Hello, hello, hello! A day early you say? Why yes! YES IT IS! Anyone else raaather excited about the second season having aired? I'm watching the first episode tonight with some friends, so excited to see what they've done! We've waited long enough, eh? I also wonder if this will bring some new people into the fandom, all very exciting anyway! On that note, I might be going back over earlier chapters of my stories (i intend to do it to all of them) and editing them. I can't believe I've been doing this for over a year now! MENTAL. But yeah, I'll post on new chapters when I'm editing, because I don't thiiiink you guys get any notifications when I do that to older chapters. I don't think anyway. But yeah, I'll not be changing plot or anything, just polishing up/developing some of the earlier writing as I've made strides in style etc. ^-^

ANYWAY, on with the show! Or story... hehe, so excited about the anime.

Disclaimer: I do not own AOT, only Alexia

Note: Manga content, I am up to date with the manga so... really, read at your own risk, but tbh I never point out what is canon and what is my own creation so... ignorance is bliss? But anyway, warning applied.

The green canopy rushes past me, the big-ass trees are our playground and I cheer as the air swirls around. This was freedom, but this wasn't my home. Not any more. My heart pounds in my ears as I swoop down, watching a vague shape dawdle through the undergrowth. It wasn't a Titan though, was it? A harsh voice cracks up occasionally, the figure sounding annoyed. It was unfamiliar and commanding as it barks. The large head snaps round and glares, and I do the same. It exists, I exist. Not so simple apparently. But what is that figure? An enemy? A friend? Was it even a Titan? The world had enough conflict in it, so I saw no reason to pick a damn fight. But apparently I had no choice.

Seems I don't often get that choice any more.

My base comes into view, our little haven. The figure fades from my mind. I grin, using extra gas to gain speed, I want to get back there as soon as possible. Not in ten minutes, not in ten hours, I barely want to wait ten seconds. Even from back here I can see him waiting. Dependable, reliable; it still makes my heart clench foolishly. He sits brewing tea, breakfast ready. How many years it had been I don't know, but long may it continue. He turns at the sound of my wire, and gives a casual wave . The kettle whines. Another simple day continues. I give a whoop. I was like a bird, I was free. Those within the walls remained unknowingly contained, but content with their century long peace. Little did those fools know it was simply imprisonment. But we'd tried, right? We'd tried to help them. But we could only rebound off a window so many times.

Maybe we could take that trip soon, have me shift and him keep track of the supplies. I was go glad Erwin had given us that map. It was our right after fighting for so long, and losing so much. This was our time. Me and him. Me and my Captain. Me and Levi. I flip round, and sigh as the cold wind whips past. We had strong wings, and even stronger possibilities. A smile spreads over my face as I sink below the canopy again. The green flickered past my slightly ajar eyelids.

Yes, we would go together, and we would go soon.

We'd waited long enough.

"Wake up."

Pain. It's everywhere. I'm falling, the canopy getting further and further away as I plummet towards the unforgiving earth. I look up, everything's being consumed by flame. No. N-No! Even him? Levi stands, hands in his hair, seeming to struggle against bonds as he screams amongst the fire. That harsh glare comes into view, the strange figure reappearing. It looms and laughs. The canopy fades from view, ash filling my nostrils as everything is blocked out by that ravenous smoke. It's all smothered into darkness.

Again.

I jolt awake.

I'm dragged back to reality, and stare at the dying firepit. It's fading, embers slipping away in the morning drizzle. My body quivers, droplets of rain running down my cheeks like fresh tears. There was no one brewing tea, there was no one dependable waiting for me here.

This freedom was small now.

Don't you know what you've done to me?

You must know.

"I said wake up, woman." The voice sighed before I feel a foot nudge the small of my back. Right before giving a light kick. I sit up wearily and look over my shoulder to the figure, them swimming into view before some food is shoved towards my face. "Eat."

I blink and try to see what food I was even being offered.

The food is brandished again.

"You need to refuel."

"Ugh... and you need to learn some social skills." I grumble, sitting up properly and taking the food in question. "Thanks." I note, looking down at the fresh meat and some vegetation. It was a decent meal by all accounts, and didn't smell fatal. Then again, if he was a clever bastard, it wouldn't. Then again, if he wanted me dead, all he had to do was leave me where I was. No point in starving then, I guess. I take a bite and nod in thanks again, the figure moving and sitting near me as he tries to bring the fire back to life.

"Figured you wouldn't mind me making use of your neighbours."

"This is too big to be a squirrel, unless they've started getting Titan cousins as well?" I murmur, licking my lips. Where the fuck had he found seasoning? He didn't laugh, or even smile, but he did stab at the fire again. Harder.

"Actually it's part of a bear." He replied, voice disinterested. I swallow hard and continue to evade the silence that made my spine quiver. Who the hell was this guy?

"Oh well, that's fine, they're not neighbours, more like passing nuisances. Just leave the squirrels alone, all right? We have an understanding." I sigh, cracking my neck and humming when it gives a satisfying pop. He snorts, apparently amused by me now. Or was he simply amusing himself somehow?

I look his way, simply glancing from the corner of my eye. He had glasses, a gruff beard and a shaggy haircut. I don't know why, but I feel like there should either be a cigarette hanging out his softly spoken mouth, or a white robe somewhere in view. Neither are present though, his clothing is simple, and not from within the walls. In fact, he's only wearing a loose jacket, no shirt underneath. Was he simply immune to the cold? Too proud of his toned body? Or was he like me, and ran at a higher temperature than most? If so, was that down to an odd biology, or a Titanous one? My mind is busy as I eat the food, his own serving soon disappearing as well.

"So, is your head cleared?" He asked as he picked between his teeth.

"Bit of an ambiguous question..."

"Very well, let me rephrase." He said curtly, "are you still ill?" He set his meal down and stabbed at the fire again. It splutters indignantly at his impatience. I decide to forgo the smart-ass remarks for now. I didn't really fancy that stabbing motion moving in my direction.

"Think I'm all right for the time being, thanks for the help. Not that I know why you gave it, nor why you're out here, nor who you are."

"Perhaps the thanks is premature then?" He says with a quirk of a brow, glasses flashing in the newly revitalised flames. I feel like he's trying to figure me out, as much as I'm trying to figure him. I reach behind and pull on a rope, a small roof like shield swinging over us and allowing some protection from the drizzle for our sparking friend. The stranger glances up and nods slowly, perhaps impressed, perhaps uninterested still. I continue eating.

"Well... the thanks is still meant. I'm glad to be upright, even if I have to try and outrun you later on." I say and accept the water from him.

Another smirk fell into view.

Did he like that I knew to be threatened, or was he simply amused that I was going to try and evade him? My heart won't calm down, my body knows something is wrong here. This wasn't peaceful, it was like sharpening a blade before battle. Any second down, the dance would begin. At least that was what it felt like, I could easily just be being a paranoid freak again.

"So..." I start to speak, the silence making my head spin. "You plan on elaborating on any of the grey areas I just outlined?"

"Not particularly."

"Uhuh..." I murmur, already irritated by the recurring warp of his lips.

"But you're not going to let me get much further elsewhere without answering, are you?"

"Not particularly." I shrug and again he snorts.

I'm leaning more towards that being derision than amusement. For all I know, this bastard is actually planning on something far more devious than even Meghan had tried. Not that I know why he'd want anything to do with me. He might be entirely unconnected. No matter what, I'd remain wary. He nods and leans back, jacket falling open again as his eyes stare at the flames. I do hope he isn't as keen on his own voice as he clearly is of his own physique. I was on the mend, but that didn't mean I could endure full-on bullshit just yet.

"Guess I'll start with why I helped, after all, that's likely the most pressing thing," he muses, almost sounding like he was talking to himself more than me.

My hope of a 'to-the-point' approach seems to be fading fast.

I brace.

"I am a careful player in all games, and right now, you're an important piece. Therefore, whilst I was glad to find you out here, instead of inside the Scouting HQ... you being face-down in your own vomit wasn't exactly ideal."

"Actually I was face-up and drowning in it." I point out, meriting a side-eye worthy of a shit-storm. "Sorry, carry on."

"So I cleaned you up, got you back to some semblance of health, and I now expect your co-operation in my mission as payment for this good deed."

Doesn't seem like much of a fucking good deed if it has a bill attached. I keep my poker-face on, and simply blink at him when he looks to me. I ain't nodding or anything buddy, agreement is not on my to-do list right now. Unless this 'mission' is to fill Erwin Smith's office with drooling puppies or something, I doubt I'm going to want to sign on. Every second I talk with him, I get the feeling this guy is planning something terrible. It's like he's foreboding simply by breathing. When was the last time I had been this intimidated?

Oh right, probably inside a cell, staring at an enraged Le- Captain.

"So then," I say, wanting to distract myself, and keep his explanations going. "That leaves why you're here, who you are, and where you came from." I say, sipping the water again and realising rather quickly I wasn't getting away with shifting in that extra question. I look at that affronted glare and shrug. "Sorry, thought it was kinda implied before."

"Do not push your luck, woman, you do not have excessive amounts."

"Ain't that the fucking truth." I sigh, leaning back and waving my hand. "Why're you here? I assume this mission of yours has more to it than finding my sorry ass?"

"Indeed it does, I have many things to achieve whilst here."

"Ah, so you're not from around here, good to kno-" I grit my teeth. That damned vice-of-a-hand round my throat now. I hold onto his wrist and breathe as carefully as I can. I can't see his eyes, the glare off his glasses blocking all view. Creepy shitface.

"I am not here to banter with you, Alexia Senefold."

"C-Clearly..."

"I am here on righteous purpose."

Oh fuck, really? I went form psycho power-thirsty cousin whore, to Bearded Zealot?

I really didn't have any fucking luck.

I gasp thinly.

"You will halt your incessant rambling and listen to me. I will only tell you as much as I see fit, you will not enquire further, or I will discipline you with the only form necessary." He growls, hot breath wafting against me. I withhold my growling, I withhold everything. I can only assume his form of discipline would involve an awful lot of pain. "Am I understood, pawn?"

I nod.

Black spots are appearing in my vision by the time he releases me. I gasp at the cold air, my head falling back against the flooring and being just outside the roof's protection. The kiss of the rain is pleasant, and it does wonders to help me douse the flames of rage building up the back of my throat. A couple seconds pass by, the soft hiss of the rain being accompanied by crackles of the fire. I could almost pretend I was content.

"My mission, for all that you need to know, is to free our people." He says with too much pride.

I wait.

He stares.

I shrug. I've just been throttled for making a passing assumption, I ain't asking shit about shit right now. He rolls his eyes and sits back, brushing his hands off as if having just smothered them in muck by touching me. Righteous was definitely the right word for this fucker. There were a couple others, but for now, righteous would have to do.

"Our people need Eren Jeager. They need you. They need the Female Titan. They need all of us."

So he's a shifter.

Us, implied he was one too.

"You talking about the other two as well then?" I say between my teeth, sitting up a little and meeting his stare head on. His hands clench. "Bertholdt and Reiner?"

"I was unaware that they had been discovered."

Clearly he hasn't been here for very long then, and nor does he have very up-to-date information. This prick was telling me plenty. I shrug and sit up properly again, crossing my legs and playing with my remaining food. Our People. Who the fuck was he talking about? How was I connected to this bloody weirdo? Was it the royals again, or was he talking about Shifters like we were some kind of separate species? Then again, he can't have been from inside the walls, and yet he had clearly been somewhere near civilisation recently. I don't understand, and my head begins to ache. I guess it didn't matter who his people were, or our people – whatever the fuck it was! In the end, he had said he needed me and Eren, not to mention the blonde bitch and her two brawny bastard friends. That was a shifter force to be reckoned with. That being without me knowing this fuzzy fuck's power. Whatever this mission was, I doubted it was a peaceful one.

"I have come to reclaim what is rightfully ours, to save what was stolen. You have no love of the people within the walls, I assume?" He drawls on, my teeth grinding again. He knew nothing about me, assumptive prick. "They chained you. Stole your freedom, put you in a cage and prodded you with sticks."

I look his way, he nods permission.

"You just throttled me, berated me for speaking out of turn, and have oh-so-kindly, made my home feel like a whole new kind of cage. Or wait... is your form of cruelty so much different?" I ask with a flutter of my lashes. His teeth flashed into view. Righteous shit-heads tended to think of their own cruelty as a form of kindness, of saving the unfortunates. Come on Fucko, say it. You know you want to.

"I am trying to help you."

DING DONG.

I nod and shrug, knowing I wouldn't be able to open my mouth without earning another throttle. He leans forward and simpers.

"From what I heard, they made quite a meal out of you during your stay with the government. They burned you, tormented you, sliced into you?"

I nod once again.

He was right, the MP's and royals had indeed made a meal out of me many times over. But that wasn't the same thing as his first statement. Cruelty took many forms. The Scouts caught me, dragged me inside, they caged me at first; but that wasn't cruel intrigue, it wasn't anything more than seeking vital answers. They thought I had broken down their walls. They wanted justice for their people. This bearded fuck-face knew nothing. His assumption of no love was wrong, so very fucking wrong. Love came in as many forms as cruelty. That HQ was now my home, and I'd fled it all over again. Only now, sat with this shit-stick, was I considering that it might pay off in the end. If this callous bastard was planning on hurting Eren, on hurting any of the Scouts, I might be able to do something about it. From this point, I could hope to warn them. I just had to play it right.

"What I offer with this mission, is very unique indeed, Alexia Senefold. I offer you the best form of revenge. The absolute kind. We will tear them down to their wretched selves, and we shall free everyone they have chained."

I'd heard plenty Wallists in my time, plenty crack-pots using big words and idealistic notions to brainwash the needy. This man was no different. Inherently yes, I wanted revenge, and I won't pretend that I wouldn't enjoy destroying the royals entirely. But the word 'absolute'. Coming out of his mouth it sounds so much more like a blade carving out a new scar. He means absolutely final, doesn't he? But I see no army behind his self-importance, what exactly does he intend to do, in order to kill them all? Whoever the 'them' might be? His information clearly has the civilians, military goons, government officials, royal inbreeds, and the scouts, all mixed in together. It was insulting beyond being rather stupid. Where had he come from that made it so easy to bundle an entire world's worth of people into one toxic category? Not that I'm a saint, but hey, at least me calling all MP's bastards was only a small section of one people... right?

Heh, hypocrisy is my first language, I guess.

"So tell me, does that sound pleasing to you, Alexia?"

"Doesn't sound like much at all, to be honest." I reply, staring him down when I hear those teeth snap together. He threw more tantrums than Eren, for fuck's sake. Was he really so high and mighty where he came from, that he was unable to even discuss things with another human being? I purse my lips. "So far, all you've said is you need to steal back some people, and kill everyone else. Can't say it's the most strategically thought out plan I've ever heard."

"You do not need to know the ins and outs. You simply need to obey."

I need to play this clever, and yet I need to know his boundaries too.

I clench my hands.

A little pain would be worth the learning.

"Tell me, Stranger, in all the information you heard about me, at what point did some idiot write me down as a doe-eyed sheep?" I snarl, patience wearing thin for this shit-face-bearded-Erwin-wannabe. When he stands, I stand, when he growls, I growl, when he steps forward, I flinch but stand my ground. "You need me right? Well then, give me some fucking information beyond a 'oh-so-patriotic-boner-inducing' sound-bite."

"My information told me you were a stubborn fool, but I have dealt with plenty of your kind in the past, woman." He rumbled, stepping forward again, his chest pressed against mine. A chill runs along my spine. He caresses my cheek with the back of his hand, it suddenly turning to grip my hair in the next moment. Ow. He hauls me backwards and grips my chin hard. Again, fucking ow. "Every beast can be broken. You will obey me, you will heed the call of your people, and in the end? You will thank me."

"About as likely as you being humble." I choke out, wincing as his grip becomes bruisingly tight. I struggle and break free, standing away from him in a fighting stance. "You still didn't tell me who you are. C'mon, give your first corralled recruit that much, at least?" I ask, matching his advances with my own retreats. He glares and bares his teeth again.

"You test me too much, woman."

"Again, your information didn't list any of that?" I half-laugh, stumbling a little as my head swims. This would be so much easier if I wasn't still recovering. Dammit body, for once, just be on my side! I swallow hard. "C'mon Beardy, who the fuck are you?"

Slowly he straightened up. He stood to his full height, head tilted back proudly and hands upon his hips as though waiting for the sculptors to begin seeking inspiration. Holy fuck, this man was a show in himself.

"My name is Zeke, Chief Zeke." He announced loudly.

You know what?

I think those lazy squirrels once again missed their cue to sound the amazing trumpet chorus.

Silence reigned, and I looked around pointedly.

"Um... congratulations? You have a title as a first name?" I tilted my head.

"You really are insolent."

"And you're assumptive. Am I meant to know that name, or something?" I ask, tempted to yawn, but guessing the man's glass-wear ego could only bear so much. I was in for one hell of a beating, wasn't I? He frowned.

"Well no, but usually when hearing 'chief' people ask where I am chief of, or where I am from."

"Uhuh... well guessing from the oh-so-evasive nature you're basically emanating with every pouted breath, you won't tell me. Y'know, paired with the fact you didn't tell me earlier, and got a little pissy when I guessed you weren't from around here. Personally, I would assume your answer is 'none of your business,' or 'tis not the righteth time to reveal mine origins to you, peasant one.'" I drawl, hand to chest, with the other extended as though I were upon a stage.

I hear his teeth snap together.

And then he lunges for me.

I fight him, but the bastard was well trained, and not to mention in fairly damned better health than my sorry ass. Soon enough, after our dance continues for a while, he's tripped me and gripped me again. It's just a blur of grunting, flailing limbs and pain. My nape is in that vice grip and I stagger, on my knees in seconds, bracing myself against that white hot sensation along my spine. It's smothering. I gasp and my nails scrape against the flooring of my hovel, mind searching for some kind of escape. He pinches harder and I rag-doll against the wood, panting thinly as the rain picks up again. The raindrops kiss my exposed hand as it lies there outstretched pointlessly.

Christ, I'm reaching towards the walls...

"I warned you, Alexia, you can't say I didn't warn you. Kindly wake in a more amicable mood, I grow tired of this stubbornness. Nothing good was every borne of pride."

Fuck you Pastor Facial-hair.

Go preach at someone who gives a shit about your damned delusions.

"Fuck... off... b-beardy..." I slur, something giving a small cracking noise when he somehow grips even tighter. I feel that hot breath against my ear again, slightly panted at least.

"Chief Zeke will be what you refer to me in future conversation, anything else? I will simply beat you down all over again."

I groan and submit to the sucking oblivion, only then is my nape released. That's going to fucking bruise now you brute. I sink further and further, till finally my mind lands on something other than pain.

At least, not physical pain.

I stand in front of the HQ. Only now it's surrounded by high steel fencing, the metaphor blatant and unforgiving to my stinging eyes. Dammit. I'd been in there, amongst that warm light of lanterns and listening to comrades talk over dinner. The clanking of cutlery, the clink of glasses, the scraping of chairs. It had once been a mess of noise, a rabble of watchful eyes to avoid; but now it felt like the background to my everyday. To my home. I shiver, hugging myself tightly as I try and turn away, but no matter where I look, that's all I can see. I stare, the panes of glass showing Eren laughing with his classmates, Armin reading a book and wiping errant food off a page. Hanji takes notes and then snorts at her own joke. Erwin mulls something over and narrows his eyes broodingly. Levi sits at the end of the table, watching from the sidelines as he sips his tea, occasionally glancing my way but not seeing.

"I... I can't watch you be chained again." I hear him say, voice cracking, breaking like wood burned for too long.

I swallow hard and turn, only now trees replace the fencing and soft undergrowth nestles around my boots. Please no, I don't want to see that again. I look up and blink, watching Levi hang his head, rain falling down around us in our tense bubble of goodbye. That chilling rain no longer soothes me, it seems to hold onto me tighter and tighter, till I can barely take a breath.

"Please? Run?" Levi begs, looking up now, pleading openly. He looks like a fresh wound.

What had I done to him?

This couldn't be good.

Had I ruined him?

Raindrops roll down his face and cling to his dark hair. A few gather in his dark lashes, brimming before joining the other tracked down his pale cheeks. I had so dearly wanted to remember his face, to have it for my selfish needs in this lonely time. But now I wish I hadn't. That stare, those lips, I can't shake the deep set regret they give me. Ten days, ten months, or another ten years. Each feels like a new nail through my heart. Shit, I can't take this. I feel myself press my lips to his. It's chaste and sweet, nothing like what I need right now. In this chilling world I needed the fire between us, the struggle, the clambering hands and strong grip. On one hand I still wish he might forget me, that the world might choose the kindest path. But on the other hand, the clawing greedy one, I wanted him to be thinking of me just as I was thinking of him.

With desperation.

With regret.

With longing.

I wasn't just a mess of a human, I was a mess by all accounts of nature right now.

LEVI POV

How the hell has it been a month already? Nothing's happened, and yet time seems intent on running me down. I scrawl my way through this mountain of shit on my desk. Dammit it was just one meeting after another, one damned bureaucratic pile of nonsense after another. I can't take much more of this. Soon we'd be preparing for a mission, that was what this was leading to. Erwin didn't want me thinking about that, he didn't want me considering what that would mean. But I have, and I do. It'd be foolish not to, and only make it sting worse. They'd send us out there to find her, they'd send us out like dogs on the hunt. My quill snaps and I curse as the nib splays across the page. I need to get a grip, or I need to do something other than laying groundwork for her murder.

Shit.

I stand up and pace, my floorboards likely sick of my shit.

This place is stifling.

I stride out and head for the gear store. It was hardly a peaceful option, but then again I might be left alone. It might be assumed that I'm training to take her down. I'm not. I'm just needing to get out of my own head for a bit, I guess. Or maybe I just need to slice something up. I clip on the gear and head for the training route, staring ahead blindly and ignoring anyone on my way. They stop, they salute, they avoid my wrath. It's complete isn't it? I'm just a tag-line again. No more than the uniform on my back and the title above my head.

What're you doing out there, Alexia?

Are you alive? Are you still fighting?

Are you lonely, or relieved?

I count to ten and focus on the track. I was meant to be getting away from these pestering thoughts, not letting them grow heavier. Then again I was also meant to be figuring out how to get her back, and all I'd managed so far was avoiding smacking the invasive MP bastards. As they demanded to be a part of our mission, we'd been forced to train them, to include them in planning. It was fucking sick. As if it wasn't bad enough that I'd called her a traitor to my own regiment, but now theirs too? Somehow this world is getting worse. On and on they demanded my council, my input, my opinion. Only none of it was true. I didn't want to help them know how to take her down, I didn't want to help them, or anyone else, destroy her. I certainly couldn't tell them what I really thought. She wasn't my enemy, they were. Biting my tongue was getting tiresome, I wonder how the hell she managed it for all that time she pretended not to be a shifter.

I launch and soar, flying through the trees and using as much gas as I damn well please. Right now I can't consider efficiency, right now I'm being outright self-indulgent. I flip, I turn, I barrel around and go anywhere and everywhere. Yet it's not really helping. Every target I slice into is meaningless, every perfectly executed attack feels like a betrayal. And all the while, I feel this weird ache at my neck, remembering how I'd had to carry her to her base.

Fuck.

It's as if she's haunting me.

I land on a branch, skidding slightly and panting. She was alive. I know she's fucking alive.

How long have I been out here?

I look up, the sun was past its peak. About an hour then. I should probably head back, or else they'd start wondering where the Captain had gone. Well, fuckers, he's checked out. I sit down and lean back against the trunk, looking up at that canopy and wondering if she was doing the same. Damn, I sound like a fool. She'd likely slap the back of my head if she knew I was thinking like this. Then again, maybe she's thinking the same? Sitting there next to her firepit, drying some meat out, or repairing something damaged by the weather?

I sigh and thump my head back against the bark.

This was so frustrating.

"Captain?" I hear Jeager calling out to me from the main track. I watch him fly past, looking around intently. He had a lot better form now, didn't he? Kid had come a decent way since we first hauled him in here.

Was that our doing, or hers?

In the wake of her leaving, the kid had turned in on himself. It was like when we first met him, everything internalised. The only one he seemed able to talk with was his blonde companion. Artlet? Yeah, that was his name. Like a mini-Smith or something. I'd lost count of how many times I'd wanted to smash their skulls together, the two rookies so easily fooled into believing Alexia a traitor. Ugh, but they were just kids following orders. I'd likely have been that stupid at some point in my life right?

I grit my teeth, Jeager's call get louder.

He'd at least had his doubts about the situation, hadn't he? Occasionally dropping hints at me, asking questions about Alexia's state of mind leading up the Meghan's death. He wanted to know more, he wanted to understand. It was something, but dammit I still feel rage.

Shit, he'd spotted me, hadn't he?

He swings into view and I give a small wave of my hand, indicating that he might as well head over here. Being loud enough, for fuck's sake.

"What is it?" I ask as he lands on the branch just above me. This wasn't a dance I enjoyed any more. I was angered by the kid's willingness to follow the facade, and yet I had to keep reinforcing it. Damn, I'm a hypocrite. The kid pants a bit, apparently his stamina needed improving now that his form was on point. He sheaths his blades and sits down as well. Heck, make yourself comfortable, won't you?

"The Commander was wanting to see you, sir. He sent me to find you."

"Well, you found me." I murmur, leg swinging slightly as it hangs down from the branch.

"Are you um... are you all right, sir? Did your gear jam?"

"No."

"Did you injure yourself?"

"No, not at all."

"Um... so... what... what're you doing out here, sir?" He persists and flinches back when I look at him. I can't help the glare. Everyone else was hiding from me, so why didn't he? Him of all people. Especially considering right now all I want to do is thrash the brat. He hadn't done it since, but when he came to my office about a week after Alexia had fled, rambling on about his confusion over her betrayal, I'd nearly laid into him like I had in that courtroom. Only this time I'd have had no Niall to hold me back. My jaw tightens, she'd kick my ass too though, right? If she found out I'd hurt her pet. I grumble to myself and look at the kid a little more reservedly.

"Fancied getting away from pestering brats, why?"

"Um..."

"Something actually pressing that needs discussing, Jeager?"

"I d-don't really know, sir. I think the Commander was going to head to your office himself, but he'd seen you head for the course. He's starting to walk around himself now, y'know?" Eren says and I hate how endearing that look of hope is. I guess we're all looking for some silver-linings right now.

"Yeah, he's almost back to his usual self."

"You don't sound all that happy about it, sir."

"Guess it depends on how far back he goes." I mutter, clicking my tongue and then looking to the brat again. He jolts, intimidated by my stare as he looks away momentarily. I can't hold up this pretence much longer. His eyes turn a little soft again, and I know he's going to bring her up. Dammit kid, I'm meant to be keeping you out of all this mess. Don't make me give in?

"You um... you miss her, don't you, sir?" Eren asks, and my teeth grind together.

"Excuse me?" I snap, hands clenching into fists. Shit. How damned arrogant had this kid got that he thought he could talk to me on such a personal level? Humanity's Strongest, the Captain, didn't this brat know how to read a damned label? Eren swallows hard and clasps his hands.

"Sorry, sir. I only meant..."

"Presumptive, brat." I sigh, sitting back again and closing my eyes. I hear him shuffling about, but he isn't getting up to leave. That much is clear. I wave my hand for him to continue with his prattling. The sooner he got through it, the sooner I'd order him to run round the compound till he collapsed. It's already been a month, but it still feels like it's been a year. It's not that I'm against lying, but I am against confusing myself any further. Or him. Kid was a zealous pain in the ass, but he was also a damned decent soldier. Kudos where it was due, after all.

"I... I only ask, sir, because... lately you haven't seemed like yourself."

"You presume to know what that is?"

"Well I... s-sorry. I just meant you're different now that she um... now that she's left us and-"

"Jeager I need to ask you a question." I interrupt, having heard a few twigs break back towards the starting point of the route. Someone was walking through the woods. I look down, and what do I see? I see a fucking Unicorn wandering around. Seems like Eren wasn't the only one looking for me. But he was the only one doing it without worrying about being seen. They were still wary, I had to at least give them a little credit. They weren't entirely thick.

I stand up and draw a blade out of instinct. I hear Eren stand as well.

"Y-Yeah, Captain?"

"Why're you so quick to assume things are as they first appear?" I ask quietly, the question forming on my tongue and slipping out before I can hold it back. I just couldn't help it, that damned insignia, that damned unicorn; it made it so much harder to swallow down. Shit. I watch the MP meander around. Apparently my selfishness was reaching new depths, I was intent on involving this brat, wasn't I? Somehow I'd been the last to know, and yet I was already dragging him down to my level. Come and join the self-torture Eren, it's fucking agony. You go through every damned day, reliving that moment when she turned and ran. And every fucking time, you don't know if you did the right thing or not. I don't think I'll ever know.

When the silence continues, I glance over my shoulder to him and note the outright confusion in those easily read eyes. The kid was just following orders, I get that. Really it was a testament to his loyalty to me and Erwin as his superiors. But I can't help it. I'm pissed that he would so easily believe Alexia as a traitor. Never mind the paradox that I'd been the one enforcing the concept.

"Sir what do you..."

"Consider that the MP's are fucking everywhere, Eren. Consider that this situation is only with us in control because of what Alexia did. Consider that before you drag her name through this shit any longer." I turn and fire my wires, I need to get away from his piercing stare. It really was hard to evade him. I soar over the curious spy and making a point to dislodge some mud from my boot to land on his thick head.

When I land at the starting line, I already regret what I said to the brat. It was Erwin's job to be a damned enigma. Not mine. I sigh and sheath my blades again, what's done is done. I go to return my gear in the story before making for Smith's office. I can guess that Jeager wouldn't be far behind me in heading back. But I can't deal with that shit right now. Did I actually want to spell it out for the brat? Or was planting a seed in his head enough?

I knock on Erwin's door.

There's the scraping of a chair and then careful footsteps.

Seemed he was getting stronger all the time.

"Yes?" The door opened and revealed a slightly pale, but otherwise normal looking Commander. I nod and see surprise light his expression. As usual he looks away slightly. Since Alexia had left he hadn't met my eye, not properly. I can't decide if it's respect, or cowardice; but then again it could be both.

"Jeager said you wanted to see me?" I walk past him and make a point of sitting down in front of his desk. I normally wouldn't bother, but the idiot would likely stay standing if I did. He was getting stronger, but that didn't mean he was recovered. I glance at his desk, apparently I wasn't the only one getting through paperwork. He's trying with his left hand, it looks like his handwriting is somehow worse than that Shitty-Four-eyes.

"There's been a development in the mission planning." He says as he makes his way back over, still slightly off-kilter with his walk. Guess his whole balance must be off these days. He sits down and tries to subtly cover up the messy documents. I just stare at him and wait for him to continue. "We go next month. The only goal is finding Senefold, and bringing her back to justice. Although..."

"Yes? I'm surprised you said 'bringing her back', so if you're leading up to them wanting her dead, just say it." I say, sitting back and crossing my arms again. My hands are in fists. Erwin clears his throat.

"There have been rumblings along that line yes. So I wouldn't be surprised if on the mission, that idea was brought to light. Our members will still out-number that of the MP's on the field, but still... I didn't want you blind-sided by the idea." He looks my way, seeming fascinated by my cravat. If I was a woman I'd be wondering if he was a pervert. As his Captain, I'm growing tired of this evasion.

"I won't be. I know those bastard's want her blood. They won't get it, but I know they'll ask for it." I say, and as he nods I look to the ceiling. The silence lingers and I click my tongue at him, those eyes focus on me for a second. But it's long enough. "So you finally looked at me, Sir."

"I've been looking at you the entire time, Captain." He says with yet another clearing of his throat. I narrow my eyes at him. "Levi, what are you actually planning on doing if you do find her? If you cross the MP's out in the field, there won't be much we can argue to save your hide."

"Meet my eyes and say what you're really concerned about, Erwin. Do it now, or I'm leaving." I say, sitting forward and leaning on my knees. He frowns at the documents and hesitates. I'd never seen this man be one for pausing about anything, and it was damned surreal to see it now. "After all this time, you really gonna make me lose respect for you, over this?"

"It was on my behalf that she left." He says at long last, looking up and meeting my gaze. Finally. He found his balls at long last. Alexia would be proud. I sit back and dip my head in thanks, seeming to calm him as I lounge a little. I needed a dash of normalcy, what can I say, I'm a creature of habit. Erwin frowns. "Are you planning on leaving with her?"

"Does that concept scare you shitless?"

"I suppose it does." He answers instantly, leaning his chin against his remaining hand. The stump had moved, likely on muscle memory of clasping his hands under his chin. Creatures of habit alike apparently. "So is that your answer? You are planning on doing that, if it comes down to it?"

"No, not at all." I watch confusion return to him. He almost suited it when it was passing. I shrug. "It won't come to that. Any sign of her, I'll head in the other direction. If we did find her? Well... I'd figure something out at the time."

"Don't fall on your sword, Levi." He says, it being his turn to scrutinise me. I smirk and shake my head.

"Like she'd let me."

"I suppose not." He nods again and sighs. "We're getting closer with Historia, moving towards-"

"Like I told you before, Erwin," I interrupt, holding up a hand. "Just point me in the right direction. I get bored by politics." We share a rare smile. "You have a month to make headway, and as far as I can see, you're well enough to travel to the city. If you need a chaperone, let me know. Otherwise? We really don't need to be talking. Every time we meet alone, I know the Unicorns get nervous."

"And you don't want that?" He chuckles with a raising of his brow. Almost, Erwin, you were almost acting normal again. Not bad. I shrug and stand-up from the chair.

"I want them shitting themselves, of course. But for now, I'd rather have them docile. The calmer they are, the thicker they become." I go over to his window and look down into the compound. An MP looks my way, saluting like an idiot, to which I just nod in return. They carry on, but I see those glances, they know I'm here talking to Erwin now. They were whinnying anxiously. "And as long as they're stupid, she has a chance of coming back."

Another pause.

"You think she's really going to want to return, Levi?"

"Seems an empty gesture to save your life and then abandon us all, right?" I tilt my head, watching Jeager land on the starting line. Either he was slow, or he'd fancied blowing off some steam as well. A blonde bob of hair bounds into view, and I watch them both talk. Childhood friends, frantically searching out the truth. I hope they find it. It'd be nice to have a couple more allies around the place without me having to spoon feed them the truth. Come on, Brats, figure it out. Trust her.

"I have to ask, Levi..."

"Hm?"

"Do you resent me for this?"

"And you care, why?" I murmur, watching Jeager get more and more wound up as he vents to Artlet. They look far enough away from the MP's to avoid being overheard, but really they both needed reminding about the word 'subtle'. I hear Erwin's chair creak.

"I care because this is a delicate situation, and I need to know just how shaken things are. This regiment has only ever endured because of trust."

"So trust me." I glance over my shoulder to the old fool. He blinks, hand slowly lowering to the desk. I raise a brow at him now and continue. "Trust that I'm not some snot-nosed brat that blames the world for his problems. And at the same time, I don't blame you either. Not to mention it was her own doing. This was Alexia's choice, so I'll trust in that for now. Got it?"

"Hm... I believe I do." He nods, simpering to himself. I huff.

"Good. Here was me worrying you needed a sing-song about friendship, or a damned daisy-chain to make you feel better?"

"No, daisies make me sneeze." He murmured and I snort, finding myself almost laughing with him as the lunchtime bell sounded. "I suppose it's wrong of me, Levi, but I am grateful for what she did."

"Not wrong at all, Erwin," I sigh, watching the compound empty of bodies. Life goes on for another day. Again his chair creaks.

"No? How'd you figure, Levi?"

"It's just called being Human."

So yeah, wee update on how things are playing out for them. I guess not a lot happened in this update again, but I hope you all enjoyed it all the same. It's laying some groundwork for more 'exciting' chapters to come. Buuut I hope you still liked it! Thanks so much for reading! Please leave a fav, follow and or review, I looove to see reactions to my work, and you guys are awesome for it. See you in 3-4 weeks! 0-0 we'll be 3-4 episodes further in by that point... woooooooah.

SHOUTOUTS:

MadnessIsContagious: I am glad you didn't find it dull! These more emotion/character development chapters ALWAYS make me nervous, I always worry people are gonna end up skimming. So yeah, I love my cliffhangers, and I know, I am so evil for them, haha! Thank you once again for your wonderful praise, I really don't feel like I merit it but ooft you really know how to make a girl grin! Haha sorry about all the feelings, they're both in a world of hurt ya know? I guess I kinda did that this time round as well... all the development... all the feels... MUHAHAHAHAHAAAA. Also *psst* what's Danganronpa? I am flattered anyway, but whaaat? And no, my tits cannot calm, they be wild beasts. I am actually kind of thrilled that you're that invested in my work, that I make you nervous by updating - is that evil? I have no idea by this point! I make no promises on whom will survive, but you're right, at this point I feel like I have shown my respect for the fandom enough that I thiiink I could get away with killing off a canon character perhaps not in their canon manner ;) so be afraid, veerrrrry afraid. Thank so much for taking the time to write such a WONDERFUL review, you really never dissapoint! See you next time!

Wolfenergy17: Not going to lie, I was VERY excited that you had reviewed this story! Sorry about the um... running out of chapters thing, but you did have a good 233,459 words to read up till that point! Greedy chops. I hope the wait was worth it, I'm working to the same schedule on all 3 of my stories, 3-4 weeks ^-^ I'm thrilled you like Alex! I don't think I've had someone meet Katsumi before her yet, so it's great to know how a person feels about Senefold after Kat. She's a big part of my soul as well, that little voice ranting on whenever I have to bite my tongue. Haha, I'm glad you like the nicknames, I make myself giggle with them far too often I'm sure. Yay! You like the relationship! I think all my fics are ridiculously long now, haha, I can't help it, the ideas keep coming. I'm so happy you like this one too! Hmm... turns out you could be right about the new character, eh? Good prediction! Yeah, she showed her maternal side without even meaning to. I tend to forget about the coconut, so I wanted to use him more. I love him ^-^ he's terrifying. Haha, I'm glad you enjoyed her departure, and don't be too harsh on Eren and Armin! I hope this chapter has clarified their thinking... but yeah, they're a little fucknuggety. I enjoyed writing the more scheming side to Erwin, but as Alexia proved herself etc, I felt he needed to be developed into another direction, or else it would have become stagnant, or indeed OOC. Yes, indeed, fuck meghan. I would just like to clarify with you - I really like Mikasa as a character. I totally agree with your character summation and I totally agree that she and Alex would get along (probably...). The problem being that Alex still ain't great with people, she senses Mikasa's passion and I guess is intimidated by it. Keep in mind Alexia still doesn't really feel she has the right to impede on other people yet. I think it's wonderful how passionate you are about Mikasa, it's nice to see some Mikasa love ^-^ I could do the same about discussing characters, my friend, so easily done, haha! But anyway, you never know, there might be plans for Mikasa and Alexia to bond soon, never assume character dynamics will remain the same ;) I enjoy throwing spanners into the works. I'm so glad you like my portrayal of Hanji, I am planning on bringing her back into things now, the focus turned a bit towards the LevixAlexia train, but now other things can be explored. Historia was meant to be OOC, so I'm glad you thought that! I was meaning her to be OOC because of how much Meghan was messing with her, manipulating her, controlling her etc. It was me attempting to show the reader that she could still revert back to her normal self. But I do apologise if I failed in that! I did write the drinking scene (with the smackdown) whilst drinking copious cocktails on holiday... hehe... might have gotten carried away. Yes, stay clothed, would ya? I'm honoured you're taking the time to read my other works as well. I hope you enjoy RBW but yeah, it's immensely long! Maybe review part way? I loooove your reactions, I really do. But I will say right now, the earlier chapters were literally my FIRST dabbling into fanfiction, so they're not up to standard... sorry about that! Anyway THANK YOU THANK YOU THAAANK YOU! Such a wonderful review! You're amazing! I hope you enjoyed this update! Speak soon.

Guest: Thank you for reviewing! I'm glad I kept hold of your interest, it's a very long story, haha! I hope you made it this far and are still enjyoing it. Thank you so much for the praise, I will endeavour to keep the quality going! Hope you enjoyed the update, and thanks again.

MilkyMilky: Really? 6-7 years? I haven't even been on this site that long, so thank you, although what did you actually think? Haha, I assume you like the story, but your review just kinda stated that you don't usually review, lol! Thanks anyway!

Grimm: Sorry about the depressingness, buuut it is AOT, so it ain't all sunshine :P I hope this chapter slightly clarified where Armin and Eren were coming from for you! I'm glad you're wondering what Hanji and Erwin are thinking! Means I have you invested! Assume nothing my friend, the end may by imminent, or I might have another 100,000 words up my sleeve, WHO KNOWS! I'm glad you're still enjoying, and thank you very much for the forgiveness, haha! Hope you enjoyed the update, and thanks for reviewing! See you next time!