Chapter 20: Dancing with the Devil
(Levi/Arne)
It was dark and smelly. He can hear drops of water from wherever he was placed. Arne woke up from being knocked out at the tavern. He realized this was a cell and his wrists were cuffed to the wall. The son of farmers felt anxious from wanting to know where his wife was. Is Ingrid safe? Are they harming her? Is their unborn child safe too? So much fear of what ifs ran through his mind.
Arne heard noises of the guards coming towards his cell. The sound of keys shuffled as the guard inserted the key into the lock and unlocked the cell's bar. Once the guard opened, he shouted at Arne. "Prisoner, I see you're awake. We're moving you to the other dungeon."
Arne barely noticed the guard had a dark mask on his head. Probably concealing his identity. As Arne was uncuffed from the chains, the guard dragged him away from the cell. His body was a bit weak from who knows what they use to knock him out.
The silence was killing him. All he saw the cold hallways leading to the other parts of the dungeon. The dark haired prisoner glanced at a room where a wooden like table was in the middle.
Two others went to grab Arne and placed him on the wooden table. They strapped him down tightly with thick leather belts.
"As a punishment for crimes, the king made you his labrat for risky experiments. The scientist will arrive soon." The guard said.
Not too long, a man arrived and looked at Arne. "Aw this is my latest subject?"
Latest? So there were other unfortunate lads before him? He won't be surprised if none had survived from whatever sick experiment the king had approved.
"Hello there! I'm Gabriel Hange, the king's new scientist. You looked well fitted than my previous subjects. Good good. We're gonna need a healthy one. Hopefully, you will be my breakthrough!" He giggled with excitement.
Arne was already irritated with this mad lad. The scientist Gabriel dismissed the guards when they left the room. Now it was him and this deranged man. "It's just you and me. Before I start, what questions do you have?"
Arne does have many questions but most of them won't get answered as this scientist might not know it. "What do you plan on doing to me?" He asked.
"You're a man of getting to the straight answers? Well, let's start at the beginning. The king had wanted a loyal knight to serve and obey him only. So I was granted an audience with him when he heard about my theory of it's possible to create a titan in it's human form without shifting into one of the nine titans or being pure mindless ones." Gabriel explained to Arne.
"So basically I will become a weapon?" Arne said.
"Yeah, something like that if you survive." The scientist said.
Arne doesn't have a choice since he was tied to the table. He closed his eyes to pray to the gods and goddesses to protect his wife and their unborn babe. "Let's just get this over with." He mumbled.
"Yes, yes. I hope you make it through, sir." The dark brown haired man said.
"I'm not a knight. Just a peasant farmer." He glanced at Hange the scientist.
"Of course, then what shall I call you?" He said.
"Call me Ackerman." Arne said.
Gabriel nodded in accepting the other's request. "Alright Ackerman this will hurt."
Arne took a deep breath to mentally be prepared for the pain he will endure. As he felt a burning pain inside his veins, Arne grunts from trying to not let this pain consume him. Gabriel had injected a small dose of blue liquid into the bloodstream of Arne's veins. The scientist wanted to start off a small dose before giving the all the blue serum like fluid to his test subject. The dark brown haired man with glasses watched how this man endures the pain. Usually, the other test subjects begin to scream for mercy. Their bodies become purple as the serum slowly deteriorates their organs and melts them until blood comes out from their noses, eyes, ears, and mouth. It looked like a deadly poison killed them. Technically, this serum is like poison. This prisoner hasn't shown signs of bleeding from nothing of the areas the scientist had seen with others.
"You are strong for enduring this small dose. Let's see if you can handle half of the serum I have." Hange said. He connected a bag with serum to the tube that's connected to a needle on Arne's arm. He slowly squeezed the bag as the fluid went into Arne's bloodstream. Arne felt sweats and heat from his body raising its temperature for trying to kill off the foreign fluid inside his body. Finally, the scientist finished the bag.
"Alright, all done. We'll just have to wait until the next day if you make it or not to add another bag of fluid into you. For now, I will observe how your behavior and symptoms react to the serum." He said.
Arne couldn't answer him as he still felt his body on fire. He began to scream when the fluid began to boil in his blood. Oh gods, this is the worst torture ever. He was thinking death would be more pleasant.
No...he can't think like that. He must get this through to escape and find Ingrid. Ingrid and the babe need him. He must survive. He'll live and protect his family.
The sequence turned white and Levi Ackerman woke up with sweats and fever. The raven haired man grunts from the fever and the pain he felt from his body. Davos and his assistants rush to get him stable. Levi's vitals were going off the chart. The captain felt hallucination of seeing a familiar blonde beauty that he loves and cherishes.
"Historia…." His wife's name whispered breathlessly from his dry chapped lips then darkness greeted him.
Levi's eyes opened slowly as the view was not the white room nor the dungeon cells. Where the fuck is he? Where did they move him this time? He slowly sit up and heard heavy chains move. He glanced down to see his wrists were cuffed and chained to the bed. He could smell sterile and medicine. Did they put him in a hospital? A figure appeared before him. The figure was an old man with few hairs on his head. He has a genuine smile on his face which Levi senses this man must be the doctor from the uniform white robe they wear. Right next to him was a familiar brat he used to kick the shit out of him to save his life.
"Had a nice nap, Captain? The doctor had to make sure you won't die on us, but you are Humanity's Strongest. You're too hard to die anyways." Eren smirked.
Eren is lucky Levi was chained and weak at the moment from kicking his ass again. Levi glared at the Titan Shifter.
"How unpleasant to see you, Jaeger." He mumbled.
"You might find it hard to believe but I'm not the enemy, captain." Eren said.
Levi scoffed as he does find it hard to believe. "Tch."
"We have a lot of catching up to do because Historia has begged me to help you out to escape the palace and sent you back to the Assassins and the soldiers." Eren whispered.
Levi glanced at him in confusion. Is this a joke? Eren had decided to play the good guy? Levi doesn't want to fall for this brat's tricks. Did Historia contact Eren to help out?
"Look Levi, Historia and I made a pact to help you get out of here. Most of the soldiers are planning to strike soon. I am spying for the military and the assassins. I had to convince Davos to let the doctor check up on you. As to him and the templars, you're valuable to them." Eren said.
"Didn't you want the whole world to end to save Eldia or some fucked up shit?" Levi finally spoke.
"I did, but my perspective had changed." Eren's thoughts were on Natasha when he said that.
"You have done fucked up shit. So give me a reason why I should this time believe you have changed?" The assassin may be weak from recovering from a high fever but his tone was dark.
Eren frowned; he remembered the atrocious he had committed for the sake of freedom to the Eldians. In his mind, he had to become a great villain for the world to be untied and defeat him while freeing the curse. Now, his selfish desire had altered his destiny. He wants to do whatever it takes to protect his girl and their unborn. He wanted to give them peace and freedom without causing the majority of the world into chaos.
"We both have something in common." Eren said.
"Like what?" Levi said.
"Being a father. My kid will be born in nine months and I want this mess that I create be dealt with before he or she comes into this world. I want to keep my family safe. I know you want that too for Historia and your son. So, this is what's going to happen. While most of the people are busy attending the ball, me and two others, Rick and Reggie will help you out to sneak away from the city. But I won't go out of the city since I need to be here to play the "good brother"." Eren explained to Levi.
"What about Historia? I am not going to leave without her." Levi hissed.
"I understand you want to take her away from this hell, but she needs to be here in order to work. Her alibi will be the ball as queen she will be too busy attending guests at the ball. I promise to you that she will not be harmed. The Brotherhood and Paradis needs you as much this nation needs the soldiers. Marley finally regains their country from the Templars' soldiers. Reiner is one hella Commander in Chief." He chuckled.
"The Armor Titan was made into a Commander? Didn't know Marley had sympathy to allow an Eldian to rise from the ranks." Levi said.
"Yeah, I guess it was the templars who made this side of the world more united than I did." Eren chuckled darkly.
"Promise you will keep her safe if I go?" Levi finally gave in.
"Yeah, I'll make sure she will be safe." Eren confirmed.
Levi nodded. "Alright, but I'm holding on to your promise, Jaeger." The shorter man said.
Both men begin to plan out to sneak Levi away from the Templars' grasp. It's a good thing the King was still out of the country to deal with some templar business.
(Gilbert)
Ever since he accepted Alexander de Lorenzo's offer, Gilbert had been receiving expensive gifts from many places around the world. Whenever he meet up the Grandmaster, they had an amazing sex. It felt exhilarating and forbidden. Gilly still received love letters from Nathaniel as the king was on a business trip along the Grandmaster. But Alexander somehow convinced Nathaniel to let Gilbert be in charge of the templars and the people of Paradis even by law it should be the queen. As if he'll let that man stealing harlot gain more power than him. He had worked his ass off to get where he is. Right now, he had to attend the ball along with her. Ugh they have to work together to make this charity ball successful. This will show both of his lovers that he is capable of taking on a big role. He will not fail. The tailor was adjusting Gilbert's outfit for the ball. It came from Italy where Alexander was from.
"My Lord, this suit is at it's finest. Such a luxurious material can't be found on this side of the world." The tailor praised him.
"Yes, this is one of a kind." Gilly gloated.
"It's all set to be used at the ball. I hope you have a wonderful time. You will be the center of it tonight!" The tailor said.
"Yes, of course." he smirked.
The ball had started and Gilbert was wearing a viper mask made of gold and crushed diamonds which it's one of the gifts Alexander gave him. The guests had arrived with their masked on and the outfits were filled with so many colors. The tables of food from all over the world were displayed. The music plays with joy to dance and mingle. So far the ball was looking perfect. It would be magical if this bitch next to him was locked in her room and not greeting the guests. This was supposed to be his night instead the guests praised the queen how beautiful and breathtaking she looks. She was wearing a silver ball gown with the top silk material and the hem was puffy with flower patterns. The chest of the gown was shaped into a heart as her breasts were pushed up a bit. It would be inappropriate but since the Templars took control, Alexander had encouraged Nathaniel to bring in modern fashion and lifestyle even though Nathan wanted the old ways when King Karl had reigned in this island.
Historia's mask looked like a delicate swan with white and silver. The eye shape had dark shade. She was a Swan Queen as the nobles and Higher class praised. After greeting, he took a glass of champagne to drink and tried to not let her ruin the rest of the night. He will be praised and admired by the end of the night.
(Hange)
Today half of the people are heading out of the walls to prepare to meet their allies across the sea. It's clear Mikasa had made Hizuru their allies again. Marley had become their allies as well. This was a historical moment. For centuries these two sides were enemies until now.
The Commander of the Survey corps had been alone writing her journal since who knows if her journal could end up in some museum or used as a school research paper.
She and William had been strategizing to give a surprise attack to the templars. But first they are waiting for Eren helping Rick and Reggie to sneak Levi out of the palace. Once it is done, they will give their second base which it's at the coastline of this island. To let their allies in and heading towards here to take back their home. If Marley was capable of winning their nation so the Paradisian can.
(Sasha)
The female Eldian soldier was having the time of her life residing in the city that never sleeps. New York City was so pretty with light during nights. She had tried many cuisines of different cultures. She was in heaven. The baby had been so far easy to take care of. Atticus had been a good boy. He rarely cries unless it's necessary. He was a curious baby when toys were given to him to play. Only soft ones as he is just a month old. For a month old, he was a big boy. Sasha thought this kid will be tiny like his parents. Maybe the prince inherited a tall gene from somewhere. That would be funny if the baby grew up to be taller than both of them.
Sasha was strolling with the baby stroller to enjoy nature in Central Park. It's not like the nature she grew up with back home in her village, but this will do. She spotted a nice big tree where she can place a big blanket and have Atticus lay down to enjoy the fresh air. He had been cooped up in the house for weeks. A child should start embracing nature at this age. Sasha's parents had taken her outdoors when she was days old. As it was tradition back at her village.
She may not be a pro at raising babies but she will from now raise the boy as the way she was raised. Once the blanket was spread Sasha placed the big bag on the blanket then gently picked up Atticus who giggled with joy from being picked up. He loves being carried. This kid was definitely a prince.
"What a cute boy you are?" She coos at the infant.
Atticus squeals in delight. He was laid on the blanket. Then Sasha places his toy jungle gym over him so he can kick and play. Today was a clear warm day with a breeze. Is this what it feels like to be free from discrimination, oppression, war, titans and corruption? This was a true paradise. Sasha didn't have to worry for her life, but she felt guilty because back home her comrades and family are there where danger lurks.
Sasha smiled at Atticus who was too entertained with his toys dangling over him. She didn't notice someone's presence when her mind was drifted away from thinking nostalgia memories with her friends from Levi's squad.
"What a cute baby you have?" The man looked at Atticus which the infant stopped playing to glanced at the stranger.
Sasha quickly sits up to be on alert if this man gives any bad intentions. "Yes, he is cute. Isn't he?" Her brown eyes stared at his brown eyes.
"I mean it makes sense since he got his cuteness from his mother." The man gave a flirty smile at her which Sasha responded with a blush from his bold comment.
"Thanks but I'm not his mother. I'm just his auntie well sorta. It's really complicated." She chuckled.
"Oh I'm sorry, I thought he was yours, but that's a good sign because you're not with anyone, right?" He grinned.
"I- right. I don't have a boyfriend if that's what interests you." She said while her brow raised up.
"That definitely interests me. By the way, the name is Niccolo Browns. What's your name?" The man with blonde short wavy hair smiled.
"My name is Sasha Braus and this cutie is Atticus Ackerman." She glanced at the baby who was again busy playing with his toys.
"Oh what a beautiful name you have, Sasha. The kiddo got a cool name. His parents must have out a lot of thought into his name." Niccolo said.
"Thank you. Your name sounds fun to say." Sasha repeated his name especially because she likes the way his name sounds.
"Thanks, I'm glad my name sounds fun to you." He laughs from hearing her saying his name in different ways.
"So, I notice you're not from here? Your accent is hard to figure out where you're from." Niccolo had been thinking where her accent came from. It's definitely not any European country. Is she from a Marleyan colony region?
Sasha paused to think if it's safe to tell this man where she's from? There's a chance he may not have heard the Eldian people and the conflict the Eldians dealt with most of the nations from the other side of the world. She took a glimpse at Atticus. The female soldier made a promise to protect the prince at all cost. She can't let her selfish desires jeopardize the child's life.
"I'm from an unknown country that not many people knew about." Sasha said.
"Ah I see...trying to be mysterious?" He grinned. "It's fine. You don't have to tell me yet."
"Sorry, I'm a refugee so this place is still a culture shock, but the food here feels like heaven." Sasha felt a drool escaping from her mouth at the thought of food.
"Oh a refugee? I'm sorry to hear that. I bet it's hard to adjust to a new life here? Hold on, you're a foodie? This makes it easier to woo you." Niccolo crossed his legs to sit on the grass to be comfortable.
"It's ok. One day, I will be able to go back home." Sasha was curious what he meant about wooing her with food? "You know good places to eat?"
Niccolo's eyes sparkled as she asked him where are the best places to eat in NYC. "I have a restaurant in the Upper East Side."
"Wait, you're a chief? That's so cool. I will happily be your food taster." Sasha grinned with joy. Food was her passion. She loves to eat that sometimes her friends have to drag her out from a tavern before they get kicked out.
Niccolo was happy to hear she will taste his food whenever he creates a new dish for his customers.
"I would be honored for you tasting my food. Maybe this weekend, I'll show you my restaurant and I'll make a spectacular dinner. You'll be the first to try a dish I have created recently. What do you say? A date?" Niccolo glanced at Sasha in hoping she accepted to have a dinner date with him.
Sasha contemplates whether to go on a date with him or not. If she asked her new friend to babysit Atticus maybe she'll agree to go on a date.
"Yes, it's a date." She smiled. Niccolo was pleased she said yes.
(Eren)
It was now the perfect hours to get Levi out of the cluthes from the enemies. He had a little meeting with Reggie and that Rick guy. They plan on meeting him and Levi with a carriage full of metals.
The green eyed Titan shifter had Levi dressed up as one of the Jeagerists. Both former comrades could hear the sound of the music and the people chatting. Eren thought of Natasha being there probably bored. He remembered her telling him how she hated going to social events. She dealt with her boredom by drinking and probably flirting with some random guy to where she takes him home for the night. Of course, this is different. She's with his child. He hopes this escape plan with Levi will go smoothly. Eren wanted to be with his lover to hold her and give sneaking kisses.
The quad holder titan shifter stared at the entrance where the ball was held. Right where Queen Historia was greeting, Eren spotted the woman he loved was also greeting and talking to the arriving guests. He was struck by what Natasha was wearing. Her dress was hugging her body. It looked like it's her skin, only there were sprinkling diamonds on the top of the dress. Down where the hem of the dress was split on both sides to let her legs exposed including a bit of her thighs. Her mask was a gold and emerald venetian butterfly shape. It covered the upper part of her face. To Eren, she looks mystifying and beautiful.
Levi interrupted him from gazing at Natasha so far away. "So is that your woman huh?" He whispered.
Eren glanced at the captain then nodded to confirm. He could tell that Levi was also staring at Historia so far away. He understood how painful it was to not be with their lover without putting them in danger.
"We'll get through this, kid. One day, we'll be with them, but right now we need to be focused." Levi's tone was compassionate towards Eren. Long ago, Levi was like a mentor and older brother towards Eren during the time when he was a soldier with one purpose to destroy all titans to free humanity. Now that purpose has changed overtime from learning the truth.
"Right…" Eren takes in this rare moment of Levi being understanding.
Both men resume to walk away the entrance of the ball before they get caught. By the time they exited the palace. Rick and Reggie were already on the carriage with leftover materials covered by a heavy cloak. Quickly, Eren led Levi to hide under the cloak where the materials are.
"Alright guys, be safe and careful. There are many guards tonight because of the ball in this city, but once you get out of the city, you'll be fine. Send me a letter when you guys make it so the queen can know this escape plan has worked." Eren said.
Rick and Reggie nodded. "Understood." Reggie the assassin said. However Rick had one thing on his mind.
"Eren, please let Eve and Maggie know that I couldn't make it to the ball." Rick said with a guilt on his expression.
"Alright. I'll let them know." Eren said.
"Oi, we should go now before we get caught." Levi said from under the cloak. All four nodding then the carriage begins to stroll away. Eren watched them leaving the palace. As he can't see them anymore, the former leader of Jaegerist goes back to the palace.
While Eren was walking to go to his room, Floch stopped him. "Hey Eren, your brother was looking for you." The green eyed man glanced at the red haired man. He noticed how Floch's face was covered with bruises and a swollen eye. His cheeks were puffy due to being kicked repeatedly. This looks like how he had looked when Captain Levi beat the living shit out of him to save him from being executed during the first trials of the discovery of being a titan shifter.
"What the hell happened to you?" Eren looked at the red haired Jaegerist.
"Eh, it was some bitch that was playing hard to get." Floch mumbled annoyingly.
"Playing hard to get or you can't take a no?" Eren's sly comment made Floch glared at him. Once upon a time, Floch was one of his loyal followers. This guy admired and praised him like he was some god. When he came back to be a spy for the Assassins, Floch's behavior became estranged and mad. He assumed power got over his head. As Floch now became the second powerful man in the Jaegerist group, Eren can see him being too entitled, especially having women coming to him. Of course, he had heard rumors Floch won't' hesitate to cross the line if a woman doesn't respond to his advances. It disgusts Eren to the core. Floch reminded Eren the First Fritz King when he took Ymir the Founder as his concubine/consort.
"Shut up, Eren. You can't say shit when you use Belia to warm your cock." Floch scowled at him.
Eren's facial expression became dark. He didn't hesitate to pinned Floch to the wall to remind him who is still in high rank.
"Whatever me and Belia had was an agreement we used each other to fulfill our needs behind closed doors." His hand gripped tightly on to Floch's neck. Between him and Floch, Eren is stronger than him. The power of being a titan holder gave him abnormal strength. The only who can compete with a titan shifter's strength are the Ackermans. They were created to defeat a titan shifter or a pure titan.
He watched how Floch's eyes widen with fear. The coward forgot not to pissed off a titan shifter like Eren Jaeger.
"T-that's not what she told me. She thought you and her were together." The other growled."
"And you believe her? You know what, don't answer that. Like I said, there was no us between me and Belia so you can tell her to stop with her lies and tell everyone we're together. She's too delusional." Eren scoffed and dropped Floch as he wouldn't waste his time on Floch nor whatever Belia had been telling the Jaegerists. He should have not pursued sleeping with Belia in the first place. It's one of the main reasons he distanced himself from her. She's just batshit crazy.
"Of course, she is my cousin, you fucker." Floch coughed while being on the ground.
Eren didn't bother to give him attention. He kept walking to find Zeke. Finally, he entered Zeke's study room which Nathaniel provided him when their alliance was formed. He knocked on the door to hear his brother to tell him enter. His hand turned the knob to open the door and saw Yelena there. It's rare to see Zeke without Yelena being with him. Even when Eren needed to have a private discussion, she was always there. It irritated him.
"Ah little brother. I'm glad you're finally here. Make yourself comfortable." Zeke glanced to see Eren entering.
Eren goes to lean against the wall instead of sitting on a chair. He waits for Zeke to say whatever it was.
"Eren, had you visited Ymir through the Path lately?" Zeke said.
"No, I haven't. She has been quiet lately, but I will try tomorrow night." The younger Jaeger brother said.
"That's strange. She usually keeps in contact with you. Yes, try again when you can. You should wear something formal for the ball, little brother." Zeke was already dressed in his suit for the ball. His mask was laying on the desk.
Yelena was for once wearing a dress and not a suit like she usually does whenever she attended a social event. Her dress was surprisingly shiny where the flowers pattern spread from the top to the bottom of the gown. Probably, Zeke convinced her to wear something nice for this ball. She was already wearing her mask.
"I'll think about going to the ball or not." He said.
"Ah come on Eren. Live a little. You need to have fun once in your lifetime. You dance or flirt with some pretty girl at the ball. Maybe take Belia with you. I heard you two have been very familiar with each other alone." Zeke grinned.
The dark hair titan holder scoffed when he mentioned Belia. He will have a talk to her. This was all a misunderstanding. If Natasha hears any of these rumors, his chance with her will be over. That's something he can't allow. He won't let anyone come between him and her and their unborn child.
He pushed himself off from the wall. "Is that all you wanted to talk about?"
Zeke noticed how his brother got irritated when he mentioned Belia. What Eren doesn't know? He had spied on him and the handmaiden girl, Eveline Potts. It makes all sense how Eren behaves around her. His eyes were full of love and compassion. Something he had never seen his little brother act. This had worried him since there's a chance his brother might not go with their plan. There's two alternative plans both Zeke and Yelena could do. Either offer Eren to let his child born if he continues the plan or cause an accidental death of Eveline Potts. Something Levi's words had sunk in his mind. His little brother is a hot blooded man and he did spend so much time with Eveline, but he also spent time with Belia. Maybe he should ask Yelena to check if Belia is not with a child too. Zeke will only let one child from his brother exist.
"Yes, we are done here. You can go now. Oh, if you do have fun tonight make sure you are extremely careful. You don't want to end up having some poor bastard child born into this hateful world." He said.
This made Eren's hand shaken on the doorknob. He was now suspicious what his older brother meant by that? Maybe it was nothing since he had once slept with Belia many times. Yeah, that's what Zeke meant.
"Don't worry about that. I am careful." Eren opened the door then walked out. He shut the door. He was panicking inside. Does Zeke find out about Natasha and the baby? Damn it. He should have made Natasha leave with Rick, Levi, and Reggie. Fuck what Rico and the others will say. His growing family's safety is his main priority. Guess he'll be going to the ball to talk to her about leaving the palace.
When Eren reached his room, he saw a suit already laid out for him to wear. Next to it was a mask for the ball. He sighed then began to get ready for the ball.
(Eve/Natasha)
Earlier that night as the ball had just begun, Eve finished getting ready as she put on the emerald earring studs her grandmother let her borrow for the night. For the final touch she slipped the ring that Eren proposed to her. His mother's ring was perfect for the dress she was wearing. It's too controversial, but the Templars wanted to bring a modern lifestyle to this island. Let's see if the crowds are ready for her entrance. Natasha is a Stark and the Starks are the center of the attention. Tonight, she is the late Tony Stark's granddaughter.
After being ready, she went to Historia's chamber, who gasped seeing how beautiful Eve looked. Eve blushed from receiving praises from her own grandmother. Of course, Eve complimented Historia's gown. She looked like a queen in her own rights.
"Are you ready, your majesty?" Eve said. Historia gave a smile and nodded.
"I am. Let's leave. The guests should arrive by now." The blonde woman came out of her bedroom and saw a few of her ladies chatting excitedly about the ball. One of them was Belia who happened to be a Jaegerist. What Natasha researched on Belia? She is the daughter of some lord and a mistress who's related to Floch. Basically, both Belia and Floch are cousins. That woman had given Eve hateful glares. It doesn't bother the female Ackerman, but it all makes sense how they resemble each other.
At the moment, Eve ignores her and focuses on the queen. The queen was in lead. Eve was almost next to her but a few inches behind her the rest of the ladies were behind Eve. She won't be surprised if they all were offended in why the queen allowed a handmaiden in front of them who are noble blood. Eve may have royal blood but this time era no one knows beside Eren. By the time, they all entered the ballroom. People made eye contact with them, especially when the queen had arrived at the scene. The guests praised the queen on how beautiful and elegant she looks tonight. The brunette could hear the noble ladies were giggling and enjoying the attention they are also getting. Natasha was walking like the ballroom floor was the runaway. She may not have been a model but she was a fast learner whenever she had attended a Fashion show with her nana long ago.
The queen began to greet the guests along with this guy Gilbert. Eve was quiet waiting patiently for the queen to be finished greeting. Meanwhile, she observed the crowd. She spotted Eren all the way at the hallways before entering the ballroom. He's probably busy dealing with whatever a Jaegerist does. Finally, the greeting was over and Historia gave her ladies including her a dismissal for them to enjoy the event.
Now, Eve goes to find her friend and his girlfriend. They were supposed to be here by now. As she was browsing through the crowds, some men had their eye on her. She can see the way they look at her like she's some prize to possess. Eve noticed she was not the only one wearing a controversial outfit. Oh god, she hopes they don't come towards her to ask for a dance. Just when luck was not on her side, a man approached her with confidence while sipping a glass of champagne. Wonderful. She is craving for a glass or more of champagne.
"Hello you, majestic beauty. I haven't seen you before. Shall I be your first to dance?" He smirked. The pregnant woman was about to reject the man but a certain obnoxious woman decided to step in for her.
"Yes, she would love to dance with you, my lord." Belia pushed her towards the nobleman which he caught her from falling. Eve can feel his hands on her waist. The heiress glared at the other woman who had a smirk.
The man dragged her to the dance floor. Eve observed how the people are dancing. It looks like waltz so she positioned herself to dance. His hand gripped on her hip which he was supposed to place it on her back. She glared at the man.
"Hey you're supposed to have your hand here." She removed his hand from her hip to place it on her back.
"I do apologies, my lady. It seems my hand has a mind of its own." He grinned.
"Huh right." She rolled her eyes but started to waltz around the dance floor. The music was playing as she danced with this stranger.
While she was dancing, partners were switched to the nearest pair. Eve was dancing to another stranger then once again she was switched.
"Ms. Potts, what a delight to see you here?!" Zeke smiled as he led the dance.
"Oh hello Mr. Jaeger. Yes, I finally decided to come to the ball." She said.
"I'm glad you decided to come. You look beautiful like a butterfly. I'm sure you have already got some suitors wanting to dance with you." He smirked. Zeke noticed her gown was revealed on both her legs and shoulders. Even he can't help how irresistible she looks tonight. His brother has a good taste. It's a shame. She's taken by his little brother. The way her dress was tight around her body, it seems she isn't showing yet of her pregnancy.
"Thank you and you look handsome as a bird?" Eve couldn't tell what kind of mask Zeke was wearing.
"It's a peacock." Zeke said.
"Ohhh I see now because of the feathers." She said.
"Miss Potts, I've always been curious about where you're from?" Zeke wanted to fish for as much information from her.
"Where I'm from?" This caught her off guard. "I'm from Trost District. I'm curious why this interests you?" She felt a bit suspicious on why Zeke wanted to know where she's from.
"It's the way you behave towards people. It's not how a native of this island acts. I know you're not from Marley or other nations where Eldians are being segregated." Zeke said.
"And where do you assume where I'm from, Mr. Jaeger?" Her brow raised up as she suspected where this would lead.
Just when he was about to answer, Floch interrupted their conversation. "Zeke, you don't mind if I steal this gorgeous creature?"
"No, you can dance with her." Zeke said, feeling disappointment their conversation was interrupted. He let go of Eve and bow to end their dance. "It was a pleasure to dance with you. Miss Potts." Zeke left her with Floch which she was not pleased being alone with this creep.
Floch already grabbed her hand and placed his on her lower back close to her bottom. He led the dance as a different song was playing. It was a bit faster to waltz.
"What do you want now, pig?" She hiss at him.
"I suggest you don't make a scene. You'll embarrass yourself in front of this stuck up rich and noble people." Floch glared.
"Apparently kicking your ass once wasn't enough for you to leave me alone." She cynically responded.
"Listen bitch. It wouldn't get to that point that night if you give in. I would have made you crave my touch." He leaned in to whisper seductively.
This guy doesn't have any self respect or to anyone if he thinks she'll just let him do whatever he pleases. "You're full of yourself if you believe I'll beg for you to fuck me? Why are you so stubborn to want me? There are other ladies who gossip in wanting to get fucked by you." She scowled.
"Because you're the mysterious woman every man in this palace wants to have. I will be the first to have that taste before any other man. Beside, that dress; you're making it difficult not to ignore you." Floch's eyes stared up and down slowly. She felt he was undressing her with his eyes. How repulsive he was to her?
"I'm not some sex object for you to keep being persistent like a child who doesn't get what he wants." She was about to free herself when a familiar voice cut in.
"Floch, you heard the woman. She has no interest in you." Eren placed his hand on Floch's shoulder which the red haired man flinched cowardly.
"Fuck off, Eren. She just hasn't been with a real man." Floch tries to be brave and not let Eren take this woman too.
Eren ignored Floch's hostility as he preferred to give his attention to Natasha. "Eveline, may I have this dance?"
She gave a warm smile to her lover. Yes, she may be mad at his actions from a week ago but seeing him here may her heart beat fast. He always has a way to make her melt and he doesn't try to do anything.
"Yes, you may have a dance with me, Eren." To free herself from Floch's grip, she stomped his foot a bit hard to cause him hiss from pain. He let her go and Eren grabbed her hand to pull her away from him.
Both couples left Floch alone as they headed away. Eve sighed in relief. "Thank you for saving me from not kicking his ass again." She said.
"Again? He- oh it was you who gave him those bruises? What did he do to you?" Eren realized she was the woman who caused Floch pain for a week.
"Let's not talk about it. We're at a ball. Let's enjoy ourselves tonight, my love?" She doesn't want a fight to break out if Eren finds out what Floch had tried to do with her that week ago.
Of course, Eren sensed she was deflecting his question and became insistent. "Babe, tell me what did he do to you? Did he try to hit on you?" Eren's tone was getting a bit aggressive yet it was low enough for only them to have a private conversation.
"Eren, please can we talk about it after tonight? I promise I will tell you, tomorrow. I know you will cause a scene and fight him which the ball will be ruined." Eve pleaded with him.
Eren scoffed annoyingly but accepted her plea. "Fine, but tomorrow promise you will tell me then I will happily kick his ass."
She rolled her eyes. "Oh my hero." Her tone was sarcastic.
He smirked and leaned into her ear. "I can be more than just your hero. " His tone was husky. Eve felt her body getting warm from how it reacted from his tone.
Damn it her pregnancy hormones are acting up. She had read it's possible that pregnancies can cause sex drive but randomly. She took a better look at what he was wearing. He wasn't wearing a suit like other men were wearing tonight.
"Why aren't you wearing a suit?" She asked.
"Oh, Zeke or Yelena had chosen an outfit for me but I used a black dress shirt that I bought earlier and a black dress pants. I picked the devil mask cause it represented me." He said.
She does see the horns from his mask. He does look like the devil which it made more difficult for Natasha not to make it obvious she desires him right now. They danced the fun happy music until it's over.
The group on the dancefloor clapped. Eren noticed the ring Eve was wearing on her finger. He gently grabbed her hand and smiled. "I'm happy that you're wearing my mother's ring. You make it look beautiful. And your dress. You love making people eye on you huh?" He teased her.
"It goes with the earrings. That's why I'm wearing it tonight." Eve said. She was trying not to give him ideas of him being forgiven. Her fingers playing with the ring on her other finger. This jewel had gone through so much and yet it still looks good as new.
Eren couldn't help himself to brush a strand of hair from her elegant loose lower bun hairstyle. He carefully observes every detail of her.
"What are you thinking, my love?" he whispered to her.
"I am thinking of wanting a glass of champagne." Her lips pouted when her steel eyes glanced at a waiter carrying a tray of glasses of champagne. Eren chuckled how adorable she looks.
"You know you're not allowed to. It's bad for the baby." He still whispered. She groaned and rested her head on his chest.
"It would be simple if I feel repulsive like most of the foods I eat. Seriously, your kid doesn't let me enjoy meals without throwing up." Eve peeked up at Eren.
"You should tell the kitchen staff to serve you mashed potatoes with lemon water. It will help the food go down to your stomach and the water will stop the nausea whenever you eat." Eren said.
Eve was amazed how Eren knew this vile information. "Where do you learn from?"
"Remember my dad was a doctor? Sometimes as a kid I used to go with him to see his patients including Mikasa's mother when she was pregnant." He explained.
"Oh right. Hmm, would you be a doctor if you didn't choose to be a soldier to fight the titans?" In the background, a new song was playing to dance slowly which both pairs danced together. Eren held her hand to spun her gracefully. Once she spun, Eren pulled her against his body.
"Probably or I might be a military doctor instead." He admired the way her dress flowed when she spun around.
"But instead you chose to fight alongside." Natasha said. Eren nodded. Both remained quiet as they danced.
"Wait for me here. I have a request to make to the musicians." Eren whispered to her ear. She nodded but was curious what kind of request he would ask of them.
Eren let go of her then walked away from the dance floor. Eve was alone as others around her danced to the soft music. At first it felt awkward standing around alone until the music had changed to a melody that it sounds familiar but doesn't remember where she had heard this song. It felt time had stopped and only saw Eren walking towards the dance floor. She noticed the dance floor was empty. Her thoughts wonder how she is going to dance this song which sounds medieval only a touch modern.
"What song did you tell them to play?" Eve asked him.
"Volta." He said.
Natasha didn't know how she knew the dance moves to Volta but her legs began to carry her away. She danced around him in a way seducing her partner to dance with her. His emerald eyes focus on her. Once she made a few dance steps around him, he bowed mockly. Natasha smirk then curtsy to him. Her arm reached out for Eren to grab on. Natasha moved towards him but stopped as she held his arm. She slid her hand down to his hand. The heiress let go of his hand to dance around him but much closer.
Eren could feel her warm alluring presence as his eyes watched her like a predator. Her dress flows from the twirls. Her legs exposed as she showed her dancing skill. In his eyes, he was looking at the temptress that seduced him from his once destiny to cause chaos to save humanity and his people. Eve was charismatic and mysterious which had intrigue some of the men in the palace. That irritated Eren by listening to them talking about his woman. Then his train of thoughts were interrupted as he felt Eve's hand clap on to his front throat. She squeezed it but stroked up to his chin and held on to his jaw while her silver eyes gave off her seductive stare. Oh he knew what she wanted from him. Both could feel their lips hover teasingly.
They can feel the desire and passion for each other as their dance turned into a battlefield of sexual tension. If it was possible, Eren would take her right here on the dance floor. He took a few steps forward making her take a few steps back. Their sights on each other haven't broken once. The music begins to pick up the beat a bit fast. They may not hear the crowd excitedly watching them dancing, but they were aware of how their dance will give them something to talk about after the ball.
Eren held her hand to spin her around then stopped her while her back was facing him. In the crowd, few faces watched with different expressions. Historia smirked with joy as she knew who was the person behind the devil mask dancing with her handmaiden. Zeke and Yelena had neutral expressions. On the other hand, Floch was making a distasteful expression. It didn't take rocket science to know both Eren and Eve have a strong chemistry for each other. The red haired man glanced at his cousin who had a dark look. Belia understood why Eren had not given her divine attention. All this time he had someone and it was this lowly handmaiden. How dare this lowly harlot took what belongs to her. Just when Belia was thinking about the truth of these two, she noticed Eve made eye contact with her and gave a victory smirk.
Belia's mood became sour as she quickly snatched a glass of champagne from a waitress and gulped down furiously. It looks like war had been declared between her and Eve. The noble woman didn't bother to stay until the dance ended.
Natasha was pulled to have her back pressed onto Eren's body as his hands moved to grope her breasts then slid down to her hips. She turned around to face him and took a few steps back to walk fast towards him and hop. Eren lifted her to have her legs wrapped around his waist while he spun both of them around. He places her down but holds on to her arm when both spin together again. He made her spin towards her to latch his hands onto her waist. Natasha could feel his warm breath on her ear which makes it hard to stay composed. She heard him whisper something huskily but her trance of euphoria prevented her from understanding what he said. Whatever he said, she instantly nodded. Once again he lifts her up but a bit higher and spins around. Eve was lifted up in a lying position until he let her down. Her hand movement was elegant and graceful and she was placed down. Both intertwined their arms to have their hand pressed together while spinning slow. Carefully, his arm snaked around her waist as she leaned back to arch her body. He let his fingers to caresses from her neck down to her breasts. Finally, one last turn to Eve facing away from him but their bodies pressed each other. Her face was tilted away while regaining her breath from their intense dance. As the music stopped, the crowd applauded and cheered for them for the entertainment they provided. Their trance was broken when reality abrupted their own world. Both pulled away from each other and smiled at the crowd.
Eve leaned to him to whisper. "Meet me outside by the hall that's connected to the royal garden." Just like that the Eldian-American left Eren alone. He gave her a smirk and waited until she disappeared from his view. Once a few minutes passed, the titan holder make way to meet his lady.
(Eren)
The night sky was clear with stars twinkling. The weather was cool. Eren walked through the open hallway outside of the palace. He saw her leaning against the big pillar by the edge of the garden. The emerald eyes man walked towards his lover. She was still wearing her mask. Eren lifted up her mask to see her face completely.
"You took a little long." Eve said while she pulled him to her. Her lips crashed against his to passionately kiss him. In response to her aggressiveness, he pinned her to the hard surface pillar. His hand groped her thigh to lift up and place on his hip. Both lovers breathe heavy from the fiery intensity for each other. His fingers brushes on her exposing thigh then down to her leg and up back to the thigh. Eve let out an erotic moan. Eren smirks from her reaction.
He breaks away from their kiss to sloppy kiss down on her neck to the valley of her breasts. He noticed her breasts looked bigger than what he remembered. His hand pulled down the top of her dress to have her breasts free. Eren cupped one of them to greedily latch on to her nipple and suckling. Eve's eyes widen while whimpering from how sensitive her nipples are from the changes of her pregnant body. It may hurt but the adrenaline and lust she felt turned into pleasure. Her hand stroked his dark brown hair then gripped harshly the move he sucked and pulled her nipples.
"E-eren, which room is the closest?" She tried to form a sentence as her moans were increasing.
"Mmmm my room is not that far from here." His voice became raspy.
"Take me there." She mewls when his finger makes way where her wet core is.
Eren chuckled how demanding she was being when she was at his mercy. "What's wrong here? The night sky looks perfect for a passionate love making." Just like the devil, he encouraged her to give in right here. His finger circles her clitoris teasingly. He could feel the amount of slick she produced. She was probably wet when they were dancing the Volta. He let his thumb attend to her clit while his two fingers entered into her hole to finger in a slow teasing pace. Natasha closed her eyes as she took in the pleasure he was giving. Her hips buck to rock against his fingers.
"Dollface, if you can contain yourself while I taste you, we'll go to my room to resume our fortification." He said then Eren pulled his fingers out to suck on them. She never disappoints him with how delicious she tastes.
He kneel down to the ground and place her leg on his shoulder. Her back leaned comfortably as her eyes gazed down to watch him lifting the hem of the dress. She bit down her lips when his tongue stroked her core. Subconsciously, her hand gripped and pulled his hair while he feast between her legs. This will be harder than she expected for her not making any noises. He continues to ravish her until a wave of oragam rush into her. A small whimper escaped from her lips which Eren pulled away from her core then got up to take a look at his work. Her face was flushed while her chest rose up and down from regaining her breath. Her hair came undone. He felt satisfied in leaving her like this. His hands help pull down her dress. He helped tucked her breasts back into the top of her dress.
"Can you walk to my room?" He gave her a grin.
She glared playfully then smirked. "Of course I can."
WIth that both quickly walked to Eren's room to finish off what they had started.
(Alexander)
He picked up his phone while it rang. Once the phone was answered, a breathless man began to speak.
"Sir, Subject 18 had escaped." The Grandmaster frowned at this news.
"How did you let that happen? Your job was to make sure Subject 18 was locked with tight security. You have failed me. I will immediately take a leave back to Paradis. Once I arrive, you better find the culprit who let him escape." His tone was dark as this news had ruined a perfect day in his villa home in Italy. Alexander hung up and sipped his wine trying to calm down. He will need another descendant to complete data if they can't find Levi to bring him back. If his theory was true, the Eve had led the revolution to free humanity. With her memories, he could find a particular item to dominate the world.
A/N: If you guys needed an idea how the volta dance looks like, I use the one in The Tudors where Anne and Henry danced together in a small gathering. You can find it on youtube. Other than that, enjoy this chapter.