slip up so he could punish you more tonight. He will either way but he wanted you to disobey so he could allow himself to get lost in his frustration with a clear head. You messed up at your last mission. Gotten yourself and Feitan hurt, it was embarrassing for him. Not necessarily your slip up, but his reaction. He lost his cool, all logic out the window. In the aftermath it only dawned on him how upset and angry he was that you were hurt, ignoring how his own clothes were dampened by his blood.

He had deep immense feelings for you and they were dulling his senses. It frustrated him to no end. Punishing you for your insolence... that could clear his head enough to think things over. More pain than pleasure. You deserved it, screwing up his mind like this.

“You know why I do this?” Feitan asked, a playful lilt to his voice. You shivered in the cold air of his bedroom. He wanted to be cruel today.

“I messed up. I’m sorry.” You whined. He shook his head disappointedly.

“Sorry? Too late for that Y/N. Now I punish you.” He accented his sentence with a crack of the whip. It tore across your bare ass making you scream in pain, your panting breaths coming out in puffs as you tried in vain to steady yourself after your lover's torment.

“F-Fei, I’m sorry, please. I’ll be good.” You pleaded; it was only the beginning but you know this would drag on for hours. All pain no real pleasure. You still enjoyed yourself to an extent but this wasn’t meant to be enjoyable for you. Only for Feitan, and yet he still had a soft spot for you. He wouldn’t break you... even though you deserved it.

“Shut up. You beg when I tell you.” He snapped. You lowered your head, silencing yourself until he gave you permission to speak. You were tied up good. Hands tied together painfully behind your back as your body lay across a cold metal table. Behind you, Feitan had a spreader bar secured at your ankles keeping you spread and open, ready for him. On your neck was a rope and underneath the table it was tied to the spreader bar behind you. In a sense you were wrapped around the table unable to move, only able to endure what Feitan put you through.

For hours on end, he’d whip and spank you with various tools admiring the angry red welts the rose underneath your flesh. He’d force ice cubes onto the wounds, it would sting but after a moment you would be numb, painfully so. Pins and needles prickling the skin of your ass and thighs. You’d scream and moan at the feel of it, overwhelming pain that made you drool. Your voice grew hoarse with your constant lewd wailing. You begged for release, your sex swollen and sore, throbbing for attention. A harrowing cycle continuing endlessly.

That is, until you heard him leave the room, a few minutes rest you supposed. When he returned, refastening the button on his jeans, you figured he left to satisfy himself before he lost his patience and finally forced himself inside of you. He came back with his other toys, his case of medical tools.

He wanted to cut you.

Read The Rest On AO3

[bastart13]

I needed to draw a sleep pile sketch for theraputic reasons

When it comes to Asra and Muriel, I only think of those videos of a big dog napping with a cat flopping all over them to sleep

[vesuvian-american-fics]

Something Entirely New Ch 14

Nothing But The Sound Of Paint Brushes

You and the crew go painting with a shy amazonian painter, named Rayna. (AO3)

Words: 1,741

“Morning sleepyhead.” Asra croons, stuffing his nose into your hair and nuzzling your neck close. You had wondered why you felt extra weight dipping into your mattress this morning, and that familiar warmth of Asra’s body embracing yours. You hum in delight, giving Asra an affectionate squeeze.

“Morning indeed. How’d you sneak in here?” You ask playfully, indulging his cuddly desires as you through your leg over his waist to pull yourself that much closer to him. A mix of tangled limbs and hushed voices raspy from a long night's rest. Mornings like this with Asra weren’t uncommon back at the shop but what’s new is the sound of clanging dishes in the kitchen, rather, not any kitchen noises made by Faust. Instead, now it’s Muriel, making a quick breakfast of eggs and tea.

“You looked so cute sound asleep I couldn’t resist sliding in next to you.” He hummed taking an exaggerated sniff of your hair, the scent of shampoo he bought for you clinging to your tussled locks. You pat his shoulders signaling to him that it was finally time to crawl out of bed and give Muriel some company.

“The food smells good as always.” You commented, pulling on some clothes for the day and padding over to the washroom to brush your teeth. Asra nodded in agreeance before you listened as he glided down the stairs. The muffled conversation between Asra and Muriel brought a smile to your face.

When you entered the kitchen Muriel was just finished setting the table and pulling out your chair, you smiled at the man before placing your hand over his in silent thanks. He blushed as he nodded to you, motioning to your chair for you to sit. Your morning together was spent the same as it always had been, eating, listening to Asra chatter about his dream the night before and getting excited about the day ahead in town.

“Today we get to paint our little vases!” You exclaimed, clapping your hands together. You loved to paint, especially on mornings you secretly kept the shop closed longer than you should have when Asra was away. What he didn’t know wouldn’t hurt you always thought, it gave you time to slow down and take a breather while running the shop alone.

Muriel offered a small smile before he cleared his throat to speak.

“You’ll have to help me again, Y/N... if you don’t mind.” He stammered out. You could tell he was working on building up his confidence with the way he spoke to you lately, it was a welcome change. The way he walks with his back straighter, he always has a small smile plastered on his lips, he keeps his eyes on yours instead of bouncing around the room to avoid you. It was like watching a flower’s petals unfurl and open up to let the sunshine in. Beautiful.

“Of course, Muriel.” You reply, smile growing just a bit wider. Asra was pouting playfully.

“Help me too, Y/N!” He said, he was already a natural when it came to paining. He was more stylistic and abstract with his work while you loved to dabble in realism. You and Asra shared a laugh before you pressed a hand to his knee.

“Yes, of course I can’t leave you out Asra~” You coo. You stood from the table, missing the way Asra deflated at the loss of your touch. Muriel silently chuckled at the drop in Asra's shoulders when you left. Muriel stood and the three of you deposited your dishes in the sink and left for town.

...

“Howdy you crazy kids!” James called from the door of his shop waving the three of you over. Asra greeted the man and you all stepped inside the pottery shop to see your vases.

“Vases lookin’ pretty darn good if I do say so myself! There’s a lot of love put into these pieces, even an amateur can see it!” James comments fondly, the crow’s feet at the corner of his eyes crinkling ever so slightly as his smile deepens. Asra grins from ear to ear, marveling at the near finished look of the vases.

“They’re perfect!” He sighs dreamily as he inspects your work. You couldn’t help but chuckle at Asra’s excitement, he was always a delightful person but this is a type of glee you haven’t seen in a while. Not unless you come home with his favorite food, blue tongued skink.

“We still have to paint them.” Muriel added, his voice was deep and flat but the faint smile on his lips was noticeable, he was happy too.

“Oh yes yes! Don’t let me hold you all day again! Go on next door and get to paintin’ these beauties! Shoo shoo!” James chortled, ushering the three of you out the front doors and right through the next shops doors. He chatted a bit with the owner before he shook your hand roughly shooting you a wink and heading out before you could even give a proper goodbye. You smiled wistfully as his short form staggered back to his own shop, the walls were thin and you could hear him greeting new customers every now and again.

The painting instructor was the polar opposite of James. A tall slender woman, long wavy strawberry blonde locks fell graciously down her back, she wore a long flowing dress that pooled at her feet with a bright shawl pulled over her shoulders, accented by a large sun hat that sat atop her head. Much like her body, her face was long and slender was well, a thin but beautifully sculpted nose right above a small mouth, large tired looking golden eyes with long blonde lashes. She was freckled, blushy, her voice was small and mousy and she stuttered quite a bit. You could tell she was awkward but it seemed her confidence lied with her work.

Her paintings were astounding, by the looks of it she could paint in just about any style or medium. Realism, abstract, paint splashes, oil paint, acrylic, water color, pastels. It was awe inspiring.

She nodded silently towards a long table set to the back of the room, offering the three of you a small smile and bow. She shuffled quickly out of the room and into what you imagined to be a tea room or kitchenette of sorts. She reappeared before you soundlessly with three steaming cups of tea.

She whispered, “I recommend acrylic paint.” She slid a box of the paint onto the table before placing three jars of water to rinse the colors, and finally fresh brushes to use. Without another word she glided across the room to sit herself in front of her large easel and continue with her own work. It was quiet, save for the sound of the morning breeze rolling through the room and rustling the lady’s plants and wind chimes. The three of you silently decided to keep quiet as well, it was comfortable and serene. Everyone at peace and creating art. Muriel would look to you for advice and you would point to whichever paint you thought would look best. He’d always nod in response, almost a bit too formal and serious for what was being discussed. He wanted his succulent to be perfect, and evidently, he imagined you were the best person to help him create that.

Asra would nudge your elbow and ask you opinion on his ideas for his vase.

“More purple? Or more gold?” He’d whisper, feline like eyes never leaving his brush as it danced along the hardened clay of his vase.

“I think there's enough purple Asra.” You’d respond trying to stifle your laughter, he’d exhale hard through his nose at your words before he got back to painting. You shook your head at him playfully before you continued your work. You admired the quality of the paints the instructor acquired, it was smooth and silky as all good paints should be. She had rare paints that she wasn’t afraid to share, due to the fact she bought all of her supplies in bulk. The rest of the morning was spent sipping tea and painting in near silence.

When the three of you finished, you noticed the painter's owlish eyes watching you over her easel. The sound of your paint brushed dripping into your water jars for the last time must has signaled to her that you were finished and ready to leave.

“Finished?” She asked in a hushed tone, eyes bouncing between the three vases. Asra's loud and bright with a mixture of lavenders and royal purple decorated with golden stars and constellations, yours was a solid color mixed with a milky white as his heavy cream had been poured directly into the paint, one that would go lovely back at the shop, it wouldn’t attract too much attention but it wasn’t bland either. Just your taste. Finally, for Muriel, he wondered if against the tans and gold of the desert would a sky-blue pot go well? You agreed and that’s what he did, not giving it much else thought. If you said it was a good idea, then it was the best idea.

“Lovely work. It’s darling.” She said, smile spreading and the apples of her cheeks tinting pink. She ushered you all to the doors and instructed for you all to let your pots dry in the window sill at home for a day and they’ll be right as rain.

“I’m sorry. I never caught your name, ma’am.” You mentioned just as you were stepping out into the early afternoon sun.

“My name? O-oh is Rayna. Have a blessed day.” She said and slipped back into her house before you could reply, you smiled before you bowed at nothing in particular and the three of you head back home to place your vases in the window.

“All the quiet made me sleepy...” Asra yawned, stretching his arms high above his head as he walked inside.

“Let’s have a lazy day in.” He whined, already heading up to his bed without another word. You chuckled at him before you heard Muriel’s stifled yawn from behind you.

“Alright, lazy day it is!” You say, dashing up the stairs to throw yourself into bed. Muriel stumbled behind you before he curled up in his own bed and the rest of your day was spent napping. A content smile remaining on your lips.

[sookashira]

Levi-sama *screams*

[vesuvian-american-fics]

better with time. Ch 16

you're not safe.

You're hit with a harsh reality check. Just because you're not out there, beyond the walls, doesn't mean you're safe. (AO3)

Words: 1,570

“What are we doing here... it’s been two hours and nothing.” Connie complained, holding his head in his hands. Sasha only hummed lazily in response, a blank look to her eyes. You shook your head at their conversation before averting your attention to Bertholdt’s and Reiner’s chess game.

“Think of it like a day off, we don’t have any training or expeditions today since we’re here. We aren’t even dressed for work.” Sasha said after the quiet threatened to put her to sleep.

“Don’t you find that odd? Being in our plain clothes and not allowed to do anything. Even more suspicious, everyone outside is armed...” Reiner chimed in while Bertholdt took his time expertly deciding where to place his rook. You shifted uncomfortably, knowing exactly why everyone was here unarmed. They’re investigating us to weed out any more titans in the ranks, and it only makes sense that you’re here too, according to Hange. You decided to change to subject before the scouts got any more suspicious.

“W-what are expeditions like? On a good day, I mean?” You asked awkwardly. The table lapsed into silence for a moment before Bertholdt responded.

“On an ideal expedition no one dies, we count how many titans are within forty kilometers of the wall, and then we head home by lunch. We haven't experienced an ideal expedition.” He cleared his throat after his last comment and watched as Reiner placed his knight down onto the wooden chess board.

“Oh... I’m sorry I shouldn’t have asked––”

“No, don’t be sorry Y/N it all comes with the work! Bertholdt and I understand as much, I’m not too sure about these kids here.” He said, chuckling as he nodded towards Connie and Sasha starting a lazy game of I Spy.

“Kids? Aren’t you only a few years older than them?” You laughed, getting to know Reiner more today was nice. He seemed like a funny guy and dependable, at the very least by the younger scouts. You adored his close relationship to Bertholdt, they seemed a lot like brothers in your eyes. A faint blush tickled Reiner’s cheeks at your words, making Bertholdt stifle a small laugh before refocusing himself with the game of chess.

“I like to think of myself as a big brother to a lot of these guys.” He said, stumbling over his words just a bit, you supposed he’s shy when talking about his feelings.

“I like to think of you as a warrior...” Bertholdt cuts in, he had a small smile on his lips but they didn’t quite reach his eyes. You didn’t pay that any mind, no one else seemed to notice besides Reiner anyway.

“Well anyway, Y/N, how old are you?” The blonde brute asked, changing the subject. You thought about it for a moment, you thought about your features and how you looked in the mirror. You didn’t look old per say but in your heart, you knew you weren’t around their age. The way you carried yourself, you factored in the time you spent as a titan, and how when you woke up your hair was overgrown. You can’t imagine you had your hair so long it almost dusted the floor in your past life so you decided to take a guess.

“To be generous, I’ll guess I’m in my twenties at the very least. Twenty-five to shoot for the middle?” You added, shrugging your shoulders.

“Oh really? You don’t look a day over a hundred!” A snarky voice called from over your shoulder. It was Ymir, she stood behind you with two drinks in hand, one for herself and the other, you imagined, was for Christa. You frowned at her words, but shook them off with a small laugh.

“One hundred and twenty-five then, I suppose.” You said, giving Ymir a short smile. Ymir tried to look annoyed with you but her resolve crumbled, a small smirk playing around her lips. Up close you noted the way her freckles danced about as she spoke, her eyes narrowing at you, no real venom to it. Ymir was interesting to say the least, though thorny from time to time.

“Ymir! Stop teasing!” Christa called from the back of the room, without missing a beat Ymir turned on her heels and made her way back to her friend.

“Alright alright, I’m only playing around!” You heard her say nonchalantly. Turning back to your table you caught Bertholdt and Reiner sharing some intense eye contact before they broke away and looked back to the game before them. It was odd but you couldn’t think more about it before Connie and Sasha showered you with questions.

“Do you remember anything about being a titan?!” Sasha asked, scooting over to be across from you. Connie scooched forward now too into your personal space to ask his own invasive questions.

“Was it fun being so big? Do people even taste good?” He asked, his golden eyes boring into your own. His eyes were so large it was almost unnerving, you pushed back on his shoulders so that he was sitting properly again and not leaning forward to you.

“Okay, okay! I don’t remember much alright, and I definitely don’t remember... eating anybody. I’m glad for that!” You said, and for the next half hour you answered questions, paying no mind to the way you drew attention from other scouts, or the way Ymir’s stare made the hairs on the back of your neck stand on end.

“So... How’d you come back?” Connie asked, his brows knitted together in thought.

“W-well, I hadn’t eaten so the... my titan was frail. Hange told me they don’t need to eat to survive but still I was weakened. Hadn’t moved for years and just suddenly it’s like I could hear the outside world. But with my own regular ears, it was muffled, and my back felt warm. And so... I just moved, and it felt different. It wasn’t the titan but my own body. I’m not sure I think time and lack of food, and the fact that I somehow kept sane through it all helped. That’s all I remember. I’m not even sure how or why I was a titan. It sounds impossible!” You said, finally silencing yourself after rambling trying to piece together your past.

“Well from our perspective, Levi all but ripped you from out of that titan. We thought you were eaten and cutting your way out with all the steam but it was coming out of you too.” Reiner said, his once laxed attitude nowhere to be found. He sounded serious and cold now, the muscles of his arms flexed.

“He dropped you in Reiner’s arms and we took you back to base. You looked like Eren with the little titan muscle things attached to your face. Egh!” Sasha added, sounding a little queasy as she recalled the events. Your brows raised; this was news to you. You touched at your cheek as you took in her words.

“And you were naked.” Connie added, snickering as he disclosed the information. A furious blush formed on your face, frazzled you slammed your head down onto the table before you to hide your shame. The force knocking over a few pieces of Bertholdt and Reiner’s chess game to the point that they decided to abandon the game all together.

“Why would you tell me that!” You whined, Connie always seemed like the childish type, his playful antics only growing with Sasha nearby. You groaned, what a great first impression you had with Levi. Hell, with the rest of the scouts as well. You were so new to everything that happened the moment you were free that you hadn’t even noticed you were unclothed. You continued to furiously shake your head, trying in vain to free yourself from the memory.

“That looks like a good idea.” Sasha said with a yawn. She dropped her own head harshly onto the wooden table, for a nap you suppose. She was only there for a moment before she snapped her head up, a fear-stricken expression on her.

“I hear thuds! Like footsteps!” She shouted, out of breath. You didn’t understand what was happening but she caught the attention of everyone in the room. A bead of sweat slipped down Reiner’s face.

“Get serious Sasha... If you’re suggesting that there’s titans that would mean... That would mean that Wall Rose fell.” He said, not sounding like he wanted to believe Sasha’s words, but his expression told another story.

Titans... here?

“Titans are coming?” You said, your voice trembling, you hadn’t seen a titan since you were a titan. The anxiety pierced through your, your heart thrumming painfully fast.

“It’s true! I really hear it!” She said standing with her hands in the air. Your hands began to tremble, palms feeling clammy. Bertholdt noticed your fear, his eyes darting between you and Reiner. Before Sasha could continue, Nanaba was outside the window with a cold look in her eye.

“Multiple titans, five hundred meters to the south. They’re coming right this way.” She informed, addressing the room. Your mouth fell open, this couldn’t be happening. You never had time to address your own fear of titans. You had struggled with nightmares of them and of the hell you endured out there. You shook your head slowly, trying to will your mind that this was all a very vivid dream.

“No...”

[paikan-deactivated20220114]

おくりびと　　2021.3.28

[vesuvian-american-fics]

better with time. Ch 15

full disclosure.

A full investigation into the 104th Scout Regimen begins. Are there more titans among them? Friend or foe? (AO3)

Words: 1,885

It had been a few days since you started cooking in the kitchen and handling the stables. Armin was kind enough to reintroduce himself and teach you the ins and outs of stable work to make sure you did a good job keeping everything up to code.

“Thank you, Armin. You didn’t have to do this for me.” You say sheepishly. He was generous, curious, and asked a lot of questions about your memories. You told him everything you could recall and he seemed to heave a sigh of relief at that.

“No, it’s my pleasure. But I’ll be honest I really wanted to ask you a lot of questions and I– I just needed the time and-–”

“You don’t have to explain. The more people who understand me the better I suppose. But I really can’t remember much else. Sometimes my body remembers things that my mind can't...”

With that you told the story about the time you had such a high fever and Hange needed to stick you with a syringe. You don’t remember why you were so afraid but your body had such a visceral reaction you’re sure it has something important to do with your past. You just need more pieces to fit into the puzzle that is your mind. Armin made a thoughtful sound before turning to his horse and petting her snout.

“I’m sorry about before, a long time ago in the canteen? So much happened just before you came here... with Annie. A-and I just wanted to trust that this was all some wild coincidence and not that you were...”

“It’s okay Armin. Truthfully, I know nothing about that other than what I was told just a few days ago by your other friends. I’m sorry that happened though.” You said with a sad looking smile.

“I trust you now. Eren, he was quick to trust you so all I need to do is convince Mikasa. The one with the shiny black hair? She’s so protective it’ll take some time.” He said, a weary look in his eyes but a determined shine to them all the while.

“Thank you, Armin. I’m glad you trust me. I’m having fun here despite it all, haha . I got the rest from here, don’t stress too much over me.” You said, and with a wave you shooed the blonde off.

After another half hour or so shoveling hay, you figured it was about time to go ask Levi to survey your work. You dusted off your clothes the best you could, and used a handkerchief to clean off your face before heading inside. As you got closer to his office door you heard hushed voices inside. Levi, Hange, Miche, and a fourth voice you didn’t recognize. A woman taking the lead in the conversation.

“We can’t wait any long, Captain. We already put this investigation off long enough.” She said, sounding stern. You heard Levi sigh before there was a lapse of tense silence.

“Tch... Damnit I guess not. I’d hoped my leg would be fully healed before we got back to this.” He complained. His leg? What's wrong with his leg?

“You’re right Nanaba. Given the Y/N situation, the other titan thing slipped my mind completely.” Hange whined, before perking back up almost immediately.

“Welp! Let’s go kill two birds with one stone!” Hange said before you heard heavy footfalls heading towards the office door. You blanched; how suspicious would it look for you to just be standing outside the doorway? Quickly, you dashed back behind the corner before you took a steadying breath to walk back out into the hallway just after they leave the office. Now it’ll only look like a coincidence that you’re all here at Levi’s door.

“Oh! Y/N! Good timing!” Hange complimented while you chuckled awkwardly. Nanaba’s eyes narrowed at you before mumbling something under her breath to Miche. Levi finally stepped into the hallway, his hand resting over his thigh before he looked over to you.

“Hey, those stables better be perfect since you’re here.” He said, crossing his arms over his chest intimidatingly.

“Y-yes! That’s why I’m here to come ask you to look.” You turned on your heel to head back outside hoping for him to follow but he stopped you before you could take another step.

“Don’t bother. Just go get a bath already. I’m sure they’re fine if you look that shitty.” He snorted, eyes looking you over. The number of mysterious stains littering your clothes made him scowl in disgust.

“Get her some new clothes already.” He ordered Hange, and with that you were off to the bath.

...

“Hange... I can ask you just about anything right?” You asked with a stutter. Hange could tell you were feeling nervous for whatever reason so they immediately went into comfort mode.

“Yup, just about anything. What’s up?” Hange asked lightheartedly, they’re chocolatey brown eyes softening at you. You thought about the renewed hustle and bustle of the base, the half of the scouts getting into uniform while another bunch, the one you were most acquainted with seemed just as confused as you.

“If I’m allowed to know... what’s going on today?” You asked, twiddling your thumbs as you lay in the bath. Behind the partition, Hange clenched their fists in defeat. They sighed lowly before speaking.

“I heard you know about the Annie thing. So, I shouldn’t tell you but I trust you completely, and believe it or not Levi doesn’t see you as a threat anymore either. But, ahem ! We suspect Leonhart had accomplices. We’ve been suspecting it since before you got here but, perfectly timed you pop up and took all of our attention!” Hange laughed, but it was strained you could tell. They cleared their throat once more before continuing.

“So today, we’re moving the 104 th  Cadet Corps to an outpost to weed out any titans in the regimen. You’re going too so– Hop outta that bath soon!” Your mouth hung open as the sound of the washroom door opening and shutting with a thud resounded through the room.

“ What?! ” Anxiety brewed in your gut, but you quickly did as you were told. You hopped out of the bath and dried yourself off, getting dressed in the new set of clothes Hange set out. A white blouse with grey slacks, and your everyday brown laced up boots. Lazily you dried your hair and rushed out of the washroom, only to crash into Miche’s broad chest. You stumbled back and stuttered out an apology, but he waved it off. He stood to the side and introduced you to Nanaba.

“Oh, hello.” You reply awkwardly. Nanaba eyed you over before she spoke authoritatively.

“You got a last name?” She asked flatly. An embarrassed blush warmed your cheeks, and your eyes darted off to the side, looking anywhere but her eyes.

“I don’t remember. I don’t even know if Y/N was my name before– So... no.” You mumbled, hands absentmindedly wringing the edges of your blouse. Nanaba cocked her head to the side at your response before she sighed and relaxed her shoulders.

“Let’s go then, Y/N.” Her voice was softer now, almost empathetic. You followed her obediently down the hall and out to where the rest of the scouts stood. A crowd of unfamiliar faces but six stood out among the rest. Sasha, Connie, Bertholdt, Reiner, Ymir, and Christa. Quickly, you rushed to stand by Sasha and Connie before giving an awkward wave to Bertholdt and Reiner, who smiled back. Their eyes lingering on you just a beat long enough to make things awkward on your end. You snapped your eyes away from them to wave a sheepish hello to Christa who gladly waved back and Ymir, who only sneered at you. You frowned before turning your head away as Miche and Nanaba led the group out to the stables for everyone to collect their horse.

You stood around awkwardly before looking to Miche for help.

“I don’t have a horse...” You said, his brows perking up at your voice coming from behind him.

“Levi said take his.” You nodded before trotting over to his horse in the back, beautiful as ever. Clumsily you took the reins in your hand, leading the horse out of the stables following everyone else's lead. Everyone seemed to know what they were doing, saddling up their steed and getting ready to hop on. Unknown to you, Levi was surveying you from his office window. The way you floundered just trying to position the saddle the right way on his horse. He had half a mind to go out there and do it for you, but he stopped himself.

“Good horsey. Just help me out a little bit alright, you know me?” You whined. The saddle was on but it didn’t look half as sturdy as everybody else but you couldn’t linger on the though since it looked like you were one of the last people on their horse. You puffed out your cheeks before releasing a calming breath and sitting your foot in the stirrup.

“Alright. This is easy, one... two.. three-– EEP!” As you swung your other leg over the horse your world flipped upside down, you were right. Your saddle wasn’t secured at all and it was too late to help yourself as your head came crashing back down onto the ground. Sasha, Connie and Ymir did little to stifle their thunderous laughter. The hay stuck to your swollen cheek, the single pained tear beading in your eye, the headache that was cooking up in your skull. You gave a pained hiss before, pouting at the way Levi’s stallion snickered at you. Levi chuckled at your clumsiness from his window before taking a sip from his tea cup and continuing to watch you.

“Even you’re laughing at me.” You stood before dusting yourself off. Miche came to your aid to check on you.

“Miche, I’m sorry. I don’t even know how to ride a horse to begin with...”

“It’s fine. Just––” He looked around in thought, scratching at his chin but before he could continue Nanaba was riding up on her horse to give you instructions.

“Just pair up with someone and ride their horse. We don’t have time.” She ordered. Miche kindly took the reins from your hands and led Levi’s horse back into the stables while you looked around for a friend to ride with.

You were about to ask Sasha before Reiner led his horse in your path and held out his hand.

“Come on! You’re safe with me.” He said with a smug smile, Bertholdt was burning holes in the back of Reiner’s head with his wide eyes stare but you paid no mind to it.

“Ah... Okay. Thank you, Reiner.” Timidly, you took his hand and without a second thought, Reiner’s brute strength was pulling you onto the back of his horse. Back in his office, Levi clicked his tongue disapprovingly before heading out with Hange back to the Wall.

“That brat...” He grumbled, his eyes narrowing in suspicion .

“Hang on.” Reiner said as you wrapped your arms around his middle. With everybody good to go, the 104 th  Scout Regimen head out towards the outpost with Miche and Nanaba in the lead to conduct their investigation.

[mountain-man-cumeth]

look at this blushy baby 🥺❤️😍🥰

[vesuvian-american-fics]

Something Entirely New Ch 13

Familiarity

Pottery class!!! (AO3)

Words: 1,585

The first week of the festival came and went as swiftly as the passing spring breeze, a blur of laughter, smiles, and newfound happiness. Stolen glances, interlaced fingers, baked goods and lemonade were a daily occurrence the past week. Muriel found peace in that, the daily routine that came about.

“So, this week, the festival merchants have a lot of artsy classes to attend!” Asra chirped, lightly drumming his fists against the dining room's handmade table. Muriel frowned at the way his glass of lemonade threatened to topple over with Asra’s movement, gently he held the cup firmly in his hand.

“Classes?” He grumbled, not too fond of the idea of taking classes during what was meant to be a leisurely vacation.

“Classes like what?” You chimed in, sensing Muriel’s unease.

“Pottery, woodwork, more painting-–” Asra counted off on his fingers, an excitable expression lingering on his features.

“Woodwork? I already know that much...” Muriel commented, taking a sip of his drink to busy himself.

“Like whittling or furniture making?” You asked, your eyes scanning over the way Asra’s shoddy table wobbled on its uneven legs.

“I’m familiar with both.” He responded plainly, though a foreign sense of pride bubbled from within him.

“Muriel can teach you whittling, Y/N.” Asra grinned, once again playing as Muriel’s wingman. Muriel spluttered into his cup before clearing his throat.

“I– I can... if you want...”

“I’d like that! But I am interested in this pottery class! Are you two ready to head out for the day?” You ask, smiling at the two before you. Asra hopped to his feet and was already heading for the door. Muriel silently stood on his feet, the floor creaking beneath his weight.

With that, the three of you head out into the sun to learn some pottery!

...

“Oh! Three friends looking to learn the trade of pottery, eh? Come in, come in! Have a seat, have a seat!” A short man spoke, his thick mustache wiggled animatedly as he spoke. His voice was gruff and wheezy, yet he sounded so friendly and welcoming as everyone else you came into contact with at the festival.

“I’m glad y’all made it! With the heat out here in the desert, pottery is a very common trade! Seldom ya find anyone who doesn’t know how to make a few clay pots or so!” He laughed whole-heartedly leading your party in through his shop. Besides the path to walk about his place, there wasn’t a square inch of any surface that didn’t have some of his work on display.

“The names James! Been doing pottery since I could hold a spoon, I reckon! There’s not a memory in me without some clay involved! Ya came to the right guy, ya did!” He said proudly, puffing out his chest and putting his large hands on his hips.

You and Asra smiled fondly at James’ energy before introducing yourselves.

“And this is Muriel.” Asra said, smiling back at the gentle giant who awkwardly stood in the doorway avoiding eye contact.

“Nice to meet ya! As I said, everyone here knows a thing or two about clay! It’s yer lucky day Muriel, just us four in shop!” James noted the way Muriel’s body untensed at the realization, his smile widening.

“Welp, grab a seat will ya! Let’s get started!”

After a few hours waned of James bouncing around from topic to topic while he was supposed to be giving you all instruction, the three of you finally got the gist of what to do and got started. Unsurprisingly to Muriel, you and Asra seemed to have a natural affinity for clay making. His eyes stayed more on your clay vase than his own. Yours was tall and curvy, delicate and he imagined how nice it would look after painting it and setting some flowers inside.

Asra’s vase was cylindrical free of imperfections, looking as it it was done already and they only just started. Asra’s tongue was poked out of his mouth in focus, his brows furrowing in concentration as his vase spun and was molded by his touch. Muriel’s eyes lingered just a tad longer on Asra’s lips before your head poked into view.

“Muriel? You okay?” You asked, voice small but Muriel heard you loud and clear. He huffed before turning back to his own vase. It was wobbly and misshapen, limp and leaning off to one side like a withering plant.

“My hands are too big for this...” He mumbled, a defeated pout on his lips.

“No no, here let me help.” You said, leaving no room for protest, you kneeled in front of him, the potter’s wheel separated the both of you. Gently, you placed your hands on the outsides of Muriel’s, adding just a bit of pressure to keep his hand steady against the clay. You nodded up to him and a flustered Muriel hurriedly tapped his foot against the pedal to get the wheel spinning once again. A prominent blush formed on both of your faces at the touch of your hands.

“H-how do you want your vase to look?” You asked, keeping your eyes on clay as you anxiously chewed your cheek.

“Big enough for a few succulents. So, I guess, short... w-with a wide mouth and round please.” Muriel informed, and with that you used your thumbs to push his inside of the clay to form the mouth. You remained silent for a few minutes while you focused on forming his pot. He chose the perfect design and unbeknownst to him, his large hands were ideal for this idea.

By now, Asra’s vase was done and he was sliding the wire underneath to separate the clay from the wheel. He smiled at your moment with Muriel, James was tinkering away with his own brand-new pots that just came from the kiln. Seeing Asra’s finished work he hopped over to retrieve it and ready it for the kiln. Asra whispered a thank you before sliding over to your seat and getting to work on your vase. He could already see the look you were going for so while you helped Muriel, he helped you and finished your clay.

After about ten more minutes of forming, you were satisfied with the look. Sure, it had a few bumps and lumps but that was endearing to you. The moment you pulled your hands away Muriel missed your touch; you missed the feel of his hands under yours too but you were afraid of making him uncomfortable since you no longer had the excuse to hold him.

You chuckled shyly, wiping the concentration sweat from your forehead before turning to Asra to thank him for finishing your vase.

“Thanks, Asr–”

“Pffft HAHAHA!” Asra’s choked laughter cut through the air, you stared at him quizzically before turning to Muriel, only to see that his mop of hair hid his face from view but you could tell by the jump of his broad shoulders that he was silently laughing as well.

“What?” You asked with a small whine to your voice.

“You’ve just got, haha, you’ve just got some clay on your forehead now!” He said through peals of laughter, your face reddened a shade before you began to laugh a bit at yourself.

“Here.” Asra said, pulling a handkerchief out from his bag and wiping away at your forehead. He smiled fondly at you, his violet eyes crinkling with the smile. You blushed faintly at the proximity. His gentle touch at your forehead, how close he got so suddenly, his smile, and the way his eyes locked to yours. Asra was bewitching as always.

Muriel smiled fondly, his own cheeks dusting a rosy hue at the view. The two of you smiling and laughing together, the fact that two weeks ago he would have claimed to hate the sight and be jealous of you. But now, it was so much easier to just be honest with himself. He was happy to be here, and be a part of the moment. So much so he wasn’t surprised when Asra turned to him and used his handkerchief to dab away the concentration sweat that lingered on Muriel’s face. He nuzzled into the touch minutely, humming at the tenderness of Asra’s actions. The familiarity of his affections.

James smile at the three of you while he silently slipped away to make some tea for you all. James was back within the next few minutes with four steaming cups of jasmine tea and a hearty laugh spilling from his lips.

“Here ya go you crazy kids!” He announced, hopping through and setting the cups in front of you all. The four of you drank your tea while James shared story after story, your clay vases warming in the kiln all the while. An hour passed before James stood with a stretch, popping of his joints resounding through the cluttered space.

“Welp, yer vases won't be done til the morn. Come back then and you can pick up and paint em next door if ya like!” He offered, and with that, the three of you stood and waved goodbye.

“He was fun.” You commented playfully in a sing songy voice.

“He was energetic.” Muriel added, sounding a bit tired.

“Let’s go home and get some sleep, we ended up spending the whole day there!” Asra laughed, noting the way James chattered throughout the morning. You smiled wistfully, committing the day's events to memory. Never do you want to forget these times.