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Erwin returned that evening with a buck of water, a few towels and a clean set of clothes. By the time he returned Levi slept off most of the tranquilizer. He no longer felt groggy but his muscles were stiff. One of the MPs opened the cell. Levi was surprised when the same MP unlocked his chains.
"I don't know what you have on the commander but you are a lucky little bastard," the MP muttered. He unlocked the chains on Levi's wrists and ankles. "If you try to run I have orders to shoot."
"Levi understands the situation," said Erwin. "Thank you." The MP huffed before walking out of the cell. Captain Erwin turned his attention to Levi.
"I thought you might feel better after a wash and some clean clothes," said Captain Erwin. He set the bucket of water down before handing him a stack of clothes and towels. Then he and the Military Policeman walked out of the cell, locking it behind them. Levi looked at the clean uniform in his hands. What the hell? He rose to his feet. It felt good stretch his stiff limbs. Erwin joined the freakishly tall men. They became a titan wall blocking anyone's view inside the cell.
"I'm not a fucking woman," Levi muttered. Inside, he was thankful for the bit of privacy. He took off his shirt and set it on the ground before placing the clean clothes on top of it. He unwrapped one of the rags to see the small soap he brought for the trip. Levi decided he would forgive this particular intrusion.
Just like when he went to the public baths Levi wasted no time scrubbing the days of filth and dirty finger prints off his skin. By the time he was done his thoughts were clear again. The clean uniform also helped. He folded the dirty uniform neatly.
"I'm finished," Levi said softly. Erwin turned around first. He waved over one of the MPs to unlock the cell door. Part of Levi wanted to run through the open cell door but the voices were quieter now. Erwin walked into the cell to retrieve the bucket of water and dirty clothes. "Thank you," Levi mumbled. Erwin nodded. He handed both to John.
"We need to prepare for tomorrow," Captain Erwin said to the MPs. They looked hesitant. "Levi isn't going anywhere."
Reluctantly, the MPs left making sure the cell door was locked. John and Mike followed taking the bucket and filthy clothes with them. Levi wondered why the soldiers were so easy going about all of this. And what had that MP meant when he said Levi had something on their commander? His thoughts were like a book to Erwin's gaze. It would be more difficult to explain everything to Levi at the moment. Erwin was sure that this was not what Commander Gibson had in mind when she told Nile to offer 'every hospitality' but he would use it for as long as possible. Erwin planned to use this time to regain Levi's trust and prepare him for tomorrow.
"You seem to have calmed down," said Erwin once they were alone. "Maybe we should have brought you into the scouts like this?" he teased dangling the loose chains. Levi looked at him with pure venom at the bad joke before relaxing to their bored natural state. He crossed his arms. Erwin noted that his fingertips briefly reached for something that wasn't there.
"Dirty bastard," Levi said as he took a seat on the white sheet. "Did you do this too?" He looked down the table cloth. Erwin nodded. Levi uncrossed his arms. Erwin figured he might as well get this part out of the way.
"Tomorrow, don't say anything at court" "said Erwin. He took a seat on the floor beside Levi.
"Fuck that," said Levi. "Those bastards set me up." He idly patted his clothes. "You couldn't leave me one knife," Levi sighed. He missed the comfort of having one of his daggers there when he felt anxious. It was like he didn't know where to put his hands. Usually, when he crossed his arms he could fiddle with the handle. Or he could take comfort feeling the extra weight of the slender blades. Levi couldn't remember a time when he hadn't had a knife near him. It left him feeling naked. He was rubbing his hands along his forearms when Erwin spoke.
"Levi." Erwin tried to bring the smaller man back to the topic at hand. His gaze was soft when he looked at Levi. He brought his hand over Levi's smaller one to halt the nervous motions. Levi looked up at him curious. It was his turn to read Erwin's eyes. There was a sadness that darkened the usually bright blue eyes.
"I can't trust you," Levi started. Erwin nodded. "The last time I trusted someone I lost everything," Levi said softly. Even though Levi had had the final say; the reason he agreed to the job was because he trusted Farlan to make the right decision. Levi couldn't look up at Erwin. Levi meant every word. Sometimes when he was alone with his thoughts, he dreamt about what his life would have been like if he had turned down this job. If he was truly honest he blamed Erwin for that as well.
"This is different," said Erwin calmly. He squeezed Levi's hand. The gesture was meant to comforting. Levi looked down at their hands. This wasn't horribly disgusting, Levi thought. He did bring me some soap and a clean set of clothes.
"Fine," said Levi. "I won't say anything at court tomorrow."
"Or fight anyone," said Erwin.
"Or fight anyone," sighed Levi. "You sound like Farlan. He's the only reason I didn't kill you before. " He looked up to stare into Erwin's blue eyes.
"And now?" said Erwin.
"It depends on if you can get me out of this hell hole," said Levi. "Don't fuck this up." Levi hoped that he was making the right decision. He never knew if it was the right decision. Suddenly, Levi pulled his hand away from Erwin's.
"What's wrong?" asked Erwin.
"It's time for dinner," replied Levi. He rose to his feet and picked up the table cloth. He spread it out so there was enough for both of them to sit in front of the bars. If Erwin needed further invitation Levi looked over his shoulder at him before sitting on one end.
Hange and Clare come down the steps both carrying two plates a piece in their hands. The two paused seeing Levi and Erwin seated behind the bars. Clare and Hange took their seats before the cell. Erwin smiled at them.
"This is unnerving," said Clare. "Why are you in the cell, Captain?"
"The MPs took the keys with them," Erwin said easily. Levi looked up at his commanding officer. Erwin made easy conversation with his squad like they weren't deep underground in cement box locked behind bars. Hange slid the plates through the small opening. "Thank you." He passed Levi his plate.
"Where are the other two?" Levi asked. Clare passed two cups of wine through the hole. Erwin passed Levi his cup. He noticed that the MPs hadn't made their way down either.
"They are resting up," said Captain Erwin.
"Resting?" asked Levi as they ate their meals.
"Yes." Erwin took a drink of his wine. "They will be guarding you tonight." Levi looked at him in disbelief.
"What perverted shit is this?" spat Levi. "Since when do I need a babysitter to watch me sleep?" Erwin sighed. He leaned over to whisper in Levi's ear.
"As long as they are here," Erwin nodded to the far wall where the MPs usually stood. "So will John and Mike." Realization dawned behind Levi's gray eyes. He felt like an ass. If he could, he would have run away from this space and the emotions it brought up. He looked up at Erwin. Who is this guy? He turned his head and looked at the food on his plate. Erwin didn't move away
"I—"
"I know you can take care of yourself," Erwin whispered. "Call me overprotective." Levi flushed.
"Move over, you're too close to me," he growled.
000
The Royal Games were one of the few times a year that all four military leaders were able to sit and relax. This time of year the Supreme Commander opened his home to the leaders. Commander Shardis was asked to arrive a few hours before his peers. For this event, Commander Shardis asked Marshal to accompany him.
"Not that I mind, sir," said Marshal. "But I thought Erwin usually joined you at these things?" He fought to keep the excitement out of his voice. This was only the second time he got the opportunity to ride in the Commander's carriage. The first time he was asked to accompany the commander to an event within wall Sina.
"He's preparing for court tomorrow," said Commander Shardis.
"Oh, I see," said Marshall. When the commander told him about the 'Levi situation' he made sure to keep his face a mask but in the darkness of the carriage he allowed a smile to touch his lips. Finally, thought Marshal. The golden boy was finally being called out for his outlandish ways. If he worked it right he might be able to replace Erwin on the Commander's pedestal. Marshal decided to lay the ground work.
"I can't say that I am terribly surprised," Marshal said casually. "You can't change someone overnight." That was the most diplomatic way he could say 'what else do you expect with a criminal'. Commander Shardis only nodded.
Supreme Commander Zacklay was the only commander to have a house within Wall Sina. It was a mansion that was only a short carriage ride from the Royal palace. An attendant received the carriage, opening the door for Commander Shardis and his guest to exit. Marshal looked around in awe. The mansion was three stories high. Two tall pillars framed the front door. The attendant gestured for them to go inside. Another attendant waited for them at the doorway
"Supreme Commander is waiting for you in the library, Commander Shardis," the kind servant said. He bent at the waist guiding them toward the library. There were no words to describe how amazed Marshall felt. For a few moments he imagined what it would be like to come home to a place like this. Marshall was sure he looked like a happy idiot as he followed his commander through the ornate halls. This was why he needed to rise up in rank. An easy life; servants; Marshal wanted all of it. Sure, he had high ideals when he first joined the Survey Corps but there was only so much blood and poverty a person could take. What was it all for? What were they even dying for? If anything, going outside the wall taught him to value the time he did have. What better way than as a pampered Commander? At least if he made it back behind the wall he would have a comfortable place to sleep. Subordinates breaking their back to gain your favor. Rubbing elbows with the nobles. It didn't sound like a bad life at all.
The servant knocked on a heavy wooden door. "Master Zacklay, Commander Keith Shardis has arrived as requested."
"Come in," a deep voice sounded muffled behind the heavy door. The servant opened the door in a graceful manner. He bowed as the two officers made their way inside. Marshal released a surprised breathe. Row after row of dark wooden bookshelves lined the walls. In the center of the room was a rich cherry wood desk. The commander sat behind the great desk in a leather high back chair. In front of the desks were two smaller chairs that stood just as regal.
"Stand here," Commander Shardis nodded to the doorway.
"Yes sir." Marshall took his post beside the doorway, clutching his wrists behind his back.
"Thank you for coming, Keith," said the supreme commander. "Drink?"
"Thank you." Zacklay filled one of the crystal glasses with brandy. Shardis accepted the glass. He sat back in the leather chair. It smelled of oil and wood polish. He had expected this. Ever since Erwin went underground, Keith was under an inspector's glass. Keith had to write weekly reports on the thug's progress. When the incident happened and he hadn't heard anything he knew this meeting would happen. Honestly, he was surprised that he hadn't been summoned sooner. At least he got brandy before he got fucked.
"How goes the trial?" Zacklay said refilling his own glass. It wasn't a question. Word not only about accusation but also Levi's break down had spread though out most of the military and many of the nobles. As if the Survey Corps didn't have enough PR problems, now they are accused of trying to sabotage the Military Police.
"Erwin is preparing Levi and his case for tomorrow," said Keith. "I understand that he has a few surprises that will prove his innocence."
"Of course he didn't tell you what they were, did he?" said Zacklay. He swirled the amber liquid in his glass.
"No, sir."
The supreme commander nodded. Both men took a drink from their glasses. Zacklay looked at the man standing by the doorway. At least Keith was smart enough not to bring Erwin Smith with him to tonight's event. Silence layered the air around them. The only sound brave enough to disturb it was the sound of their breathing. Supreme Commander Zacklay broke the delicate balance.
"Do you have any back up plans ready?" What he was really asking had Keith started drawing up the papers for Erwin's dismissal. Keith finished the rest of his drink. He reached for the decanter, refilled his cup and drank those contents as well. If Erwin taught him anything it was that sometimes you have to put your cards on the table even if you know you are going to lose.
"I don't believe that a backup plan is necessary," Keith Shardis said with confidence.
"I hope that you are right," the supreme commander said. He topped off his glass and refilled Keith's. The two men toasted. There was a knock on the office door.
"Come in," said Zacklay. A polite servant opened the door and gave a humble bow before speaking
"Commanders Gibson and Pixus have arrived Master Zacklay."
Dot Pixus and Jenna Gibson stood on the veranda sipping glasses of wine. Both had been in the military too long to be distracted by all the baubles and lights that came with command. Both knew that each glass of fine wine and marble sculpture came with a price. They didn't have to worry about silly things like funding or enrollment, their battles played out in political cycles and royal titans were uppity rookies and sneaky soldiers ready to bite the in half and take their bolo ties.
"I'm sorry we had to drag you in such unpleasantness," Jenna said offhandedly. The veranda over looked the Royal Gardens. Apparently there was yet another drunken event being held; thankfully they didn't have to be in attendance. She sipped more of her wine.
"Don't worry about it,"said Dot Pixus. He took a sip of his own wine and joined her looking at the tipsy nobles. "I'm sure you or Keith would do the same for me if our positions were reversed. They are really enjoying themselves down there? It is the Royal Games after all."
"Don't they always?" said Jenna, "but I'm sure you of all people know you they don't need a reason to drink." The old lion smirked.
"And here I thought I might get to that sweet voice you use when speaking with the king."
"Because of the trial?" said Jenna scoffed. "Whatever happens to that criminal isn't worth me speaking with an old pervert." Pixus gave a soft, hearty laugh.
"That criminal, huh?" Pixus stroked his chin. "I would think this particular criminal would at least drum up some nostalgia, considering his lineage?" Jenna quickly turned around. She displayed her empty glass for one of the polite servants to refill.
"My,"said Jenna," and here I simply took you for your run of the mill whore monger, Dot?" The older man laughed again.
"I may not be Military Police but I was a major before you stepped onto the training grounds, Jenna," Pixus said. Jenna took a drink of her refilled wine.
"Perhaps, but I can assure you I have better ways to spend my time than reliving my past."
000
After the dishes were set aside Clare brought out a deck of cards and a bag of walnuts she purchased on their way back from the underground. The game of choice was poker. This reminded Levi of night's underground playing cards to paying off Kenny's tab. He learned when he was a kid by watching the other thugs lose money to each other. When he played cards with his own gang he never played for money. He wouldn't be able to live with himself if he knew that he took food out of another boy's mouth.
"Why did you suggest a game if you can't play it?" Levi fussed as he took Clare's stack of nuts threw the cell bars. She shrugged. Hange and Erwin laughed. Hange was the next to go out.
"He's as bad as Mike," Hange muttered. Levi reached through the bars to collect his reward.
"What are you talking about?" asked Levi.
"I will neither confirm nor deny that there is a weekly poker game for rations," Erwin teased. "And Mike may have a reputation for leaving a more than one soldier hungry." He shuffled the cards then set them before Levi. Erwin was happily noticed Levi stopped searching for his missing knives. "Your turn to deal." Levi picked up the cards. He shuffled them with a grace most casino dealers longer for. He could feel their eyes on him.
"I wasn't always a thief," said Levi.
"I am starting to wonder what you haven't done," said Clare.
"Don't get too excited. I mostly know illegal shit," said Levi. He caught himself. The other three looked at him. He misspoke. Suddenly, Hange bursts out laughing. Erwin and Clare also fell into laughter. Levi looked down at the cards. This wasn't so bad.