Chapter 5

Disclaimer: I don't own the characters, nor do I make profit from this.

For the sake of this plot, Mikasa's last name will be Jaeger/Yeager.

"Eren?"

I was startled out of my conversation when I was suddenly grabbed by my left shoulder and turned to face a man.

The man stared at me with something akin to wonder, disbelief, and hope.

I heard the man call my name and was confused; I've never met this man before. Before answering him I took a moment to take in his appearance.

He was possibly shorter than I but it was hard to tell since he was on the step below me. He wore only the most magnificent attire I'd ever laid my eyes on. It was probably worth more than I would ever make in 10 of my lives combined.

His hair, black as night, was perfectly combed, and he looked to have an unusual haircut, one I'd never seen before.

His skin was a beautiful porcelain, as if he'd never seen daylight. There didn't seem to be even one imperfection on his body.

I finally made my last observation with his eyes. Wide in an array of emotions, his eyes, framed by a beautiful pale mask, were an odd combination of blue and silver. They were nothing like I'd ever seen before, and they were beautiful.

Noting I had yet to answer the man, I hurried to reply.

"Ah, yes that's me, sir. Excuse me, but how do know my name? I don't believe I've been introduced to you yet."

The man still stood there another moment, staring at me. He seemed to realize that his hand was still on my shoulder and pulled it away. He collected himself, for he was breathing a bit heavily. Once he was straightened in a more regal posture he turned to me once more. His mouth moved to answer me but my acquaintance was faster.

I felt another hand this time on my right shoulder, and turned back again to my new friend Farlan.

"Oh don't mind his "impeccable" manners Eren, Lord Ackerman hasn't seen the light of day in years. It's no wonder he's forgotten how to behave."

I stared at Farlan in shock; that seemed a bit rude, and turned back to Levi to apologize.

I was met with the most intimidating glare I'd ever seen, and was thoroughly frightened. I was just glad the glare wasn't directed at me.

"Actually Farlan, I'm feeling a bit parched, would you mind fetching us some refreshments?" I asked him kindly.

He smiled back at me taking hold of my hand and bowing slightly, joking of course.

"Anything for an angel." He replied smoothly.

Farlan walked past Levi, giving him a glare that Eren was unaware of.

After Farlan had gone Eren continued, face flushed pink.

"I'm sorry about my friend, I don't know what got into him, I actually just met him today." I explained sheepishly.

The man looked back at me before finally speaking for the second time.

"Don't worry about him, I've known him for many years, we've never got along well."

It seemed he wanted to say more but restrained himself. I didn't care too much, I was too busy wishing to hear that soothing, deep voice again.

"Well I hope you're not offended. You never did answer my question though, who are you? How did you know my name?"

The man thought about his answer for a moment.

"My name is Levi Ackerman, Lord to my family's house. I happen to be the last Ackerman left."

I went to apologize for his loss, but he raised his hand.

"No need for that, they've been gone a very long time."

I paused unsure of what to say to that.

"Oh, well I'm still sorry sir, I know how horrible a loved ones passing can be. I've lost some of my own family as well."

Levi stared at me a moment.

"Eren."

I didn't know what to say. Should I be wary of this man?

"You keep saying my name sir, but I've never seen you before. How do you know my name?"

"There is no need to call me sir, please call me Levi." Was his only response.

"But, sir you are a Lord-" he raised his hand once more.

"I insist, Eren."

I didn't want to disobey a Lord so I hesitantly complied.

"Of course, Levi."

I thought I saw the man's face twitch, but he looked completely normal a second after. Maybe it was just my imagination.

"So then, Levi, how is it that you already seem to know who I am?" I asked, ever so curious about the man that seemed to want to avoid answering my question.

Levi continued to stare at me, his expression slowly becoming sorrowful.

The seemingly miserable man reached out to me trying to grasp my hand. He started speaking fast, desperate almost.

"Eren, please, do you really not rem-" "Eren!"

I looked past Levi's shoulder to see Farlan coming back up the steps, two glasses in hand.

"Here, drink fast, they are about to start the ball and you simply must share a dance with me."

"Levi I-" I didn't get to finish. Farlan took my hand and started back down the stairs leading me away from Levi and towards the dance hall.

I turned around as we kept going down the stairs, wanting to give an apology. Once more I was met with the dangerous glare, highlighted by his white and silver mask. Again, he didn't seem to be glaring at me, but at Farlan.

Maybe it was just from all the reflections in the shining room, but I swore his eyes almost looked red for a moment.

My attention was torn away as we reached the bottom of the stairs, and made our way to the double doors leading to an elegant Ballroom.

Farlan pulled me to the center with all the other dancing couples. I was self conscious at first, and had other things on my mind, but Farlan made it fun and I slowly forgot about my nerves, and about Levi.

I know this chapter is short, and it was going to be longer, but I actually like where it stops, so adieu for now. I don't have an upload schedule so if anyone wants faster updates, you'll have to let me know, I can't read minds. :)