Shingeki no Kyojin is owned by Hajime Isayama.
Major Manga Spoilers! Be warned.
Chapter 6: Eren x Petra
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The bed in the Queen's room was large enough to fit the 4 occupants easily and still have room for more. Eren had thought it unnecessary at first given Historia's vertically challenged nature and the fact that it was usually just the 2 of them there usually. Now, he didn't mind the additional room so much now that they were joined by both Mikasa and Annie.
Mikasa slept soundlessly on Eren's right, her arms wrapped around his and her raven head resting between his shoulder and crook of his neck. Annie slept off to his left, curled into a protective ball of sorts, but one of her hands still loosely held onto Eren's. Her now loose blonde hair fell just beyond her shoulders and hung like a curtain over the side of her face. Between the gap of Eren's outstretched left arm and Annie, Historia had snuggled in. Her arms were wrapped around his midsection and her golden head rested on his chest.
He couldn't move if he wanted to. Not that he wanted to at the moment. It wasn't just that he enjoyed the situation, but he could find some unlikely humor in it. Who would have ever guessed that Mikasa and Annie would spend the night in the same room on the same bed without killing the other? That was the true miracle. Even further still, Eren was still honestly trying to wrap his mind around what had actually happened a few hours previous. If the two biggest rivals were willing to set aside their differences (even for their own gain) he could at least expect that none of the other girls would have too strong an opposition; when the time for that actually came. They would still have to have permission from Mikasa as promised, but if she had been willing to perform the act with Annie present, she probably wouldn't turn any of the other girls away.
"Hmm." Mikasa actually inched closer to him, drawing his arm in closer to her chest. He hadn't even tried to move either. Maybe she had a sixth sense where she could tell when someone was thinking about her. With her superhuman strength, it wouldn't surprise him in the slightest.
To his left, the blanket covering the four of them shifted as Annie curled in further on herself. She had covered them after they had finished previously which Eren found almost ironic. Despite Annie's cold exterior the girl, in fact, hated feeling cold. She was also a blanket hog. She could have been doing it to steal more sheets away from Mikasa, but since it covered the entire bed. Annie still had a sizable portion to wrap around herself like a cocoon. Subconscious feeling of being trapped in the titan crystal maybe?
From under the covers, Eren saw a shift and felt a foot touch his. On his side, Historia shifted closer as well, her head lightly rising and falling with his chest. That was also something Eren noticed about the 3 girls so far, they were all cuddlers. Mikasa had been clinging to his side since they were kids, Annie, behind her mask wanted to feel safe and secure, and Historia liked the warm feeling of another body giving her heat.
Eren could see and feel the light starting to come in through the window of the room. He should probably be getting up soon. Hanji and Levi would be expecting him, Mikasa and Annie back today to prep for the expedition beyond the wall and to the Marley titan dumping ground. He knew that he had to... but he still couldn't move. Mikasa pulled his arm closer to her chest, Annie grasped his hand tighter and Historia flickered her eyes open.
Her blue eyes were only half open, but she still stared up at his green ones. "Sleep well?" she lazily asked picking her head up off his chest.
"I could ask you that," Eren said. "You orchestrated all of this."
"True. And it was probably the best sleep I've had in a while. Maybe Mikasa will invite Sasha next time."
"Really planning ahead, aren't you?" Eren sarcastically asked. "We should probably get dressed now that we're awake." Mikasa and Annie were still asleep. "Want to help me out of here?"
Historia yawned cutely. "Hmmm, no." She rested her head back on his chest.
"No?" Eren repeated.
"No." She said again.
"Any reason?"
"You're warm and I'm cold." Historia nestled her head right above his heart. "Besides, think of it as an engagement gift."
Ah. That's right. "Let me guess, you're going to make the announcement public today." He didn't bother to say it like a question as he could see the smile pulling at her lips.
"It's a fine a day as any," she told him. "Care to stick around to see the faces of some of the nobles who tried to win my hand? We do not have the same luxuries as Marley so we do not have cameras to savor the moment with." Eren remembered the photo he had seen when first opening the journal. Thinking about it, Historia really did look a lot like Dina had and he saw a lot of his features in his father back when that had been taken.
"You know, in order to do that, you'd have to let go of me and help me get up." Eren hoped that would sway her.
Historia just nudged her head further into him. "You can at least try to sound grateful."
"I'm still in awe that you managed to convince the two of them to agree to this."
"Not that," Historia said. "The more you stay right there, the longer Mikasa and Annie will stay asleep. And when they wake, they'll be expecting an answer." She had a point. "I hope you had time to think about it before they wake."
"Honestly, we've been awake before either of you," Annie slightly shifted around.
"And neither of you said anything until now?" Eren questioned the both of them.
"We're not sleeping." Mikasa's sudden voice caused the both of them to look over at her still prone figure.
"Honestly, we've been awake before the two of you," Annie stirred a bit beneath the covers.
"And you're just saying so now," Eren wanted to know.
"I like watching you sleep," Mikasa told him. "You looked at peace."
"I'm not a creep," Annie said. "I just liked the quiet is all."
"It isn't nice to call someone a creep," Mikasa advised with a tone.
Eren sighed. "It's too early for this."
"Couldn't agree more," Annie agreed. "So as an act of peace, I concede."
"What?" the three of them asked at once.
"I concede, you can get your wedding after Historia. Happy?"
Eren thought she was joking, but the look on her face gave nothing away. Maybe she was serious. "Wow. That's pretty big of you, Annie. If you-,"
"Hold on," Mikasa cut in. "Eren, it's okay. You should marry Annie before me."
"What?!" the three of them now asked in complete awe that Mikasa would turn down a golden opportunity like that. Even Historia was confused by this.
"Mikasa... Annie is giving you a good offer."
"And I want not what she can give me. I was Eren's first, I've been his friend the longest. What kind of friend would I be if I did not allow Eren to grow emotionally?"
"The exact opposite of how you usually are," Annie answered. "Have you forgotten how much damage I did to this island? It'd be a fitting punishment for a wicked girl like myself."
"I've waited this long for Eren to return my affection, I can wait a bit longer." Mikasa was insistent.
Both Eren and Historia's eyes darted between the two girls as they came up with more counter points. "Please tell me you know what this is," Eren whispered in Historia's ear as she took the time to move closer to him.
"I have a hunch."
"And..."
"Instead of hating each other, they're going to use kindness as a weapon. By making it seem one is okay with giving up the grudge, they would want you to pick them by doing so."
Two shapes drifted down and over to where the two of them laid. "Whatever are you telling him, Historia?" Mikasa asked.
"Not being greedy are you?" asked Annie.
"Just, uh... telling Eren you two were working out your differences." Historia nervously answered, not even taking notice that neither girl bothers to use the sheet to cover themselves as they neared.
"Indeed." "Right." Both answered before raising more points and counters.
"I might have made a mistake," Historia whispered to him.
"Yeah," Eren couldn't help but agree. "Somehow this is more unsettling."
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Eren was at last able to get dressed along with the three of them once Mikasa and Annie eventually stopped their non-hateful competition with each other after neither girl caved or gave into the others counter points and Eren said nothing on what he thought would be better. He had considered saying he would just marry them both at the same time, but he had actually thought better of it. Given both of their prideful nature, they might have taken it as an insult that they did not have a wedding day dedicated for them only. He was glad he did not bring it up as the both of them seemed to just have to figure a way of how to properly decide.
Huh. That was something he had would have never done a few months ago, be more considerate of girl's feelings. Maybe it was just something that happened from being around girls too much.
As Eren put his jacket on, he passed by the vanity mirror Historia had in her room and for a brief second caught a glimpse of a dark haired girl behind him. When he blinked she was gone, but he knew exactly who it was.
Frieda. He had been having more flashes of her with more exposure to Historia. Sometimes when he went to sleep, he could see some of her memories like when she would visit a young Historia at a farm and read stories to her. He never saw any of Uri's memories but that was probably because it had been Frieda who his father had devoured and he could only see her memories since she was the last holder of the Founding Titan.
Then again, the Founding Titan was never meant to be held by anyone other than the royal family and now that he had it, maybe he could only have access to the memories of the user that was eaten. That was something for Hanji to think about.
"How do you like your hair?" Historia asked Annie as she helped the other blonde get it back to her usual style. Annie had made Historia promise to help her with it after letting it free yesterday.
"Looks fine," Annie said although she even seemed to think it looked a bit better when Historia did it. "Why don't you order me to do yours, or something. Make it even."
"How kind of you to offer." She was soon sporting her usual regal hairstyle of her hair tied behind her head in a bun. Eren saw she was also picking out her best dress and cloak along with her crown and scepter. "I believe this will be enough to suffice. Will you two also join us in the throne room?"
"I will go where Eren goes," Mikasa said with a small smile in his direction.
Annie was less sentimental. "Considering you asked us to be part of an orgy a few hours ago, asking for us to attend court is more practical."
There was no way to argue the logic with that. So when they did arrive in the throne room, Historia summoned for an attendant and requested an audience as well as a member of the press to b there as well. In the time it took for them to all arrive, Historia had a few chairs brought for the three of them to sit off to the right of her throne.
"Thank you all for attending on such short notice," Historia began. "I do not wish to keep any of you longer than necessary so I will simply get to the intent of this assembly. The issue of my hand in marriage has officially been decided." Many looked confused at the purpose of the gathering while some nobles looked stunned or even eager as they thought they might be chosen. They were in for a rude awakening. "After much thought and consideration, I have chosen Eren Yeager to fit the role at my side."
Historia waved a hand over to where he sat on her right. He could see the reporter scrambling to write down everything that she said as no one seemed capable of forming a coherent sentence. With that, Historia continued. "That is all. Thank you all for your time." Damn, she really didn't care that she just damaged the ego of everyone who just asked for her hand before.
Her words seemed to finally take effect with the other occupants. "Q-queen Historia! That is a monumental decision. Do you really wish to-,"
"My decision is final. Any additional queries can be sent to me by letter and unless it refers to the impending wedding, I will consider it irrelevant." She rose from her throne and walked past where Eren, Mikasa, and Annie sat. A look to both of them showed that while they remained stoic, they did have respect for what Historia had to say. Eren really wished that they had developed cameras as they had at Marley because Historia had one of the best smiles he had seen her with. And the faces of some of those nobles was priceless as well.
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By the next morning, the news of the Queen's betrothal seemed to have circulated all through Wall Sina and the most inhabited parts of Wall Rose. It was all the people seemed to talk about and Historia was probably being swarmed by letters congratulating her on the match or asking her to reconsider her choice. But Eren knew Historia didn't really care how many letters she got, she had made her decision and she believed that he was the best match so that was that. Eren hadn't had to deal with the publicity too badly yet as he had to return back to Survey Corps headquarters after the announcement was made. But when the news did reach back to their spot in Wall Rose, there was Connie to deal with.
"So... how did it happen?" Connie walked behind him as they loaded their trays in the mess hall. "You can tell me, I swear."
"How did what happen?"
"C'mon man!" Conne whined. "How did you end up engaged to Historia?"
"She just thought I was the best choice. We became good friends after the uprising so she must have just felt comfortable with it. She surprised me when she brought it up too."
Connie nodded. "So that's why you're always at the capital these days; you two were talking about this." They did much more than talk, but Eren wasn't about to say that to Connie, he'd never leave him alone if he did. "Alright. But, did you like... say anything to her about it?"
"What would I say about it?"
"You know, is it like just a political thing so old men will leave her alone. Let's face it, you've never gotten distracted with romance and Historia doesn't she... uh..."
"Doesn't she, what, Connie?" Eren asked, a bit annoyed with what Connie might be insinuating.
"Doesn't she... play for another team?"
"Way to phrase it," Eren walked to find a table with Connie following behind. "She was the one to bring it up to begin with so its up to her what she wants from the marriage." The two sat down at a table with Mikasa, Jean, and Armin.
"Yeah, but if you're married, wouldn't the two of you have to..." he made an O with two fingers and moved his index close to it before Jean spoke up.
"Jeeze, leave him alone already, Connie." Jean took a drink. "What do you know about that kind of stuff anyway." That honestly surprised Eren. Out of all the people to speak up, Jean was the last he would have thought of.
"You should at least be happy for Historia for having a say in who she gets to marry," Armin added with a nod in Eren's direction. "Rather it be someone she's familiar with than someone who won't appreciate her."
Jean looked over to Mikasa. "You taking the news well, Mikasa?" Ah, so that's why Jean stuck up before.
She took a sip of her water. "Just fine. Why do you ask?"
"Seriously?!" Connie leaned across the table. "You're not about to go on a rampage, are you?"
"About what?" Mikasa asked as cool as ever.
Jean looked concerned. "About the wedding."
"I'm only concerned on when I'll get to have my wedding day," Mikasa said.
"Uhh, you do know you need someone to marry for a wedding, right?"
Mikasa nodded. "I know and I have someone in mind."
Connie whispered over to Jean which sounded like "Denial."
Mikasa continued like she hadn't heard. "Sasha is to be my maid of honor, no one else."
"Where is Sasha, anyway?" Eren asked, changing the subject before Connie could say anything else.
Connie shrugged. "Last I saw she was raiding the pantry. She had her arms full with pots of honey." Eren stopped eating. "I think she's going to fill a tub and bathe in it."
"That would be a Sasha thing to do," Armin said as he took notice of Eren's face. His blonde friend was probably already putting the pieces together.
"Oi, Eren," a new monotone cut into the chatter. Captain Levi was standing at the door to the mess hall.
"Captain Levi," Eren addressed. "What is it?"
"You finished with your cleaning for the day?" Levi asked.
"Yes, of course sir." He might have forgotten under his bed, but other than that his room should be spotless.
"Then meet me at the stables, we're riding for Karaness District."
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Levi remained silent for most of the ride, not telling him what they were going to Karaness for right away. But Eren kept his horse alongside the silent captain all the same. It was only when they were about half way to their destination that Levi actually spoke.
"So, you and the Queen are making it official. Congratulations, Yeager."
"Uh, thank you, Captain." It seemed odd Levi would bring it up now. Or maybe not. Levi did care about those in his squad, he just showed it in unusual ways.
"That was a pretty bold move on her end," Levi continued. "Making it public in that fashion. Really sort of made a statement."
Eren gave a dry laugh. "Yeah. Some of their faces were really-,"
"You do know what I'm talking about, don't you?" Levi suddenly asked.
"Captain?"
Levi almost sighed. "Don't tell me you and she are too starry-eyed to see what ramifications this could have this early on."
"I get that some surviving nobles will be unhappy, but-,"
"We just had an uprising," Levi continued. "Some claim to support the military, but every noble has a desire to move up in status. Imagine the insult of finding out a guy who can turn into a titan is going to marry the Queen when you have no land or title to offer her. Might want to watch what you drink from now on, you don't know which are willing to play dirty. And then there's the military that holds the power behind the scenes."
"The military crowned Historia to begin with," Eren told him. He could understand the warning about the nobility, but he was a part of the Survey Corps, with his help, Wall Maria was back.
"Yeah, and she's expected to do as she's told when need be," Levi added. "Hanji might be in support of this engagement between you two and even most of the common people because of what you've done, but she's just one person, and people's opinions can change easily. Fact is, Historia didn't consult any high ranking authority when she made that announcement, they might see that as an act of rebellion from her. Who knows, they might have had use for a puppet husband for her. She has royal blood, any kids she has will have it too. But with you added into the mix, that might make her a bit harder to control."
"What's done is done," Eren said not liking the idea of the military they were a part of using Historia for their own ends. "She has a right to marry whoever she wants."
"Just keep it in mind," Levi said as they neared the walled district.
"You didn't just ask me here to tell me that did you, Captain?"
"No. We're here about something else. We're visiting the hospital here since we're overdue for a visit."
The inner gate to the district was open for them as they arrived and made their way to the local hospital. This was larger than the one his father had used to work with since they were in an upper wall. But even so, Levi would be the ultimate judge of how clean it was. The first thing he did when they entered was flag down one of the aids.
"Oi, nurse, this hand basin is empty. Are you just letting people come and go without washing their hands?"
When she saw the emblem of the Survey Corps on his jacket as well as Eren there as well, she hurried to complete her task. "Sorry about that, sir. Is... there anything I can help you with today?"
"Other than improve this place's sanitation, you can take us to see Petra Ral. She's still here, right?"
Petra. The last Eren had seen of her had been after their failed attempt to retake Wall Maria. The fight with the Female Titan, before her defection, had cost the lives of all of Levi Squad save her although she was left in a near crippled state from her injuries. He really shouldn't be surprised that Petra was who they were here to see. What would she even have to say to him, anyway? Would she be consumed with guilt at being the sole survivor from that day, would she want to see Annie killed for what she had done? But if Mikasa was able to come to a standstill with the Titan Shifter, surely Petra would be easier to explain the situation to.
Wait. How much does Petra even know? She had been at this hospital since their return and had been absent for the trap at Stohess, the turn of Reiner and Bertoldt, the uprising, and even the journey to the basement. If no one had had time to visit her until now, she likely only knew what the common folk knew.
The aide nodded. "Yes, she on the first floor down the hall. Would you like me to escort you to her?"
"That's what I said," Levi sounded annoyed.
"Yes," she nodded. "Right this Corporal and your Hig- er, sir." She must have also heard about the engagement and if his picture was sketched, a lot of people probably knew his face by now.
When they got to Petra's room, the aide knocked on the door. "Miss. Ral, you have visitors."
"Is it my father?" Eren heard Petra's voice for the first time in what felt like ages.
"No, there are two gentlemen from the Survey Corps."
There was a pause. "Send them in please." The girl in question was seated in a wheelchair next to her bed. Her fair hair was still cut the same length and her warm eyes widened when she saw the two of them enter.
"Hello, Petra," Levi greeted. "You holding up in here?"
"Captain... Eren..." her eyes swept over the both of them. "You're actually here..." Her eyes seemed to well up with emotion, but as her time in the military had taught her, she did not let any liquid escape from her warm eyes.
"Figured you were overdue a visit," Levi strode into the room and Eren closed it behind them. "How are you?"
"I'm... I'm feeling a lot better than I was before, especially now that the two of you are here," she said. "It feels like it's been forever since I've seen either of you. I know I'm sitting down, but Eren, have you gotten taller?"
She seemed eager to talk, happy to see him, no trace of anger or disdain present for what had happened. "...I guess," Eren rubbed the back of his head. "I haven't measured my height recently."
Petra smiled. "If I were to stand up I bet I wouldn't be up to your shoulder."
"You can stand?" Levi asked.
"It's bit of a challenge, but my legs have healed enough to where I can support my weight and I can walk a short distance. It'd be nice to finally be able to walk around since this chair can only go so far. Stairs have become a bigger challenge than titans ever were."
Eren was glad to see that she was wanting to continue to push forward despite her injury. Petra had had a stubborn streak to her as seen when she used to argue with Oluo. "Well I could give you a ride on my back if you wanted," Eren offered. "Stairs wouldn't stand a chance."
She laughed softly. "I bet!"
"Don't get ahead of yourself," Levi advised. "You're still adjusting from your injuries and you shouldn't do anything that might push yourself too far."
"Right." Petra's smile dropped a bit. "Sorry, Captain. You really sounded like the doctor when you said that."
"Then he has good common sense," Levi said as he examined the nightstand near her bed. He ran a finger across the top to see the amount of dust. "Tch. That's more than I can say about the staff of this place. Eren, keep her company. I have to have a few words with the janitor of this place." The door closed behind him as he left.
"Same old Captain Levi," Petra smiled as she shook her head.
"This place'll be spotless in a few hours when he's done," Eren joined in.
"I just hope he isn't too hard on me when I get cleared to go back. My room's probably covered in dust from being away so long."
"I can clean it for you if you want," Eren offered.
Petra looked at him like he had offered her a brand new house. "You'd do that?"
"Yeah, what are squad mates for? Besides, we used to get stuck cleaning headquarters before so it isn't anything new."
Petra sighed in relief. "Thanks, you're the best."
"Don't mention it," Eren told her. "When do you think the doctor will give you permission to leave?"
"Probably once my legs heal up fully. As it is now, I can probably ride a horse with just a bit of discomfort and using ODM gear will only be a problem when I have to stop and land."
Eren nodded. "Maybe I could carry you around in my titan form, that'd save some time."
She smiled. "Squad Lead- er, Commander Hanji would probably kill to experience that. But honestly," she showed him the scars that were still on the back of her thumb from where she and the others bit, "it would be neat to be on a titan that didn't try to eat you."
When she said that, Eren wondered how much she knew about the titans in here. Did she know that they were just people who were unwillingly transformed? When the knowledge of what they found in the basement was made public, some did believe while others did brush it off as a hoax. What did she know?
"Well, you must have had some exciting news while you were here?"
She sighed wistfully. "My dad visits often. Very often. He tells me what's been going on at home, how my mother's doing, if I'm being treated well here. I try asking him about the Survey Corps and what's been going on with all of you, but he usually deflects the question. I think its because he doesn't want me going back after the injury."
"Oh. I see." Eren thought back to the conversation he had with Sasha's dad the other day. "He's just being a dad, I guess."
"I guess," she agreed. "But I wish I knew what exactly was going on. I only hear some local gossip from the aides here. Did you know the Queen is going to marry?"
"Really? I had no idea," Eren said with a hint of sarcasm. "She was in my class actually," Eren told her. "We didn't learn about her true birth until a while ago."
"I thought you might have known her. The aids say your name a lot when they talked about her."
"So... you haven't even heard about that yet?" Wow she really was out of the loop.
"About what?" Petra asked, leaning forward in her chair.
"I guess I can fill you in on all you missed out then," Eren pulled a chair over to sit across from her. This could take some time to explain everything.
So he told her. Told her about capturing the Female Titan and that she was under Survey Corps custody now (omitting the part that he was in a relationship with Annie. She still was responsible for the death of Squad Levi and her current injury). He told her of Reiner and Bertholdt, the rescue, the cause of the uprising and everything else that was not complete public knowledge.
"That... certainly is a lot to take in," Petra said. "I don't even really know where to begin with all of that, but, congratulations, Eren. From all you told me, you and the Queen seem to get along well. I'm just glad my dad isn't here right now, I'd get an earful about how I should have found a husband by now."
"C'mon, you're only like a few years older than me," Eren tried to reassure her. "What about Captain Levi?"
"He's older than the both of us," Petra told him.
"How old is he anyway?" Eren had wondered that question, but never dared to ask.
"I asked him once, he just said older than you," Petra told him.
"So?" Eren asked. "You still admire him and he knows how talented of a soldier you are."
"You're right, I do admire him, but he sees me as a talented soldier." Petra began. "When I first joined the Survey Corps, I did it in part because I heard of how talented Captain Levi was and it wasn't until I saw him in action that I knew why he was called the Strongest Soldier. He performed moves on the ODM that I never knew possible. He was the hero of humanity and he was my hero too. I wanted so hard to work alongside him and when he hand selected me to be a part of the squad, How could I refuse? But after a while of working with him, I realized that he wasn't interested in pursuing a relationship. Anyone of us could die at any moment, it would just be bigger heartbreak. So he's still a hero to me, I just wish he could be a little less sometimes." The atmosphere seemed to dour with her speech. "Besides," Petra brushed some of her fair hair aside, "Captain Levi's only love is his cleaning products."
That got a true laugh out of Eren. "I think he has a personal storage for feather dusters hidden away in his room that he cleans with other feather dusters." She laughed in return.
"So, you were sneaking around in my room, were you?" Levi's sudden voice had them both sitting stiff in their seats. The door had open so quietly neither of them had noticed.
"N-no, sir, I wasn't!" Eren shook his head.
"Tch, whatever. Anyway, let's say our farewells for now, visiting hours are coming to an end."
"You two have to leave already?" Petra asked, clearly wanting them to stay longer.
"That's what the nurse said," Levi relayed. "Maybe in that time they'll get some actual cleaning done around here."
"Oh, I see," Petra slowly nodded. "Promise you'll visit soon and keep me in the loop?"
"You don't have to ask."
Then to Eren and Levi's surprise, Petra attempted to stand up from her chair. Her legs shook a bit, but she was able to steady herself. "Captain, if it isn't too informal..." she opened her arms.
Then to Petra's surprise, Levi gave a quick but meaningful hug. "As far as I'm concerned, you're still off duty so formalities don't exactly apply." He let her go.
Now Petra's attention was on Eren. "Don't think you're leaving here without one." Not wanting to disappoint Petra, Eren embraced her as well. Her smaller arms wrapped around him and Eren could smell her hair that had a distinct honeycomb scent to it. After a moment or two, they released each other. "I'm holding you to your promise. Don't be a stranger."
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Eren and Captain Levi didn't say much on the ride back to headquarters, and they didn't have to really. He was glad to see Petra was still alive and all, but a part of himself couldn't help but blame himself for her current state. Even if he had beaten the useless brat of him back on top of the wall of Orvauld District, he couldn't help but wonder if he had believed in himself earlier, would he have been able to make a bigger difference?
Levi seemed to know what he was thinking. "Cut it out already," the captain told him. "I told you before, you never know how something will play out. You're alive, she's alive and the Female Titan is in our custody, it all wasn't in vain."
"You're right," Eren agreed. "I was just... thinking is all."
"Well try not to make a face when you think too hard, you look like you're constipated or something." Levi lead his horse into the stable. "But if you feel like you owe her for what happened, why don't you go clean out her room. I'm sure she'd admire the effort." The way he said it, it was almost like he was trying to imply something that Eren would never thought would come from Captain Levi. "Well?"
"Ah, right, sir."
so he set out to do just that. Going to the second floor where Petra's room was in headquarters, Eren entered. Her room was already neatly kept from being in Levi's squad. No way was she going to mess up her position because of an untidy room. The only real problem was the dust. It had begun to pile up in considerable amounts like her nightstand, dresser and bedframe.
As he cleaned, he felt a bit weirded out that he had entered without Petra's knowing first as she was still back in the hospital and probably would want to prove she could still do simple tasks on her own. But she also knew her limits and wasn't going anywhere and Levi had told him to do it basically, but it still was a bit weird. As he dusted off her bed posts, he thought about that this was where Petra had usually slept at night and even though he had his nose and mouth covered to keep the dust out, he thought he could still smell the scent of her hair where she used to lay her head.
He changed the sheets as well, replacing the old with new, clean ones. The nightstand was easy enough to clean but when he got to the dresser, he took a bit more care. He took to only cleaning the top of it and dared not open any of the drawers knowing that that was where Petra probably kept her... delicates. Once he thought that, it was hard not to think about it. He kept cleaning and did not wonder at all what her bra size might have been. But if he had to guess, close to Historia's, but it was a good thing he didn't wonder about that.
By the time he was done, he felt even Levi would be proud of the room. Well, he would probably find something wrong, but other than that he would still be proud.
Having completed that task, Eren headed back to his own room and when he went to open the door he heard a voice from the other side. "Who is it?"
Sasha? "It's me, Eren. Who else would it be?"
"Eren?" Sasha repeated the name. "Oh thank goodness! I could really use your help right now."
"What is it?"
"...just come in quick and shut the door behind you, please."
Doing as she asked, Eren quickly shut the door behind him. "So what's..." he stopped there as he didn't even bother to finish asking what was wrong. Sitting on his bed was Sasha, her clothing laid at the foot of his bed and covered from the neck down in a glistening amber substance. About five jars of honey laid at the other end of the room.
"So... you remember me mentioning the honey?"
"You actually did it..."
"...Yeah." Sasha rubbed the back of her head which turned out to be a bad idea since the honey on her hand stuck to her hair. "I didn't know when you were going to be back, so I've kinda been here all day. Mikasa stopped by and that was... awkward. She just said she would come back later. So... as you can see, I'm in a sticky situation here and I could use some help licking this up." She pulled her hand free with some hair stuck to it. "And maybe a haircut, I don't know yet. Please say yes, the honey is starting to harden."
There really was no way he could have said no to that. Sasha eagerly wrapped her arms around his neck directing his attention first to her chest which she had lathered in the stolen honey. Eren had always liked the taste of sweet food like things that were baked with honey and somehow, this made it taste all the better. And as he helped lick the substance off of Sasha's beautiful body, the distinct smell of the honey reminded him of Petra with her warm eyes and fair hair.
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"He actually said that?" Eren tried hard not to laugh at what he had just heard. He was back the next day to visit Petra again as she seemed to enjoy the company in the otherwise boring hospital.
"Hey, I said don't laugh!" Petra tried to scold him, but even she found it somewhat funny. "He's just my dad being my dad, he says a lot of embarrassing things."
"He knows how young you are, right?"
"I'm either his little flower, or my life is going by too fast, there really is no in between with my dad." Apparently her dad had stopped by earlier that day and made a bad joke about how life passes by so fast and if she didn't settle down, she would end up an old maid. It was a joke, and a bad one at that, but still the idea that it was her dad who said it made it a bit funnier.
"I take it you said something to him," Eren knew she probably did.
"I just said the older he gets, the duller his jokes become. It was kind of low since he met my mom with a joke of his. But he should know there are certain things you never joke about with a woman."
"Well, he didn't mention your weight at least."
"What about my weight?" Petra asked.
"nothing," Eren quickly said. "Just joking is all."
"I thought so." she kept up her good spirit. "Thanks for coming again so soon. "Although visiting again so soon, the hospital aides are fond of gossip, you don't want the Queen thinking you're involved in some kind of affair."
"Oh, yeah, she'd have my head," Eren said in good humor when in reality, Historia would probably find a way for Petra to be included in the next session she had planned. Although it had only been a day since he last saw her, Eren found he wanted to spend more time with the older girl not just to keep her informed of all she had missed, but also because he just enjoyed spending time with her. She had been the first of Levi's squad to reach out and extend a hand of acceptance to him and it had been something he was grateful for. She still had the bite mark on her thumb as a sign of her suspending her doubt about him and his powers. It didn't help that they had just been discussing the topic of her dad pestering her about marriage either. "So aside from your dad, what's been going on around here?"
"not in the slightest," Petra leaned back in her wheelchair. "But I think my legs are getting stronger."
"It's only been a day," Eren reminded her.
"I know, but you both visiting yesterday really motivated me. Watch." Using her arms, Petra began to lift herself from the chair once more. Her legs shook a bit, but she was able to stand up. She took a few steps to where he sat in her room as well. "See, just got to take it easy and not over do it." No sooner had she said that when her legs started to give out from under her. Acting fast, Eren was able to catch her before she fell.
"Not overdoing it, huh?" still holding onto her, Eren helped her stand back upright.
Petra looked red from embarrassment. "Sorry. I thought that my legs..."
"It's probably your spine too," Eren said. "The spine takes a longer time to heal than legs."
"How'd you know that?"
"My dad was a doctor," Eren told her. "He told me a few useful things before he... well before he went missing."
Still being held up by Eren, Petra said again, "Sorry."
"Don't be. You're eager to get back out there, I can understand that."
"No, not about that," Petra said. "For not saying thank you."
"Well I didn't want you to hit the floor and have them keep you here longer."
She shook her head. "No, for everything else. For not letting the others deaths be in vain, for helping to bring down the corrupted government, to taking back Wall Maria, thank you. I told you I always admired Captain Levi for what he did and for being a hero to me, well, you're not too far off. Despite everything, all the people who saw you as being a monster, you still held true and did what you set out to do. So thank you for being a hero to me as well." He felt her hand touch his chest. "And I'm sorry for..." she pulled her hand away. "Nevermind." She eased herself down onto her chair. "I'm... feeling a little tired right now, I'm probably going to take a nap. Thank you for stopping by again, Eren."
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"What did you want to talk to me about, Eren?" Mikasa asked as she snuggled next to Eren in the bed. Mikasa was still riding the high she had felt a few nights ago with Eren and the 2 others so she was content to just stay and hug his side for the night.
"Do you remember Petra Ral from the old squad Levi?" Eren asked her.
Mikasa thought it over. "She was the only woman and is currently a resident in a Karaness hospital. What about her?"
"It's just when I went to visit her, I got the impression she had some, well, hidden feelings."
"Oh, alright," Mikasa listened. "Do you, feel the same?"
"She was the first of the squad to accept me and reach out a hand of friendship, so I feel extremely grateful for what she did. And when I thought she had been killed, that was what really set me over the edge that time. I mean, I guess I had bit of a small crush on her, but not like what I had with Annie. I always thought she had eyes for Captain Levi which she kind of did. But earlier today, she practically told me she felt the same way."
Mikasa took what he said into consideration. "If you want my opinion, you should pursue these feelings."
"You mean it?" Maybe Mikasa was growing accustomed to having other girls around him.
She nodded. "There are four of us right now, she would make number five, wouldn't she? Besides, if she feels strongly enough about you and vice versa, you should act. Besides, it might even be a spur to that shorty for what he did to you back at the hearing." Ah, there was the hidden motive. But, he would take her advice all the same. Tomorrow, he would go back and meet with Petra again.
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Arriving at the hospital much later than expected given additional chores and workout session that had been piled on last minute, Eren stopped at the front desk to check in for a vist.
"you're here to see Miss. Ral?" the aide asked. "You should know visiting hours expire in an hour or so., Mr..." she looked at the name he had written down. "Oh! Um, of course hours can be extended if need be, please, go right in."
"Thanks," Eren said as he made his way to her room. It looked like the kowledge of his engagement to Historia did have some unforseen perks. Not that he would take advantage of them any chance he got, it was just handy is all.
He knocked on her door. "Hey, Petra, it's Eren. Is it okay if I come in?"
Eren heard her voice from the other side. "Eren? Um, sure, come on in." He opened and closed the door behind him. "You're back again I see."
"Yeah, I just wanted to talk about some other stuff if you were interested."
Petra's eyes brightened. "Of course, I'd be happy to. But first, I also wanted to apologize."
That confused him. "For what?"
"For how I behaved yesterday," Petra told him. "I realize what I might have said or did might have seemed like I was being... promiscuous, and with you being engaged to the Queen of all people, I am sorry. I just felt... comforted is all."
Well... that certainly was a way to dive into the topic. "Seriously, don't be upset about that. I'm not mad at you about it or anything."
"I hoped that you wouldn't be, but still... I feel horrible for thinking the way I did. If the Queen ever found out what I was thinking..."
"She'd probably be fine with it honestly," Eren told her.
"Very funny."
"No, I'm serious," Eren insisted. "She is pretty, well, let's just say she wouldn't be mad."
Now Petra looked confused. "What are you getting at?"
Eren was glad it was just the 2 of them right now as what he was about to tell her should be kept private. "Well, you know my titan power, well, I guess there's more to it than we originally thought." Now time to explain it. "You see..."
So Eren laid it out for her as simple as he could, not because he thought she wouldn't believe him, but because he knew that she probably would believe him. The bite on her hand was also a symbol of trust so she knew that whatever he told her now would be the truth. Eren almost stopped as he explained as he took notice of Petra's reddening face.
"...So... there you have it." Eren finished rubbing the back of his head and letting out a sigh of relief.
Petra almost looked like a tomato. "That... uh, explains a lot and... wow, okay, this is actually a thing."
"...Yeah." There was no denying the initial reaction.
"And your fiance is perfectly alright with you being with other girls?" Petra found it hard to speak those words.
"She encourages it actually," Eren admitted to Historia's willingness to accept other girls.
"And... was it her who encourged you to tell me this?"
"That was actually Mikasa," Eren admitted.
"The one worth 100 soldiers and Levi the second?" Petra recalled what she knew of Mikasa. "So... you and her are also an item then?"
"If that's what you want to call it, yeah."
Petra slumped in her chair. "That sure is a lot to take in at the moment. And... I take it Mikasa and Queen Historia are alright with... well, are you asking me to join?"
"I wouldn't ask you to do anything you didn't want to do," Eren told her. "But after what you said yesterday, that just got me thinking that you were... I guess interested."
Petra ran a finger over the bite on her thumb. "You... aren't wrong. Between you and Captain Levi, you're the two closest people I know in the Survey Corps. And after all you've done to save humanity, how could I not fell indebted and infatuated? Maybe I just have a thing for heroes, I don't know. But what I do know is that what I felt, that its true." The two of them sat in silence for a moment, their eyes meeting before Petra looked away. "I know that it isn't much of a confession, but it is how I feel."
Eren kneeled down beside her chair and put his hand over hers. "Who cares if it isn't a confession like how some people do it? You did it your way, no shame in that."
He heard her give a small chuckle. "Somehow, that makes it feel better." Her other hand moved atop his own and he could feel her lean closer to him, her fair hair brushing the side of his face. Her soft lips pecked at the side of his face.
Eren turned his head slightly and felt his nose brush against Petra's and he could feel her soft breath against his skin. He leaned forward just enough for his lips to skim Petra's and held it there before he felt her lean her own head forward to make full contact. Petra was static as she felt Eren's lips with her own before she pulled back before leaning forward and lightly kissing him again.
Wanting to show the same affection, Eren kissed her back, leaning forward and tilting his head to find a better angle for Petra. "Mmmm." Eren heard her lightly moan into the kiss as he moved his own lips to match what she was doing with hers.
They continued on like that with planting little kisses on the others lips and breaking apart only to meet once more and always keeping their foreheads touching throughout. The two of them kept that rhythem going but Eren could sense that Petra was starting to want more from the kisses but wasn't sure how to go about it. So taking the inititive first, Eren opened his lips a bit to lightly bite down on Petra's lower lip, but kept it gentle so not to leave a mark or draw blood.
"Knngh?" He heard a muffled gasp escape from Petra so he lightly pulled away. He waited a response from her and he recieved it when Petra leaned forward again and she too lightly bit at his bottom lip as a sign of affection. Petra soon wrapped her arms around Eren's neck as she deepened the kiss they had started. They kept at it before Petra broke it to whisper into his ear. "Up."
Eren took her request and stood up and supported Petra with her arms wrapped around his neck. "Where to?" Eren asked. He had an idea, but he wanted Petra to say it first.
"Where we can lay down."
Eren walked them over to the bed and sat down and swung both their legs over to the point Petra was drapped across him. She was able to prop herself up with little difficulty. Once she was upright, she began to fiddle with her hospital gown. "While I'm busy with this, do want to start..." she eyed his clothes.
"Yeah, sure." He too began to remove all unnecessary articles of clothing. It was a bit hard to get his boots and pants off when Petra was sitting on his lap, but he had to do it quick or risk Petra feeling pain from putting too much pressure on her legs and back.
Petra at last removed her gown and almost brought her arms to her chest to cover herself, but stopped herself. "Kind of funny, isn't it?" Petra asked with a blush. "I'm supposed to be your senior and here I am acting like I don't know what I'm doing."
"Just take your time," Eren told her. "I'm not going to rush you on this." Even though he wanted to feel what her ample chest felt like, Petra was a clear novice to this and had to grow on her own.
"...Thanks," she said as she stared down at his own body and line her entrance above his already hard member. "I'm going to take it slow, alright. Just, be ready to change position if I can't handle it, please." Eren nodded and she started to lower herself down. The tip of his length parted her folds as Petra eased herself down little by little until she stopped at a certain point to let herself adjust to the sudden pain.
Both her hands rested on his abdomen as she let out a few breathers. "Ah... ah... ah... okay, here I go." She took the rest of the length inside of her and held her position, only throwing her head back as she tried to surpress a loud moan that would have called a nurse to her room.
"You good?" Eren asked as his own hands moved to grab hold of Petra's hips and keep her in place. He could feel her inner walls start to adjust to his length.
"Yeah. Just... let me try something." Petra gave an experimental roll of her hips that send a jolt of pleasure through Eren as she did so. She tried it again in the opposite direction and the feeling held true for Eren. "Ahhh..." Petra lightly moaned again as she bit down on her lip from crying out loud. Feeling the pleasure run through his system, Eren ran his hands along her hips and slim waist, feeling the smooth skin beneath his touch.
Petra was still rolling her hips, but came to a point where her soft moans were turning into moans of pain. "A-ow! Ow, ah!"
Eren froze. "Need to switch?"
Petra nodded. "Yes, that'd be a help." Her eyes were closed in pain.
Seeing her in distress, Eren shifted his weight to counter Petra's so that they both aid on their side facing the other. Eren then used one hand to elevate one of Petra's legs and support her weight. He still kept them connected and waited for Petra to adjust to this new feeling. "Good?" Eren asked wanting an answer before he continued.
Petra gave a nod. "Alright, you can go again."
Doing as he was told, Eren lightly bucked his hips, feeling Petra mold and fit around him as he did so. Her soft moans were turning back to pleasure to his relief. "Ahhh, there. Yes, Eren, there!"
Eren slowly began picking up the pace to a point Petra felt comfortable with. By that point as well, Eren felt comfortable moving his other hand to cup her breast, not that Petra cared if he did so or not at this point. Wanting to bring them closer, Eren used his elbow to prop his torso forward to bring him to face with Petra. She looked into his eyes and captured his lips once more.
They continued to kiss as Eren picked up the speed at which he thrust into her feeling her release and his as well soon approaching. Eren only momentarily broke the kiss he shared with Petra to lightly bite down on her collarbone to leave a small mark. It was a spur of the moment act, but one he felt necessary.
As it turned out, it was enough to send Petra into a state of bliss. "Nneggh! Er-ahhh!" her walls contracted as her orgasm overtook her.
It wasn't long after that where Eren felt himself unable to hold on any longer. "Gnnngh!" Eren felt his release take him as his seed was spilled inside of Petra. and as usual, he experienced a flash of what could only be Ymir Fritz with her Cheshire grin and holding up her fingers to mark.
Eren let Petra's leg go free as the two of them basked in the afterglow together. Seeing the content smile on Petra's face, Eren lightly kissed her forehead and held her before she closed her eyes.
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Unlike with the previous girls, Eren knew that he could not stay the night here given the rumors that would spread if he did and with the excursion to the sea happening the next day, Eren would need to be present first thing in the morning. He had woken Petra up as he dressed an hour or so later and let her know that he had to leave. She told him she understood but made him promise that he would be back at a later date once she was finally back up to 100 percent. He looked forward to it as well.
He was able to get back to headquarters, get a few more hours of sleep there and wake up in time for the expedition. Like the rest of what remained of the Survey Corps, Eren was gathered in the courtyard with Annie following behind him as she was his responsibility.
"Morning, Eren!" Sasha happily greeted with more energy than she usually had in the morning. "And... you too Annie! You look... well rested."
"Thanks, I guess," Annie replied. It was clear Sasha was trying to ease relations with some of the other scouts and Annie by coming over and talking to her first.
"You look real good in a Survey Corps jacket like the rest of us."
"Nice to know I fit in among the masses," Annie tugged at her sleeve.
"You can smile at the compliment," Eren told her. Annie just shrugged but her gaze lacked her usual indifference when she looked at Sasha.
"Sasha," Mikasa called. "You're riding next to me, remember?"
"Right, coming!"
Once they were all saddled, Eren thought they were ready to go, but Hanji had not given the signal yet. "Ah, I was wondering when you would show up."
"Well this is a twist," Annie remarked at seeing the newcomer.
"Sorry that I'm late," Historia apologized dressed in her regular Survey Corps attire.
"Historia? What are you doing here?" Eren asked. Why did she leave the capital to come here.
"Even if I am Queen of these walls, I am also a member of the Survey Corps when need be. Given all the casualties that occurred, it is only fitting that I also take part in this expedition as I wish to see the land where those from Marley arrive. Before anyone protests, we have 3 titan shifters on our side as well as the 2 strongest humans. My safety is not a concern." She looked at Eren when she said that.
Hanji gave the order to move before anyone could raise any objections. With their numbers, they were able to make it to Wall Maria no problem since all the titans within the wall had been taken care of with help from the titan guittene Hanji had constructed at the districts. It took a bit of time to set up the lifts for the horses once they reached the third wall, but according to Annie, they should make it to the sea by sunset since they had horses and weren't going on foot.
"Sure is a luxury Marely didn't spend on us," Anne said with bitterness as they continued on.
Surprisingly, they did not encounter many titans on their ride. It was possible many had been within Wall Maria or were somewhere else on the island. If they did see a titan, Levi took care of it with ease. Even though they were Eldians, there was no turning them back to people that they knew of.
"Up ahead, see it?" Annie asked as they came to a man made wall of stone that marked the end of the sand they were on.
"So, this is where they drop the Eldians off," Armin said with sadness as he stared at the structure.
"it's how they've been doing it for generations," Annie dismounted. "On the other side is the sea. Probably not the greatest place to see it for the first time, but this was the deal."
Hanji nodded. "Good work then. It looks like you can be trusted. Eren, would you transform and get us above that wall. It's low enough for you to climb over."
With a bite of his thumb, a bolt of lighting came down and Eren now stood 15 meters tall. He picked up the assebled party and lifted them to the top of the wall before climbing up himself. And on the other side there was the ocean at last. It was just as expansive as Armin had always said and seemed to go on forever. They all just took a minute to admire it before Hanji broke the silence.
"Now, as impressive as this is, we are still here on a mission. How deep is the water near the dock?" Hanji asked.
"Eren can probably go to his waist," Annie answered.
Hanji nodded. "Eren, keep your Titan form for now, Historia, do you want to see if your touch can generate any memories. Maybe this place will spark something."
Eren looked down to see Historia put her hand on his foot and a flash seemed to go off in his mind. He saw what had to be his father's memories as Eren Kreuger transformed into a titan here to crush the Marley ship over his shoulders. Kreuger gave him the titan serum and he was outside the walls. He was. He was outside the walls. Another voice seemed to disagree with that entirely. The walls were not meant to be crossed, that had to be the first King's idea. But it kept playing in his head and he saw flashes of Frieda after she had received her titan powers. Frieda. The girl who looked just like Historia except taller and with black hair. He was outside the walls, and so was she because of him.
Eren felt himself being ripped from his titan body to see a now Female Titan setting him down on the ground as her other hand was lodged in his titan's mouth. "What?"
"Eren!" Mikasa was at his side in an instant. "Are you hurt?"
"Mikasa? What happened?"
"You, your Titan, it started to convulse like it was going to throw up. Annie transformed to get you out."
With a yank, Annie's titan pulled something free from the back of his titan which started to smoke and disappear. In her titan's hand was a large blue crystal similar to the one she had been stuck in but this one was not transparent. It was dark, but there was a distinct outline of something within.
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Alright, so Petra is officially included and after thinking about how to make it possible even though it will never happen, the next girl is going to be... Frieda!