Our leader, our friend

by Avalon Invel

Eric Langford. friends with the main trio. Can the powers bestowed by his parents and bloodline save them or will he die to protect the things he loves. he finds power to combine people, abilities and souls. To become a leader but a tragedy awakens an icy hot dark side of him for the use of his powers. Can one hero's noble amilbition and obsessive smooth talk carry mankind through.

36. Chapter 36 Golden Darkness

Okay. Not to sound rude but those last two reviews sounded like pity. I'm only doing this as a hobby. I enjoy the reviews but I'm not desperate. So thanks for your concerns but relax. And even if you want to say something please pm me. The review section is for the story. Say your feelings about that.

Lord of death. No need to be into romance but this chapter will have some cringeworthy moments. But aa your most hated suspense writer there will always be a loaded ending.

Enemy of death. I don't know what happened to you but I hope you get better.

Chapter 36. Drunken queen spells apocalypse.

(Few hours before dawn. One day after Orvid)

What the fuck is going on with my life? Let's see. The girl I love is about to be coronated as queen the day after tomorrow. My best friend and the girl who is like a little sister to me is getting along really good. By the order of the government we are now being labeled as saviours. Of course god knows what the hell Eren did two days ago. Just as I was the hero of the south, he is now being called the hero of the north. Sometimes this guy really knows how to shine. Then again he did save my ass twice, held back Rod Reiss and left a statue outside Orvud district as a momument of another of humanity's victory. Despite the fact I took the killing blow. Yup life is good . . . .until now.

My power is so exhausted right now that even after confirming its presence my body still aches. From the mirror my eyes are still amber brown. But that isn't even the half of it. Tonight's party they practically forced me to cook the beef and feed everyone of the survey corps who were imprisoned during the uprising.

then drown with alcohol. Hey fun fact, despite my weak build I can keep my liquor down. But the same cannot be said for a certain someone. That certain someone who practically barged into my room in the middle of the night and nearly tried to rape me! I can just cringe at the sight, smell and sensations. But I survived with my virginity intact as much as I wanted to throw it away. Well now that certain blonde haired drunken girl who also happens to be the future queen is sleeping like a baby soundly in my bed. And on the way down I heard weird noises come from Eren's quarters. Heaven knows what he's up to.

So here I am half intoxicated sneaking around the castle in the middle of the night stealing meat from the officer's pantry and cooking myself a midnight snack. Of course I had to bribe the guard with a piece of the cooking to access the kitchen. I pull up my sleeves and got a strange reminder. The scarring I got on my left arm back at the battle of trost came back. But my neck healed up perfectly. The room was lit by the luminous stones that were extracted from that Reiss cave. It messes with my powers but damn is it useful. I think the world just got brighter. And so with the stolen beef, some spices, salt and eggs the aroma fills the room. I heard some intense knocking at the door. "Stay back you lowly girl. The lord of the walls is in that kitchen. You have no right to enter that room." My trusted guard seems to be troubled.

"MEAT . . .MEAT . . .MEAT . .. MEAT . . MEAT . . MEAT . . .MEAT" A freaky zombie like voice chanted a curse over and over trying to enter the room. Finally I put the plate on the counter. Some juicy left over beef steak seasoned salt and spices with a perfectly poached egg. I guess I can skip breakfast. Feeling curious I hear a dangerous scratching and scraping at the door. "MEAT . . .MEAT . . .MEAT . . .MEAT!" I walk to the door then suddenly it burst open and the black abomination dives past me to the kitchen. Of course god knows how but my reflexes were sharp as ever. With a single outstretched hand I grab the beast by the back of its collar and toss it to the wall on the other end of the room. "Sasha?!" We sleep on a completely different floor. How the hell did she smell . . . . Ugh. It just dawned upon me how good this beef steak and eggs smelled. I myself was salivating at how appetising that aroma. I wouldn't doubt if others come crawling out here. If they were ready to get out of bed after getting completely wasted. The black monster tried to jump like a hungry wolf before being tackled down by my guard. "No one is getting that meat but me." The female guard turned out to be just as hungry as she was. "Ladies. Ladies. We can settle this up peacefully."

. . ..

Eventually I had to split the meal in three with me selfishly taking the bigger of the two pieces. But even a bite the two girls were brought to tears. "Heavenly~" and it was puntuated with an adorable coo. "Lord Langford. I love you sir." The young guard moaned. I gotta get out of here. Seriously is my cooking really that powerful? So leaving them to fight over the rest of the food I savour my tender meat and fluffy egg and scurry off to my queen.

(Aftermath of the battle)

The cheers kept raining down from the people and the military for new queen's revelation. But as well as the return of the two heroes who once again triumphed at the face of overwhelming enemy. In the end I did pass out. But Eren for the first time after a battle actually kept it together and stood strong. They said that he actually hauled my heavy ass all the way across the battlefield to the walls all by himself. After the steam evaporated to safe levels I heard Mikasa, Hange and captain Levi came down to retrieve us. But Eren insisted he carry me all by himself. I don't know what got in his head but I think I faintly remember people cheering their asses off as he dragged me into town. He kinda stole half the credit even with the queen's acknowledgement the people suddenly went from screwing him to sucking up to him. Well good for him. Of course the fact that her majesty raced across the crowd to hug me an pepper me with kisses didn't hurt my glorious reputation either. If not skyrocket it. At least they learned about my status before they tried off me!

Then it was the medical bay where Hange forced a full body check up on me. Of course I managed to keep my pants on much to her dismay. Courtesy of the queen. "Well aside from your abnormal body temperature your body seems fine." Hange said as she probed and spent more than the normal time to check a person's body. To make things even more awkward Historia, and the rest of the squad except Eren, Mikasa and the captain was in the room. "What the hell are you gawking at?" I bark at all of them. It was more that a little embarrassing. The fact that I was sitting there with a woman hovering over me looking for every chance to lick me. As well as my entire torso and back covered in welts, burns and bruises. Jean, Connie and Sasha back away alightly. "Its nothing. Its just that for someone as crazy powerful as you, you are pretty damn skinny." Sasha replied. I look down at my own shame. My most unimpressive torso with a flat belly instead of abs. Thankfully my powers compensate for that so I'm good.

In a sneak peak I notice Armin close Historia's gaping mouth quietly before any drool leaks out. "Are you done yet you insane old hag!?" I had no choice but to lash out at Hange who was taking her sweet time seeing my bare chest for her own god knows whatever wishes. She shuddered in my tone but I can't help it. She smirked slyly before backing off. I get off the table and put my shirt back on. "So . . . .how am I doing?" I still had to ask. Everyone else turned serious at that but the good scientist smiled otherwise. "You are absolutely fine. The three pieces you have binded perfectly. I can't wait to analyse your blood." I couldn't help but smile. "Thanks." I finish buttoning up my new shirt. Its amazing how the military can prepare a new set of clothes so fast. Then gently I felt soft hands entangle my right. They were warm. "Can we go outside, please?" Historia suddenly seemed to plead to Hange for something so simple. "Of course your majesty." She gave a gesture of bowing as we left. But just as I reached the door handle. Hange muttered. "Eric, those amber eyes look really cute." I leave the room wordlessly with the queen of the walls holding my hand and a slight blush to my face. But I straightened my back and used every ounce of my manliness to push back my weakness and stand firm while walking through the hallway. Quietly up the stairs to the roof. Once we were alone I felt tension come from the girl beside me. "Histo . . ..?!" Then a tiny hand comes and slaps me with the impact of a shovel! Then before I was about to fall over she grabbed me and embraced me as hard as she could. Before I realise she was sobbing in my chest.

"You crazy,. .. insane bastard! Y-y-you . . . almost gave me a heart attack! Why?! Why do you keep doing these stupid things?! . .Do you even know how scared I was!?" She wimpered continuously. I couldn't help but chuckle at her concern for me. I slowly rub the back of her head with one hand and her back with another. "Wha . ..what's so funny?!" She complained. "Nothing. Just the irony of that statement. I did know. I did feel all the fear you felt. I felt all the pain you felt. I felt all the happiness you felt." I look up the cloudy sky where the snowfall just stopped. "Me too. Me too." She sobbed in tears of joy. "So. . . Its finally over. We can now finally focus on the task at hand. So are you ready for your responsibilities your majesty." I had to joke about it. "I-I-I'm not sure. . .I mean I . ." She stuttered in a doubtful voice. "What's the matter? What happened to all that vigour valiance you showed back then?" I ask. "That was different. That time you sent my emotions haywire and I pulled it off with your crazy charisma. But now . . ."

I felt a wave of insecurity radiating off her. But there was nothing to worry about. I raise my hands to grab both of her adorably soft cheeks and kiss her on her forehead. "Listen, leaders are not born. They are made. There is no such thing as natural born talent. They are always crafted from something or by someone. Whether its by god, people, ideals or even monsters. So are you going to be the queen of the people or not." I softly squeeze those cheeks together.

"Yesh . . I under-sh-tand ..I'm sow'wy." She says with a squeezed mouth

So cute . . .!

Okay Okay Eric Langford stop freaking out. "Oh my. You two have become one heck of an item." We startle apart. "Dad. What are you doing up here?" I stutter. "Stalking what my dear son and our future queen is upto." He replied. Cringe worthy but . ."at least you are honest." I reply. "So how are things going? Tell me I didn't roast my butt with a titan body just to see the scout regiment in pieces."

"Its going good. Ervin is already at it. Seriously that guy just doesn't know how to rest. Well no rest for the wicked as you can say. He is working on freeing the imprisoned scouts that were imprisoned for treason. As well as rallying the scattered forces here and there. Things are still messy. But now that we have control things are going to get smoothed out in no time. Wow what is that smell. You are reeking of it. Its like fresh ice." He says with a genuinely happy grin. I couldn't help but smile at our accomplishments. "So . .finishing move huh? What a way to take screwing around to epic proportions." My face went red again. "Well . . .about that. Eren and the captain said to make it flashy. I couldn't come up with anything at that time. And besides my mind was pretty much fried in that titan body." I sputter a reply. "Well you did make it snow at the end of that silver light so I suppose there was meaning to that name." Dad said wondering.

"Still speaking of epic. What the hell happened between you and the commander? Roughhousing as Levi said it."

This time he froze. "Oh . . .uh that. I was actually about to spill something Ervin pulled twenty years ago. Looks like she was still a bit sensitive about that. But even so I didn't expect him trying to wring my neck though."

"On a horse with one arm?" I had to ask.

"Yeah" he soumded nervous. "Well can you spill it now? What made the commander go wild enough for Levi to label it roughhousing?"

"Sorry. Friend's secrets shouldn't be revealed. I'm sure you know stuff about Eren or Mikasa you won't spill."

"Good point I suppose there are times you must embrace the weird, what about Levi. . ." Just as I asked about Levi.

'I guess this this is the end of the line for you. . .Kenny. Those burns, broken bones and that blood loss. You are beyond help.' Levi's voice filled our minds.

'That you Levi' is that Kenny Ackerman. 'Not necessarily. A little something I swiped from Rod Reiss's bag. From what I saw . .. if you inject this into you your body . .you will become a titan . . .I can become a shitty titan . . .but it will extend my life. . .'

'You should've had enough time and strength to inject it earlier. Why didn't you do it? I don't expect someone like you to be afraid.'

'Who knows? . .Is it because if you don't inject it properly you might turn into what he became? Or was it that I needed to eat Eren or that Langford brat to change back? In the end I don't think there was any salvation for me to begin with . . .gah . . still I don't want to die. . .I just wanted power . .to change the world. . .in that sense I'm not that different from Langford . .but I suppose in pursuit of power I got lost along the way. . .but I feel like I can finally understand that guy'

'Huh?'

"Every single person I have seen so far have always been like that. Be it power. .alcohol . .children . .money . .women . . .family . . God . .the king . .dreams or even ideals . .without being drunk on something no one can ever do the things they do. . .even him . .you and I are no exception.'

'Kenny. Check this out.'

A few moments of silence followed. What is Levi doing?

. . .

'You gotta be shitting me. How in the hell did you get your hands on that?! Is that even real.' Kenny sounded in complete disbelief.

'Yup. This is the real deal. Do you know what this is?'

'How many years did I waste trying to find that? To think you were so casually walking around with it. Little runt.'

'Actually no. I just got this recently. Fro . .Eric gave it to me. He said that the last lord of the Ackerman house entrusted their greatest treasure to the Langford before dying out.'

'Cowardly fucking asshole. That what you hold in your hands is 'power' the power that makes us Ackerman's unstoppable. And he just hid it instead of giving it out to us. No wonder our family died out.'

'So am I an Ackerman too? Tell me everything you know. Why doesn't the first king want humanity to leave the walls? Just what are you to my mother?'

'Of course you are you dumb shit. Heh. Don't tell me you are carrying that without even knowing its worth. Seriously Kushel . .what a dim brat you left your big brother. Levi Ackerman. Since we don't know who your pops is that is your name runt.'

There was nothing but silence from Levi. 'Take it runt. I'm not good enough to be someone's parent. But here is a parting gift. Unlike that dumb head of the family who gave his life for some shitty peace. Don't waste what's left of our bloodline boy. . . Remember to . . .tell . . .that . ..girl. .to . . as . ..well.' the voice of that killer finally dies out of this world with these parting words.

'Yes I will . . . . ..uncle.'

"Well. Looks like Levi got a piece of himself back." Dad said. "Well I better get back to work. Its hard to believe its only morning after all that chaos happened." Then he turned around to walk away. "Yeah. Bye dad." I wave him off. He stopped before just turning and saying. "By the way son. It will still take a few days to prepare for miss Reiss's coronation. Feel free to spend some time with her but no rabbit business. We don't want the queen to be tainted before she becomes the holy saint of the walls. So keep the family jewels clean" He turned with an oily grin that made me want to punch him right in the face. "Say what? You old hack!" I charge him with steam coming off my ears as he jumped off the building and swung away with his manuver gear laughing. "Madness will save the world!" Yelling. Huff. I turn back to see Historia looking down on the ground with a bright red blush.

Rabbit business huh?

Then we heard the morning bell signaling breakfast. Since I don't have my gear or the energy for it me and Historia silently walk hand in hand to the mess hall for breakfast.

. . .

Then the day went by swell. The special ops squad was given a major break as they finally got a chance for a hot shower and some decent food. Of course Levi wasn't the type to sit around and relax so he left with Ervin to the interior for preparations for the queen's arrival. Dad on the other hand went to the Reiss estate to recover anything of value with Hange of course tagging along like a faithful dog.

Well thinking back the conversation in the shower was pretty steamy for us. Just imagine. Five guys in each of their shower cubicles relaxing their butts off as they sighed in relief washing the dirt, filth and blood off their bodies. "Ahhhhhh~" unbelieveable. Here we are a pack of murderers relaxing in the happiest moment of our lives. "Look at you all smiling away like idiots after killing so many people." I utter as I let the steaming hot water eases my aching body. "Says the guy who killed most of the MPs in the first place." Jean retorted. "Actually no. Mikasa takes the cake for that." I reply. "If I count right then I only killed 36 in total. But Mikasa literally shredded 52 of them in that cave alone." There was silence from Eren and Armin. While Connie said. "Only?! Are you nuts? Those are people we are talking about. That already makes 88 how could you . . ."

(Narrator)

"As if you didn't kill as well. You still cut down 2." Jean said.

"Three." Connie.

"What?"

"Three. I killed three." Connie solidly stated.

"You guys. You can really talk about killing so easily." Came Eren's weak voice. "Ugh. Eren is right we need to stop this depressing thought. Yes we killed so let's atone by building a new future. And besides I have a better topic to discuss." Eric stepped in. "Yeah what?" Eren asked curiously. "What are your feelings towards Mikasa sunny boy? You've been grinning like an idiot these few moments ago." Silence.

"What's the matter? Cat got your tongue?" Eric continued. "Yeah. . .I like her. If we are talking about feelings then its the same as you with Historia." Eren replied timidly.

"I never thought Eren to be the shy type." Armin who was silently listening to the conversation until now spoke up. "Shut up Armin. We don't need one of your educated guesses right now." Eren warned. "Then I'll do it." Eric said in his sleazy tone. "WAIT!" Eren stopped him in time. "Tonight we are gonna celebrate a big party in the royal palace. How do you think its going to be?" Eren quickly offered a better conversation topic than what Eric was veering to. Disaster averted! "Okay I suppose its better than listening to Jean's moaning."

"I AM NOT MOANING!" Jean screamed from the other end of the barrier. I chuckle but snickers come from all the cubicles. "Everyone shut up and close your eyes." Armin suddenly barks. Amused we do as he says. "Imagine a large hall. Red velvet curtains . .white marble walls. That luxurious carpet. That hot food. ."

"With Mikasa and the others all finally cleaned up to actually get a good night's sleep." Eren was looking foreward to afterwards.

"Don't ask me to make that food?" Eric said.

"Way to kill the mood my lord." Jean said sarcastically.

"I can make it worse." Eric suddenly sounded like a snake.

"You just hate my happiness don't you." Eren said scared.

"Imagine nighttime. You are in bed . ." Eric started. "Oh this is gonna be good. . " Connie stated. "Spare me please." Armin cautioned. "The room is dark. The moonlight flowing in through the window. The gentle breeze blowing. Eren you are watching the door open gently. Out comes a most unexpected sight . . ."

"Eric if you don't shut that insane cursed mouth right now I will come over there and shut it myself." Eren threatened but his voice full of fear.

"Buck naked with everyone here I wouldn't dare." Eric retorted with a slimy voice. "Now let me continue. The enchanting scent floods into the room . .the scent is sweet yet warm. Haaah. The holy scent of a woman. Then from the shadows approaches a girl. Clad in nothing but her underwear. Silently you are entranced. Those long, silky smooth thighs. Those perfect abs. Just the right amount of meat. She wordlessly approaches. But from walking she slowly lowers herself. Those tense arms that flushed face. Those heaving tatas. That perfect, white skin. . . .then she crawls up to you and embraces you as you drown in the depths of pleasure . . . . ."

Spurtt!

A few small lines of blood leaks on the floor. "Nosebleeds? Seriously guys. You have no grace." Eric said contemptly. "Shu . .shut up you idiot. I. . .I smashed my head into the faucet trying to stop that. Thankfully the healing kicked in or else I would've transformed and blow this place apart."

"Ouch . . But what about Jean. . ." Eric was confused.

"No .. I got a nosebleed alright . ." Jean confesses clean.

"This is getting way too hot for me. I'm outta here." As Armin turned off the water and left. I also left hearing a snicker come from Connie.

(Several hours later)

And so the day passes peacefully for the young soldiers but as dinner time approached. Sasha was staring at something drooling like an idiot. "Wow! That is some meat . ." She says with sparkling eyes. Eric was wondering what is going to be made out of this giant pile of meat steaks brought out. But then he felt a thousand stares bore into his back. "Nope. Not a chance. I am not cooking. . .I'm taking a break. There is no way in hell I am cooking for the entire scout regiment again. Or some dumb MPs." Eric retreated trying to shield himself. But those hungry stares were terrifying. Hange suddenly got close to him and wrapped an arm around his shoulders. "Do it? Its been ages since we last enjoyed one of your meals."

"Less than a month." Eric retorted.

"You have a duty to your people." Hange didn't back down. She wanted to eat his home cooked meat at any cost.

"Absent due to injury." He whipped up an excuse. He crossed his hands and stubbornly looked away.

"A request from the queen."

"Denie . . .wait what." That voice didn't belong to the crackheaded section commander but her majesty the queen. "Historia?"

"Ever since this whole crap was over I actually wanted to do something like this." She said shyly. They were just outside the royal palace and the food supplies just arrived so the special ops. squad just came to take a look. But now Hange and a few hungry soldiers were trying to coax Eric into doing his magic for them. "But on scale! Its too much." Eric protested weakly. "What do you mean. Don't you remember it was the eight of us before and we pulled it off. Now we even have the royal kitchen. Come on Eric . .I'm sure you can turn them into your slaves with food." She says suggestively. "Okay. I'm in." He immediately agreed.

"Say what?! So you're in it to make them your slaves!" Jean shouted bewildered. "Yeah. Any problem?" Eric replies calmly. Then slowly takes a knife and instantly stab the meat just millimeters from Sasha's mouth which tried to touch this food. "Uaaah!" She fell back horrified.

(Royal kitchen)

As the workers quietly work inside the doors were suddenly kicked open. "My name is Eric Langford. The high lord of these walls."

"I am Historia Reiss. The next queen."

Two voices demanding obedience. "My lord? Your majesty?" The cooks were confused. "Listen up. About tonight's dinner. . . .

Eric went on like a drill instructor with his plans. But then. "Just hold it right there for a minute." An irritated looking man stood before the cook looking down at Eric who was surprisingly unfazed. His face didn't even twitch. The man looked at those dull amber coloured eyes and felt something akin to guilt of disobeying a superior's orders. "Ah . .uh ..so what if the queen and the lord of the walls are down here. In here I'm in charge. You think you can just . . ."

"You the head chef?" A cold voice scaring even his commrades. "Uh . .uh yeah."

"We need to talk." The man could not refuse. The two walk off to a store room from all prying ears.

. . .

Ten minutes later Eric walks out happily with a grin and the chef following him with his eyes shining in admiration and despair at the same time. "Alright you all. We are working together with lord Langford. Let's go make history!" The chef enthusiasticly shouts. Everyone was dumbfounded as to what he said to get a 180 degree turn on this man's personality. "Come on let's go show those dumb MPs that good food isn't just meat." He pulled his mother's bandana off his wrist and tied it around his forehead. "So cool." Eric suddenly heard a voice behind him and Historia gawking at him. "Uh shall we begin?"

Hange watched the display from afar and was repeatedly stifling her giggles. 'Looks like amber eyed Eric has a charm of his own.'

(That night)

"So people dig in" a cook announced. The entire hall was silent. The aroma of the food made it impossible to speak. Everyone was resisting the urge to salivate at the sight of the roast beef and scrambled eggs. Some soup and rice. Primitive food made to royal class. Eric looked at his slightly burned hands which were tenderly taped up. 'And then the men and women turn to beasts.' Suddenly everone ravaged the food on the table screaming delicious. Even the MPs couldn't hold back and ate. But a ruckus shot up in the far corner where Sasha and the others were. The shiganshina gang and Historia were sitting with a few superior officers and tried to savour that explosive flavour. Some scouts imprisoned for weeks were crying in gratitude. "Langford you are my saviour. I hereby pledge my life to you. We will stay by you for all of our lives."

"Less worshipping. More eating." Eric barks back.

"HEY YOU CRAZY POTATO GIRL. STOP HOGGING DOWN EVERYTHING. SHARE IT EVENLY!" Jean screamed. But it seemed that she lost her mind to the taste and animalistically eating the meat. Connie held her in a headlock yet she was still struggling violently. "STOP IT SASHA DO YOU WANT . .ME TO KILL YOU . "

"WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE EATING THE WHOLE THING BY YOURSELF!?"

Sasha was literally stuffing her face full with a giant stab of meat from everone's share.

"Look at those scout ruffians. Animals." Some MPs in the corner were looking in disdain.

Blast

A gunshot was fired. Grazing Sasha right in her nose. Snapping her back to her senses. "I'm only going to say this once. This is dinner in the royal chateau. You are in the presence of the queen and your superior officers. Not to mention myself." Eric said in a ghastly manner swinging his gun around. "So what if this is a breather. That doesn't give you the right to turn into animals. You either eat like a human or get lost. Otherwise someone is going to find blood in their food." And with that loaded threat. "Yes my lord." Sasha suddenly starts eating like a perfect lady. Neatly cutting through the meat and eating nicely to Jean and Connie's chagrin. Eric blew the gunsmoke off his revolver and holstered it. "Nice aim. A few millimeters off and there really would've been blood." Levi said as he continued eating. Eric scanned everone's faces around him and felt happy to see so many looks of pure bliss just from warm food. Looking at his own table everyone smiling as they enjoyed the fruits of their hard work. Everyone was at peace except . . Connor.

Who was actually tearing up as his hands shook. "Um dad. You alright?" He asks quietly. "This . .this food. . .it just really reminds me of Emma. . .ERIC MY BOY EXCEPT FOR THE HAIR AND EYES YOU REALLY TAKE AFTER YOUR MOTHER .. .I'M SO PROUD OF YOU. . .I'M SURE IF EMMA IS WATCHING FROM ABOVE SHE WILL BE TOO . . ." he was getting all emotional earning the amusement of many others around him. Surprisingly the commander continued to eat beside him. It felt really nice . "Son . .you are going to make your wife really happy." 'No I take it back. He is nuts.' Eric choked on his food as Historia tried to calm him down and rub his back. "Awww so adorable." Connor says as Historia's face turns partially red and she wipes Eric's mouth unconsciously. "Okay . .that's enough you crazy old man. Shut up and eat your son and queen's cooking." Ervin said without even looking up from his plate. "I'm younger that you commander." Connor retorts.

Some time later after the meal was finished barrels of wine and bottles of whiskey were hauled in. "Alcohol?! Oh crap." Eric swallowed in the memory of Pixis's drink. Of course he want too foreign to the taste of liquor. Just that he always had the light version in the military. But this . . .hard liquor. But before we drowned our pain and healed our souls. Commander Ervin stood up. "Making a toast commander?"

"Yes. . .Ladies and gentlemen. It has been a long and tiring month. We have lost several precious commrades. Impeded in our duties. And suffered many sleepless nights. All in this senseless fight just because of the greed of a few men. Those undeserving usurpers wasted invaluable resources just to protect their already secure possessions. But their very greed is their downfall. But fear not. Even though destroyed and defeated the last remnants of the true nobles still exist and are present among us in this very room. As well as the leader and ruler of humanity. And time and time again. They have shed blood, sweat and tears. We all have and because of their incredible capabilities and astounding will power we have successfully restored the original system. I'm sure several members of the military police are troubled by this but this is the right course of action. Please lend us your earnest support and let's work together to create a bright future together."

"Cheers!"

Everybody clanked their mugs together and even the military police followed reluctantly. But they made peace with themselves that this was the only way.

Suddenly Levi stood up scarily. He slowly walked up to Eric. "Listen up people. Tonight is a night to relieve your pains and frustrations so as a celebratory event drink your fill then get a new glass, curse it and chug it down this bastards throat. And so began the torture of chugging glass after glass down Eric's throat. "Hey, hey, hey why me?!" Eric tried to back away but everyone ganged up on him. "That's because we hate you." Eren said. "Yeah, you are abusive, manipulative. Nasty, and foul mouthed." Armin said as he held Eric back and Eren and Jean to chug a glass down. The stong liquid that flowed down his throat was too stingy. "You are a show off . Makes me feel really useless." Connie came and grabbed Eric by his hair and giving a drunken smile chugged the next glass down spilling a little. "Fuckin' hell . . " Eric complained but failed to escape. "Who's next?" Jean yelled while the adults nearby were watching with a smirk. "

'At times like these I really hate my short stature.' But then the strongest of them all came in. "Lady Ackerman!" Eric spewed with his cheeks flushing but he was being playfully restrained by Eren, Jean and Armin. "Lady?" Mikasa's face went redder. 'Why am I not passing out or at least numbing.' Eric thought. "You are a cruel superior Levi." Connor said as he is enjoying and also pitying the sight of his son being ravaged. "For the number of times he disobeyed me and put me through the wringer he got off easy and he looks like he is enjoying it." Levi replied. While Historia was tugging at Ervin's cuff. "Please sir. I can't bear to watch . . " Historia cried with a slurred voice. The alcohol was already getting to her. The man was peacefully drinking a glass of whiskey and watching the spectacle. "But before Ervin could be swayed Hange pulled her back.

"Se . se . ..section commander? What are you?" Hange handed her a large mug of wine and coerced her into drinking it. She coughed a few times before passing a glance there. "No-no wait Mikasa . .Mikasa please stop. . .agh." his protests were futile as rationality in them has melted. "Eric Langford . .you always hit me where it stings the most. . .especially with matters involving Eren. That blockhead has no idea how to handle a lady. . .why don't you teach him some manners." Mikasa said mincing her words as she drank a glass herself then pinched his nose. With her titanic strength pry his jaws open and poured down another shot down his throat. "You guys. . .you're all gonna pay for this . .some friends you are . "Eric cursed but from the bottom of his heart was proud of his friends. They all laughed innocently. Including Mikasa. This was the first time they all heard Mikasa laugh and they loved it. But then some thing else came. Something bone chilling. Something that shouldn't be here. "Dear god. Hange what did you do to her!"

A tiny girl with long blond hair staggered towards him. Limping and stumbling. And giggling like mad she approached. Her hair covered her eyes but the flush in her cheeks were visible. . "Ee~ric . .Eric . . .Eric Lang~ford . ." A singsong, blitzed sultry voice that can weaken any man.

The wasted queen approaches

Her every step was disoriented. Like she can't even see straight. "Hey how many shots did we pour down Frosty's throat?" Eren asks dizzyly. "I don't know." Jean says. "18 YOU PLASTERED FUCKTARDS. 18! Suicidal maniac dumped 5, german horseface 4, austrailian cue ball 3, english Arlert 2 and, asian abs 4. Yes I fucking counted them all. . Somebody please get me out of this messed up fuckfest. . ." Before the poor Langford could continue his rant. Another glass was poured into his mouth. But this was a thousand times stronger and all of the others. "Fucking whiskey . . " he sputtered coughing. "Which fucking prick did tha . . ." He looks up to see Levi looking just as loopy as the rest of them. Of course Eric was too pissed off and pissed on to notice. "Levi . .fucking Ackerman. What do . . "

"You cuss too much. You have the subtly of a brick and the depth of a shot glass." Levi slurred. "Captain . . . Somewhere in this world a tree is working really hard to replenish the oxygen you are consuming. Please apologise to it, sir." But then Levi retreated when the golden figure stood before him. That hungry look in her eyes, it felt like he was a fly caught in the spider's trap. Those seductive eyes those flushed cheeks and that alcohol tainted breath. 'Down boner. Down. This is not the time to pull out the flag and mark my territory.' Eric thought as she came closer. The MPs were long gone. Most of the older members of the scouts were too tired to stay and went off to rest. "Somebody pass out please." Eric said flustered. "Hic . .hic . . Wow Eric you look really cute all tied up." 'hiccups?'

"Wait tied up." He looks at his hands but they were free. 'She's rea~lly plastered.' "Hic . .Eric you had 19 glasses . .now didn't you. Come on . .let's. . .make a solid 20." But before she reached the next mug. Eric used what was left of his consciousness to throw the annoying meat sacks around him off and grabbed the top of her head. Pulled her in and nailed her in the lips. Whistles rang from the tiny crowd watching. They seperate and Eric says with an intoxicated grin. "I'll pass."

"Yeah I. . . Uh . .hic." she fell unconscious in his arms.

"All hail the queen!" They all cheered.

Of course it didn't last long as the weight of the liquid in his stomach couldn't hold out much long. He gently put her down and dashed like lightning as he ran out holding his mouth as they all laughed.

(A few hours and a lot of puking later. Eric's POV)

Dear lord. . .gasping I fall to my bed. What the hell just happened today?! Just one day ago. At this very time I was living like a hobo and hacking live people up. But before I can even be called a killer we all crashed into that underground cavern. We just had an its about to go down moment. Then everybody just gathered together. And just when I thought it couldn't get any tense that titan showed up. I still can believe the fact that I became a shifter too. Then in a sleepless night I got my first kiss from the girl I love. Wow. Then blew the shit out of her father. Turned Eren into an even bigger monster. Still couldn't catch up to him in the height department though. I can't believe I made the food though. At least everyone is happy. I feel sore but I felt too good to sulk. And . .. .

~creak~

The door slowly creaked open but immediately a soft warm yet heavy 'something' leaped and fell on me. What the? Historia. "Eric please help me . ." She suddenly says in a soft euphoric voice. "Uh . .what is it?" She looks up and those crystal blue eyes illuminated by the moonlight I think my heartbeat just sped up. "I don't know but I'm have this strange urge. Its like I need something but I don't know what it is. But this feeling in my chest that makes me feel so uneasy. . ," looks like the effects of the alcohol haven't faded yet. "Please help me . ." Flushed cheeks, sweaty skin, pleading eyes, and those heaving breasts. This isn't good for my heart. "Just feel this fluttering." She suddenly grabs my hand then. "Eh?" And forces me to grope her. Spring came early this year. That feeling sent electricity down my spine and I wouldn't be surprised if my power just revived. "Wha . ." That feeling. It was soft yet firm ahhh~. Boobs . .boobs . . .I am actually touching the warm garden of love of the queen of these fucking walls. "What are you doing. . .we can't . ." But my mouth had other ideas. She of course silenced it with a kiss. "Come on. . .as much as I want to we can't let the queen lose her purity just before . . "

"Fuck the people . . " well you can't argue with that. "They are just a bunch of fodder to milk taxes from. . They are so gullible that they believe anything you tell them. ." What is she saying. If this ever gets out its going to be a catastrophe. "Hey, you don't mean that do you?"

"It depends. .."

"How does . . ."

"It doesn't matter . . Don't use politics as an excuse just because you are afraid . I want sex." She leaned her face closer. Her breath reeked of alcohol.

"Whoa whoa wait. . .do you even know what sex means. It more than just pleasure. We are talking making love making babies and embracing naked. I'm not afraid . . I'm just . . Its just that we are both wasted and if we do this right now we won't remember anything. I just want this moment to be a little more . .I don't know special." Her face twisted. Of course it was the liquor bringing out her rough side. And I'm sure I was sarcastic than usual. "Then take responsibility for your actions Eric Langford. You got me all riled up. But now you refuse me. All I want is a little pleasure. .if you're denying me that then I want compensation."

Responsibility? Of course! I'm sorry Historia for doing this to you. You expected more from me. I'm sorry I let you down. I remove my hand from her breast and moved it behind her back and pulled her in. Then looked up at the ceiling. I'm going to use my mother's special technique. The guillotine. I extend my other hand high in the air. Keeping all of my finger's straight. She nudged her head deeper into my neck. The repeated movements of liquid both in and out my throat left it very painful. For this move three conditions must be fulfilled. One the target must be alone. Two the target has to be as close to you physically as possible. And third the target must be shorter or equal in height to you. My mother after several questioning sessions I learned how much the older members loved and hated her. The one dad said everyone used to call her called a devil with a halo. And before she said anything that set my flames of lust ablaze I put her down gently with a concentrated strike on the back of her head knocking her out easily in her condition.

"I'm sorry my dear but after you become queen and I take back wall maria I promise we are going to do it."

I whisper gently and leave quietly. Otherwise the tent in my pants might explode.

(End flashback)

(Next day)

That morning was a mess. Everyone slept in from over celebrating and titanic hangovers. Levi after washing up was quietly making his way to the dining hall while scratching his head and yawning. Hoping no one saw it he walked to a table and found a pot filled with freshly brewed coffee. "At least the someone wasn't too high to put this up." So pouring the hot brown liquid onto a metal cup he took a seat and adjusted his newly required cravat. It felt strange to be back in his uniform again. Uniform as I'm only the jacket and the shirt. He wore simple formal dress trousers and no full body harness. "So . . Coronation day huh. Damn its cold. Looks like the winter finally started and it might even snow. I think I should get myself a coat." The now named Levi Ackerman sitting peacefully enjoying the morning quiet.

Until someone else came in. "Frost?" Eric walked in also in his uniform wobbling. Holding onto the doorframe. "They say its okay to go crazy once in a while but that was a little too much . . .morning captain." He stumbles across the room to take a seat on the other end of Levi's table. Levi got up and poured him a fresh cup of coffee as well. Eric took it and gulped down half of it in one go. Regardless of its scalding hot temperature. "Whew . . .thanks I really needed that sir." Even though he burned his tongue that coffee did wonders for his brain. "So you finally up to speed?" Levi asks. "No. But at least I can see straight. After last night's binge out I don't think I can ever look at alcohol again." Eric complained while laying down his head on the table. "How many times?" Levi asked. "4." Eric immediately replied. "That's a lot of barf bags!" Levi exclaimed. "Actually its the toilet that took the beating.". "Well looks like someone is up early." The two of them turn to see all the senior officers of the military approach. "Please remain seated both of you." Connor said as Eric didn't even have the power to move. "Seriously Ervin. Don't you ever sleep." Levi said uncharacteristicly. "You look as shiny as a button."

They all pass him and take a seat in a distant table as others came in. Eventually everyone shows up to have a slow breakfast.

The whole day passes smoothly in a near perfect sense. Everyone cleared up their looks and seemed like last night never happened albeit the smell of their breath. But the coronation went perfectly and people cheered over and over. Queen Historia, Queen Historia. And other names of the heroes as they simply called it. But after the coronation Historia left everything to her quarters and stomped across the hall way to find a certain person. Captain Levi. "Are sure about this Historia?" Eren asks doubtiously. "Of course. This was the last joke of the president Reeves. If I can't do this I won't be able to act my role as queen." She replied. "That's the spirit Historia." Jean encouraged her. "This is either going to be really funny or really bloodly. I pray it be the former." Eric said as Levi came into view. Historia looked at his figure and seemed to hesitate. Eric put a hand on her shoulder and gave her a reassuring look. Levi walked up to them. Historia took a deep breath and tensed her arm. Eren and Eric knew this form. She clicked her teeth and punched Levi clean across his face scaring everyone than Levi's surprise. She then gulped fearing the results of her actions. But Levi who recoiled shook his head and looked at everone. Rubbing his face he smiles awkwardly at them. "Everyone . . .thank you." He said in a heartfelt tone which everyone didn't know how to react. "Glad to see you back captain Ackerman." Eric's words took everyone by surprise.

(Three weeks later. Underground district)

It was a small dirty room lit by a few gas lamps. It had a chair in which a girl was restrained in. Her hair was a mess and her dress was a clean one now now completely dirt smeared. She tried very hard to keep her breathing normal. A gruff, burly man sat on the other end of the room keeping a watch on her. "What were you planning bitch? Trying to break into the whorehouse. You think you can get away from us so easily. But you have a pretty cute face for someone living down here. Are you the new girl? What's your name?" He said in a husky, broken voice. While moving her black hair out of her face. The girl did not answer. "Speak when you are spoken to bitch!" He screamed slamming his hand on the table causing her to shudder. "I'm sorry . . Please don't hurt me. . . My name . . .is ."

"Hmm. Nevermind. You girls don't need any names." He seemed pertubed but was enjoying the sight of the quivering girl. "Insolent scum." The voice was too low to be heard. "What did you say?!" but the man heard traces. "Well when the boss gets here I'm gonna make sure you get thrown in the Jensen house. On the eastern point."

"Jensen on the east. Olympia on the center. Ogatai on the southwest. Hive on the north. So four houses huh?" Her tone completely changed. From a frightened girl her eyes narrowed to like a king looking down at trash. "Those are code names. I'm sure their real names are worse."

"Heheheheh. What are you? Some sort of spy. Who do you work for? Looks like we got ourselves a catch." He smirks. "Oi, Maxie, what are you up to." Another man enters with two bodyguards. "B-boss . . " that was the trigger. The girl gave a coy grin and whistled twice. Three shadows break in from the flimsy roof and windows. One pins down the startled boss, another eliminated the bodyguars. And the third began to mount and pound the man. "YOU FILTHY PRICK. HOW DARE YOU PUT YOUR HANDS ON HER. I'M GONNA RIP YOU LIMB FROM . . ."

"Jean calm down!" The girl called out as she ripped the restraints off her hands effortlessly. "Relax horseface. Everything is fine." Eric said tying up the bodyguards. "What the? The hell is going on here? Are you Gavin's men?" The boss yelled. The girl who stood up walked in front of them. "You asked who I was. My name is Mikasa Ackerman. I am a member of the special operations squad. Survey corps."

"No way. You are a soldier . . .what is the special forces doing down here." The boss glowered. "Seriously what rock do you live under." Immediately the dirty man's pinky finger was broken. He screamed madly. Levi stepped over him and got in front of his face as he lifted him up. "Remember me." He said. "Levi? Is that you punk?" The boss yelled. But then chuckled. "I'm here to shut you down and your dispicable prostitute business." Levi stated coldly. Then the man broke out laughing. "Hahahahahah . .not bad Levi, look at you all grown up and acting all high and mighty just because you walk around with a badge. So how is surface life . . .AAAAAHHH!" Levi stepped on another finger and broke it. "You are still so annoying." Levi sounded very bored.

While after the rest of the men were tied up Eric, Jean and Mikasa regrouped. "Wow, the underground district really is dangerous." Eric exclaimed. "Still incredible acting on your part. 'Oh please don't hurt me.' Man that was classic."

Mikasa's face slightly reddened. She put on the jacket Jean gave her and said. "I had no choice. You said to find out all about the places we had to target. So I had to play the role of the scared little girl aftee I got spotted." "Stealth isn't your forte is it. Still I wish you had given. The signal a little sooner." Jean complained. "I couldn't help it. I had to wait until the guy behind all of this showed up before you cracked down on them. I guess we are almost done." Mikasa said but had a frown on her face. "Missing sunny boy?" Eric asked. "Don't worry. He is busy working with Armin and Hange to practice hardening to shore up the hole in wall maria. Plus that new weapon dad said Hange was cooking up." He stated. "Why bother practicing, put Mikasa right in front of him and I'm sure he'll harden in no time." Jean muttered causing her face to go pink. "That's not the kind of hardening we need Jean. But its amazing in just three weeks the whole world just turned upside down. Those remaining members of the central MPs that benefited from the old system were punished mercilessly thanks to that nutjob Zackery." Eric said as they watch Levi milk all the information from this guy and it seemed like he had some past grudges.

"Still section commander Langford wasted no time abolishing the council and stripping them and their associates of their assets and possessions. And sent all of them to detention facilities around the world." Jean went on. "I'm more impressed by the commander's idea of taxing the aristrocrats differently according to their support or opposition of the new government."

"That is to keep them from uniting their powers. Plus we did find our allies and enemies really fast this way. We lost a lot but I think the recompense was worth it. Especially with those glowing rocks that shined brightly. I mean they completely removed the need for gas lamps so saving an incredible amount of fuel." Eric continued. "Do you even remember how much Hange freaked out when we found those secret workshops in the castle basement and that lost technology hidden away by the first brigade?"

"You are finished Levi. When my boys get here . . "The boss tried to compose himself but. "Which boys? The ones in prison? The ones arrested my the military police or the boys I beat black and blue on the way here." The boss looked around and saw no help is on the way. "What is this? What's going on? I thought those MPs were nothing but a bunch of lazy loafers. Why are they acting all righteous and disciplined all of a sudden." "Really what rock do you live under. You pricks spent so long down here that you can't even see the air in the surface changing. Those pathetic nobles you rely on are already down in detention facilities breaking rocks. The military police has been cleaned up. You are done." After delivering the finishing blow Levi stood up. "Okay we are done here. Nice work Ackerman. Frost, Jean let's go. Let's see what the new MPs are made of."

The three of them follow him out. "The underground district is a mess. No wonder Levi became like this." Eric whispers to Jean and Mikasa who nod alongside him. After getting to the edge of the stairway leading to the surface Levi fires a sound round. The numerous scouts hidden nearby rallies. Topside Nile Dok patiently waited for the return of Levi and his impromptu squad. After Levi appeared from the darkness with his forces following behind him. All of them shocked at the level of corruption down there. While some MPs went to help the scouts Levi personally reported to Nile of the situation and course of action. Eric and the others took a break. "Sheesh. Here I am hailed as a lord and hero while I'm cleaning up drain lines." Eric complained as he drank some water. "You are making a lot of lives better. Plus it was the queen's personal order to find all of the lost and orphaned children. It just happened to be on the list so Levi took a preference since he is from the underground." Mikasa said as she changed into more soldier like clothes. "True but I didn't think Levi would personally dirty his hands or drag us in too." Jean said as he leaned his head back. The military police begin to file into the underground and begin their raid.

Few minutes later Levi approached the trio. "Okay our job is done here. Time to go back and report to the royal bureau. I'm sure Frost is dying to meet his little princess." He commanded. But Eric seeing Mikasa's displeasure asked. "Sir, is there anything else for us to do." Levi looked thoughtful then answered. "No, you have something in mind?" "No but if there is nothing else on the docket I want to go to the trost district. Isn't Eren and the others there working on that new weapon. I want to go see what they are upto." Levi sighed. "Fine. Go ahead." He said as they parted.

(Another week later. Wall sina farmlands)

They were watching Historia in regular clothes watching over the workers who were setting up the new orphanage she opened. "Somehow . . This is not the queen I invisioned. Its just over a month but she already looks like an orphanage director than a monarch." Jean, Armin and Eren watch as the other members of their squad help out while Eric is playing with the kids with a smile. "Look at that idiot. Smiling away." Eren said. "Yeah. Nobility seems to fit them yet they look so natural in this farmland." Armin said. Both of them could easily be mistaken for a group of commoners of not for the cloaks on their back. Eric wearing a white cloak with golden emblems of the walls on his back while. Historia had a dark purple one with the royal sigil on it.

"Do you even know what theu call Historia in the streets. 'The goddess of cattlemen' of course that has affection. But nicknames just don't seem to stop with him. 'Winter lord'. And where in the hell did Historia come up with calling the special forces 'miracle warriors.' "Armin murmured.

"She kinda reminds me of my mother." Jean utters.

"Hi there kids. How's everything going?" Someone else shows up. "Section commander Langford. What are you doing here?" Eren asks. "Nothing just got a break. Thought I'd spend it by seeing what the queen is upto. This is a really nice thing she's got going." Connor replied. Eric seperated himself from the kids and walked up to the group. But before he could get out a greeting out the felt some rustling in the bushes. From them came a black cloaked figure. But before they could react they sensed blood thirst seep out.

"DIE LANGFORD, THIS IS FOR CAPTAIN ACKERMAN. . .ALL HAIL THE KING!" the figure's hood was thrown back to reveal the half burned and mutilated face of the vice captain of the forgotten suppression squad. And instantly a gun was fired. Scaring all the kids away and the MPs came charging in. But it was too late.

In a spurt of blood two Langford hearts were pierced. One with fear another with steel. And the meaning of happiness was vanquished instantly.

T.B.C. . . .

If hearts are bending in this chapter it is going to break in the next

Next time. : Legacy of a hero