Chapter 16:
(Historia)
It's been three weeks since Levi tried to take her away from this hell. The only companion she felt safe was with Ymir who somehow was in her subconscious. Historia doesn't know how it happened, but it helped her get through being Nathaniel's obedient queen. The blonde woman had started to come out of her chamber to roam some areas of the palace or go to the beautiful gardens whenever she was tired being in her chamber.
Today, the sun has shined on the west wing side of the garden. It's one of her favorite gardens from all of them here. This garden has so many wildflowers and ponds with bridges and benches to enjoy. The geeses and ducks gathered to swim in the ponds. There are also few swans which she doesn't know how Nathaniel could afford them, especially the nation has very high national debts it needed to be paid.
Historia was wearing a light pink dress made of silk with white and red roses as patterns. Her hat was light pink with a big white flower to match. The pearls around her neck were a gift from her "husband". She hated these pearls and anything, Nathaniel had given her, but Ymir was right. She needed to play her part until it's the right time to escape. Don't expect anyone to save you if you want to be saved. So do it for yourself.
Her blue eyes stared down at a pretty powder blue book made of leather with golden letters for the title. This book was not a storytelling book. It was a dairy; her mother's dairy. Historia found this book in one of the old study room of this palace. Turns out it was her grandfather's; then it was passed on her uncle then Frieda's. Probably her older sister found it and hid it somewhere in that room so no one finds it. At first, the queen was reluctant to open the book to read it. Humph. Why should she care about her mother's life before she existed? She was aware how much her own mother despised her.
The young queen began to open the dairy and started to read the first page. Her mother was around a couple years younger than her when her father's wife hired her as a maid. For the first several pages, all it mentioned was how excited she was to work at the palace. The way she had described inside the palace was familiar how the palace is now. To Historia, her mother was a teenager with dreams of wanting to be part of the upper class's life. While the queen was reading more into the diary, one of her ladies-in-waiting spoke to get her attention.
"Your Majesty, the King is waiting for you to have lunch with him at the garden on the east wing." The lady said. Historia laid the diary on her lap to nod.
"Very well." She sighed then gripped the book as the royal woman got up then started to walk to where Nathaniel was.
By the time she and her ladies reached to the east wing of the palace, Historia entered the garden where Nathaniel was already sitting sipping wine. The servants was serving lunch when the queen spotted them.
"Ah, my dearest. I'm pleased you're here to join me for lunch." Nathaniel glanced up to see his wife coming towards him.
Historia had her expression neutral as she went to sit on the empty chair. The table was small and made of marble with glass on top of the surface. She glanced down at the dish being served. Historia gave the servant a small smile to show her appreciation of their dedication to making it look delicious.
"I was feeling hungry so I decided to come to eat." She said. One of the servants served wine to her. At first, she was going to reject, but the queen had remembered Nathaniel is here. To get through their lunches, Historia will need something strong to endure this date.
"It's good that your appetite has returned. I assume you are getting better from your foolish attempt to escape from a few weeks ago." He stared at her waiting to see how she would react.
Of course, Historia wanted to grab the knife in front of her to stab him into his eyes. Her rage was rising up but a familiar voice kept her at bay.
Hey chill, remember play the goody good Krista in order to gain his trust then strike him.
Ymir said in her mind which thank the walls Historia was trying to calm herself down. The blonde queen finally stared into his eyes and gave him a smile. This smile was not one of her sweet warm ones.
"Yes, I had time to think about my actions, husband. For that, I hope you will forgive me. I will do better and remember my place as your queen and beloved wife." Historia said.
The blue eyed queen noticed the way Nathaniel gloated at her admitting mistakes. She wanted to throw her wine at him for being an arrogant gullible asshole. Historia slowly sips her wine.
"This makes me happy to hear." he smirked. "So, tell me how was your morning? I'm sure you were busy with many duties to manage order in the palace."
"It has been a busy morning. I noticed you want to do a charity event ball? May I ask what kind of charity is it, my king?" The way she spoke made her want to gag. It just feels so forced when she said, her king.
She remembered during her mid pregnancy, Historia had considered to give Levi a title. He rejected that offer so many times, but Historia was stubborn not to give up in convincing him to accept it.
(Flashback)
"Levi, I know you don't like it but can you-" She was interrupted by her husband.
"No." He said bluntly.
She pouted. "My love, you don't even know what I was going to say."
"Whatever it is. The answer is no." He said stubbornly.
"Humph. You should have a title." Historia finished her sentence which Levi raised his brow.
"You know I don't care about titles." His beautiful silver eyes with a hint of blue looked into her.
"I know, but when that day comes of our marriage and the baby being publicized; the council will make you take a title by their choice. I just brought it up because I want you to pick your own title and not let anyone choose it for you." She said with concern.
Levi still stared at her but it softened. He understood what she was trying to say. He leaned to kiss gently on her lips. Oh how she loved his sweet soft lips. His walls dropped from time to time to get where they are now. Levi was not afraid to be soft and gentle with his wife. To Historia, this was happiness. Seeing the man she loves, being his true self around her. There was no mask or anything to separate between him and her. His thumb caressing her soft pink cheek with affectionate.
"How about the Queen's heart?" He mumbled.
Historia grinned when she saw a light blush on his face. "Oh is that a blush I see?" She teased him.
"Tch, brat." He said while Historia laid her head on his chest with a victory grin in making the Captain Levi Ackerman blushed.
(End Flashback)
Historia was trying not to smile so Nathaniel won't suscept her why she was smiling. Nathaniel took a bite out of a piece of cut fruit.
"It's a charity to raise money for security to make sure other nations will think twice in attacking us." He said.
"Basically, funding the military?" Historia raised her brow in confusion.
Nathaniel placed his eating utensils on the plate. "Yes, but not the ones we used to have. I disband them all to recruit a new army to obey their king. The three regiments had ruled this nation far too long. It's time for the monarchs like us to retake our divine rights."
"I see. Why didn't you just convert the military's power to yours instead of disbanding them. We're on the brink of war with Marley." She doesn't know if Nathaniel realized they need their soldiers more than ever which concerned her.
"I don't trust them. Don't worry. Marley is too busy with their own issues. Beside, we have the templar's support to protect us until our new military is ready." Nathaniel was so sure of his decisions.
Historia sighed. When she was in power, at least the late Premier Zackely let her have some power in order to help the common people. As long as she doesn't inferned very delicate decisions. A part of her wanted to have all the power as a ruler should have so she won't be limited to help others and make life a bit easier for the common people. In her perspective, they are the driving force of the economy.
Historia stayed quiet as her lips pressed on the rim of her wine glass slowly sipping. The templars were nothing but greedy hypocrites. She wonders if there are prisoners in the dungeon. The queen will make plans to ditch her ladies in waiting to investigate on her own later.
"If you think this is the best; then nothing can't go wrong right?" She finally said something. Of course, her words were full of bullshit, but Nathaniel is a gullible man. His ego is too big; it's suffocating.
What wonders her the most is that grandmaster. He gives off a cunning backstabbing vibe. She preferred to have Nathaniel in power than a man like Alexander Di Lorenzo. She feels something bad will happen and Historia gotta make an efficient plan to save her people and her loved ones.
"Of course it does. By the way tonight, I won't be visiting. Probably not for a few days." He said. The queen was relieved about this. She doesn't know if there will be another night of repulsiveness of having him do things only her true husband can make her feel loved and passionate. A faded smirk spread on her lip. She will use those days to explore unwanted areas.
(Levi)
He doesn't know how long he was a prisoner. It's felt like years for him. Levi was back at the animus to finish the life of his ancestor, Arne Ackerman. The captain waited for the male version of Shitty Glasses to turn on the machine. He took a deep breath as the glass-like hover over his eye view. Levi closed his eyes as the machine made it's countdown then everything went black again.
Eldia Empire, 1555
Arne Ackerman was busy helping his father setting the plots of crops on their 10 acres of land. They are almost done as winter solstice will arrive in several months. Arne had grown through the years being raised by two loving parents. Throughout his growing years, Arne had wondered why he never took after neither of his parents in looks or anything. Both of them had lighter hair colors with grays of strands coming out.
He looked at his father to notice his nose was different than his along his mother's too. At first, he was curious until one day in the village; Arne was on an errand to buy some minerals for the soils. There were some whispers from old crones near him. They were looking at him as they whispered to each other. Arne rolled his eyes in annoyance. Those old crones are nothing but gossipers. As he paid the man for the special soils, he heard what the gossips were about.
"Oh my, Hilda's and Birger's kid has grown into a fine handsome man. Many village girls gossips how strong and handsome he looks." the first crone said.
"Pfft, my granddaughter and her silly friends, that's all they talk about. It gets tiring to hear them squeal." The second crone scoffed.
"I'm surprised Hilda was about to have a child; I thought she was barren. The gods had blessed her a fine strong son." The third crone said.
"That poor boy is not their blooded child. Hilda is barren. Always has been. They both found him at the slave market and bought him because Hilda couldn't bear seeing a babe being alone and a slave. So, it's a win-win for the Ackermans and Arne." the second crone said.
Arne couldn't believe what he had just heard. His parents aren't his actual parents? He was a slave. An infant slave when they bought him. The young man doesn't know whether to be angry at. The main question was who his real parents were. Where are they? Are they alive? Did they sell him? These questions were becoming overwhelming for him.
He didn't realize his hand was gripping on the edge of the wooden countertop of a stand. His breath was gasping for air while Arne was holding it. His parents had never bothered to tell him of his origin? Maybe there was a reason.
The dark haired man began to walk away. He was distracted with what the old crones were saying that Arne didn't realize he bumped into someone else which they both fell on the ground. Arne opened his eyes to see a girl around his age with strawberry blonde hair. When her eyes opened, he could see they were blue like the deep ocean.
"I'm sorry for not seeing where I am going…" Arne observed the girl to notice she has a teal colored dress with golden embroidery patterns. Her cloak was royal blue. The way she dressed; this girl is a daughter or some high lord or a princess.
The girl glanced at him then blushed from realizing she's still on top of him. "Oh dear, I think I should be the one apologizing to you, sir." The strawberry girl gets up to dust off the dirt on her dress.
"No my lady, I should have been the one to apologize." He gets up after she does.
"Good sir, I insist. Take my apology." Her tone was becoming firm.
Arne sighed. This woman is a stubborn one. He gave in. "Very well my lady. I accept your apology, but I'm no knight to be called such an honorable title."
The high born woman snorted. "Oh please, a man of your status has more what it takes to be a knight than the ones at the castle."
The woman glanced properly at Arne to notice his exotic features. "Are you from around here?" She asked curiosity.
"Yes, I am. I should be asking you the same thing." He said.
"I am afraid not. Let's just say I escape from the chamber of the castle of my betrothed. Honestly, who wants to marry into that Fritz clan. They may be the ruling clan, but they are mad with their god-like persona." The noble woman said with a cynical tone.
"My lady, it's bad luck to speak ill of the royal family. The goddess Ymir and the gods blessed the House of Fritz as our rulers." Arne was worried for the woman who could have angered the gods for her insults at the royal family.
"Ymir? She's no goddess; just a woman who was granted with the power of the Titan. A blessing and a curse. We, Eldian, are cursed for many generations until some fool decides to play god to break this curse." This woman was peculiar. She was bold to speak her mind.
Arne couldn't tell if this woman was completely mad or just knowledgeable. He barely knows how to read and do some counting. His mother was once a servant maiden at the palace during her youth before meeting his father, a simple farmer. She has given the best education she can give. For someone like him, he was educated compared to other farmers' kids who received no education at all. In a way, he was lucky.
"Has the gods and the goddess pissed you off?" He asked.
"In a way, yes. I'm not ready for marriage. I always wanted to explore and learn so many places from the other side of the world. Did you know? There are some female rulers like Mary I of England. I have always wanted to visit Europe. I know I'm not meant to be some prince's bride or anyone else's. I was supposed to be the next clan leader, but my cousin took over and offered the king a bride to his heir. The nerve of him." She stomped her foot on the dirt in frustration.
Arne doesn't know why this woman decided to tell him this. A simple apology was all it took for them to go their separate ways. "I'm sorry to hear that." He said awkwardly.
The noblewoman noticed how awkward he sounded by her rant. "My apologies, I didn't mean to lay my burdens on you. By the way, how rude of me for not introducing myself. I'm Lady Ingrid of the Völsung clan. What's yours, good sir?"
"I'm Arne Ackerman, son of two humble farmers, Birger and Hilda Ackerman, mi' lady." He said. Ingrid stared at him curiously.
"For a son of a farmer, you are educated from the way you speak." She said.
"Yes, my mother Hilda used to work at Fritz's castle when she was a young girl until she met my father. You can say, I'm lucky I was taught the way to speak to nobles and the royal family if I encounter them. Besides, I like learning whenever I have time; I read from the books I borrowed from this village's bookshop." Arne's tone became passionate whenever he mentioned learning or books. His parents praised him for his intelligence. At one point, his mother tried to convince his father to send him to a pedagogue to properly educate him so he can advance his life comfortably. Birger didn't want to send his son away. Who will maintain this land if Birger Ackerman died? By the law of the Eldia Empire; it's Arne as the sole living child of the Ackermans.
Arne was determined to keep the family farm alive with his parents. He was grateful that his father at least allowed him to self-taught whenever he made time. He can understand why his mother was insisting him to become something more than just a farmer. His mother was always dotting him. He may be annoyed sometimes but he does enjoy it nonetheless.
"Ah I see. You are fortunate, Ackerman. Maybe I can use my position to get you a better occupation? " She offered her help.
"I, thank you my lady for your offer, but I must decline. I am humble to be a farmer just like my father." Arne bows respectfully to Lady Ingrid.
"Very well. I will respect your decision." Ingrid gave a small smile.
Before they leave their separate ways, Ingrid hears a few men with their horses galloping through a busy main road on the village. She turned around to see those guards that were chasing her earlier looking for her. Quickly, she grabbed Arne to run into a random shop. The shop was dark and dainty. The only light it shined was from the hazy window. Both hid as the knight guards passing through the muddy street. Arne could feel the woman's body pressed too close for his liking. Don't get him wrong. As a man, he would enjoy it, but this woman was a high born lady. A lowly commoner must respect a high born at all cost plus his mother taught to respect women no matter what status they are. To be honest, he hasn't ever been with a woman. Most of his time since reaching puberty, he works and reads. It had never considered him courting a decent girl. He did have a crush on a girl who was his neighbor, but she had chosen another for better crops and livestock than his family could offer.
He remembered how heartbroken he was when Arne came back home and explained that Roslyn had coaxed flirting gestures along another boy who also liked her. It was also the main reason he lost his best friend. In a way, he was happy for him; but it did hurt his pride. It's stupid now to let his pride ruin his friendship. Maybe, he'll stop by their land with a peace offer and have his best friend in his life again.
"Are they looking for you?" Arne stared at the strawberry blonde haired woman.
"Yes, looks like they noticed I escaped. Some of them are part of my clan." She growled in irritation.
"You are very committed to not marry the royal heir." His steeled eyes looked over the window
"I rather died than marrying that incompetent imbecile boy. I am a Völsung. I will not have my bloodline tainted with an idiot who prefer to suckle his mother's tits than grow bloody balls." Ingrid continued.
"I see you have colorful vocabularies for a beauty maiden such as yourself." Arne let a smirk appear on his lips from being amused the way she ranted about Prince Adelrick of the Fritz clan, heir to the Eldia Empire.
Ingrid blushed from his compliment and the way she used foul words. It's not that a lady likes to use improper words, but she was never your average high born maiden. So he labels her as beautiful? In her world of high borns, most men saw her as a wild maiden that hasn't been tamed yet. Being a Völsung, she was trained to fight and be in shape as she was supposed to inherit the Attack Titan, but her cousin took it. Her clan was the only one who still allowed their females to train like warriors. Most of the clans became soft and weak. All they worried about was how to appear like an ideal maiden or lord to woo them away and live happily ever after like the Grimm brothers' fairytale book she was read to as a child. That's why her clan was in charge of holding the Attack Titan. Most males were born into her bloodline until her existence. Her mother died giving birth to her and her father didn't take another wife since he had mourned and loved her mother. She had admired her father's loyalty to her mother. Their love story was poetic to tell.
"Yes well, if you were forced to marry some royal cunt. You would probably be colorful with your words too." Ingrid held her chin up as her pride began to take over.
"I guess I would." He chuckled humorly. "It makes you look human than some godly being a peasant like me should have been worshipping." His dark humor came out.
"I never see myself as some divine maiden. Just like you, I'm a human that's capable of making errors or has flaws." She glanced through the window again.
"Good to know." He glanced at the window too.
"I think it's safe. I guess I should take my leave. Thank you for your company, Arne." She stepped away from him which Arne felt relieved. If she had stayed closer to his body more, let just say his little friend would have woken up.
"It's my pleasure, my lady." He said.
"Ingrid. You may call me Ingrid since we are becoming familiar with one of another." She said.
"That seems improper for a commoner like me to call your name." Arne said while blushing a bit. In their society, you get to call someone their first name if you are close like friends, families, or lovers. Like in their situation, people will talk and assume their lovers. Ingrid is definitely a bold wild beauty. She's like a she-wolf. Untamed, wild, and strong. He doesn't find women like her these days.
"It never bothers me on what's proper or improper. I insist. We can call each other by names. I think we are way passed being acquaintances. Beside you seem a very intriguing person to befriend." She smirked at him.
"Hm, very well. As long in public, we still use the proper etiquette for your sake, Ingrid. People are gossipers. We don't want them thinking the wrong idea." He awkwardly laughs at the thought of seeing her potential crush. Oh by the gods, he can't already be attractive to her. She's beautiful and tough, but seeing him as her equal.
"What kind of wrong idea? That we are secret lovers?" She teased him to make his face flushed noticeably.
"Yes, they will think that since we are talking too comfortably. Besides, you're not my type." He is trying to play cool.
Ingrid raised her brow at him. "Not your type? Am I not a beauty as you had put it that way earlier?"
"I- you may be beautiful, but it takes more than just beauty to have my attention…" Arne coughed as he faced away from the embarrassing position he's in. Seriously, does this woman have no shame in being too bold. She is lucky it's him and not some other man who would have taken advantage of her. He just doesn't want to have his heart given away too easily. He had learnt his lesson.
"Oh I see? You are not like other men I have encountered. Most just want a pretty damsel in distress for a bride. The only reason men wanted me as their bride is because it will boost their ego for being known to tame a Völsung woman into a demure lady-like maiden. So what are your types?" She grinned. "Come, you can tell me on the way to your family farm."
"Wait what? Why do you want to go to my family farm? Should you be at least going back to your clan? I can't promise you my family and I will give you the life of your status." He was confused about her wanting to go to his home.
"I can't go back there. My Lord cousin will send me back to that awful place to be tied down until the wedding ceremony is complete. I am not expecting a royal treatment if that's what concerns you." Ingrid tried to convince him.
"What will you do or go after your stay with my family?" He said. A part of him was concerned for her well being. She won't last long wandering alone. There are slave traders out there who kidnaps women to be sold into brothels or some disturbing masters. He is admired for her bold and brave persona but this is the real world. She will regret running away from her wedding to have freedom that she might lose to a horrible fate.
"Um, I'll probably sell this gown and my jewels to use the money to travel away from this Empire and see the rest of the world." Her tone was optimistic, but to him it was a naïve idea.
"I see. For now, my family and I will offer hospitality until you are certain you want to travel out of the world." He said feeling more worried. Why show he be worried for her? She had made her decision on where to go. Also, he just met her.
Ingrid had noticed the way he asked questions like a worrying parent. To be honest, she felt flatter that her cheeks were getting warm. The noble woman had dreamt to travel and learn the world. Maybe if she convinced him to come join to travel the world then it won't be a ridiculous plan as it sounds. Yes, she may be trained to defend herself but there will be tricksters to find a way to harm her or sell her.
"Very well. Let's see how it goes. It's better than going back so, let's head to your home, Arne." She smiled then grabbed his arm to link around hers and dragged him away to the main road that leads to the Ackerman's farm.
It took a couple of hours to get to the 10 acres property of the Ackermans. Ingrid was amazed how neatly their crops were aligned. The hens and their chicks roaming around freely in the grassy area of the land. The place looks homey and inviting which is a different scenery than she was used to. Arne opened the little gate that he built to make it nice and aesthetic for the house. He had painted white the wooden fence around the property when he was a boy. Around the area, his neighbors hired him to do the same, which that's how he earned enough money to buy materials to self-teach education.
"This home looks very innovative. Did your father have some knowledge in architecture or any engineering talents?" Ingrid noticed how the house was so symmetrical that it looks like an experienced engineer had done it.
He chuckled. "No, it was me who had fixed a little bit the house then added the fences."
"That's amazing. You have very talented hands! Sometimes I read books on engineering and mathematics to learn the most efficient structure to lead a modern era." The way her tone sounded was excitement and admiration for his work.
"Um thank you, my- Ingrid. I mean yes, thank you. Ingrid." Seriously, he's just making this worse for him being a fool in front of her. She grinned then nudged his side playfully.
"It's not a problem, lover." She smirked.
Arne mumbled. "Oi woman, I don't want my parents to get the wrong idea about thinking I brought a potential wife."
"Humph, isn't that a good thing? You are a man of age that should be married with children by now." She said.
This made Arne glanced at her with his dark brow raised up. "I should say the same thing about you, Ingrid."
"Ok, I had that coming, but if you should know; I would have made a wonderful wife. If i choose to settle down in the near future." Arne trying hard not to snort into laughter. Will she last to be the wife of a farmer like him? It does sound nice to have a headstrong woman with intelligence like her as his wife. No, what are you doing? Get rid of these nonsense ideas. She is a high born, and you're a low born with no true identity. Arne still remembered the gossips of the old cronies earlier about his unknown origin. Later, he will bring this up with his parents.
"Probably to a noble or a king." He said with a neutral tone. Ingrid noticed his tone changed as she frowned. He was being flirty in his own way for a few seconds. Maybe he doesn't really see her that way. Don't worry, the high born maiden was known to be stubborn and determined. She never gave her attention to any man until she met Arne.
The way he looked was different from most average Eldian men in the empire. Something in him does give off any Eldian traits. Is he connected to the curse like the rest of them? It doesn't matter, she got some time to get to know him well enough. They were already by the front door of the house and Arne opened the door for both of them to enter.
"Mother, father. I have returned home." He shouted for his parents to hear his arrival. It was not that long his mother walked in fast pace to greet her son, but was surprised to see Ingrid with him. Instantly, Hilda courtesy into a bow as she once did when she had worked at the palace as a girl.
"Oh my. My lady. This is a surprise to have Lady Ingrid of the Völsung clan in my home. The gods have blessed my family to have such a lovely lady as you in our presence." Hilda was still bowing.
"Please, you don't need to bow. I'm honored to be here. Your son has said so many wonderful things to both of you." Ingrid smiled humbly at Hilda.
Hilda slowly rose to stand to glance at the noble woman. "Arne be a gentleman to take off her cloak and hand up." The older woman gave a look to her son which he knows too well when he doesn't do something right but doesn't want to humiliate him in front of a noble.
Arne nodded to obey his mother and removed Ingrid her cloak to place it on a hanger on the wall. Ingrid let's him then thanked him. Both of them had another blushing moment from being in too close contact to each other. The Lady Völsung felt his fingers brushing her shoulders as he slowly removed her royal blue cloak. She hopes his mother doesn't catch on her expression and questions both of them. They don't have anything to hide since they just met but to others it won't stop them assuming more.
"Please do come in. Follow me, we're about to eat supper." Hilda smiled politely as she led both her son and Lady Ingrid to the kitchen.
Once they reached the kitchen, both Ingrid and Arne sat down as Hilda began to serve their meal. Not too long, Birger walked in to see everyone at the table.
"My lady, welcome to our home. I'm sorry I was not aware you would join us for supper." He glanced at his wife then his son.
"Please, don't bow. I'm just here as a guest since your kind son had invited me here." Ingrid glanced at Arne then back to Birger.
"Ah, then please make yourself at home. We, Ackermans, offer our food, shelter and a place to rest whenever you need." Birger said with warmth.
"Thank you. I will take on your offer, Farmer Ackerman." She smiled.
"Shall we begin to eat." He chuckled as he sat down and looked at his meal already served.
The Ackermans and Ingrid enjoying the meal that Hilda had prepared for supper. The pot sew was just right in taste. The broth was flavorful with a rich texture of local spice. The vegetables were cut into bite size chunks to enjoy eating along the goat meat from early morning killing. Even the bread was warm and freshly baked as Ingrid grabbed a bread roll. Hilda Ackerman is a very skilled cook. She probably learnt some of the tips during her time working at the castle in her youth.
"This stew tastes amazing. I never had this tasty stew like this before. You are very talented." Ingrid looked up to praise Hilda for the tasty meal. Of course, the older woman blushed from being praised by Lady Ingrid.
"Thank you. Your words mean so much to me. I used to work at the Fritz castle when I was a young girl. I had the opportunity to learn how to master cooking whenever my mistress let me have my breaks." Hilda said.
"Oh? What did you do there? Arne had mentioned you used to work there." This made both parents glance at each other.
They are a bit concerned for their son and Ingrid after all they are curious how both Arne and Ingrid had met? Hilda had noticed Ingrid's outfit looked more extravagant for a casual stroll outside of the castle. The older woman figured Lady Völsung was dressed to be wed. SHe had heard news a few days ago that both the heir and Lady Ingrid were to be wed soon.
"I was once the head handmaiden to the King's mistress, Lady Astrid of the Krüger clan. She always had been a picky eater so I was put in charge of making her meals when She had tried one of my dishes I made for lunch." Hilda said.
"You used to know Lady Astrid?! She's a kin on my mother's side. I believe they were first cousins since both their fathers were brothers." Ingrid said.
"Oh you must be Lady Hella's daughter? Lady Astrid had always said something good about your mother. They were dearest friends." Both women began to talk more about the Krüger cousins.
Birger decided to interrupt them to ask both Arne and Ingrid. "Pardon to be bold, my lady. We're curious how my son met you? He usually tells us or acts obvious when he fancies a maiden." Arne couldn't believe his father was embarrassing him in front of Ingrid. Later, the damned woman will tease him about this.
"Oh we just met today at the village close to here. I accidentally ran into him. I ran away from...my wedding." Her face flushed from the embarrassment that a maiden of her age ran away like a child just because she doesn't like her betrothed.
"Ah I see. Do you plan on going back?" Birger carefully chooses his words. He believed it would be best to have the noblewoman go back to be wedded. It would cause less problems for his family. The older man does find Lady Ingrid compassionate, but having her here would bring danger to his family. His family was his main priority.
"No….but I understand me being here will bring your family trouble. So, I'm planning to leave this place to explore the world." She said.
"My lady, would it be dangerous for you to be out by yourself? Husband, we can't let her go out there alone in the world." Hilda frowned while looking at her husband to plead him to help the lady.
"Hilda." He scolded his wife. Hilda became quiet. Meanwhile, Arne was contemplating whether to advocate Ingrid for her to stay.
"My lady, please don't take this too personally. I am honored for your presence here, but you are putting us in danger. I need to do what it takes to protect my family, so you are welcome here until tomorrow morning. We'll give you a bed for you to sleep. Please understand that." He said.
"No, father. She can't leave. I'm sorry….mother and father for our lie to you how we met." Arne pushed his chair back to stand up firmly. He doesn't know why he's helping her out but, Arne rather she's staying hidden here than being thrown out alone.
"What is the meaning of your outburst, son?" Birger was a bit shaken for his son's action. He rarely spoke out like this towards him, his father. Ingrid was confused but held a curious express to watch Arne protesting for her.
"I can't allow you to kick her out. I….we had been seeing each other for a while. I convinced her to run away with me so we can be married instead of marrying with the prince." He said it. He can't believe he's digging his grave further.
Arne gently grabbed her hand. Ingrid blushed from what he had just said. This man is an idiot. She thought to herself. She understood he was trying to help her out, but not like this. Oh dear, now they will believe they're forbidden lovers that are ready to run away together. Of course, both parents were a bit overwhelmed.
"Arne! Do you have a death wish? If anyone figures out you were with Lady Ingrid out in the public, they will send you to the dungeon cells. The worst case scenario, you could have been executed for having an affair with a higher born much less the heir's bride." Arne's father was upset at his son's reckless action. Things would have been ok if it was some low born girl, but this one will cause serious problems for the family.
"I understand father. But you can't help it if you're in love, right?" Arne glanced at his father.
Ingrid was biting her lips carefully. She was nervous. Her guilt consumed her. Here she is being selfish again for wanting to have the freedom she craves and not thinking of the action she had placed on Arne and his family. They have not done anything wrong. The Ackermans are a nice and kind-hearted family. She should say something and diffuse the argument.
"I understand how much both of you are in love, but this isn't some children's fairytale where love will conquer all. It takes more for a marriage to work without resenting each other for the rest of your lives until death comes to the door. Give us another reason why we shouldn't send her to the guards to take her back to the castle?" Birger said with an authoritative tone.
"Husband please. At least we can be sent to a neutral area like the temples of the gods. We can help her go to the three goddesses' temples. They protect maiden no matter what." Again, Hilda pleaded. She doesn't want anything bad to happen to Lady Ingrid or her family.
"I have a reason. Lady Ingrid and I got… carry away and it's possible she's carrying my child." Why does his honor have to get him into trouble. He would feel guilty for letting her go where she could danger herself so this is the plan he had quickly thought of. His grey eyes glimpse to see how red the girl's face was. Oh he can understand how this is embarrassing for him as much as it is for her too. Now, it would be a good time for her being her playful bold self.
"Isn't that right my love?" Arne caressed his thumb on to her hand like a true lover would do. Ingrid was trying so hard to speak but her throat was tight. The way his thumb caressing her hand made her stomach flutter. Why does he have to act a knight in shining armor?
"Y-yes, my heart's warrior. I love your son. I'm sorry for the problems I have caused. He has been nothing but kind and gentle. You are both blessed with a son who treats me as an equal. I am blessed to have met him." Ingrid steps away from Arne's gentle gesture to get on her knees. The elder Ackermans' eyes widened to see the noblewoman was on her knee to bow her head. She was asking for their blessing for their marriage. They don't know what to think.
"Please, accept me as your daughter in law. I shall honor to be a better wife for your son and learn the life of farming. I prefer this fate then being some mare to breed royal heirs instead of being seen as a person. I beg of you, give us your blessing." Who would've thought she was a good actress? Arne for a moment was convinced she wanted to marry him. He doesn't mind being married since it will get the ladies off his back and he can be at peace. If for some reason they do actually get married, all he will see a friendship. He knows Ingrid will not be into him. She can be bold but she was a playful person who liked jester things. Once he saw her on her knees to bow to his parents, he followed her to do what she did.
" Please mother and father bless us. Once we get married, we'll go to some far away village to be hidden and one day we'll visit you." He said.
Birger and Hilda glanced at each other rather than contemplating from their pleads. Finally, Birger broke the silence.
"As the damage was already done, both of you will wed. My lady it's best you go under a different name to protect your identity. I know someone who lives on the edge of our great empire, in Kahr. It's a city-states that's connected to the port if both must flee from danger." Birger sighed. They have to do this as soon as possible before they all get caught.
Both "couples" nodded in accepting the terms. After supper, Ingrid was led to a room to rest for the night. Arne gave her some spare clothes from his mother when she was young.
"Here, these were my mother's clothes. You might need to change to not be noticed." He said. Before he was about to leave, Ingrid stopped him.
"Arne, why did you tell your parents that we're lovers? I'm flatter for trying to protect me but you are a fool. I can handle it on my own." She said. The noblewoman wanted to know why he did? He doesn't owe her anything. If everyone knew the truth, their reputation would tarnish. Arne will have it the worst since he's a commoner. Knowing how their society was, they'll make it seem he had kidnapped her and forced her to be with him which it was not true.
"Because I hate to be the reason you get into danger. I know you can handle it, but that would stop the worst men from taking advantage of you. If this is the way for you to stay alive and free then I will do it. As your friend, I want to help." He said with honesty.
Ingrid couldn't help to blush from his words. She took a breath to calm herself. "I see. I'm grateful for your selfless act, Ackerman." She is trying to be aloof.
"Oh we're back to surnames, Völsung?" He chuckled then smirked.
The noblewoman rolled her eyes. "So, are you sure you're ok with this...us being in a marriage?" She wondered if he wouldn't bother to have a wife like her. Ingrid had always felt she never had met the standards how a proper wife should be.
"Yes, as I said. I don't mind. You are someone I would have as a wife even if it's not love." He said.
"I'm a high born lady. Love is a luxury for those who don't have a choice to choose to be with someone." Ingrid said.
"But I suppose I am lucky since I made my choice to pick how I want to live. I prefer marrying you who can offer companionship, mutual respect and honorable value than a royal cunt who only desires to tame me as I'm some wild beast. I just knew, I would be miserable if I chose death." Arne sat on the bed which Ingrid does the same.
"Even though we just met, I have already felt comfortable around you, Ingrid. I wish I could offer you what you deserve." Arne had his body faced towards her.
"You already have. I really don't care about wealth and status. Yes, I grew up being comfortable as a noble lady, but it has been stressful. I had to try to be the ideal lady and if I showed the real me, oh it would be a scandal that I will get an earful from my cousin. I know you think this is just a game and excitement until reality hits me. I'm a committed person. So, I'm hundred percent sure of this." She clarified him.
"Alright, as long you know what you are getting yourself into." Arne whispered. Now, both of them became silent and felt the awkwardness as they realized they're in the room alone.
"So...if your parents believed we might excepting then looks like we'll have to make that into a reality?" She smirked, giving her playfully.
Arne grumbled while his face flushed red from that thought that soon he will lay with her as husband and wife. He wondered what their children would look like? He hopes they inherit her spirit-free personality and optimism. If the gods bless them for that is.
"Woman, are you that eager to have me in your bed?" He gets back at her by being playfully too.
"I mean in a way I already did since you are sitting next to me on the bed." She continued. Deep down her heart pounding hard from thinking they will consummate after marriage which what the elder Ackerman couples said tomorrow will be the ceremony. Birger and Hilda already make preparations since they wanted to do as soon as possible for this family's safety.
"You're right. As the groom, I shouldn't be this close to my bride." Arne didn't know what occurred to him in being very intimately close to her. He leaned his body where her body felt warm even though their bodies weren't in contact.
Ingrid felt her breath become shallow when he got closer. Her blue eyes stared into grey eyes of his. It felt as the room was spinning then stopped with silence. The strawberry blonde haired woman had never been this close toward a man. Heck, not even with her betroth. The prince did try but all he got was his manhood being kneed for not respecting her boundaries. With Arne, it's different. He was different. This man had made her heart beat like drums. She was conflicted about whether to try to go for it. Their lips are a few centimeters apart. She could feel his breath on her skin. This is what she gets for being a tease. Now, curiosity has won. She wanted to feel his lips.
"What are you waiting for? Kiss your bride." She said breathlessly.
Arne should have not gonna close. Ingrid is a beautiful woman. Any man should be lucky to have a fiery spirit girl like her as a wife. He wanted to keep his boundary away from her due to their status difference. Ingrid is like the forbidden fruit he had become tempted. Just as she gave her signal to do it. The dark haired man pressed his lips onto hers. Just as he expected, her lips were warm and soft. Their kiss was gently passionate. There was no rush or intense hunger yet.
Finally they broke away to gasp for air. They stared at each other until Arne coughed and looked away shyly.
"You're not a bad kisser." Ingrid said while trying not to blush at their kiss.
"Oh really? You're not bad either." He smiled.
Both realize how late it is and Arne gets up to leave her be. He walked out of the room while thinking of how sweet like honey her lips taste. He wondered if Ingrid felt a spark from their kiss?
The following morning, the Ackerman's farm was busy with some villagers helping out the Ackermans for a last minute wedding. Ingrid was wearing a white simple gown. Her hair was loose with curls and on top of her head was a crown of flowers.
She looked like a villager bride and she preferred that way. Besides, Ingrid felt comfortable without wearing a corset and heavy fabrics with jewels. It's too much for her. The bride took a deep breath then heard a knock on the door.
"Come in." She said. As the door opened, Hilda entered the room then gasped into admiring the bride's beauty.
"My lady, you look like a goddess." The older woman smiled.
"Hilda, you can't no longer call me my lady. Soon, I will be your daughter." Ingrid glanced at the older woman.
"Then you must call me mother. We are going to be family." Her smile hasn't left. Hilda hugged the young bride.
"Let's go. They are waiting for you." Hilda arm linked Ingrid and both ladies walked out to where the wedding will be located.
Levi…wake up…
Huh? Is it over? Wait a second, why is that apeshit here? The male Ackerman opened his eyes to see Zeke Jaeger. His eyes glowed silver as he glared at the blonde man who has a smug face on his face. The captain wanted to bash his hairy face to the wall. Just seeing him, making Levi crave to release his violent tendencies.
"Good, you are awake. Don't worry. We're not done yet. I want to know what did your little armies and assassins kept my little brother, Eren? I had rumors he was taken by your rebels. I suggest you tell me what you know or this time you will be the one without arms and legs. I heard an Ackerman can regenerate like a titan shifter but at a slower pace than a shifter." Zeke glared back at Levi.
"I do not know or care about your kin, you weakling." Iapetus took over Levi when Zeke appeared. The titan can smell the shifter's fear as Zeke tries to mask it. Tch. Such a coward. Soon, he'll regain his strength to claw his hand into Zeke to tear him into pieces where the room will be painted with guts and blood of the infamous Zeke Jaeger. Both Levi and Iapetus had enough with Zeke's and his followers' bullshit.
"You better be careful with your words, monster. You don't want nothing to happen to your whore and bastard son of yours." Zeke threatens him.
Instinctively, Iapetus growled at Zeke. How did this piece of shit find out about Atticus being alive?
"Oh, Historia was sneaky for acting like a grieving mother losing her child. I'm impressed by her cunning ability to fool everyone. Once I tell the king and the grandmaster, they will send someone to assassinate your infant son along your subordinate, Sasha Braus. So, start talking, devil. Where is Eren Jaeger?" Zeke said.
Levi/Iapetus were panicking for their mate/wife and son. Both host and titan are feeling useless being cuffed on the table. Zeke better not take away his family. He had already taken away his comrades along his late commander, Erwin Smith.
"What do I know? If you haven't notice, I have been on this fucking table for days! I thought you would be smarter than that. Tch, figures being the Beast Titan holder had shrunk your capacity of being intellectual. I don't even know where that shitty brat? Problem fucking some girl before he goes commit a geocide or something." Levi regains his control. He spewed insults at his enemy. What Ackerman doesn't know is how accurate he is about what Eren had been doing.
Zeke scoffed in annoyance. "Like my little brother is capable of wasting time for such nonsense. He is determined to follow the path that Ymir opens the doors for him to save the Eldians from doom fate."
"You are seriously stupid. Eren is a fucking hot blooded brat. You forget how he confessed his love towards my wife." He remembered when the Jaegerists kidnapped Historia. Eren went crazy shit that day and kissed his wife. Levi literally wanted to slice him, but his focus was recusing Historia. "I won't be surprised that he would be sticking his cock into some poor girl and accidentally knocked her up."
Zeke didn't take it well as he punched Levi out of anger. The assassin just laughed darkly. Historia punches better than Zeke's. How fucking adorable that his punches will cause him damage? Once another punch came towards Levi, he quickly bit Zeke's wrist to lock his jaw deep into the blonde man's flesh. Iapetus slowly switched to take over and rip off his enemy's hand. All you can hear the screams in agony pain. "Try to punch me and your other hand will rip off, weakling." Zeke whimpered from pain and fear. He glanced at how monstrous Levi looked. So, this is the true power of the Ackermans. They are the real devils in this world.
(Natasha/Eve)
It was now night. Natasha slept on the tent that Eren made. He slept outside since Rico and Nile prohibit especially them from not sharing a tent together. Damn that Rico. She probably told the other commander. That's embarrassing and what's worse; Rick had been avoiding her when the camp found out Eren and Eve had a little getaway in the deep forest. SHe felt guilty for hurting the garrison soldier. Yeah, she's a fucked up for using people. The woman from the future wanted to go apologize to him for misleading him and hurting his feelings. Turns out, he thought she was kind, compassionate and innocent. Of course, Natasha is capable of being compassionate, but most of the time she manipulates to get what she wants or needs. She lied to those that care about her for right or wrong reasons. She twists people's words when they push her limit. Most of the time. She hadn't felt any regret for her actions. Until the sex scandal happen. In a way, karma was a bitch and she does deserve it. Maybe if she acted like a human being, she would not disappoint her family and have arguments with them every time she visits them.
The brown haired woman felt tears slipped out of her eyes from reflecting that she was the problem every time she argued with her grandparents. The American missed them. She remembered at one point there were so many fond memories spending time with her father's side family. Her best friend and aunt, Kuchel, had always stuck by her. They are practical around the same age. Her grandmother, Historia, had taught her how to cook Eldian cuisines. Her grandpa Levi had bonded in silence as they sip fresh brew tea. She prefers green tea or lavender but sometimes black tea is alright.
The heiress closed her eyes to try to sleep. She fell asleep. Her eyes open to see green grass all over the ground. There were some wildflowers. Along her view, a huge lone tree stands big and tall. The branches stretched out with leaves all over each branch. The woman was confused about where this place was.
She noticed pathways were made to connect to the tree. Eve walked to the tree. As she got there, a little girl was sitting on one of the thick roots. The little girl had platinum blonde hair, fair skin, a misery expression. She couldn't identify the eyes because of the bangs covering them.
The girl looked up to stare at her. Eve felt uncertain and cautious. The girl may come off innocent but you never know what that girl is truly capable of.
"I see that you're Eve. What a strange name for a descendant of mine to have?" The girl spoke.
"How do you know who I am?" This startle Eve. She looked around in an attempt to figure out where she was.
"Because as your ancestress, I know everything about my bloodline. You are a very interesting woman. I misunderstood you. You and Eren are one in the same, but yet so different. I envy you. You felt alone as no one understood you. You crave to belong. Your family slowly leaves you in many ways like death, and different mindsets." the girl said.
"Hm, so you're Ymir Fritz. Are you sure you're talking about yourself? You had issues wanting to belong with someone as a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, cousin, niece, or wife. I think instead of being noisy with your descendants you should focus on your yearning belonging with anyone." Natasha was getting annoyed. What does Ymir want anyways.
"Your attitude is terrible." Ymir said. "The reason why I contact you because there is another way to save our people without causing imbalance to the world by eradicating the rest of the human population. With your inhuman intelligence, you can create a cure. For Eldians become immune to the curse."
This has Natasha's attention. "What do you mean? So, it's possible to find a cure?"
"Of course, the origin of how I receive it was not hundred percent true. I did make a deal with the devil, but it was an Isu. A race that was responsible for creating humans. I'm sure you know what I'm referring to. His infamous name was Lucifer. He saw a poor slave girl who he felt pity for and helped to grant a gift. A special apple that was modified to give you strength, fear, and power. I took it and ate it. Now, I curse as this power is like a disease that spreads the Eldian race if they indigested my fluid. From throughout time, Marleyans studied some Eldians who reside there and extract their DNA to make pure but weak Titans. It was never meant to become out of control like this. I didn't know I would be responsible for the pain of my people. All because I was a selfish little girl wanting to belong with someone. So, you are right. I should be focusing on that but it's too late. I am tired of a two thousand years old conflict. I trust you that you'll find a curse and stop this curse before it gets much worse." Ymir pleaded.
"How will I find a curse? I need time and resources to figure out where Lucifer is if he is still alive. Hell, I need a sample of that apple but you ate it." Natasha felt frustrated with this new responsibility she was given.
"Child, you are a Stark. If your late grandfather could discover a new element and solve it to make time travel, I know you will find the cure to break this curse. About the apple, I have not finished it, it's still out there hidden. You'll find old scrolls that will lead to the current location of the bitten Devil's apple." Ymir explained.
"Great, I have to go be like Lara Croft from Tomb Raider to be able to pull off finding the apple." Eve sighed.
"Fine, I will do it, but what about Eren Should he know about this too?" The woman said curiously.
"Eren will know eventually. Right now, he has his own destiny to fulfill. Just make sure he does not activate the Rumbling at all cost. If you must kill him, do it. He may not be planning to know, but in the future he will activate." Ymir said.
The thought of killing Eren made her stomach turn. She doesn't know if she can do it. How could she do it? She loves Eren so much. It hurts from thinking one day it will come to that. She can understand why your great aunt Mikasa took her how she once struggled to be an obedient soldier whenever Eren was hurt or in danger when both were young. Her great aunt had loved him too, but he had never returned her feelings. Maybe Eve was the reason for Eren not loving Mikasa? She doesn't know.
"This is asking too much. I can't kill the man I love…" Her tears form then falls from her steel colored eyes.
"You will. It's because you love him that motivates you to give him peace. You will understand when the time comes. There's one more time I need to mention." Ymir glanced at her descendant.
"What is it?" She sniffled from crying. Her hand wiping her tears away.
"Don't risk yourself, especially if you're in a vulnerable state." Ymir said in a cautious tone.
Natasha gave a confusing expression to her ancestor. "Why? I don't get what you're saying?"
Ymir steps closer to her and places her cool hand on Natasha's stomach. "You're barely still in your first trimester. Your daughter is growing strong like both her parents."
The heiress's eyes widened. She's pregnant? She's carrying Eren's kid. Shit, this is what happens when your boyfriend is too irresistible to keep her hands to herself.
"No, no. How can I be? I don't feel any symptoms besides my period should come in a few days." The American was in denial.
"Child, you are pregnant just only three weeks. I do want to give you a warning so you would miscarry since you're a reckless person. Now, you must go back to your world. I will contact you next time." Ymir disappeared
Natasha woke up with a gasp. It was dark still and cold. She felt warmth close to her. The dark hair woman turned around to see that Eren was asleep peacefully. His arm wrapped around her waist tightly, but not too tight. She took a deep breath then placed her hand on her stomach. Oh god, she hopes Ymir is wrong. A part of her knows it is possible since both Eren and Natasha can get carried away most of the time. They are both passionate people. If she is pregnant, how will she tell Eren about it? She also worried what the Jaegerists that both Eren and his older brother, Zeke had created will do to her and her child. She doesn't want how her mother and infant brother end up. The Jaegerists were responsible for both of their deaths. The woman doesn't know the connection they have with her father's death. She still wants to take her revenge on these extremists. One day, she will succeed. Mark her words. They will be begging for mercy.
A/N: Finally, done with this chapter. I'm so sorry this took two weeks to finish this. Here's chapter 16. Enjoy, my loves 3