Chapter Summary:

It's devastating that one day you could feel renewed hope and the next day when the sun rises once more, you realize that everything was an unbreakable facade after all.

The Toro-Nagashi ritual by the Amatsukaze's crew helps Mikasa find her inner peace as she prays for the peaceful passing of her loved ones. However, Reiner's haunting thoughts and auditory delusions of his dead brothers-in-arms are gradually ebbing away at his psychological stability.

A/N: First and foremost, a belated HAPPY NEW YEAR 2021 to everyone! My bad, it's February... *nervous laugh* May this new year bring about more positive energy, motivation, better health, success and joy to all my shooting stars a.k.a beloved readers. Thank you for the love and the constant motivation that drove me to hit my first milestone in writing: 100k words! It's unbelievable to see how many hearts "As You Are" managed to touch ever since it was first published in 2018. I am very aware that quite a lot of that amount came from repeat readers.

Thank you so much for your continuous love!

For those who are curious, AYA's only wrapping up 1 out of 3 arcs. AYA is my treasured baby, a ReiKasa chronicle that I'd love taking my time exploring on top of my other AUs. Even if the series ends in April, AYA's universe will continue to expand for my readers to come back to from time to time to enjoy 3

I've written a one-shot entitled "Maria", which can also be read as the prequel to AYA's story. It features Reiner & Mikasa's first time meeting in Liberio before the assault on Marley takes place. Do check it out if you haven't! It provides another reason to do more repeat reading because AYA has been polished to add several small details & to improvise the established connection between "Maria" and "As You Are" ever since.

Next stop, a super shout-out to my beautiful readers, Astarte celeste, evabrennan NikkiKwon and angelmex who had left kind comments in the previous chapter. A heartfelt gratitude is in order as well for my readers who have taken the time to drop in ultra sweet Asks & DMs on my Tumblr page. You guys are amazing! (I hope you guys have enjoyed my crack posts haha)

I love you guys very much. Thank you for your support! 3

I have written some sexy headcanons (available here) based on AYA's universe if you'd like to read more with some fic spoilers. I might post a ficlet on my blog that details the extended 'shower scene' too ;) Not forgetting, an updated 2-part Reiner & Mikasa's character and ship appreciation post on Tumblr. Do check the updated post for your reading pleasure!

Content note: Heavy Reading. Rhythmic muse: Still Alive by Lisa Miskovsky and Earned It by Kurt Hugo Schneider, Kina Grannis and MAX. Reintroducing ArminxAnnie as an active couple in AYA and the early hints of JeanxPieck. The Toro-Nagashi ritual is simplified for this fic and focuses more on its purpose than the more intricate details of its execution.

Helpful terminologies:

Geta - Japanese wooden clogs, footwear

Kannushi - Priest, Clergyman;

Mukaebi - welcoming fire;

Mikoshi - portable shrine(s);

Mizugami / Suijin - Shinto Water God;

Monpuku - Crested hakama;

Ohime-sama / Ōjo - A title of respect used when addressing or referring to a princess or noblewoman. Ōjo is for a more familial endearment;

Okaerinasai - a welcoming greet, 'Welcome home';

Tadaima - I'm home;

Tsukuyomi - Shinto Moon God;

Tsumami Kanzashi - A set of traditional Japanese hair ornaments;

Toro - Traditional candle-lit lanterns;

Washi - Traditional Japanese glassine paper;

As You Are

Chapter Thirteen

Concrete Heart

You have changed, I have changed, just like you,

For how long, must I wait, I know there's something wrong.

Your concrete heart isn't beating and I've tried to make it come alive.

No shadows, just red light.

Now I'm here to rescue you.

Survey Corps New Headquarters

Trost, Paradis

He walked slowly into the holding quarters area, located at the lower level of the building, carrying with him a tray of full course meal made specifically by a hired military cook from Marley. It was an early dinner for the occupant inside the room in the more private wing; usually reserved for higher officials or guests. The guards stationed at the main gated entrance leading into the wing immediately formed a steadfast position, offering their salutes the moment he saw him approaching.

He nodded in acknowledgment and asked, "Good day. Has everything been in order?"

"Yes, Sir. Nothing out of the ordinary," replied the first guard, followed by a nod from his lanky partner. The latter even added, "We'd like to offer our congratulations on your fresh promotion, Sir or is it too early to call you Commander Arlert?"

Armin almost did a double take, the tray nearly jumped off his hands due to the abrupt impact. "Wait-what-how did you both know about this? I just spoke to Commander Zoë about 2 hours ago?"

The first guard chuckled, rubbing the back of his bald head sheepishly. "Madam Zoë had been screaming from her office windows, saying her goodbyes and telling the whole division that you're in charge now and mentioned something about helping Captain Ackerman with nappy-changing duties."

The former Colossal holder shook his head in disbelief at the humorous and flamboyant way their Commander announced her resignation, just like she would with her entrance - nonchalant, a lot of guts and loud . That's Hange-san for you. He looked back at the two guards and gestured his head towards the direction of the living quarters.

The taller guard shook his head. "I've tried knocking to just check in and see if she requires anything from time to time since we last saw you during our midday break. She was just...quiet."

The first guard chimed in, "Would you like us to comewith, Commander? In case you might need any back-up?"

"Rufus, no." His partner hushed him, in fear that it would cause discomfort to their now highest superior in the division.

Armin shook his head. "It's alright. Thank you, but we'll be fine." He understood the obstinate fear the common folks or regular soldiers would still have for the young woman who's currently making the private wing her permanent residence. Ever since the day the partial Rumbling had been triggered in Shinganshina. These people are terrified of the Female Titan holder who had been responsible for the major destruction inside Wall Sina, which included unsuspecting civilians gathered inside the Church of the Walls.

But he knew this woman. Behind that icy facade, she still had that existing goodness in her heart. The heart that still loves her father unconditionally.

"Now that I'm here, I'll relieve you both from your posts. I'll be staying until the next shift reports in for duty in two hours."

Both soldiers saluted in respect to the man who, today, had just made history as the youngest military commander in the Island at just the tender age of nineteen. "Thank you, Sir."

"Of course, you deserved the much needed privacy to celebrate."

"Rufus. Shut the fuck up. Mind your own business." The shorter guard smacked the back of his partner's head, causing the latter to yelp in pain.

Armin cleared his throat in embarrassment yet waited patiently until both men had disbursed and only then he stepped forward and deeper into the wing, stopping short by two feet away in front of the wooden door. The same door that had been witnessing his frequent visits and the many tireless verbal arguments that had taken place behind it with every visit he made. One of the many reasons he'd prefer to relieve the guards every time he comes by: privacy from listening ears to any classified information that might have been uttered in the spur of another episodic heated banter. Definitely not because of what the guards implied much earlier.

He knocked once and waited with eased breathing.

Silence. Not even the sound of a footstep or the rustling of any movements could be heard as a response.

Armin couldn't help but feel a low wave of panic from overwhelming his senses and hurriedly pressed the handle down, immediately pushing the door open. He calmly exhaled a sigh of relief as soon as his eyes caught sight of the former shifter's figure on the Queen-sized bed, seemingly deep in her slumber.

At least, she's resting. Armin knew that Annie hasn't been sleeping well at night ever since she was released from her own self-imposed crystal containment a few days ago. Who would be when you're suspended in between consciousness for four years in solitude? It would've driven anyone absolutely insane.

That was why he'd persuaded Hange-san to request a transfer of their current 'guest' into the more private wing of the Survey Corps' new building. Away from judgmental, untrustworthy eyes. No one would understand her situation better but the officers directly involved with the newly-formed alliance. Even the guards selected for the wing's security details from the Military Police division had been vetted out by Hange-san herself.

He quietly moved across the room, completely mindful of any noise that might stir the sleeping woman awake and placed the tray on the side table adjacent to the bed. Next to the tray of lunch that he had brought hours earlier. Still untouched.

Armin heaved out a long sigh. It was just as he'd expected.

She was starving herself on purpose.

He adjusted his formal overcoat, straightening out the creases on its fabric before taking a seat on the empty side of the bed. He took in the peaceful sleeping face, that would otherwise be a stoic canvas of coldness when the owner's awake. In the late afternoon sun, Armin could perceive the dried up tear marks on her pale face. A heavy dread harbored in his chest; she'd been crying again and she waited when no one else was in the room. It was truly obvious that she didn't take the news of the Council's decision very well, especially pertaining to her fate.

From one imprisonment to another.

Even the hypocritical irony of the end verdict decided by the Council had been sorely apparent the moment they announced the Pillars two days ago.

It feels, indeed, no different that they've only ever exchanged custody of their respective 'prisoners' - Mikasa goes to Marley and Annie remains in Paradis. The only difference was that Marley and Hizuru had mollified the status of his childhood friend to a respected bride and provisionary regent; future mother to the unborn crown prince of Hizuru - who'd sooner be a living evidence of their alliance's success in uniting the two nations and in the next twenty years: three. Sacrifices have been made and will be made even by the next generation to secure and reinforce their new beginnings.

This truce must be honored by all mankind, regardless of who they are; royals, nobles, common folk, Eldian, non-Eldian. Everyone has their respective roles and commitment to be carried out to secure the success of this global unity. No matter how painful or difficult it would be - more to some than most.

His gaze, forlorn, landed on the young woman's face. He understood that it hasn't been easy for her. He just wanted to make this arrangement less difficult than it already was. His fingers tried to sweep aside the flaxen hair covering one half of her face but her hand grabbed his wrist tight in reflex.

Bright blue eyes opened, staring sharply back at him. "What do you think you're doing?"

"An-annie! I wasn't trying to do anything. Your hair, it's just - oh, never mind. I'm sorry if I woke you up."

The young woman pushed her body up, brushing the sleepiness in her eyes away and reclined against the wooden headboard, completely unaware that the hooded shift's strings had been slightly undone and now displaying more of her pale skin than necessary.

Armin's inexperienced eyes blinked nervously in response, yet he sooner averted his vision before she noticed that he'd been inclined to stare at her, much longer than he should respectfully be.

"What time is it? Five?" She peered out of the open windows and tried to guess the time just by looking at the sun's position.

"Uhh…." Armin nodded his head, "Close to five." He looked back at the untouched lunch tray on the side table. "Why didn't you eat anything at all? Was the bread stale? The gravy, salty?"

Annie rested her head on her folded knees as she too, sent a dispassionate look at the same item Armin was eyeing. "I don't feel like eating."

"But your body needs sustenance, Annie. You need to recover your strength."

She snapped back, "Strength for what? To escape? Or fight my way out of this building? I have no more shifting abilities and I can't even go anywhere!"

Armin adjusted his sitting position and turned to his side so he was now facing the young woman directly. "For now. But once things have been sorted out and we can secure a better arrangement for you, you would have more movement and breathing space. That, I can promise you. Just hold on for a little bit longer, Annie."

Annie closed her eyes in frustration. "I just want to go home and see my father."

He pulled one of her hands into his to offer even a small amount of comfort. "We can't grant you the first request but we are absolutely arranging for the second one to be fulfilled. We can't send you back to Marley but we can bring your father here. I'm making sure that it happens as soon as possible. I'm keeping constant communication with both Reiner and Mikasa on this. As a matter of fact, since I just became Commander of the Survey Corps today, I can foresee this promotion to give us more advantage to expedite that process for you."

It didn't escape her observation that Armin had indeed used the word ' us ' in his reassurance. As if they're a unit. As if there's a them . Like Reiner and Mikasa. How did that happen? "I don't get why Reiner is exempted from this and gets to be back home with Mikasa as his fucking wife? Is everyone insane? He'll treat Mikasa like shit. You have no idea what is going wrong in his head but he'll hurt her."

"Annie, calm down." He squeezed the hand in his hold reassuringly.

"You remember Marco right? It only takes a split second for Reiner to flip - today, tomorrow, the next week - and he won't remember he actually did it. He'll hurt her. If not now, eventually and he won't ever remember why or how he did it. I'm not Mikasa's friend but no one deserves to be in that kind of hell." There was a short pause in her words as she shook her head with a bitter laugh. "The Hizuru higher-ups should've chosen Galliard instead. No offense. I hate both of them but though Galliard's a prick, he's the lesser evil, less manipulative between the two. Mikasa could handle pride better than whatever Reiner is."

Armin drew in a long breath. Oh boy….here we go again. "If what you said is true, Reiner seemed to be a changed man and Mikasa has grown a lot herself. No one's perfect, Annie but the whole point of being together is to make it work even if it could possibly hurt you at times. We can't judge their relations and how they'll make it work. How wrong could it be if they can set aside their existing differences for a future together? Why can't we do the same thing?"

"Why? Hold on, what do you mean usdoing the same thing? Is this why you're being this nice to me? Doing things for me?"

His eyes blinked back in confusion at her sudden questioning. "Huh? I'm doing this for you because I want to."

She pulled the hand that was in his hold harshly. "No one does something without expecting anything in return."

"I-I just want to see you happy."

"WHY?" She lunged at him, dissatisfied of his answer and her sudden aggression caught him off guard, sending his body straight onto the floor. He took in a really deep breath as he looked up and noticed that Annie was now straddling him, her pale thighs - barely hidden by the long shift she was wearing - locking tight against his waist with a strong force. Her hands grabbed his wrist and pressed them flat against the carpeted surface. Firm and unyielding.

Armin gulped, there was no way Annie would hurt him. Even if she was trying to, she'd have no idea how her attempts are affecting him in a much different way. Ever since her release from the crystal, this had been the first time they've been in close proximity and he wasn't sure whether Annie realized that he'd actually have more physical advantage that came along with his growth over the years. Yet, he wouldn't want to use that advantage over her because he really hoped that she'd remember that he'd always been someone she could learn to trust. Even from years ago.

"Armin, why?" She pressed him for answers again, her hips ground dangerously against his.

"Because I care about you!"

She shook her head furiously, the tresses of her hair flailing wildly against her shoulders. "I don't believe you."

"Annie, please just get off." Shit . He's not supposed to be turned on in an otherwise intense situation but it could possibly flew over her head that he was no longer a fifteen year old boy on the brink of puberty. He's a grown young man with untapped needs. Needs that he'd never once found himself succumbing to in the past four years. Needs that would sooner be taking over his physical control if Annie doesn't stop her grinding anytime soon and she'll hate him for what his own anatomy and hormones couldn't entirely control upon forced stimulation. "Please. Stop moving." This will be too awkward too fast.

"Be honest!"

"That's the truth. Is it so hard for you to accept that someone like me or Hitch could genuinely care about you?! And for the love of God please stop squirming before I get a-"

Annie choked the moment she felt something hard and stiff prodded her derriere.

"-Fuck." Armin sighed, hitting his head on the floor several times, punishing himself for his own body's failure to contain itself. He respectfully grabbed her shoulders and pushed her body up, being absolutely mindful not to let any parts of his body to graze her ever again.

Annie's eyes widened, appalled at the sudden situation they had found themselves in and she quickly climbed the bed to place herself on the other side of the crib all while her eyes were still fixated on the younger man. "So what? Am I a kept woman now, Armin? You do all these things just so you could fuck me?"

"WHAT? I've been nothing but understanding of your situation, Annie. I know how it must've hurt you the most to be stuck here but we've been trying our damndest best to ensure that nothing could be worse for you. Even Hange-san is trying to help you. You are not alone. I lo - care about you, Annie."

Annie's voice went a note higher. "So what the hell is that ?" A finger pointed accusingly at his lower regions.

The Shinganshina native let out a dejected sigh for the umpteenth time of the day. "I grew up just like everybody else, Annie. I tried asking you to stop. I'm just not that boy anymore. I really don't know if you obviously can't see it or refuse to see it." He pushed himself up off the floor and adjusted his overcoat to hide the source of his embarrassment before sharing the last piece of his mind to the former female shifter. "Annie, right now, I'm your best chance of seeing your father again. At the very least, if you can't be nice to me, please don't treat me like I'm your enemy anymore. And please, try to finish half of the dinner I brought you. I made sure that they made your favorite dish from Marley." Armin breathed out much too hard that he could feel his chest aching apart from the pang of guilt for his earlier blunder. "I-I just think it would be nice for you to have a taste from home. I'll send Hitch to check in with you in the next hour."

He immediately made his way to the door, ever planning to stand vigil at the guards' post, and closed it behind him without so much as a glance at the woman now sitting all alone inside the room, nor even waited for her response. Annie wrapped her arms around her body, the fragrant nostalgic scent from the piping hot meal only brought a stinging sensation from her nose and all the way to her eyes. The reminiscence only caused her longing to manifest themselves in another wave of warm tears running down her cheeks.

It was the same meal that her Papa used to make after a long day of training.

She was always a loner most of her life but this loneliness…..it's slowly killing her from the inside. And she thought being in the crystal was nightmare enough.

Meanwhile, Armin still couldn't shake Annie's earlier words from resonating inside his head, lingering with a poignant residue in his guts. He made a mental note to arrange an earlier visit to Marley to check in on the newlyweds on top of tracking down Annie's father. Mikasa has always been his sister and he'd just wanted to be sure that she is safe and well amongst their former enemies turned ally.

He'd believed that Reiner wasn't who he used to be, but he couldn't push aside the ominous feeling in his gut as Annie's earlier forewarnings lingered at the back of his mind.


Amatsukaze en route to Marley

Main Seas

"Are you guys sparring again? In the bathroom, really?" came the suspicious inquiry from none other than the spunky twelve-year-old Gabi Braun, the moment they caught the newlyweds walking out of the door of the small latrine. Said door, which appeared to be almost loosened from its hinges, had became the sole witness to whatever the young couple had been doing as they appeared looking extremely flushed, uncomfortably sweaty and seemed to have been inside a disaster zone rather than a small two by two washroom; which was obviously meant to fit only one person at a time. Their close proximity and the hands that were obviously intertwined before being released promptly just as the door was opened, couldn't be more apparent signs of their latest 'escapade'.

"What?" asked her older cousin in return, while sneaking a sly look at his younger bride. "We needed to 'talk' somewhere more private." Said bride held her cool composure as usual despite herself still trying to regulate her breathing, neither agreeing or disagreeing with the former shifter's words.

"Reiner, you're disgusting," chided the little girl again, causing Akane and Colt, whose faces were already drawing similar shades of red to almost break out into an untimely laughter despite the handmaiden's attempt to hold the younger girl down. While the poor innocent Falco was lost and clueless of the happenings, his eyes roaming nervously between all the adults in the room.

Reiner decided his young cousin's sassiness needed to be taken down a notch. "Okay, we both got the point, Gabi."

"Oh no, Mikasa's fine. Just you."

"Really, now?" There was without a doubt, a hint of challenge in his tone. Gabi has always been the competitive one in their family. He smirked. But he's the older one. The one who always had to give in growing up. Now, not anymore.

"Yeah."

"That's too bad, Gabi." Because she's mine. The tall, blonde-haired young man then made a very bold move by moving behind the raven-haired woman next to him and wrapped his long, muscular limbs around her torso, to further reinforce his unspoken declaration. The unsubtle action caught her off guard, Mikasa's body instinctively froze at the sudden display of affection, something that she didn't expect Reiner would be as comfortable in expressing in front of the others. She was very sure he'd been aware that she was not one to openly indulge in the same thing as well. The fact that a simple brush of his strong, broad chest against her back and the way his lips were too close to her ear, was almost enough to make her weak in her knees. Again.

Ever since this morning, she had already begun questioning her level of perseverance when it comes to NOT giving in to her carnal needs particularly if it has anything to do with her rather physically persuasive husband, she might say.

The dark-haired girl's cheeks puffed in visible annoyance. "I'm taking Mikasa away from you." She immediately strode forward and pulled the older woman away by the hand, putting in as much distance as she could between them and Reiner.

"You sure she's twelve?" The Hizuru heiress from the Ackerman clan sent a partially amused look back at the blonde-haired military veteran, as she allowed herself to be lugged around by Gabi, to one side of the war room.

"More like a forty year old hag," stated Reiner in a nonchalant, deadpan manner. His smirk, however, betrayed the steely mask on his face.

The little girl jeered at her older cousin, her grip tight on her new in-law's hand. "Shut up, Reiner. Step aside. Mikasa's my favorite cousin now."

"Manners." Mikasa remarked sternly yet with a good-natured intent, obvious with the way she poked the younger girl's cheek with the pointy end of her index finger. The tiny banter reminded her of the way she used to tease Armin when they were younger. It made her miss him; her sworn brother, even more than she'd thought she would.

"Sorry, Mikasa." Gabi shook her head bashfully. "Oh, I want to show you the kimono Akane found for me from the storage. She said I can wear it tonight for the rites." The excitement in the little girl's eyes went straight to her heart, no different than having an arrow aiming directly to her chest, invoking a familiar instinct inside her - a natural inclination to protect and nurture.

Her gray eyes glinted with apparent confusion as she directed her gaze at her handmaiden. "Are we having a special occasion tonight?"

Akane bowed her head down in respect towards the newlyweds, before offering the much-needed explanation. "Yes, milord, milady. Since there was a storm last night, we had to move the prayers to tonight instead seeing that we'll be reaching Marley's coast tomorrow morning. Our designated kannushi will carry out the Toro-Nagashi ritual that we must perform after a battle. This is to help guide those who have passed away to move on safely to the afterlife. We have lost our loved ones, our friends in wars or sickness, the ritual is to help them pass on peacefully if they were to still have any unfinished business here in the world of the living."

Mikasa's gaze immediately landed back on the young girl who's holding tightly at her hand, her thoughts instantaneously being hurled into a deep contemplative state.

Of the sworn sister that she lost and the new one she gained in return, even when the former's life was taken by the latter in her ignorance.

Of the hate that she could have possibly allowed to cloud her heart and poison her judgment.

Of the tremendous love and compassion she had learned to give and received unexpectedly in return.

Of acceptance towards the girl and her cousin - the man whom she'd thought she'd never be able to see again ever since that fateful encounter in front of that patisserie, five days before Eren's retrieval in Liberio. The same man that she'd grown to care for as a friend in the three years of knowing him, that his betrayal cut her and their comrades so deep.

By a surreal twist of fate - the same mysterious man that she'd actually ended up marrying after all. Absolutely unaware that him, her betrothed and the Armored Titan holder has always been the same man all along. Is this a predestination weaved by Izanagi and Izanami themselves? She could only wonder. Love was taken away from her, Love was given in return. She'd lost another family, she'd gain another one in its stead.

Gabi prodded at the older woman's torso using her own index finger, just like how Mikasa did with her cheek earlier. "Are you available right now, Mikasa? I wanted you to come with me and Akane to the storage room at the lower decks. There were a lot of really amazing things inside that room. I saw a bladed fan that you would love! Lord Takeshi mentioned that everything inside that room belongs to your ancestors. How amazing is that?"

Mikasa nodded her head, a gentle smile gracing her lips as her response was immediately welcomed by Gabi's grin. This little girl gets really excited upon seeing any weapons or firearms. She made a mental note to be more careful before divulging the little Warrior trainee further with her peculiar interest.

With a pull from Gabi's smaller hand, Mikasa sent a fleeting gaze back at Reiner, who'd only offered a nod and said, "We'll see you ladies at the dining room later." It also did not escape her observation on how natural was Reiner's gentleness in his interaction with the Grice brothers and the tenderness reflected in the way he ruffled young Falco's head in acknowledgment at something the boy said.

It was a relief to view a smile on the young boy's face, even more so upon knowing that Eren had terrorized the younger Grice brother and took advantage of this boy's kindness in his heartlessness the moment he initiated the ambush at central Liberio.

That boy's smile…. it immediately reminded her of that day in Marley. Falco had been the same boy who had accidentally ran into her and because of him, she had indeed crossed paths with Reiner - the one man who'd be somewhat significant in her life right this very moment.

Little did she realize that there was a hint of a smile reflected on her face upon witnessing such sight and coming to such discernment, which did not go unnoticed by both Gabi and Akane in an exchange of knowing looks between them.

XoXoX

You make it look like it's magic, because I see nobody, nobody but you...

That evening, the skies had been a beautiful spread of dark orange and crimson flares with a single early moon in the far horizons; right above the curtaining sunset line. The melodious chirping of evening birds returning home after a long day of hunting at dusk, brought forth a soothing, peaceful atmosphere. No different than a painted magnificence by the hands of God himself, evoking a feeling of blessedness and tranquility amongst an almost hundred crews of the sea transporter already gathered on the large deck. All, garbed in formal kimonos stood in uniformed rows, facing a palanquin made of woods from blessed trees and joining in the prayers led by a priest dressed in a ceremonial robe. The religious figure could be seen sitting in front of an altar with burning flames just next to the shrine.

Followed by Lord Takeshi and the security personnels assigned for their protection, the moment Reiner stepped out onto the deck from the ship's main entrance, all eyes were instantaneously drawn to him. With an unspoken cue, all of the crew members bowed down in unison, welcoming their presence. With Lord Takeshi's guidance, he returned the gesture before accepting the cleansing offer by the kannushi. He ran his hands, left before right, under the poured water from the wooden ladle and completed his ablution by rinsing his face and mouth.

That evening right after dinner, Reiner was quite surprised to find Lord Takeshi and a security personnel from the Azumabito household already waiting for him inside the main chamber. It also answered the question he had, upon noticing that Colt and Falco had been tailing him from the dining room and both weren't being very discreet about it.

The moment his eyes landed on a pair of dark blue and black montsuki-haori, almost identical to the one that he had worn for his wedding, days earlier, he'd finally understood the gravity of the ritual's significance. This hakama was different that, according to the young admiral, it was his own monpuku, or crested hakama. He could see a small embroidery of the Azumabito family crest etched on the left chest area, with a larger symbol of the three blades on its back - at the same spot as the one inked on Mikasa's skin.

In a way, despite how he felt so undeserving of such honor, he would not let the traditions of the brave and selfless warriors from Hizuru be taken for granted and disrespected in any way.

Despite it being his first time participating in a formal ritual, it has always been ingrained deep within him; a second nature of his to adapt and adjust well to new circumstances or experiences.

No, wait, that was me. You're just an impostor fronting with MY likeness.

He shook off Marcel's deceptive voice inside his head, right at the very second when he heard Lord Takeshi's voice sharing the more elaborate meanings behind the structures already laid out front and centre of the ship's spacious deck. He observed the significance of the gold-lacquered wooden palanquin by sheer vision alone, reaffirmed by his right hand man's words that the mikoshi , is a portable shrine which houses the main deities worshipped by the Azumabito family. It was the smaller version of the large one he'd seen when he was in Hizuru. He could observe a middle-aged man sitting cross-legged in front of the mukaebi, the small burning fire on the moveable altar. His gaze then followed the line of Lord Takeshi's vision when the much older fleet leader provided clarity of the sacred words recited by one of the more senior naval crew who was also their entourage's designated kannushi, a faith leader.

"Hijikata-dono, our ship's priest is offering prayers to appease Izanagi's daughter, Tsukuyomi the Moon goddess and Suijin - the Water god, our Mizugami. Suijin is to bless the waters we are travelling through and He is also the patron saint of fertility, motherhood and childbirth. Quite a number of our soldiers and crew members here have left their expecting wives and their young children in Hizuru for their duties to you and our global alliance. Everyone is rallying behind the princess and you, my liege. Everyone has their respective roles and they undertake their responsibilities seriously."

In other words, Reiner, you have no right to fuck this up for these people. I didn't give my life up just for you to become a failure and a disappointment. He could hear Marcel's patronizing voice resonating inside his headspace, shaking his already fragile conscience.

Lord Takeshi observed their young Lord, who seemed to be almost already lost in his own thoughts and continued, "Leading our nation to a peaceful beginning is not your only responsibility." The moment his sentence reached a short pause, they both noticed the rest of the crew members began to shift. Their movements were followed by a chorus of 'Ohime-sama ' and the name that could only belong to the woman who had just appeared from the main entrance. He turned around and was greeted by the vision of his bride stepping onto the deck, garbed in a pair of formal kimono with the color of a flowering violet, its dark shade only highlighted her fair complexion. The rose gold tassels of her floral hair ornament glinted in the lanterns' lights. With every step that she took, its chiming called forth the beating of his heart, which could be felt through the puffing of his chest.

He still couldn't believe that this stunning woman - who had grown so much from the cold, silent and terrifying young girl he had known in Paradis - is his wife, in every sense.

Under the full moon's beam, surrounded by the ship's loyal crews who bowed down to her in unison and respect; they only added more prominence to her effortless regality and natural beauty amongst the lantern-illuminated space in between them.

No different than a spell, or an enchantment, she took his breath away without even trying.

When all eyes were on her, Mikasa's eyes were only fixed on him and him alone. His cousin too, was wearing a formal kimono of blue and white that might've been one size bigger for her, but the youngest member of the Braun family managed to pull off the look with her own adorable twist. He too couldn't help but overheard praises sung amongst the ship's crew members of how respectful the Eldian girl is towards their culture. He felt a strong sense of pride coursing through his veins when he saw Mikasa approaching with Gabi next to her.

He'd heard the young admiral cleared his throat from beside him and offered a mellowed reminder to his earlier advice. "Loving her. Protecting her. Honoring her. Those are the essences of your duty, Lord Reiner."

He nodded in agreement. Until my last breath.

Marcel's voice jeered recklessly. You're only going to hurt her again, Reiner. Deep inside, you know it'

Mikasa bowed down slightly as soon as she reached an arm's length distance from the gathered gentlemen. Reiner returned her greeting with a respectful bow of his own, and his gesture was followed by the other older men behind him. The second she lifted her head, he'd sooner leave a lingering brush of his lips against her forehead in a gentle caress. Unlike their wedding day, it was intentional, unrushed and truly savored instead. The scent that came from the fresh flowers pinned to her raven tresses brought a rush of recollection from their wedding night, yet he couldn't shake a flitting afterthought to a memory that might have occurred at another place, in another time.

A distant memory that he can't seem to recall after the assault in Liberio, an occurrence that seemed to always follow after an episodic blackout.

The sounds of tiny giggles that came from both Falco and Gabi was immediately hushed by Colt. The younger ones' shenanigans distracted his derailing headspace, pulling him back before he became too lost in his own forbidding thoughts.

Lord Takeshi intervened by resting his hands on both children's backs to calm some of their excitement down before he addressed the newlyweds. "My Lord, Ohime-sama, in Hizuru, we believed that all humans originally came from water and to which we will return to after death. The lanterns bearing the departed's names will be lit and released to the sea. It symbolizes their soul's return to where we all began. We will offer our prayers to Izanagi and Izayami to irradiate the spiritual paths so the souls of those we loved, that somehow might be lost, could be guided towards the afterlife. Mayhaps to find their peace and cross over safely."

The kannushi stepped forward with a small paper lantern and handed it over to the young War Chief from Marley's unsuspecting hand, prompting Lord Takeshi to offer a more elaborate explanation in return. "My Lord, this is a toro, a lantern made of washi, of fibers from the inner bark of a blessed gampi tree in the Azumabito family's backyard. Together, you and the Lady Mikasa would write down the names of those that you'd like to offer safe passage and may their spirits be guided by Suijin no Mizugami."

Mikasa proceeded to take the quill handed by Akane, its tip already dipped in ink and began to write the names of her late father, her late mother, her infant brother and Sasha's name on the lantern's surface. Reiner observed the process and his eyes lingered at the full names of her family - an information he'd never been able to know in the years he'd been in Paradis.

He inquired, "Mamoru?" To which his bride nodded in response and offered a brief answer. "It means 'protector'. My parents had already chosen my brother's name the moment they found out they might be having a boy."

Reiner nodded with understanding and she asked him in return, "What names should we write for you?"

Marcel Galliard. Bertolt Hoover.

"No one." He answered dryly, drawing forth Mikasa's inquisitive gaze. "Are you sure? What about Bert-"

He was very quick in opposing her suggestion. "All the important people in my life are still alive."

"Alright." She pulled her lips into a tight line upon sensing the sudden defensiveness that she'd picked up from his sentence but Gabi's voice, followed by a small tug on her hand took her focus away from delving too much on what could've been a very sensitive subject to the former titan holder.

"Yes, Gabi?"

"Mikasa, can I write Ms. Sasha's name on my lantern too?"

"Why not?"

The little girl's face lit up and nodded, before she took the time to write carefully on the lantern that she was sharing with Falco and Colt, putting Sasha's name right on top of their two friends - Udo and Zofia.

While Mikasa assisted the younger ones with their offerings, Lord Takeshi made a request for the heirloom in Reiner's possession. He detached the knot holding Masamune's sheath securely against the waistband of his hakama and transferred the ancient warrior's blade to Lord Takeshi's awaiting hands respectfully. He'd also noticed that Mikasa's handmaiden had brought forward Mitsunari, the blade entrusted to his wife, to be placed on a miniature wooden rack right in front of the mukaebi - right on the middle panel, underneath Masamune.

Curious, he asked the eldest son of the Hosokawa family, "Is he blessing the blades too?"

His right-hand man nodded. "He is asking for the grace of Suijin to protect and nurture the bonds between you and the Lady Mikasa - both physical and soul. You see my Lord, Muramasa, the third blade, I believe is still in Hizuru and very seldom that the three family blades are separated. Not for long. Muramasa will follow its predestined holder just like the other two."

Muramasa, to protect the firstborn prince and heir of the family.

The words proclaimed by the priest on their wedding day resounded inside his head. He finally understood the meaning behind Lord Takeshi's cryptic words. Immediately, he felt an abundant constriction on his shoulders and inside his chest, weighing him down onto the ship's deck. Reminding him that he was nothing more than a tool; instrumental in attaining and retaining peace between warring nations. Yet, when his gaze landed on the raven-haired beauty crouching down next to Gabi before they shared an embrace, he could somehow sense the immense weight be partially lifted.

Would she carry that weight with him?

That insidious voice inside him taunted. She could carry the weight of the whole world with or without your sorry ass in it. She doesn't need you more than that. She'll NEVER need you more than that.

His hands grasped against air on his sides before forming into tight fists.

She would never accept you. How could she ever love someone who couldn't even love himself? Just because she's with you and not with Eren, doesn't mean she will love you the same way.

His throat dry, his lips tightened and it was getting harder for him to breathe.

If I were you, Reiner, I wouldn't be getting my heart in too deep. But my dick, however…

He excused himself and strode over to the furthest empty ledge of the ship - away from the gathering crowd, trying to gather his somber thoughts and taking in as much air as he could just so he could stop that voice within from uttering any further nonsense. He'd nearly punched a hole into the nearest barrel. At least the pain could have distracted his headspace.

It's been getting too 'crowded' from the inside, too much from the usual. Too much for his own facade that it threatens to shatter the mask on his face.

Mikasa held Gabi's hands after giving the written lantern to Falco, who looked concerned over the other girl's sudden sadness. Gabi was getting emotionally compromised as the memory of her gunning Sasha down in her ignorance resurfaced and she couldn't hide the shame along with the guilt on her face. "Mikasa, I'm very sorry for what I did. I swear I could still see the shock on Miss Sasha's face when the bullet hit her chest. I don't deserve your mercy even if we're family."

The raven-haired young woman crouched down with care, being mindful of the space between the edges of her kimono to the geta on her feet. She rested her hands against the sides of the little girl's shoulders. "I believe Sasha knows and she's watching over both you and Kaya with love and forgiveness. She's never really gone as long as she lives in both of your heart and mine."

Gabi began to rest her head forward against the crook of Mikasa's neck. If she could turn back time, she wouldn't be too reckless by latching on to the blimp, killing Mr. Blouse's daughter and almost cost Falco his life.

Mikasa continued to offer her words. "I miss her so much, but I could see a lot of Sasha's bravery and spirits through you. She gave you a future, so make her proud by living well and happy. You are her legacy."

The little girl nodded before clutching even tighter against the older woman's body, her voice muffled by the fabric of Mikasa's kimono. "I will." If there ever was any existing, unrepressed anger bearing its tremendous weight inside her still beating heart, Mikasa could feel them dissipating along with the stubborn tears finally escaping the corners of her eyes. They stung her cheeks the moment they cooled off in the evening air.

Sasha...I miss you so much. She stared off into the far distance of the ocean, hoping to somehow feel or sense that Suijin will guide Sasha's soul to her final resting place.

A gust of gentle breeze drifted by in a tender caress, offering a reciprocated response to their yearning; love for her and forgiveness for Gabi. The heart wants what it wants but she was sure she could sense Sasha's presence, embracing them both in an inexplicable warmth despite the coldness of the pacific wind. Unaware of the pair of golden hazel eyes fixating at them in a forlorn, conflicted gaze.

At this point, Akane was already struggling to contain the tears from running down her cheeks upon witnessing how an untimely death of the Lady Mikasa's sworn sister had actually brought the bonds between these two found families even closer than it already was. A hand offered a small kerchief from next to her and she nodded a shy 'Thank you' to the older Grice brother. A small blush crept up her cheeks when she saw a gentle smile on the young gentleman's face, offering her his wordless comfort.

As soon as the kannushi completed the rites of safe passage, he led the rest of the ship's crew members in lowering the lanterns to the sea using a custom-made elevated deck. Several crew members assisted to release the burning lanterns manually and ensured that the flames kept burning as they were placed on the waters. Lord Takeshi rested his hands on Gabi and Falco's shoulders as he beamed fondly at the two children's uncontained excitement when they stared at the floating lanterns carried by the gentle sea waves in awe.

Standing all by herself, Mikasa clasped her hands together and sent a silent prayer from within so that Papa, Mama, her baby brother, Sasha and even Bertolt would find their much deserved peace even when their deaths had been untimely - their souls ripped apart from their body too soon and without a forewarning. Unbeknownst to Reiner, she had actually written the former Colossal holder's name on their shared lantern despite his earlier dismissal. She understood and remembered that they had been more sworn brothers than close friends when they were still in Paradis. Reiner's refusal to openly grieve for the death of his brother-in-arms could only mean that it still hurts him after all these years. She wouldn't be so sure herself if Sasha's passing wouldn't still affect her in the next several years but maybe, by accepting that her past needs to be let go and her present needs to be embraced to move forward with her future, would help ease that pain in time.

If only she could help Reiner with his pain, maybe he too could finally find his own inner peace after those years of hurting.

She could only hope that Reiner would allow her to share more of his burden and his unspeakable sins; one day when he's ready. She made a mistake of not opening herself more to Eren and truly seeing Eren for who he really is.

She would not repeat such history with Reiner.

Her eyes sent a faraway gaze towards the floating lanterns on the sea bed, while she rested her hands against the railing. Mama, he reminded me so much of Papa - his warmth, his demeanor and the way he loves the children. Would we be able to have that happiness just like you and Papa had? Could I, one day, love him the way you love Papa?

A touch at the small of her back reeled her in to their current reality, and she smiled when she saw the very subject of her pondering has finally returned to their side. She wasn't oblivious to the way the Marleyan War Chief pulled himself back from the rest, a behaviour that had actually seemed to be of a regular occurrence it seems. The years of wars had affected them, individually as soldiers yet his burden might be much heavier than others.

A burden he seemed to be more content in shouldering on his own.

With a smile still on her face, her heart made a secret, silent promise to this man standing next to her. I'll be here for you. Always. You said before that you'll never let me go. That much is enough.

I believe we could make this work. Make us work.

"Welcome back." She greeted, taking note of the stress lines under his eyes and his forehead as well as the way his pulled back hair had already become slightly unkempt in the evening breeze. A deep breath escaped her lips. Regardless, he's still that handsome, charming man who came to her defense in that dirty back alley in Marley's town.

Together, they both observed Gabi and Falco, who seemed to already be lighting fire sparklers with Akane and Colt as Lord Takeshi supervised diligently from the sides with a group of cheering crew members. The children would most probably remind the crew members of their own back in their homeland. The children's raucous laughter were rambunctious but a much welcomed change from all the horrors they had to witness ever since the assault in Liberio.

She couldn't fend off the delight on her face as she saw the children were able to just be children again.

Reiner sent her a grin in response, that little smile on her face did not go unnoticed. His hand had already snaked itself around her waist, just underneath her obi line. He leaned in to whisper a bold, "Did you miss me?," in her ear.

"I thought you might've jumped overboard."

His head dipped down and he planted a quick kiss on her shoulder, the smoldering warmth from his lips could be felt even through the three layers of kimono on her body. "Will my lady wife come to my rescue if I do?"

She feigned indifference. "I'll take my time."

A thin eyebrow lifted quizzically. Ever since they were still trainees, he'd remembered that Mikasa actually has a really wicked sense of humor. How could he ever forget Sasha's 'farting' incident? "You're going to let me drown first?"

Her shoulders shrugged languidly. "Just so I could revive you back to life later." She could feel his fingertips squeezing the curve of her waist teasingly and a shiver ran up her spine when his warm breath tingled the skin on her neck. "If you want to kiss me, Mikasa, you can just do it anytime, anywhere. You don't have to wait until I'm drowning."

Her eyes widened in shock at his brazen words, trapping her in her own humor and she slid several steps away to the other direction, chiding, "Behave." Yet, his hand was quick enough to seize her other wrist and he looked at her with a challenging glint in his eyes. "Make me."

The sound of someone clearing their throat from behind placed their banter on hold and the newlyweds turned their heads around only to see the beaming kannushi with a large unlit box-shaped lantern in his hand. Mikasa tried to pull away just so she could hide the mild embarrassment of being caught by an elder yet Reiner was quicker in pulling her body close to his and preventing her frail attempt to escape their shared plight. Seconds later, they could eventually observe several writings on the surface of the toro in the traditional Hizurian language, apparent from its intricate ink works, the second it was offered to their still joined hands.

ミカサ・アッカーマン ライナー・ブラウン

The kannushi offered his elaboration, "My Lord, Ohime-sama, this sky lantern bears the kanji of your full names. Unlike the smaller ones, this is to celebrate life and new beginnings. It is customary for newlyweds to light this lantern together and release it to the skies above. It signifies the burning of old burdens and sending wishes of good luck in the years to come. When you're ready, hoist the lantern up and the burning fire will keep it afloat."

Another voice could be heard coming from the figure approaching, with the younger ones in tow behind him. Lord Takeshi ruffled the top of Gabi's hair and said, "May the fire burn as fierce and blazing as the flames in your marriage, your Highnesses."

Gabi looked up at the East Sea admiral and piped in, "But isn't that dangerous, Lord Takeshi?," causing all the nearby adults to smile knowingly at the children's innocence.

"No different than fire and water, the two elements complement each other. It is the same with Lord Reiner and Lady Mikasa. One day, you'd understand, little one."

"But-"

Mikasa stepped forward and diverted the little girl's attention. "Would you and Falco like to help us?"

"YES!" Both children clamored in unison and they both scurried towards the newlyweds, marvelling at the intricately decorated sky lantern with each child supporting on one side. The little girl asked, "Do you need help lighting this up?"

"NO!" Surprisingly both Mikasa and Reiner protested at the same time, much to the amusement of the Hizurian natives present. "Anything but lighting it up," added Reiner with light panic on his face.

Falco shook his head. "Gabi, you'll burn the whole thing down." The other adults nodded their heads in agreement, Colt and Lord Takeshi with more zest than the others. They were very aware how dangerous the little girl could be when she has any firearms or anything potentially hazardous in her hands.

After much hassling, however, together they managed to light up the flint and wick, soaked with fuel from the light glass fount mounted to the lantern's main frame. Even the two young adults themselves were fixated at the way the flame slowly consumed the burner, and in its light, Reiner held Mikasa's gaze tenaciously.

As though on this crowded deck, it was just him and her.

He leered at the person who he had initially known as a stoic, emotionless young girl in Paradis years ago to the warm and affectionate young woman standing next to him. With her hands against the children's backs, they sent off an enlivened look at the way the sky lantern slowly floated and drifted upwards toward the night skies. They marvelled appreciatively at the spectacular scenery in front of them.

Reiner stared longingly at the woman with the heart-stopping eyes, dazzling smile and a gentle touch as she held his younger cousin endearingly in her arms - no different than how families do.

It eventually dawned on him that the girls are now officially family with each other. They're family.

They're HIS family.

It invoked another rush of unfathomable warmth through his heart and that pushed him forward to be closer to where they were.

Stopping short next to his wife, Reiner lowered his head next to Mikasa's and breathily asked, "Do you think we can sneak down unnoticed right now? Would it be disrespectful?"

She asked him in return, "Now?" Shrugging her shoulders, she looked at the group observing the lanterns' departure on both the body of water and in the wind.

He nodded discreetly, trying not to be too obvious with his intention and began to pull Mikasa by the hand as he slowly turned around, facing the other end of the deck - right where the steel door is. They had almost succeeded in sneaking away unseen when Akane, however, hurriedly rushed forward and bowed down. "Milord, milady, do you require my assistance to prepare milady for bed?"

"You don't need to worry about it. I'll take care of my wife tonight," dismissed Reiner nonchalantly, causing the Azumabito heiress to hide her face with the sleeves of her kimono, just so she could avoid looking at the already grinning Akane. However, the grin sooner disappeared from the young handmaiden's face as she turned pale when Reiner added, "Colt would appreciate your company more tonight."

Stunned, Mikasa reprimanded, "Reiner!" However, the former titan holder had already pulled her towards the direction of the ship's main entrance and they had almost missed the way Colt had silently sent an understanding nod their way, while he kept Gabi and Falco remained distracted with all the exciting happenings.

The tall Marley-born Eldian ushered his bride towards the hallway, his face almost breaking; threatening to burst into an unexpected laughter when they successfully snuck away and disappeared from the important event on the ship's deck, as if they were only two lovesick teenagers without burdens or responsibilities of multiple nations on their shoulders.

"You're unbelievable," chided Mikasa, who shook her head with feigned annoyance, yet her body moved willingly to his non-verbal command; through his powerful stride, his stance and the grip of his hand on hers as he lead her towards the only stairwell leading down to the private main chamber in the lower deck.

She looked at him with uncertainty when he stopped abruptly and nearly in surprise when she realized what he was planning to do. He didn't leave her any room for objection when he immediately heaved her lighter body up into his arms.

"What are you doing?" Mikasa faltered, her hands restless as she tried to dislodge herself from his unsuspecting hold. "Put me down?!" She couldn't possibly decide whether it was indeed a question or a demand coming from her. She only received a mysterious smirk from him as a response and a nudge from his shoulders for her to keep her arms around his neck. Only his steps continued on in the hallway, as sturdy and steady as his figure. Even more up close, she could feel herself fascinated with the way his jaw muscle clenched underneath his gruff unshaven skin and the way his eyes looked enticing when they were extremely focused on a primary target. It has always been there when they were still trainees, she'd only ever realised it now. The playfulness when he was a boy was too, ever in existence in this body of a grown man.

There was just something raw and turbulent yet so peculiarly dominant about the man who's carrying all of her weight in his arms and Mikasa knew she had already withdrawn any resistance she had towards him.

Reiner needed to only walk through the door on her chest she had willingly opened for him, and him alone. Even if she forced herself to lock it, the key has always been with him all along.

He asked, "Isn't it tradition for a groom to carry his bride to their chamber? But I recalled that she was the one who carried me to the bed instead on our wedding night." That wicked grin had never left his lips.

Mikasa shrugged once. "You were talking shit about wanting me to kill you. I had to do something."

He chuckled low and apologized. "Did I? I'm sorry you had to see that."

"It's really not funny, Reiner." She pulled his face to look at her, almost pleading yet more commanding in nature. "Don't say things like that ever again. It is not pleasing to hear."

"Then, tell me how could I please my beautiful lady wife instead?" Reiner countered her words teasingly, not caring if there could be anyone passing by or listening in.

Deadpanned, her face was still a clever mask of coolness even when she objected, "By not dropping me would be good."

Reiner has reached a point where he'd understood that Mikasa's calm facade would remain unbreakable until after they get behind closed doors and he stopped short right at the top of the staircase leading all the way down to the private captain's quarters. "I did say that I'll never let you go. Ever."

Her in his arms, Reiner descended upon the stairs carefully and slowly , much to the displeasure of the woman who'd prefer things fast. Lightning fast.

The raven-haired enigma teased, "Sliding down the holding rails would be faster."

He clicked his tongue. God, he loves her odd humor. "Anticipation builds better excitement and you, Ohime-sama, will learn how not all things fast are good and certain things are best done slow. Just like our first time this morning." He just had to end his explanation with a sly wink, rendering her speechless. She bit her lips. Her body is already craving more of him. He would also have noticed by now that she liked hearing him use that specific endearment in her mother's native language.

It's terrifying to admit how much power she's allowing this man - who used to be frightened of her - to have absolute command over her body, just through his words and his voice alone.

As soon as one of his feet stepped onto the floor of their private wing, Mikasa's eager lips immediately claimed him in a desperate kiss. Her free hand already slipping through the folds of his inner yukata, her palm rubbing his chest impatiently, nails scraping delicately at his skin, earning her a guttural grunt from his thrumming body.

Lips still locking, Reiner navigated the silent hallway leading to the entrance of their private chamber. His hand, the one supporting her knees, pried the door open and he kicked it closed behind him efficiently. Without prompting, Mikasa naturally locked the door behind him, causing a short chuckle to be shared as they were both reminded of the unfortunate incident with Gabi earlier during the day.

Once reached, Reiner gradually released her body from his arms in front of the vanity table, never once taking his hold off of her shoulders as they looked forward to the large mirror in front of them.

Five years ago, no one would even have thought of the possibility that they'd be a perfect compatible match with each other, yet today, the vision they're seeing right now couldn't have shouted it even louder; she has always been his missing other half the way he is to her. Evident from the way his height was just built perfect for his lips to give her forehead kisses effortlessly and her heart that was big enough to forgive his past sins, accepting his imperfections as he is.

She turned his dark and hopeless world around. She was someone in his past, now present and he'd even dared himself to proclaim as his future.

The moment their eyes clash in the mirror's reflection, a rush of blood colored her cheeks as once again, they're in an extremely close proximity, sharing another private moment between them. The eyes that used to show her an empty shell within are now lightened up, alive again as opposed to the ones she'd remembered on their wedding day. They were no longer apparent with a sense of hollowness; they looked gentle and loving. The lips that used to tighten in a constant frown are now graced with a soft smile.

She tilted her to the side, wanting to have a better view of this admirable man's reflection. Is this how it feels like to be truly seen by someone?

The tiny rose gold leaves of her Tsumami Kanzashi chimed with every movement of her body, sending a short hypnotic rhythm into the cold evening breeze, lulling his senses before overtaking his needs because he just couldn't take his damn eyes off of this woman.

Mikasa's hands reached out to the headpiece, wanting to detach the whole set from her hair but his hand stopped hers. "No, keep it on. Please?" He mumbled, wary of how such a trivial request may sound to her. Yet, the way he averted his intense gaze shyly by burrowing his nose into the tiny spot behind her ear and the low, ensuing whisper of his elusive demand confirmed her suspicions. "I - I like seeing you wearing it."

His spontaneous request, though it took her slightly by surprise, did not faze her at all. She nodded quietly, already slipping the geta off her feet and proceeded to pull at the strings holding her obi together with his assistance. As he helped pull the waistcloth away, his fingers took the time to explore her hard curves, reacquainting and memorizing the way they felt against his palms at the same time.

Reiner undid the side ties of her kimono and removed the heavy intricately-drawn fabric away from her lithe body. His larger hands roamed against the thin flimsy inner kimono and relished in the soft yet firm outline of her well-built figure, causing her to moan a little from his advances. He then swept aside the tendrils of her raven tresses away from her nape, breathing in her narcotically sweet scent; one from the petals of an exotic flower. By now, it had become a familiar impression, no different than a brand on his brain that'd drive him instantaneously heady with need for her. With his hands around her waist, he pressed his lips on her skin while pressing her body forward against the table. The second his jaw took a tiny bite out of her neck, he could hear a low sigh and feel a quick tremor pulsing through her body from his simple touch.

He spoke into her ear in a hushed tone, "Tadaima."

Her breath stalled, she turned herself around and asked, "What did you say just now?"

Cupping her cheek in one hand, he repeated, "Tadaima."

Surely but slowly, she nodded, "Okaerinasai." Tears began to pool inside her lids that she wasn't fast enough to stop a lone stray droplet from trickling down his hand, causing him to grab her face in sheer panic. "Shit," he cried, "Did I say it wrong? Lord Takeshi said it's meant to make the wife happy not burst into tears!"

Mikasa couldn't find the right words to express her emotions that she leaned against his broad shoulders and muttered instead, "That's how my father would walk through the door and greet my mother every day. I still remember how their faces lit up and looked so much in love every time."

Such a small gesture was her family tradition that she never thought she would get to experience in her lifetime.

Reiner held her closer. "I'll say it to you. Everyday. Although I don't think I could even be half the man your father ever was. I... didn't grow up with one." He pulled himself back just enough to gaze deeply into her eyes, lips hovering over hers before pledging, "But I'll never stop trying for you." The warmth of his breath, weaved with deeper thoughts and promises behind his words, sent her self-control spiralling out of her body, leaving a primal aggression in its wake instead.

She seized his lips once more, yearning to be one with him once more.

The sounds of merry, raucous laughter and joyful chatters could be heard coming from the main deck up above but they were too far lost with each other that the rest of the world could go on without them.

/ Full Smut Scene Available on my AO3! \\

You're getting weak for this woman and WE can't have that. In between his ensuing thrusts, Reiner's dominion of his own grit faltered deep within his own subconsciousness. Unaware of the brewing wrath from the darkness within.

Time to sleep, Reiner.


Finger Household

Liberio, Marley

The ticking of the old grandfather clock in the hallway struck eight times. Its sounds, resonating against the walls of the small double-storey house in hollowed echoes, only added an odd yet soothing mix to the classical music playing in an old record player at a corner of the living hall. The humble abode, located east of Liberio, was a cosy residence that could be perceived even from its simple exterior. An aged man sat on a single sofa, hands propped against its armrest as he engrossed himself with an almost worn out historical book. A favorite of his - evident from the numerous rabbit-eared marks on its pages. The warmth from the fireplace offered him a much welcomed peace of mind.

A raven-haired young woman with a low ponytail could be seen approaching the older man, with a cup of tea in her hands and a plate of an exotic fruit cut into halves. The red flesh were clumps of tiny, scarlet seedlings no different than chips of amethyst. They looked absolutely succulent in the dim lights of the hall.

"Have some hot tea, Father. I put in some honey and lemon in it to soothe your throat."

The old man nodded gratefully for the offer. "Thank you, my dear. I'm so grateful to have you back home." He marvelled in excitement upon seeing the palate of unfamiliar delicacy. "Is this from Hizuru?"

Pieck shook her head, albeit nervously. "It's the Princess of Hizuru's favorite and it's from the Island of Paradis."

The old man's hand shook severely at the mention of the Devil's Island and his hand immediately thrusted the plate back to his daughter's hand. "Now you're bringing back edibles from there? They could be poisonous! Did you eat this?"

She rubbed gently on the old man's arm before settling herself on the small leg rest next to the upholstered seat. "Father, calm down. This fruit is called a pomegranate. It's only ever grown in Paradis and it has a lot of health benefits. The princess even recommended for its skin to be made into hot tea to help with chest pains. Please father, just try one seed. Here," assured Pieck as she gathered several of the small berries and placed them into her mouth in one quick swoop. Her loud crunching could be heard before she nodded her head. "They're so sweet, a little bit soury towards the end but really good."

Mr. Finger hesitantly reached out for a seedling and popped it into his mouth. With each chew, he nodded slowly. Eventually agreeing with his daughter's suggestion, before a tiny pinch became a handful of the seeds and it wasn't too long before Pieck helped to break apart the other unfinished half of the exotic produce with a relieved smile on her face.

"Are we really making peace with the Island Devils now?," implored her father, seeing that she had made sure to only share the more public information of the global peace treaty signed days before in Paradis upon her return home.

"Yes, Father. I've been there, twice. Everyone's had enough of the war. It has been hell for everyone."

"Those people attacked our home, Pieck. They murdered our people. How could we see them as nothing but devils?"

Pieck stared down at her own hands. "And our Warriors attacked them nine years ago in ignorance, father. We wanted to prevent exactly what he was trying to initiate from happening but Eren Jeager knew full well what his actions would implicate and he turned against his own superiors and the very people who wanted peace the way we do. It has not been easy, Father. It took every ounce of willpower for us to stop hurting each other and work together instead. A full rumbling would have destroyed not only our home but the rest of the world. The only regret I've ever had was they didn't just kill him at the execution and actually allowed him to live peacefully in Hizuru for the rest of his remaining life. Even when he's a global terrorist and a dangerous threat. With or without the Founder's powers."

Mr. Finger shook his head in bitterness. "It just seems impossible, Pieck even if what Lord Tybur said was indeed true."

"My responsibility as a Warrior is to save humanity and to support all efforts to make that happen. This global alliance is that effort." There was a short pause in her words before she continued, "As much as I don't agree with the idea at the beginning, there are a lot of individuals like Reiner and the Hizurian princess who are placing their livelihood and their future on the line. It is also my sworn duty to see it through. Even when we no longer have the powers and use it to fight for or even defend our people."

"Oh, Pieck..." Once again, her father let out a regretful sigh. "All I ever wanted was for you to live a long, peaceful life and I should have fought harder to stop you from enlisting into the Warriors program. No parent should outlive their children." He pulled her hand tightly in his, patting it with deep anguish. "I'd rather for you to have lived the life you should have been."

The raven-haired young woman looked up from their joined hands and her head shook in response. "I do not regret anything, Father. It has been a great honor wielding the Cart's powers."

"You deserved to be loved by a good person, my child."

"Not in this lifetime, Father."

"You and the Galliard boy seemed close."

An amused, dry laugh escaped her lips. "He's not the marrying kind."

"I've seen you with the Warrior Cadets. You love children, Pieck. You deserve to have your own now that you don't have to go into battlefields anymore."

"No man here would survive being with a female Warrior, knowing that he'll be a single father who has to raise my child on his own IF I ever have one with the time I still have left. No one could be as strong as you after Mother passed away."

"My one wish is for you to have that true happiness and companionship in this life." He nudged her chin gently, adding, "If what you said is true about the good people in Paradis, even if that man is from the Devil's Island but he could make my daughter happy with the time that she's allowed to have, I would be forever in debt to him."

"Oh, Father, as if I could ever find any man in this world good enough to even be your shadow. I would be surprised if he exists all along." The former female titan shifter rested her head against her father's hand, yet a tear slid down her cheeks just at the mere thought of her father leaving on his own when she's no longer around, brought a rush of despair from within.

Mr. Finger directed his gaze to the door of his home, imparting a well-hidden wisdom in his words. "Pieck, perhaps that door shouldn't be closed to our enemies. Even enemies can be allies. Allies can become friends. Friends could be lovers and families and through it, new innocent blood could be born as hope for a future."

XoXoX

Pop's Tavern

Trost, Paradis Island

"AAA-CHOO!" A thunderous sound of someone sneezing could be heard across the dingy watering hole for members of the military, startling almost all of the patrons inside the mundane establishment. Even the man playing an old dusty piano in the centre of the premise had to pause abruptly and sent a puzzled look at the three Survey Corps division's senior members sitting in a neat row, facing the bartender.

Connie cursed underneath his breath, almost flipping backwards from the bar stool he's on. "Fucking hell, Jean! Why did you sneeze in my face? Ugh…..I got to go bleach my eyes, face and mouth. Everywhere! Is that- fucker, you're buying me a new pint. Jerk." The Ragako native lifted his beer mug, already contaminated with Jean's unsanitary body fluid and he cringed in disgust.

"Fuck you, Connie…...Shut up. You're being loud…." drawled the Survey Corps Squad Leader, before his head banged too loud against the bar's counter.

Connie scoffed, "I'm being loud?"

Armin shook his head at the blaring banter between his two longtime comrades sitting next to him, with his own mug still full and untouched from the moment it was served. He had some dinner earlier and he just didn't feel like consuming too much alcohol at that moment.

"C'mon Armin, we're celebrating and you haven't taken a sip. Bottom's up, buddy. Oh sorry, Commander Arlert," prodded Connie, who had already left Jean to his own devices as he tapped his fingers impatiently, waiting for his order of a fresh beer to be served from the tap.

"Hey, do you think Reiner can make her happy? Would he be good to her?" Jean bawled, out of the blue. His face already reddened from the alcohol he's been consuming after the second mug. However, both Armin and Connie knew very well that he'd already wiped away recklessly at the angry droplets of tears from the corners of his eyes. "Because I would bash that motherfucker in the face again if he's so much hurt her like how that asshole Eren did."

Armin only had an empty stare in his gaze and that exact moment, his brain recollected the hollow warning by Annie earlier during the day. His grip tightened against the glass holder in his hand.

"Armin….." This time Jean had already stood between his two close friends, resting his arms against each of their shoulders and mumbled, "I want to get married too. Find me a wife."

Connie raised his eyebrows suspiciously at his immediate superior, an evil grin on his face. "You know, I could only think of one woman who'd make a perfect match for you, horseface."

"Who? Tell me. I'm gonna ask her to marry me tomorrow!" proclaimed Jean deliriously in his drunken stupor with a hand held high as if he's just declared a winning battle.

Connie snickered, "The Cart Titan lady."

Jean mumbled, "Peyton? That's her name right? Or was it Pieck? Yeah, Pieck. Nah, I absolutely total-ed her titan in Liberio. I bet you she hates me for that but don't tell her I said this... I think she has really beautiful hair and I just wanna feel it in my hands and sme-" His sentence dropped, the same way as his body the second it landed against the wooden floor of the tavern with a loud thud.

Connie shrugged, lifting his mug for another swig. "That's gonna hurt like a motherfucker in the morning. Dumbass."

"Oh boy…." Armin rubbed a side of his temple desperately. He can foresee his migraine coming. It's been a really long day.

He was never a drinker. The assault in Liberio forced him into a habit that he could never break free from anytime soon. Moreover when his promotion made him feel that it was more of a death sentence than an achievement. He never wanted to be a leader or a commander. Hell, Jean would be a much better leader than he could ever be. That was why Hange-san's decision shook him to his core and he still hasn't been able to process it in its entirety.

Eren and Mikasa, just like him - has not even lived past twenty years but already, they had to shoulder the burden of the world's peace and unity and its balance on their shoulders. The late Queen's fate had even been worse.

Armin could only hope that he'd be drunk enough to the point he'll pass out like the dead once they reached their shared residence later.

A dark, lingering feeling gnawed at the insides of his stomach as the vivid memories of that dying Marleyan child's face… the one at the coastal city that was destroyed in the aftermath of his transformation surged through his head; the second the light left his eyes at the same time he let out his final breath - God, that vision haunted him ever since.

Every night Armin Arlert prayed for that innocent boy's soul to find its peace.

There's no pride in looking down at the mountains of corpses that you're forced to step on when you're at the top.


No silent, no violence.

But inside my head so loud and clear.

You're screaming, covered up with a smile I've learned to fear.

Just sunshine and blue sky, is this all we get for living here?

Come fire, let it burn and love come racing through.

Amatsukaze, approaching Northern Coast Harbor

Marley Region

As soon as she took in the emptiness of the dining hall, she immediately headed towards the main deck of the ship. Even Akane and Gabi were nowhere to be seen. They're probably sleeping in after last night's excitement. Mikasa was very sure that the younger ones had taken part in the games and storytelling carried out by the senior crew members till late at night.

She could only think so. After all, everyone on the decks was loud enough that they could still hear the guffaws, cackles and off-key singing from below the decks. Even when Reiner had made sure that he preoccupied her mind and her focus. And her body.

With every touch of his hands, every brush of his lips and the way his body fit perfectly against and inside her. The way he just burned her insides with each hard thrust and glide….

A rush of blood warmed her cheeks upon the sudden recollection of the night before. The tenderness, combined with the urgency and the intensity of their coupling - had been forceful enough to almost destroy both the vanity table and their shared berth, one after the other.

Maybe sharing a life together is not so bad after all, she uttered to herself. Her brain no longer echoed the emptiness she used to feel deep inside her heart, as her boot-covered steps echoed against the ship's hallways heading towards the main deck.

She found him standing alone on the elevated section of the ship, at a secluded spot, hidden from the crew members' view. He was staring at the clear blue skies and the far blended horizon of white and light yellow rays. From afar and behind, she could appreciate the view of his strapping body, steadfast in his formal military overcoat looking magnificent in his powerful posture bathed in the early morning sun.

No different than a fallen divination.

His strength, visible from his exterior, however sheltered the more human, weakness within.

That made the vision even more precious to her.

His sadness, his pain, his frustration, his dejection… She wants to be one who could take them all away.

She was so flawed for someone like Eren, she could only hope that she'll be good enough for this equally broken man in time.

But a question inside her remains; was he truly unable to recognise that it was indeed her on that day behind the back alley of the pâtisserie?

Maybe it's a question best to be saved for another day perhaps.

She climbed up the spiral stairs and stepped forward, settling herself against the ledge next to him. "I thought I'd find you here." Her long skirts billowed gently in the morning breeze, along with several tendrils of her inky dark hair.

Reiner remained wordless, he didn't even budge or turn his head around to greet her as if he's lost in his own thoughts. Yet again. Only his blonde hair, reflecting the rays of the morning sun, bristled gently with another wave of the serene wind.

It was no different than how it had been the first night since their departure. Except that this time, their roles were reversed. Once more.

Wordlessly, her palm reflexively rested on top of his in a silent greeting; a tiny gesture that would've been a foreign concept to her if it wasn't for his initial approach at the global conference days earlier. Yet, a doubtful feeling crept inside her guts. Maybe it was just her but she could sense his figure tensing up the moment she touched him. And his hand, it wasn't as warm as she'd remember - either from the first time they had met after four years on that day in Marley, on their wedding day or even yesterday.

It was almost as cold and lifeless as a tree bark soaked after an overnight rain.

Disregarding the impudent gut feeling aside, she inquired, "Did you sleep well?"

Silent. There was no response, not even a grunt.

Not even a look.

He pulled his hand away from hers without so much as a word.

Taking a deeper breath, Mikasa pressed on, "Is something bothering you?"

His head turned sharply in her direction and it almost made her stumbled backwards against the ledge at the intensity of his gaze - those dark hazel eyes were not the same ones she had remembered from last night or days earlier. Even in the throes of passion, his gaze still held those tenderness. Tenderness that she was allowing herself to immerse so freely in, without any hesitation. Eyes that had made her feel safe and accepted.

Right now, she's only seeing a pair of borderline fearful eyes looking back at her with absolute emptiness. The tenderness, it was just no longer there and in its place, was an inexplicable coldness instead. It was very apparent even in his voice. "Why were we in bed together?"

Mikasa was stunned, it was quite an unexpected question since the answer would be fairly obvious. Still, she questioned him back. "Why won't we be?"

He shook his head, there was a slight tremor visible on his taller frame. A finger pointed at her direction, his voice frantic as he accused, "You- your face… you look exactly like her - the girl in my nightmares….Mikasa Ackerman... You're Mikasa, aren't you? You almost killed me in Paradis before!"

"Reiner, that was four years ago." ...what is happening? Mikasa tried to take another step closer but her attempt was halted by his stern warning. His hand already lifted to his jaw. "Don't take a step forward. Just because I'm on this ship, doesn't mean I'll hesitate in sinking it - with you and everyone else on it. " He was challenging her, daring her to make another move.

Her grip became tighter against the railing of the deck. "You do remember that you don't have your shifting powers anymore?"

Dismissing her question, he continued his accusation. "I'm not stupid enough to sleep with an enemy. Were you going to kill me after you seduced me, you devil?! You can't do it before that you need to try again when I'm vulnerable and YET you can't even spare me the only fucking dignity I still have left? You have to take that away too?!" His voice broke before it gradually receded down into scattered, defeated whispers.

She blinked back with visible confusion. "Reiner? What are you talking about?" Her other hand wanted to offer him comfort but it too, froze in a surrendering position instead.

She could perceive an immediate frenetic thought suddenly made itself appear inside the gears of his mind through the darker shift of his expression. "...You're here with Eren isn't it? Falco... I have to save Falco!" He looked around frantically, calling out for the young Grice brother. He completely disregarded her words and her presence, storming by where she stood but she pulled him by the hand. That action only triggered his wrath as his larger palm enclosed tight around her neck, pushing her back too hard against the steel enclosure in retaliation. It was with mild force that wouldn't hurt her immediately but strong enough to obstruct that she tasted the declining of her breathing; even more so when she refused to force him back with the same level of aggression. She could but it would only aggravate their situation further. Her hands held themselves back from any more impulsive moves by holding tight against the steel railing behind her, as she knew he could no longer heal or regenerate if she so much caused him any physical injuries.

Any wrong move from her could result in his permanent disability.

Regardless, he seethed, not yet contempt with his condemn. "Never touch me again. I'd rather you just kill me last night when you did."

Mikasa….Ever since we were younger…..I've always hated you.

A strong surge of recollection rushed back through her, uninvited. Her heart's thundering beats and the hostility coming from his lips engulfed her in another asphyxiating chokehold - threatening to break her well-guarded composure. Her mask of calm was gradually cracking with each spat of venomous words from his lips.

Both literal and metaphorical hold he held on her were wringing any hopeful explanation she could possibly have.

"Reiner?" A small voice called out from behind and Mikasa could eventually take in the sight of the younger ones, with an equally horrified looking Colt behind them. The ever sharp-witted Warrior trainee was very quick to assess the situation that something was amiss and they were not witnessing a regular argument between the new couple. "War Chief Braun?"

Reiner whipped his head around, took in the faces of the younger ones and sighed in relief. "Colt? Thank God."

The eldest Grice son shook his head. "Sir, you're hurting Lady Mikasa. Please, let her go." Slowly and carefully, Colt stepped forward, despite not looking like it but the gentle shaking of Mikasa's head signified her silent reassurance of her being fully in control of their situation. Gabi, on the other hand, did not think twice before she stepped in between the older adults with Mikasa behind her back. Yet, it wasn't enough for Reiner to break off his hold. Puzzled, he persisted, "What are you doing, Gabi? She's not who you think she is!"

The little girl looked up and said, "You can't do this to Mikasa." Mikasa couldn't help the uncanny instinct telling her that this has not been the first occurence and the youngest member of the Braun family knew more than what she lets on. " You promised me that you would never hurt her."

Several footsteps could be heard coming up the spiral staircase and true enough, not too long after, Lord Takeshi appeared, followed by Akane - both couldn't hide the concerned look on their faces upon witnessing the unexpected scene that had taken place only minutes earlier. Out of habit, however, both Hizurian natives bowed down and only then, Reiner released his grip on Mikasa's neck upon seeing new unfamiliar faces appearing to the scene. Backing up, the former titan shifter apologized profusely to no one in particular as he stared back in horror of the current situation. Desperately trying to make sense of just about everything.

Clutching his head, Reiner hurriedly retreated towards the lower decks, assumed to be heading to another place of seclusion. Meanwhile, Colt, after discreetly exchanging knowing looks with Lord Takeshi, took charge of the situation and assured everyone else that he'll be keeping a close watch on their War Chief as he followed suit in the same direction.

Her body convulsed for the air that she lost, chest heaving with an indescribable ache and head pounding as endless questions began to barrage her mind. She wasn't sure on what just took place or how she should react, but her body could finally recline against the ledge behind her back in reprieve - the spots that she gripped on earlier had already flattened beyond repair due to the strength that she thought she had somehow lost yesterday; unleashed in her subconsciousness.

Gabi held her gaze with more concern and a somewhat guilty expression than sympathy, while Falco stood beside the girl in silence. Both understood all so well that Mikasa had been holding back from retaliating against Gabi's older cousin with her natural force. It was Akane, however, who had held her hand in an attempt to soothe the already tense form of her Mistress.

After several seconds of forced calm, Lord Takeshi eventually broke the uncomfortable silence by imploring on her condition. "Ōjo -sama, are you hurt?"

She shook her head, undeterred by the trembles of her body. "I'm fine."

"You have my word that I will find an explanation on this. Until then, once we've docked, I think it would be best if Lord Reiner returned home to Liberio with the young Miss and the Grice brothers separately from us. Hiroshi and I will accompany you back to the main residence in town."

Mikasa disagreed with the older noble's suggestion. "No, Lord Takeshi. We'll head straight to the relief camps in Central Liberio. I won't allow a personal matter to intervene with my duties to the people. There's a lot of work, too little time for us to waste, isn't it?"

The admiral nodded before bowing in respect. "And, we will be with you along the way, Ōjo."

Nodding, she confided. "I just need a minute. Please."

Akane and Lord Takeshi bowed down, both taking each of the children with them to allow their princess the much-needed space and silence to gather her thoughts.

Mikasa gritted her teeth, trying to regain her composure. Silently questioning whether this sacrifice would even be worth it. She knew the wars changed them, forced them to become more monsters than humans - hell, they shed the remainders of their own humanity behind for the sake of humanity itself.

But what she'd just witnessed was more than an imposed trauma on a veteran soldier.

That person, whoever he was , may have Reiner's face, spoke with the same voice but it wasn't him . It felt as if something else took over his body like a vessel overnight.

Eren changed permanently in the course of years but those changes - only became more apparent in the months after he had left them in Marley. But this….isn't the same. There must be a better reason for this.

Eren…

Ten years ...for ten whole years she devoted herself to a person who she gave her whole world to, only to be on the receiving end of a heartbreak. She's not emotionally strong enough to go through this again even if it's with a different man.

In the end, however, her already broken heart really didn't matter when it comes to her responsibilities and the people of the nations she offered her loyalty to. It'll never be whole again, never be mended. The only fate it'll be in, was no more than a rotting piece of flesh with each passing day as her soul slowly decayed away from inside one cage to another.

She just wanted to go home. But where would her home even be anymore?

Mikasa was not oblivious to the irony of their current situation; only days before, on their wedding night to be exact - she was very determined of being the one who would set the boundaries within their marriage.

Well, how have the tables turned undeniably?

The hand that had held her body with a gentle, affectionate touch last night, had also been the same hand that had grasped tight around her neck in pure malice.


What's coming in next chapter:

In Liberio, the aftermath of the ambush that greeted their arrival was a lot more devastating than she had envisioned. The moment they reach his home, their duties and his alter drives them further apart within their own painful reality as each struggles in their respective new roles.

Mikasa relives one of the more traumatic moments in her life amidst the rising challenges in adjusting at the place she has to call her new home; amongst former enemies, new allies and an ocean of strangers, scarred by the assault that Eren and the Survey Corps had executed.

A/N: Did you know? An annual sky lantern festival known as the Kamihinokinai Paper Balloon Festival (上桧木内の紙風船上げ) is held in Semboku, Akita, on February 10 each year (on Mikasa & Falco's birthday! and the birthday of Reiner's VA, Hosoya Yoshimasa-san). Hundreds of very large lanterns, known as kamifūsen (紙風船), are flown for good luck in the coming year.

Thus, this chapter concludes the end of their hornymoon- I mean 'honeymoon' haha Thank you so much for your time in reading this chapter, lovelies! If you folks have caught up with Until Dawn's ch. 2, you'd know how much I enjoyed writing about how the men are having a hard-on for their respective love interests in my stories. In UD it was Reiner, now in AYA, it's our beloved Armin's turn X)

Next story updates would be new Modern AU "Chills" and ch.3 of "Until Dawn". As usual, please do share your favorite parts of this chapter or if there's anything in particular you hope to see in future chapters. I really enjoyed all the appreciation Asks & DMs received on my Tumblr. See you guys again very soon. Take care & stay safe always. Till the next update!