Disclaimer : I do not own Shingeki no Kyojin / Attack on Titan nor its characters.
"It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Prince Eren." Mikasa smiled—but unlike the Princess who had greeted him before her, this smile was different. This smile was perfected in her trainings with Traute. This smile looked real, appeared genuine even.
And this smile, was only a little part of the new mask she wore.
Once she had finished greeting the Prince, Mikasa descended down the steps, finding herself back on the ground where the eyes of most of the guests were still glued onto her, observing her closely, looking at her as if she was a foreign land; which was arguably true. Who'd have expected that someone from a land, a region whom isolated and had cut off their ties a long time ago after the war, to finally show up?
There was no doubt Mikasa disliked the position that she was currently in. She wasn't used to this sort of attention. She wasn't used to having all these eyes focused on her when all her life she had been told to hide and live in the shadows. It was uncomfortable. But she had no choice but to put up with it, to put on a different type of mask; an act to fool everyone. To fool the Prince. There was absolutely no room for error.
She made sure to carry herself with the utmost pride and elegance, she made sure every step that she took was gracious and lady-like, just as how Traute taught her during the few months she had for preparation. Although, one could only wonder if those few months of training were even comparable to the years of etiquette and other vital trainings taught to the other nobles and dignified guests.
Traute had been a long-time ally of Kenny's. She was the one who taught Mikasa the basics of being a royal before her departure. At first, Mikasa had been uncertain with regards to Traute becoming her teacher for mastering etiquette and learning some politics (even if she was a better option than Kenny, for obvious reasons), she was soon proven wrong. Unknown to the youngest Ackerman until then, Traute was apparently from a well-off family once upon a time. Was. How she ended up working with Kenny and becoming his ally was still an utter mystery to her.
However, despite being a long-time ally of his, she did not know that he was an Ackerman. She knew Kenny was a violent man, she knew that he had murdered people and she also knew that his niece and nephew were trained to do so too.
But still, she only knew him as Kenny the Ripper which had been his other identity. Just like the Ackermans, The Ripper was both infamous underground and on the surface. The only difference was that as time went by, The Ripper turned into a myth, story and legend to scare the surface children from venturing underground. Whether his existence was more than just fiction was unknown to many on the surface, given the fact that Kenny hadn't been on the surface for quite a while… as The Ripper. He went to the surface as an Ackerman more often than The Ripper, which probably resulted in the townsfolk to doubt his existence and forgotten his face.
And while the people of the underground was aware that The Ripper existed outside of the world of fiction, commotion about him eventually died down when Kenny used his identity of an Ackerman more frequently.
Mikasa wondered why someone like Kenny needed Traute, it wasn't as if he had issues handling nor settling anything before. But at this point, questioning him would be pointless, especially when almost all his answers were practically irrelevant to her questions.
Traute used to visit them every now and then. But ever since Kenny found out Mikasa's bloodlust was unstable, her visits lessened drastically and would only come by if he permitted it. He didn't want her finding out after all. How and why Traute was so loyal to Kenny that she'd head his every order without much question was beyond Mikasa.
Though for the next few months that they had, under Kenny's orders, Traute began to frequent their hideout more often to ensure that Mikasa was learning and revising the material that Kenny gave. There was no way he'd let Mikasa to attend the ball without prior knowledge about some historical aspects of her 'homeland'. And when she asked how Kenny had gotten his hands on this material, Traute only shrugged and said she didn't know, but made a comment that he had probably stolen them from some old historian's home.
She taught Mikasa the history of the East Sea, particularly, Hizuru—the place where she had to act that she was its next heir. She also taught her the traditions and their culture; whatever that was in that book. While she tutored Mikasa, Levi just stood in the corner and listened attentively—it was good for him to know these anyway, especially if he was attending the event as her guard that was deployed to watch over her.
One day in the midst of Mikasa lesson, she couldn't help but ask, "If these people exist, wouldn't the actual ruler of that land attend?"
Traute shook her head and explained, "Ever since the first war a long time ago, the countries in the East Sea region began to isolate themselves, Hizuru included. Nobody knows what happened to them, some presumed that they're dead, extinct even since it was said that the war left them and their land in shambles, many deaths too. And it's not like Paradis or any other nation would want to go visit their area—it's rumoured that in recent years, the journey there is dangerous with the on and off raging sea-storms. Paradis's current boats won't make the journey. And why would they? No one knows the value of that place or if it ever recovered from the destruction brought unto them by the war or if a famine had happened and wiped out the entirety of the population. Why would anyone want to take a gamble and risk their resources to only discover a valueless island with corpses? Paradis and the rest of the world are more or less fine without them, anyway."
"Then how am I supposed to pass off as Oriental royalty?" Mikasa frowned. "Would they even want to associate with the likes of one?"
"Kenny wrote a fake letter which stated that the people of the East Sea wish to reconnect with the rest of the world, and feel that attending Paradis's Prince's nineteenth birthday would be a good place to start with their Empress-to-be from Hizuru, one of the more powerful nations in the East Sea region." Traute began to explain, "He also lied saying that the East Sea region has valuable resources, like good farming lands, perfect for food resources and of course, gold and many other things… knowing how greedy the royal council is, and the fact that Hizuru didn't exactly make enemies with Paradis at the end of the war, I'm sure you'll be welcomed. And don't worry about your arrival, the docks will be too full of ships from other islands for them to notice a missing Oriental boat."
"…Then how'd they know if I'm even one of the people from the East Sea? That I'm the Princess of Hizuru? And I'm not some fraud?" It was clear to Traute that she was paranoid. Mikasa rarely had any missions that required her to act this much, in front of such an enormous crowd.
Traute went silent for a moment before sighing, "They'll know. Kenny has it all planned and prepared." She said this in hopes of reassuring Mikasa, and perhaps to get her to stop questioning things that she couldn't answer. Yet, it made her feel uneasy—maybe it was just her, but she felt that Kenny wasn't the only one that had secrets to hide.
"…But, if they do interrogate you and suspect your identity…" Traute suddenly spoke, breaking the raven out of her thoughts, "You can show…"
Mikasa's thoughts were quick to be broken off as she soon found herself swarmed by many people who were eager to hear her answers to their questions. Some of their questions were rather rude and offensive. It was clear to her that she was an unwelcomed guest to some.
"Why is the East Sea people finally opening up huh? Are your folks running out of resources?" An aristocrat ridiculed.
"I didn't know they had a Princess! And what's this… odd and bizarre outfit you're wearing? Are you sure it's something suited for a royal? Or just loose cloth wrapped tightly with a ribbon?" One of the Princesses mocked, without shame.
"Your—"
Before Mikasa could've attempt to answer any of the questions they bombarded her with, Levi disembarked from the shadows where he hid, and stepped in. "You're invading her personal space." He said, albeit a little coldly.
"And who are you little boy?" An aristocrat scoffed.
"He is my guard." Mikasa answered calmly before Levi could. She took a confident step forward. "I understand all of your concerns, but I assure you that as the Princess of Hizuru and as the person representing the people from the East Sea, we mean no harm and that we wish to reconnect with the rest of the world." She said before bowing her head slightly in respect, "I hope to establish good relationships with all of you."
Despite Mikasa's little eloquent speech, the aristocrat wasn't satisfied. He was suspicious, and if anything, a snob who looked down on her people. "You people of the East Sea choose to isolate yourself, and then dare think that—"
"Enough." Another voice emerged from the crowd, who gripped onto the aristocrat's shoulder tightly. "I'd appreciate if you wouldn't be rude to our guests, sir. All are welcome as long as they aren't enemies declared by Paradis. If you continue, I'd have no choice but to kick you out for your lack of respect… should someone of your position really act all high and mighty to a royal? Are you trying to wage another war?" A certain pony-tailed brunette spoke, it was Hanji. The aristocrat having been put back in his place by her was at a loss for words and found himself to be in a tight spot, caught in an embarrassing situation where he just had to be talked down by her. "Tsk." He clicked his tongue, before pushing Hanji's hand away and stormed off, clearly enraged at the side she took; a pathetic but successful attempt to escape the situation.
The crowd that surrounded Mikasa gradually dispersed upon Hanji's arrival, and the insulting terms that was used on Mikasa came to a halt. It was evident to both the Ackermans that no one really wanted to get on the bad side of this woman; who they knew was one of Prince Eren's most trusted advisors.
"Sorry for that, your highness," Hanji chuckled lightly and gave a polite bow. "Please excuse them, they're only cautious because it's the first time in many years since we last spoke to anyone from the East Sea region."
Mikasa shook her head, if anything she was relieved. "It's fine." She assured, gesturing for Hanji to raise her head, "If anything, thank you, Miss…"
"It's Hanji!" She introduced, a little bubblier than what Mikasa had anticipated for an advisor's introduction. "Just call me that, there's no need for formalities when addressing someone like me. Ah! That's right. I'm one of Prince Eren's advisors, and I also work with some experiments to further the nation's progress." She smiled, "I hope you enjoy your stay here. I'm sure Prince Eren is happy to have you here, and so is the whole of Paradis. After all, it's been a while since… Hizuru, correct?" Mikasa nodded and she proceeded, "Since Hizuru last contacted us. It's an honour having their Princess here." She chuckled, before her eyes found themselves looking over to the shorter male standing by her side. "And you too." She added on cheerfully, and Levi merely responded with a nod.
"Well. I hope you enjoy the ball." Hanji continued before Mikasa could say a word, "The Prince will be down any moment." The raven watched her eyes, appearing a little annoyed, averting her gaze towards Eren, who was still stuck on his throne wearing a rather dreary and bored look. "I'll take my leave." She bowed once more and then made her way towards Eren for what Mikasa assumed was for him to finally socialise.
Once she was far away enough, Levi clicked his tongue in agitation. "I knew everyone here would be a snob." He scoffed, eyes narrowing in frustration as he recalled the profanities he heard some of the nobles called his sister under their stinky, disgusting breath.
"I don't think everyone is… she seems nice." She murmured, referring to the lively woman. Although to some extent she did agree with Levi.
"For now." Levi added on, to which Mikasa couldn't help but give a little eye-roll. "You're just mad that someone called you a 'little boy'." She smirked.
"I didn't ask for your opinion." He grumbled before shooting her a brief glare, "On another note, you pulled it off. Take a look at the Prince, he's glancing towards you every now and then. You've caught his interest, without the need to do anything… obscene." The last word rolled off his tongue bitterly, and it didn't go by unnoticed by Mikasa who decided to not continue on that subject; because she sure as hell didn't plan to do any seducing.
"I… wouldn't say interest." The raven opposed, as her eyes fixated on that nice advisor who approached the Prince that stubbornly remained seated on his throne, watching her urge him to go down and socialize. Though from afar, Mikasa could tell he was reluctant to do so. "I just caught him by surprise. Everyone's looking towards me anyway…" A quick scan of her surroundings and she could confirm that there were still quite a number of people that eyed her curiously, but were a little nervous to approach her after Hanji's interference when things had nearly gone out of hand.
"We should disperse." Mikasa decided, "You can go and try to get any extra information about this place. As a Princess, I should be socializing." She sighed, it seemed that the Prince wasn't the only one reluctant to mix around.
"Wait," Levi stopped her before she could take her first step, "Before you go… you're... feeling okay, are you?" He asked, and there was this familiar concern in his tone. Even if his plain expression said otherwise, she knew he was worried of her bloodlust breaking out. While she appreciated his concerns, she didn't want to be reminded of that… especially when a lot was resting on her shoulders now.
"Yes… Yes, I am." Mikasa said, casting him one last reassuring look before it faded into a friendly smile as she emerged away from the shadows and into the crowd. It was time to socialise.
Eren had finally unglued himself from his throne to interact with his guests after Hanji's continuous, unyielding persistence. The moment he stepped onto the ballroom's ground, he was immediately swarmed by the guests—specifically the woman who wanted his heart or rather, Paradis's riches.
Now, he was reminded why he hated today. This wasn't how he wanted to celebrate his birthday. He rather spend his time up on the hill with his close friend, Armin, where they would talk and talk till the sun set. He didn't want to be in this room full of strangers that he was obligated to entertain and be reminded that he was obligated to marry one of them.
Eren had glanced at Mikasa quite a number of times. Any normal person would see this as him having an interest in her, in a romantic sense… but that was far from the truth. Just as Mikasa had predicted, he was just caught by surprise. Not to mention, the 'dress' that Mikasa wore was definitely foreign to many, but to Eren its uniqueness didn't mean it was a bad thing.
Perhaps her intentions were pure; to establish good relationships… or—like all these other woman— she planned to slither her way into the brunette's heart so she and her nation could have a share of his country's goods. Though in reality, Eren's assumptions of Mikasa's intentions was far from the truth.
Here, Eren didn't know who to trust. Everyone seemed to have double intentions. He was wary of everyone.
Mikasa and Eren found themselves entertaining and interacting with the guests, they were yet to speak to each other. While Eren felt an internal dread about this entire event (but still forced a smile; acting interested in the conversations he was currently engaged in), Mikasa was relieved that the questions she received weren't that rude anymore.
While Kenny had given her some information about Eren, there were still many things she was clueless about him such as his likes and his dislikes. And she couldn't afford any carelessness that would land her on his bad side.
For one thing, she noticed a Princess trying to seduce the Prince. She had emerged from the crowd and judging by her posture and the way that she shot the Prince with a look meant to entice, it was easy to tell she was trying to win the Prince's heart or at least attention through those obscene methods, as what Levi would describe. Much to her surprise, the brunette was anything but interested. He looked away from her instantly. As he did, she saw his expression twisting into something full of disgust. This just meant that Kenny's suggestion of seducing the Prince wasn't going to work… which was a good thing, in Mikasa's case.
Though, it'd just make things harder. From what Mikasa noticed, she made the judgement that he wasn't interested in marriage or even associating with any of these guests on a personal level. How am I going to gain his trust? She pondered.
Other than that, Mikasa had also noticed a particular blonde who had been looking at Eren, and even her, for quite a while. He didn't seem like an aristocrat, he wasn't wearing anything over-the-top fancy unlike the many noble guests that wore clothes and accessories that showed off their riches and rank in society. Moreover, he didn't have the 'aristocrat' or 'royal' aura around him. Mikasa assumed he was either an advisor, or a staff member.
Then, she remembered the information Kenny had given to her… it mentioned something that the Prince had a close friend, who was blonde with blue eyes. He had fit the physical description perfectly, but one could never be so sure.
Mikasa glimpsed over to the blonde, who she had caught red handed looking right at her, to then avoid her gaze anxiously when she noticed. She didn't think much of it, probably another curious soul. But, if he was Eren's close friend, it'd benefit her a lot if she could extract the slightest vital information about the Prince from him. And who knows? Maybe he knew the location of this 'secret lair' that Kenny wanted.
Mikasa proceeded to politely excuse herself from the conversation, before making her way towards the blonde, who still looked away. "Hello." Mikasa greeted, startling the blonde who turned to her direction hesitantly. "Pleased to make your acquaintance."
After Mikasa and Levi had gone their separated ways, Levi went over to a secluded corner, scanning the ballroom. All the other Princesses' guards were socializing with one another, most of them were chugging down shit-tons of beer and wine, something that Levi preferred to be excluded from.
He knew that this castle's security was high. The outside, from what he observed, was well-guarded, and he was sure there were some of the castle's guards camouflaged within the crowd as guests or regular staff members, waiting to strike if he needed.
He had a brief moment of contemplation, if he should leave the ballroom and sneak away to the other parts of this castle. If luck was on his side, he would be able to find this secret lair… or at least get some clues of its locations. Levi had enough confidence in his abilities to not get caught. The only thing stopping him from departing on his secret search was Mikasa. Admittedly, she didn't seem like she was on the verge of going on a deranged rampage, but he couldn't help but worry. The worst things always happen when one least expects it after all, at least that's what Levi thought.
"Hey! What are you doing all alone here?" A familiar voice called out. Levi looked up to see that four-eyed brunette who was approaching Levi, wearing an awfully bright smile. Just great, He thought. I have to talk to people.
"The Princess wished to talk to the guests alone, and I'd preferably not want to… associate myself with those drunkards." Levi stated bluntly, referring to the other guards who were at another corner, seeming to be ranting and raving about something that he couldn't care less about.
"That's rare. You know, Paradis's wine is great! You shouldn't pass on the chance… Oh, or are you a light-weight?" She teased. Levi didn't understand how she could act so… friendly, with a stranger. Perhaps she was drunk. He didn't know, nor could he care.
"I'm not a light-weight. I just prefer not to indulge in alcohol. I came here to watch over the Princess, not to get intoxicated and abandon my duties."
"My, My how responsible!" She gleamed, strangely sounding like a proud mother. "You needn't worry, this palace is well-guarded, especially with the famous Erwin Smith being in charge of the guards! Trust me, he's strong. He's well-known for his strength and has quite a reputation in many countries." Levi gave a nod of acknowledgement as he replied, "I wasn't aware. Good to know." But of course, Levi knew. He knew who Erwin was. It was written in the documents that Kenny threw at their faces back in the alley. But he couldn't let her know that.
Levi thought that the conversation between her and himself would end by then, and that she would skip over to her next victims to chitter-chatter. But he was wrong, so wrong. "Hm… on another note, I cannot help but notice Princess Mikasa's unique facial features. We don't have much information about Orientals after the first war, but we do know that people from different countries do have distinct features… with that in mind, I cannot help but wonder, Mr. Guard, why don't you share any of those unique features?" She queried, seeming suspicious.
It appeared like she had Levi cornered, in a tough spot with her question… except, as unfortunate as it was for her, he had already anticipated this, and had already came out with a sob-story to excuse himself. She is a sharp women, Levi thought, before making a mental note to be more cautious around her.
"First of all, it's Levi. Just Levi." He responded calmly. "As you should know, during the first war, many countries sent spies, or went to other enemy countries to attack. My family was one of those who went to the East Sea parts. They were captured and then imprisoned. But after the first war, the Emperor's son later came into power. Once he was crowned Emperor, unlike his father, he decided to free them for one condition, that they serve the royal family. So, they obliged. From what I've heard, he was a generous Emperor. He didn't mind sending us back to our homeland if we served for a particular period of time. But as you know, overtime, the seas became more treacherous and dangerous. So my family decided not to leave, since our safe return was uncertain. And since I was born into the family, I am obligated to walk the same path." He sighed, his expression unchanging as he watched the woman's eyes widen with curiosity.
"Then how did you manage to sail here?" She inquired.
"There are particular seasons or rather, times where the sea is at ease." He started before he continued to elaborate his next string of lies, "If I choose to leave the next week, I would be dead. Whereas, if I choose to leave in two weeks, I'd have a safer chance of returning. The sea around our regions is still treacherous, you all should be aware of it's on and off storms. Though, we have the resources to make most of our ships better withstand the outrageous tides and storms."
Hanji raised a brow, "If that's the case, Levi, then why don't you and your family sail back to your homeland during the 'safe periods'? You make it sound like it's a dread working there."
Levi scoffed, "I'm not sure about my family, but I wouldn't. Princess Mikasa, is like family to me. Both our parents were always busy with their duties, as a result we both grew close, like brother and sister. For one thing, she's a very humble person, and not a shitty snob who looks down on people that believe to be beneath." Levi remarked, causing Hanji to laugh a little at the minor vulgarity he used. It seemed like she had bought his story, surprisingly enough.
"Did that aristocrat really bother you? Ah, no matter. You seem like a genuine person, I believe your words based on my woman's intuition!" She laughed in a jokingly manner, before her tone abruptly grew solemn. "I can tell you really care about the Princess, there's this protective and tensed aura around you. Hence, I trust your words… You have every right to be wary about us, but so do we." She murmured, before shooting him a look meant to intimidate. "So, I do hope your people aren't planning anything against us."
Levi stared at Hanji for a few moments. She's sharp, alright. But not enough to guess my true identity, Levi thought before heaving out a heavy sigh, "Of course, our intentions are genuine. We aren't out here to wage war for some shitty revenge."
Hanji then parted her lips, as if to say more… until, she heard a loud shout that erupted, reverberating around the ballroom.
"Hello." Mikasa greeted, startling the blonde who turned to her direction hesitantly. "Pleased to make your acquaintance."
The blonde that Mikasa had approached began to stutter inarticulate words that she wasn't able to interpret. Regardless, she remained patient with him as she continued, "I cannot help but notice that you kept looking towards my direction, at least more than the others here. I presume you're one of the advisors here? Since I saw you talking to… Hanji? Was it?" Despite her smile, it didn't seem to put him at ease. "…Well, I would love to clear up any misunderstandings or questions you have about me... Mr…?"
It took a while, but Armin managed to find his voice. Though, he still stuttered in his speech as he bowed down to greet her. "I-It's Armin. Armin Arlert… I… I'm not an advisor here. I… work as the gardener and I'm… H-Hanji's apprentice for her s-science stuff… I didn't mean to look like a creep, your highness, I…uh…" Mikasa could tell from the way his hands trembled, how he still remained bowing even after greeting her as if to avoid eye contact and the way he'd fumble with his words that he was undeniably nervous around her presence. From what information he said out, Mikasa could confirm her assumptions that he was Prince Eren's close friend. After all, normally a gardener, or at least someone who wasn't an advisor or a person of high-status, wouldn't be at parties like this. Unless, he had the Prince's approval, or at least have some sort of close connections with him.
"It's okay." Mikasa assured, before gesturing him to raise his head and continued in a soothing tone, "I understand why all eyes would be on me anyway. And you need not fret, I'm not angry nor disgusted."
Armin tentatively lifted his head and gave a slight nod, though the eye contact he made with her didn't last long, as he looked away, almost as if her presence was overwhelming. Mikasa assumed he wasn't used to talking to people so high up and feared the consequences should he mess up a conversation in anyway with a royal, which was why he averted his gaze away from her.
In all honesty, he was just intimidated by Mikasa, very intimidated for several reasons. However, before Mikasa could say anything else to soothe him, she was cut off by a sudden loud shout that echoed around the room. "Get off of me!" Someone yelled.
Now, everyone's eyes were no longer glued to Mikasa, but rather to the source of the shout—and much to Mikasa's surprise, it was the Prince himself. It seemed like he had had enough with one of the Princess's… little suggestive and flirtatious ways.
He had shoved her off when she had forcefully pressed her chest against him, before making his way out of the mass of woman that surrounded him. One would think that the Prince would've enjoyed himself in his little harem, especially when he had the power to select any one of them for marriage if they had hit it off… but that wasn't the case for this particular emerald-eyed heir.
"Prince Eren! Have some manners to our guests! How dare you raise your voice at them?!" One of his advisors reprimanded. Mikasa would've thought that he wouldn't have the guts to continue making a scene, but he had proven her wrong. "Then why don't you tell HER to stop exposing herself to me?!"
"Prince Eren!" He snapped. "How dare YOU accuse a woman of high status, a Princess, of doing that! They have dignity! They wouldn't stoop to such low methods! Stop acting like a brat and act like a responsible ruler young man!"
Now, whispers began to erupt, and the things some people began to gossip was anything but good. To make things worse, the Princess who attempted to seduce him became teary eyed as she cried out, "How dare you soil my reputation! I just… I was just being friendly!"
It was ironic, how everyone seemed to believe the Princess more than the Prince of Paradis, especially since they were on his country. "She's lying!" Eren bellowed, receiving even more glares from his advisors. "Stop making a fool of Paradis and yourself!"
Just like that, they went back and forth, with the Prince who continued with his accusation of the Princess who attempted seducing him. It was even more ironic that the other Princesses who had witnessed it, said nothing about it. Well, Mikasa was no better—she chose to remain silent as well. She would have stood up for him, though. If she did, she would probably be able to gain his trust, and would be one step closer into completing her mission. But then again, Kenny had taught her to always wait—wait for the right opportunity to seize your prey.
The argument grew more heated, and soon enough she saw Hanji stepping in to the Prince's defence. She was different from the other advisors, Mikasa could tell. "Is he always like this?" She suddenly asked out loud, before taking a glance towards the blonde, who wore a worried and troubled expression, and it seemed like he was about to interfere in the argument… until Mikasa's question stopped him. For one reason or another, Armin could tell she wasn't referring to Eren being a liar, but rather, his rage.
Even to a stranger like her who barely knew Eren, she could tell from that fiery look in his eyes that he had a lot of bottled-up fury within him, within in his heart, waiting to erupt. "No…" He answered, still nervous around her. "He's… a nice person. He just—"
"WAKE UP!" His advisor shrieked at the top of his lungs, dragging Armin's and Mikasa's attention back to the uncomfortable scene unfolding itself. "You are a Prince… who is going to be crowned King soon! And here you are, accusing a PRINCESS of such indecency?! That's unheard of! What would your parents thin—"
"Shut the fuck up!" He yelled, before running off, like a little child who just got scolded by his mother for his rude behaviour. Except, at least to Mikasa, he wasn't the one who was the rude one. Over to her right, the accused Princess was now sobbing, playing victim as she spewed more lies. It was sickening, and she honestly felt pity for him.
"Armin!" Hanji called out before sprinting towards him, "Go after Eren, he'll listen to you. Bring him back here… make sure he's alri—"
"Advisor Hanji Zoe! I forbid you and the gardener to go after that reckless boy. If you keep babying him and comforting him, he'll never recognize his bloody mistakes!" An advisor protested as he approached them, clearly furious over the scene that Eren had caused. "He's bound to doom Paradis! Look at that boy! Accusing a woman of such horrendous acts!?"
"What evidence do you even have of him having lied!?" Hanji defended, "You should know that he wouldn't—"
"Are you saying I'm wrong?" He spat back.
Just like that, another mini argument broke out between them. And nobody seemed to notice Mikasa's sudden disappearance. This was her opportunity. She would find the Prince, alone, and would hopefully be able to… well, talk and gain some form of trust. Though, she was well aware of how difficult that it may be now. It was still worth a try and risk, she knew she wouldn't have any better chance to communicate with the Prince privately or befriend him.
Maybe it was manipulative of her, to go and find the Prince alone in a hopefully vulnerable position so she could waltz up to him, befriend him, for her own benefit. But what choice did she have? She was an Ackerman, an Ackerman who had a mission to fulfil.
Granted, she would've loved to delay the mission so she could remain the surface a little longer, to take in the fresh air that she already started to miss. But she knew Levi wouldn't allow it. She knew what consequences were ahead if she chose to 'slack'.
After a few moments of searching the outsides of the castle, Mikasa found herself lost in the garden. If she wasn't so busy with searching for the brunette, she'd have probably admired the vibrant myriad of flowers that surrounded her. A sight that didn't even exist underground where colours lacked.
Then, she heard the faint sound of some… tiny objects dropping into a lake? A pond? Just how big was this castle that they could afford a pond? Mikasa thought. She then followed the sound, to find the Prince attempting to skip rocks on the mini pond. Except, it seemed like his mind was clouded with too much anger, for him to be able to skip rocks—considering all the rocks he threw, just sunk the moment it came in contact with the water.
Mikasa didn't seem to have a clear though out plan. She just knew that whatever she did from here on out, would be to get close to the Prince in order to obtain what she needed. She looked down on the ground, to see some twigs. Unhesitatingly, she stepped on them, causing a crack sound to be emitted.
She had to first make her presence known. I can't hide in the shadows anymore, she reminded herself.
In an instant, Eren turned to notice Mikasa, before he clicked his tongue in agitation. Mikasa couldn't blame him, she was sure he'd rather see Armin or Hanji, rather than a stranger. "What are you doing here?" He asked with annoyance and anger lingering in his tone.
"I could ask you the same thing." Mikasa responded before walking closer to where the brunette was. "I came to get some fresh air, and I found myself los—"
"Lies." He snapped harshly, glaring daggers at her. Mikasa flinched just slightly. Perhaps, she was wrong about him being vulnerable out here. "You're just like the rest of them, waiting to... just get me alone so you can..." He bit his lip in vexation. "Listen, Princess. I don't care if you're from the East Sea. I don't know what your intentions were for coming here. But if you think I'm going to sob and cry so you can comfort me, so you can get closer to me. You're wrong. I don't care what your country has to offer, I don't want to marry you or anyone."
The way he said it so firmly and bluntly had caught Mikasa off guard. He had practically guessed her plan, well… some of it. Things will be hard after all. She thought, holding back a sigh.
How could she get close to someone who was distrustful of everyone?
"… Who said I wanted to marry you?" Mikasa murmured, causing the brunette to give her an 'are you kidding me?' sort of look. After all, the whole purpose of attending this ball was for him to pick a bride. However before he could retort, she continued, "I just want to establish good relations for the sake of my country, and for others within the East Sea region that now depend on me to do so. It doesn't matter whether I wed you or not."
"…is this way of you trying to tempt me, Princess? Telling me that by forming these 'good relations' with you, I'd be able to obtain a lot of resources?! Listen, Princess Mikasa Azu, was it? I don't ca—"
"I'm not tempting you." Mikasa responded calmly, "I'm just telling you the reason for my presence, is in representation of the East Sea, as the Princess from Hizuru. We just wish to reconnect with the rest of the world." She spoke. Hizuru, from what Mikasa read in the books Traute gave, was that it was a country well-known for its defence forces, as well as its resources. It was also a powerful nation at that time. Though, she was sure that Eren wouldn't know that… well, unless the books that Kenny most likely stole was from the royal library of Paradis—if they had one—and that he just so happened to read it.
"So you're not here for marriage? Shocking." Eren scoffed, and Mikasa could tell he still didn't believe her. "I don't have time for marriage…" He added on, silently under his breath, but the raven managed to catch his words.
"Don't have time..? If you don't mind me asking, why not?" Mikasa asked, in hopes of… understanding him more, or at least understanding this… anger that she noticed to be weighing heavily in his heart. Not to mention, that was the best and only way to get someone's trust—you need to understand them, so you know what to say and what to do, that would please them, that would gain their trust.
"…I still have things I need to do. People I need to rid." Eren responded coldly. He seemed to be opening up, yet why did Mikasa feel like whatever he had planned to say, was something that everyone already knew?
"… and who are these people?" She pressed on, wanting to know more.
"Ah... that's right, you probably never heard of them." He clenched his fist, "But these people are monsters. Everyone hates them, even those who aren't from Paradis. They are disgusting and revolting monsters who are nothing but fucking cowards. They kill for no reason, they kill without a second thought. They are corrupting this country. They... deserve to die a horrible death." There was nothing but infuriation in his tone, and it was clear that he bore malice towards these people.
Why did Mikasa had a feeling that she knew who these people were?
"They are the Ackermans."
For a moment, Mikasa thought her heart had stopped. She felt like she had just been caught red-handed doing something illegal. She felt like the mask she wore, had just been ripped off.
"…Princess?" Eren called out, upon noticing the prolonged silence. He turned towards her a second too late, because by then, Mikasa was quick to force herself to pull herself together. She had to remind herself that everyone still believed her bluff.
She still had to continue with this act, wearing this invisible mask.
"Sorry... I… I didn't know there were such wicked people in your kingdom…" She murmured.
"Yeah, there are. They aren't your normal criminal group. They're nothing but cruel bastards... but you needn't worry, our guards are highly-skilled. I have the utmost faith in them… and one day, I will slaughter every last one of those shitty Ackermans. That's why I don't have time for this. If those Ackermans continue to live, it'd mean destruction for this land. They killed too many innocent lives… they killed the people I loved." He mumbled the last part extremely softly. He hadn't mean to open too much to her; a stranger. Mikasa managed to hear it, but it seemed like her mind was elsewhere by then.
"…You must really hate them." She mumbled, before her eyes shifted towards the lake, where she saw her reflection, along with the agony in her pained eyes. The words, 'killed too many innocent lives' began to echo in her head, not to mention it seemed like the Prince was also a victim to their vile acts. Then, she remembered the bloody massacre that she caused underground during her first bloodlust outbreak.
Just how many… innocent lives did she take at that time?
"I do. I hate and despise their existence. They are nothing but mindless freaks. Who wouldn't fucking hate them?"
Mikasa could agree that she was a mindless freak, but hell… it wasn't as if she had a choice to not walk on this bloody path. Well, not like anyone knew that. Even if they did, she knew that the things she did was still inexcusable.
Again, there was this silence that loitered in the air for a brief period. During that brief period, Mikasa forced those memories out of her. "Yeah…" The raven uttered, as she took a deep breath. It wasn't time to have flashbacks to her bloodlust outbreaks. 'Control, Control, Control.' she chanted in her mind. She stared at her reflection once again, before closing her eyes so she wouldn't have to look at that monster.
"…I hate the Ackermans too."
Author's Note:
NEXT UPDATE: NOVEMBER.
Hello, I'm sorry for not uploading a chapter last month, I was busy drowning in exams haha T-T, and guess what? That's right! I have exams coming soon again :') so I don't think I'd be able to upload in October? If I'm lucky, and have spare time, I can upload during then! I apologise for the delay ;-; Once End November to December hits, I can upload more often since during then I'd have more time haha.
On another note, I was re-reading previous chapters to jog back my memory and noticed I made a shit mistake. Yep, in previous chapter in Mikasa's entrance I referred to her as 'Princess Mikasa Azu of the East Sea', it was meant to be 'Princess Mikasa Azu of Hizuru, representing the East Sea!' ugHHH yeah, so there's that. (I'll be making changes in regards to that.)
I hope this chapter was okay and not confusing. If you're wondering how Traute hasn't found out about Kenny being an Ackerman… well, he's sneaky and haha ;) other reasons that shall be revealed in due time.
**Additionally, I realise that each chapter has A LOT of words. Like in this chapter alone (excluding Author's notes) is around 6000+ words. Is it too wordy for y'all? :/ if it is, do tell and I'll shorten it. If it doesn't bother you then never mind haha.
Other than that, I hope your enjoying this story! Please Leave A Review! I would love to hear your thoughts! :)
