#Isabelle Link-Levy

[gone-naitfall]

Looking at the stars, admiring from afar . . .

My girl, my girl, my girl

— you will be my world, my world, my world

for @gyofukuki / Isabel Magnolia

[doctorcurdlejr]

Niko!! what'd you think of I saw the tv glow. I finally saw it last night and noticed you posting about it so I wanted to know your thoughts :)

Levi!!! I was JUST wondering what you were thinking about the movie after I saw you posting about it as well... we are so media discussion pilled in this way, it's awesome. ANYWAYS I've had so many thoughts since I first saw it and I've been trying to turn them into something coherent for a little bit now.

Ummm okay I have written 1k+ words about this movie, the suburbs, and escapism via teen TV.... clearly I was dying for somebody to ask this I guess so thank you for indulging me <3

First and foremost, I absolutely loved it! I've seen it twice now and the first time I watched it I got to see Jane Schoenbrun talk about the film right after. I already really liked it from that first watch alone. I found it so deeply relatable to my experiences - both in terms of growing up gay and trans, but where I am now in my 20s trying to navigate adulthood. Hearing what Schoenbrun had to say really cemented my feelings and thoughts about the film.

Buffy the Vampire Slayer was a big influence on the movie (it's why Amber Benson makes a cameo as Johnny Link's mom). Even though I don't have the same emotional link to Buffy since I never watched it, I recognize it as the same type of warmth I experienced growing up with Riverdale. When Owen says he feels like his insides have been scooped out but that he's too afraid to look and have that wrongness everybody knows is there be confirmed, Maddy simply responds "Maybe you're like Isabel. Afraid of what's inside you." Tears forming but not falling, breathing shallowly, I grabbed the paper and pen the theater keeps at the seats for people to order food with and wrote that line down - the slip of paper is still somewhere in my car. Writing it now almost feels lame in its simplicity, but it felt like my insides were being flayed open.

During the director discussion, Schoenbrun talked a little bit about this idea of how truly fucking bizarre it is to grow up in the suburbs. Like, when we think about the pinnacle of normality in American culture, it's the image of middle-class cis-hetero-white suburbia. At the same time, despite this cultural dream of normality, everybody is hyper-aware that the suburbs are one of the least normal things ever. So, the ACTUAL cultural understanding of it is that it's where we go to, like, passively kill ourselves (*George Costanza voice* WE LIVE IN A SOCIETY YOU KNOW!). This idea isn't new, I mean there are so many films and shows about navigating that specific bizarre dissonance from Rebel Without a Cause to Heathers to Twin Peaks. Probably half the pre-teen to teen TV I watched obsessively growing up, stuff like Strange Days at Blake Holsey High, Making Fiends, Truth or Scare, and eventually Riverdale, were never shy about being weird and morbid and saying "yes, the suburbs are exactly as bizarre and lethal in the ways you can already feel in your bones at 13." I Saw the TV Glow does a really good job of keying not only into that mental dissonance but more specifically into how those of us who have felt so intrinsically weird and different and wrong fell back on these shows like they were capable of doing the emotional version of a rescue breath maneuver after being drowned.

In high school, if there were two things about me that any person who even vaguely knew me could list off it was that I watched Riverdale, and I was a lesbian - and I was mocked more for the Riverdale. At that age, I was, without a doubt, the most miserable I have ever felt in my life. I rarely left the house because my family lived in a development that made me want to scratch my skin off when I walked out our front door. Owen didn't leave the house for days, afraid Maddy could somehow force him out. I sobbed constantly and frequently to depressing indie rock on the floor of my closet while hoping my family would just once read the (honest to god) KEEP OUT poster plastered on my door since I didn't have a lock on it. Owen didn't leave his room for days, afraid of what Maddy recognized in him. I didn't go on dates and kept my chest binder shoved to the bottom of my bookbag while wearing dresses that could've come from a how-to-be the perfect 50s housewife manual. Owen didn't leave his bed for days, afraid of Maddy touching his neck and Isabel's dress. I also watched Riverdale with the kind of zeal you see in a Pentecostal who has found God and started speaking in tongues to let you know it. I own a button that says, "Don't Make Me Go Dark Betty On You," I cherish it in a way that is only achieved by knowing exactly how corny and trite it is and then moving straight past that because well actually, and most people wouldn't get this, she's holding back something deeply dark and wild and- and disgusting. something painful yet intrinsically her. but i get it, obviously. or maybe not obviously! hopefully not obviously, but- basically, I'm just saying I get it: the experience of reflection and recognition through the other and all that.

Whatever, the point is that this movie is one big glaring trans allegory about how it sucks dog shit to live in the suburbs, and even at our most repressed we find these little snow globes of actualization in the glow of a tv screen that isn't afraid to show you the world you see. I've seen some people say that, like, in this context accepting or coming into your transness is this monumental death of self, which I get, but I feel there lacks a nuance in that because either way Owen is dying. Unlike Maddy who buries herself alive only to come out renewed, Owen doesn't kill himself upon facing the reality that the world is constructed to keep him miserable and the only way out is to take back what it is that the world wants to keep scooped out of him. Instead he just passively lets it drag him to a much more permanent death. This lack of suicide sucks in the kind of way that forces you to sit in your car on the midnight drive home and think to yourself am I letting myself suffocate because at some point knowing the misery became less scary than admitting I've been capable of doing something about it the whole time?

Clearly, I’ve been enchanted by the film’s narrative and meta-textual language. If you're familiar with it, you can see how Schoenbrun built this movie like a long-form dream episode of a canceled teen show filmed in Vancouver. Lynchian? Yeah, sure. Riverdalesque? THIS we cannot possibly deny. Schoenbrun said they included Amber Benson as an act of healing the inner rage experienced at Tara’s death in Buffy. This is a Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa ending Riverdale with a bisexual polycule after his gay Archie play got ceased-and-desisted type move. There’s probably more I could say about the soundtrack and the visuals, but I’ve hit over 1k words on this, so I’ll leave it at I enjoyed this movie a lot. :)

Maddy is an out lesbian who left town to escape the misery and found it strapped to her ankles. She slinks out, an animal pressed against the gymnasium floor, and says "I'm not telling you anything you don't already know." Owen looks into the camera and narrates. He cuts himself open with a box cutter, fully acknowledges what's there, and the movie ends with his suffocating apology parade for the unremarkable inconvenience of his excruciating suffering. You can be gay and trans, you can know it and you can stop repressing it, but you're not going to stop suffocating until you can find a way to destroy the part of you that truly deeply does want to die, reaching for the comforting euthanasia of normalcy. Stop visiting the dream of the life you want and make it into your reality with the same kind of unrepentant conviction seen in some underfunded but wildly ambitious teen television series. In other words: you must try to survive the ego death of being weird. A weirdo, who doesn't fit in and doesn't want to fit in!

[justagirlwholikesdrdt]

drdt but who I think they would play in smash

Teruko | Link - picked a heroic looking character

Xander | Ike - look at him and you'll know why

David | Wario - doesn't care who he plays, wants to annoy the shit out of everyone

Eden | Terry - would be funny, she casually plays smash but is really good

Arei | Isabelle - picked one she thought was cute

Charles | Mario - he doesn't play smash so just picked Mario

Whit | Duck Hunt - Very mischievous character, fits whit well.

Arturo | Palutena - Palutena is a goddess, basically the pinnacle of perfection. Need I say more?

Veronika | Ridley - scary

Nico | Wolf - animal

Rose | Kirby - they both slep

Hu | Zelda - Picked a character she thought was pretty

J | Steve - J is a try hard

Ace | Captain falcon - ace is a try hard

Levi | Joker - entirely for the p5 aesthetic

Min | Robin - picked a character she thought looking interesting gameplay wise, likes magic.

[natsuki208]

Ever dreamed of a less harsh world of AOT? Characters didn't die left and right but lived until the end?

Well, my project is for you and others stumbling upon this aswell https://archiveofourown.org/works/63834853/chapters/163695463

Starting from 104th Cadet Division, we of course have our main characters: Eren, Mikasa, Armin, Jean, Marco, Connie, Sasha, Krista and Ymir (Freckles)

And of course we have the side characters, Thomas, Mina, Hannah, Franz, Samuel and Daz (Phobos)

Now the expanded stuff, Warriors are no longer a trio with Marcel alive (Lore changes, Two Jaw Titans created in the past like twins/brothers, Porco selected alongside Marcel, sent to Paradis... and Porco got eaten with protecting Reiner)

Floch and his friends Sandra (Korsa) and Gordon (Friman) are implied to be in 104th Division as all others. Military Police trio Marlowe, Hitch and Boris are from 104th Division but not Southern. And two minor characters from Season 4 and OVA are Louise (Lane) and Ilse Langnar.

Some veteran scouts have expanded family origins, Like Nifa (Forster) & Floch, Nanaba (Zacharias) & Mike are siblings. Or giving last names to some like Lynne (Lichtenberg) and Abel (Shephard)

Levi Squad has Isabel and Furlan as Levi's right hands (They survived from Abnormal Titan encounter by hiding until Levi arrived, and the trio decimated it)

Lastly, this fanfic is gonna have two OCs. But they rather come in late to the party. The first of which is Adam Gravar who's basically in place of Floch's development from S3 to S4 (Essentially Yeagerist, but he has a very different desire than Canon Floch) and the second/last OC is Faulkenbury, an Eldian Marley Soldier, born without fear. He's gonna become important in S4 onwards.

What about the events? I'll write them in parts later on...

So what do you think?

Now that you brought it up…. I in fact so have my own light-hearted version of AOT - it’s called ‘Paradis! A World Without Titans’. If you’re interested, I’ll leave the link to the first chapter here:

https://archiveofourown.org/works/45068290/chapters/113374387

Anyways, I’m liking your ideas for your own AU as well, sounds interesting to check out… except the part about Fl*ch. (sorry but I really hate that guy)

Thank you for this fanfic suggestion :)

Side note: Pls tell me Marco gets more time and a relationship with Jean in this story, PLZ?! 🥺

[cosmicjoke]

do u have any levi centered fic recs with no pairings? maybe character studies :3

Well, I'd have to go back through my history on a03 to find anything, lol. I can't think of much off the top of my head, except for some of my own little one shots, etc... I'll link them down below if you're interested, and if I'm able to remember anything else, I'll add to the list:

This one deals with how Levi finds Isabel and takes her in.

And this one deals with Levi dealing with the men who assaulted Isabel.

This one deals with Levi, Furlan and Isabel trying to survive winter in the Underground.

This is about the first night Kenny takes Levi in.

I've got a few more as well, which have more than one chapter, but are unfinished, which deal with Levi's developing friendship with Furlan, and then a one-shot about Levi being a good dancer, lol. Anyway, if you want to check them out, you can visit my a03 page here: https://archiveofourown.org/users/wbss21/works

I'll try to think of works by other authors and add them to the list. I'm just terrible at keeping track of the stories I've read, lol, and most of my favorite Levi-centric fics are actually pairings of some kind. It feels like all the best writers in this fandom are also shippers, lol.

[colinodonoghue]

222aghoststory & colinodonoghue1: 🚨 MEET YOUR DUBLIN CAST 🚨 @shonabmx @birdspotting @colinodonoghue1 @thewhitmore will be taking #222AGhostStory to Dublin’s @3olympiatheatre this Summer, 21 June - 11 Aug. For a strictly limited run 🚨Do you dare to join us? Book your tickets now! Link in bio 👻📸 @seamusphoto

Colinodonoghue1: Woohoo!! So excited to be a part of this show!!

[Get your tickets here!!!]

Runaway Entertainment in association with 3Olympia Theatre presents

2:22 - A GHOST STORY

Shona McGarty, Jay McGuiness, Colin O’Donoghue, Laura Whitmore, Announced for The Very Special, Standalone Irish Production

The smash hit play by Danny Robins Makes Irish Debut At 3Olympia Theatre This Summer For a Strictly Limited Run

Directed by Matthew Dunster & Isabel Marr

“A slick, chilling, romp of a play” The Guardian

‘A modern classic’ Sunday Times

Producer Runaway Entertainment is delighted to announce the stellar cast for the critically acclaimed, smash hit, supernatural thriller 2:22 - A Ghost Story opening at Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre this summer for its debut Irish performances.

Shona McGarty (Eastenders) will play Jenny, Jay McGuiness (The Wanted, BIG! The Musical, Rip It Up), who is currently on the UK tour in 2:22 - A Ghost Story, will play Ben, Colin O'Donoghue (Once Upon A Time, The Tudors, The Right Stuff, The Gray House) will play Sam with Laura Whitmore (Love Island, Finding Joy, Queenie, and Jenny in 2.22: A Ghost Story in her West End debut) stepping into the role of Lauren.

The very special, standalone Irish production, produced for Dublin’s 3Olympia Theatre, will open on Thursday 20th June 2024 with performances until Sunday 11th August 2024 - for a strictly limited run only.

Full list of performances below. Age Suitability: 12+ 

Tickets priced from €26.50 including booking fee and €1.50 restoration levy on sale now with Ticketmaster Ireland

2:22 - A Ghost Story began in summer 2021 at the Noël Coward Theatre, starring Lily Allen, Julia Chan, Hadley Fraser and Jake Wood, and where it won the WhatsOnStage award for Best Play. It then transferred to the Gielgud Theatre for 10 weeks from 4 December 2021. The production there starring Stephanie Beatriz, James Buckley, Elliot Cowan and Giovanna Fletcher completed its run on 12 February 2022. For the first season at the Criterion (May - September 2022) the cast was Tom Felton, Mandip GIll, Sam Swainsbury and Beatriz Romilly. In late September Laura Whitmore, Matt Willis, Felix Scott and Tamsin Carroll took over. 

The box office record-breaking run at the Lyric starring Cheryl, Jake Wood, Scott Karim, and Louise Ford, concluded its run on 23 April. The West End season at the Apollo Theatre starred Sophia Bush, Frankie Bridge, Ricky Champ, Clifford Samuel and Jaime Winstone, and set off on its UK tour in Autumn 2023 with Joe Absolom, Charlene Boyd, Nathaniel Curtis and Louisa Lytton in the cast. Current cast on the UK tour: Vera Chok (Lauren); Jay McGuiness (Ben); George Rainsford (Sam); Fiona Wade (Jenny).

2:22 is written by award-winning writer Danny Robins, creator of the hit BBC podcast The Battersea Poltergeist, and is directed by Matthew Dunster and Isabel Marr; it’s an adrenaline-filled night where secrets emerge and ghosts may or may not appear…

Danny Robins said: ‘I'm really looking forward to seeing how Dublin audiences respond to 2:22 this summer. The tour continues to be a great success and I can't think of a better place to round off the journey in 2024 than here with a brand new cast to be announced soon!'

What do you believe? And do you dare discover the truth?

“THERE’S SOMETHING IN OUR HOUSE. I HEAR IT EVERY NIGHT, AT THE SAME TIME"

Jenny believes her new home is haunted, but her husband Sam isn’t having any of it. They argue with their first dinner guests, old friend Lauren and new partner Ben. Can the dead really walk again? Belief and scepticism clash, but something feels strange and frightening, and that something is getting closer, so they’re going to stay up... until 2:22... and then they’ll know.

2:22 - A Ghost Story features set design by Anna Fleischle, costume design by Cindy Lin, lighting design by Lucy Carter, sound by Ian Dickinson for Autograph Sound and illusions by Chris Fisher. Casting by Matilda James.

2:22 - A Ghost Story is produced by Tristan Baker and Charlie Parsons for Runaway Entertainment, Isobel David and Kater Gordon.  [source]      

[eueuphoriaz]

Levi's heart (Part 1)

I have been hesitating on this analysis because there are so many layers to Levi's character, and so many people have analysed Levi down to his molecular cells. It has taken me weeks to organise the information and trying to make sense of them and I think I am now much clearer about the doubts that I have.

So, I have read many Levihan analysis about how the word "heart" lies above Hange in Chapt 139, which is parallel to the chapter title "Hearts", which is the first time Levi and Hange were introduced to each other.

Now, my cynical and critical mind started to question, what is the link there? Could it be just the placement and coincidence? This thought led me to think very deeply about Levi's heart. And this is going to be at least a 3 part post because Levi is such a layered and deep and mysterious character that I have gotten lost in trying to understand him based on the manga and anime.

I intend to organise this into 3 separate posts:

1) No regrets OVA

2) The transition between post-Erwin and monologue when he is looking for Zeke at the final battle

3) Last speech to the vets in Chapt 139.

Of course, I wear heavy Levihan goggles because the "hearts" parallel is what got me curious to do some investigation into this area. I may have missed out other important analysis or snippets of information, so if I do, please kindly point out to me. Once again, these are all my own points of view and let's agree to disagree, if that ever happen.

Along the way, I may digress because there are some other Levihan crumbs that I picked up, but I will mention them in other posts.

Let's start

-----------------------------------

So, I started to look back at the very first time when Levi is introduced to the idea of "hearts". It was in the No Regrets OVA and it should be noted that Levi, when he was first recruited into the Survey Corps, he had not intention of enlisting at all.

Now, there are a lot of influences that he received. Most of the scenes have been cut out from the anime but if you look at the manga, there are a lot of his inner thoughts which gives an insight about the changes in his thought process.

-----------------------------

Erwin and Levi's interaction on his first titan kill

So first up, the very first mention of "Dedicating hearts" to Levi was from Erwin, and it happened when Levi is watching guard while Furlan and Isabel went to search for the document.

We see Erwin complimenting Levi's skills.

"....you are a natural.... others feel safer...."

Levi then looked shocked and downplay his skills, mentioning that his success was built upon another soldier's death.

Then Erwin took this chance to talk about the bigger picture of sacrifice and "dedicating heart"

This interaction ended with Isabel coming along and taking Levi away. But the seed of the "hearts" have been planted.

-------------------------

Hange appears

Now, this is the part I tried to link "hearts" and what it means to Levi. Of course Levihan alert!

So, we know that after the interaction with Erwin, Levi, Furlan and Isabel were discussing about their plans when Hange intrudes.

I wont mention more about her excitement and kindness when she approached him. So, while Levi was still digesting what Erwin told him about "hearts" and "sacrifices", Hange came over and complimented on his strength.

Now, Erwin also complimented Levi's success. Erwin then planted the seed of "dedication" and "sacrifices" in Levi. Hange, on the other hand, wanted to know Levi's strength so that the soldiers can fight better. I find Levi's responses to both Erwin and Hange here very interesting.

- When Erwin mentioned that Levi is a natural, Levi attributed it to him learning from how other people fight.

- When Hange told Levi that he had given other hope that they can fight better, Levi basically accepted her compliment and did not know how to engage further.

Now, going back to this panel when they first saw a titan, Levi also had thought that the soldiers are using lousy skills to engage the titan. So I am guessing that there already is a connection when Hange mention the soldiers could learn to fight better from him. However, the Ackerman strength is instinctual so I am thinking that while Levi recognised a certain connection/ agreement with Hange, he really cannot explain how he had done it.

This is where I think thats why he said he didnt want to be responsible for anyone else's lives. After digesting what Erwin said, that the Survey Corps is built upon selfless sacrifices, and that no one will regret dedicating their hearts, he encountered Hange, who wanted to know how to fight better from him (and likely increasing her chances to dedicate her heart). I am guessing that he is putting 2 and 2 together and did not want to be the reason for more sacrifices because he knows that Hange, and probably the other soldiers, are ready to die, based on what Erwin said about "dedicating hearts".

Now, probably at this point in time, Levi did not understand the why. But I am guessing that he felt something strong enough to want to avoid it. And I am guessing it could be some form of emotional attachment. At this point in time, the 3 of them are still thinking about getting the document and completing their job, so my guess here is that Hange opened out something within him, after Erwin told him about the Survey Corps and their grand view of the world.

I mean, he could have told Furlan that he is indeed tired, or that he had feigned tiredness to chase Hange away but Levi had to mention about being responsible to other lives to Furlan after Hange left. 🤔

---------------------------

Isabel's heart

So, the next chapter, we see a snippet of Isabel doing the salute and hinting her dedication to the cause of the Survey Corps. Now look at her reactions and Levi's and Furlan's expressions. I am guessing all 3 of then are shocked at the possibility that they could be emotionally attached to the Survey Corps.

Furlan's analysis

Furlan is such a clever and perspective character. I swear all the blonds must have gotten some good IQ genes from Isayama.

Anyway, the scene then cuts to Levi doing some internal thinking while the 3 of them rested. In his internal reflection, he reviewed his and Furlan's and Isabel's experiences with the Survey Corps. It is interesting to note that he recalled Erwin's words at the Underground when he was captured, instead of the compliment Erwin gave him. He, however, remembered what Hange said to him.

I am guessing that to Levi, Erwin is still the mission he has to fulfil. Hange has that personal connection with him. See how Hange is grouped together with Furlan/ Isabel (his connection to his past in the Underground), Flagon and his man (his negative experiences and adjustment to the surface) and Hange (his positive experience and connection to the surface).

I am guessing that emotionally, he is still trying to decide on what he wanted. He is still thinking about the bigger purpose in life: What does it mean to stay on the surface, outside the Walls? Why? What is the purpose of fighting and lending his strength?

To sidetrack a little: I am thinking that Levi is trying to read into Erwin's motives. Because Levi knows that Erwin knows he wants to kill him. To continue this fascade of "lending his strength to the Survey Corps" would mean that they have a chance to stay aboveground. I think Levi struggles here because that would mean that he will be "responsible" for the "hearts" which he will built on upon moving forward because of his strength. Now, I think this is also why Levi recognise Erwin as his liege because he cannot see further than what Erwin had allowed him to. He choose to follow Erwin and trust his decisions because that is the only way for him to commit his strength to the sacrifices of Furlan and Isabel (to be free of the Underground and the Walls)

Back to Furlan.

So while Levi is thinking about all these, Furlan and Isabel talked about whether or not to continue their mission.

Now, take a look at what Furlan said about someone noticing if the 3 of them get close to Erwin.

Who could that someone be? We know that Hange already noticed Levi and Furlan had to emphasized one someone noticing them.

Of course it could just be Furlan being cautious and careful. Now, the next scene where Isabel started to express her attachment to the Survey Corps, he directly referenced to the candy which Hange gifted.

And lastly, even though Levi did not share anything about his own internal thoughts, Furlan successfully guessed that Levi is also having some emotional attachment to the Survey Corp with the "dedication of hearts" thing.

Now, Furlan would not have known what Erwin had told Levi, because he was not present. He was, however, present when he saw Levi reaction to Hange, when Levi said he did not want to be responsible for others (and these are, presumably, based in Levi's introspection of what Erwin told him). Furlan was also there when Hange gave Isabel the candy. Also to sidetrack to Levi's reflection above, Furlan had also looked to Levi's strength to "raise hell" while Isabel talked about "causes worth dying". So while Levi is trying to put all these together and see a purpose in life (what is worth to stay above ground and out of the Walls?), Furlan had already saw that going on with Levi.

The only reason why Furlan was able to see that is because Levi wavered in his interactions with Hange- he did not want her to dedicate her heart but he knows that all the Survey Corps members have dedicated their hearts. And as I mentioned earlier, Levi had struggled because to maintain above ground, he had to lend his strength to the Survey Corps, which means he have to see all the hearts being dedicated, even if he didnt want to.

--------------------------

Yes, I know it is everywhere, but this "hearts" thing with Levi, and especially his "dedicate your heart" to Hange in 132 has too many unknowns. I will try to clean up if I can, but it really shows me how deep deep Levi is.

I am planning Part 2 on post Erwin and his monologue when he is trying to find Zeke in final battle. I am also very intrigued by that monologue because that is the second time, or rather first in the main manga, that Levi talked about "hearts" (excluding the heartbreaking farewell in 132). 💔

Levi's Heart [Part 1][Part 1.5][Part 2][Part 2.5][Part 3]

[tsxmu]

My thoughts on Levi's up coming bad boy one shot and his love life. :3

Now personally! I feel like he shouldn't have a love interest in the oneshot. Not because like I don't want to share him or stuff like that, but because that would kinda throw away all the levihan hints they gave us. Hell, it's most likely canon.

I understand that it's set during Levi's early childhood, teenage years and early adulthood but that would still kinda ruin the whole premise of Levi and how he lived. It's quite literally shown he didn't have any interest in anybody other than furlan and isabel, they were his only family. I doubt he'd find himself a crush down there.

The underground was a time where the only thoughts in Levi's mind was to survive. It was no place to fall in love and shit like that, given how in the manga for no regrets, even when given the choice to have a woman or anything from some man's store, he prefers taking something (specifically tea) from the store after winning the arm wrestling match.

Link to it::

Next, if Levi were to have some sort of love interest or crush during his youth, I feel like it would at least be mentioned once, it could be when he was still with furlan and isabel, but there's nothing. It could also be a situation like erwin's and marie's where nile got to her first because erwin chose humanity. But it seems unlikely. Erwin, still, cares about marie and talks about her. And if Levi liked somebody, given his big ol heart, surely he'd ask about this love interest at least once right??

If anything, romantically, Levi quite literally only has eyes for one person, which is hange. I'd argue it's canon. Levi is constantly worried about them, during countless battles together, he first thought of hange and their safety, he makes sure hange keeps themselves alive, he listens to hange and their hours long rambles, he even asked moblit, in the short story, to keep hange safe because he's the only one around them 24/7.

I get that he can have a first love, but he was feared and hated upon during his youth by the people in the underground, I highly doubt some woman is going to find that hot. Levi was dangerous, and people in the undergrounds knew that, yeah sure some people still fought them but humans are like that. Always biting more than they can chew.

I firmly believe Levi's first and last love was hange. I'm sorry to the eruri shippers but I see their relationship as only blinded loyalty from Levi's side and comradery/deep friendship due to their years in the military together. But at the end, erwin wanted him in the beginning for Levi's strength.

Hange on the other hand, always viewed Levi like a person, not a tool, not a thug, nor a person to be afraid of. Levi's first normal interaction above ground was with hange and how casually they greeted him, furlan and isabel while the rest of the corps were still weary of them.

There are countless scenes with him and hange, countless.

I'd say Levi and Hange have the kind of love and bond in the manga that nobody else can have. Not even eren and mikasa.

Hange and Levi's relationship was built on years of comradery and trust. They know each other well and only have each other. Even when erwin was alive, Levi knew more about hange than he knew about erwin, so much so that he knew how they knocked. Now, we can assume he knows erwin's knock too, but we've only been shown to see him recognize hange's knock. The two literally talk telepathically for gods sake!!! They just look at each other and understand! I don't remember seeing anybody else having that deep of a bond.

After reclaiming wall Maria, Levi was always by hange because they're all he has left and he's usually by their left side because hange can no longer see from that eye, it's a disadvantage and it anything were to go past them or attack them, it'd be from the left and Levi knows that, that's why he places himself to their left whenever possible.

Even during the end, he shows hange emotions that he's never shown anybody else. He's said things to them that nobody else has seen. He quite literally hands over his heart and gives it to hange to keep. He's seen holding back tears and holding onto the hand that last touched hange, knowing they'd never return back to him.

And even after that, in every shot of after the war, he's always thinking of hange, whether it's looking at the plane that they were last in, or the lollipops, or the glasses he holds. He's always thinking of them because they're all he had.

I feel like both Ackerman's chose to stay single because they lost their brunettes. They lost the one they loved most in the line of duty and will never move on from it because they know they're soulmates.

Both ackerman's wanted a peaceful life with their brunette but they couldn't. Not in this lifetime at least.

Which is why I humbly believe having a short love interest for the sake of nothing in the bad boy's manga would kind of ruin all that Levi has! It fits if he has only one love and even that he can't have because life is just that cruel. A short love interest would be useless and would only cause heated arguments between shippers and even send death threats to the creator, so for the sake of everybody, I sure to do hope there's no love interest for Levi in his one shot. We already know who his soulmate is, there's no reason to drag another character in just so the fandom can hate it for a reason as silly as "Levi's inlove with them."

To anybody who read all of this, thank you so much (❁´◡`❁). That means alot!!!

[gothgril69]

Levi Ackerman/Fem!Reader Royalty!AU

Summary: You dream of another life, a simpler one under the rays of the warm sun, where you find love and your brothers live happily.

But you're destined to serve, to be the black sheep of the family and married off to whoever your father pleases because your parents can't seem to harbor any love for you. Your brothers will serve in the war, side by side with their Chevaliers, and you'll be left to pick up the pieces or die trying.

And the one you thought always hated you, will be right by your side to catch you when you fall.

Overall Warnings: themes of sexism, minor character death, angst, depression, minor character death, smut (please check ao3 for all tags)

Chapter warnings: masturbation (MDNI)

Chapter Length: 10.2k

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ao3 link

You never do this, but your dream has made you feel on the edge of euphoria. A wet dream, Isabel had called it one evening when the two of you were discussing a taboo romance novel you had snuck onto your bookshelf. Your mind had conjured up a scene you’ve read multiple times of the main character to get yourself to this point. A raunchy sex scene that you would be ashamed about if anyone knew you consumed such literature. You had awoken to the feeling of your arousal pooling between your thighs, creating a damp spot on the sheer white nightgown you sleep in.

Now, your fingers had traveled down, over your naval and between your legs where you were currently rubbing small circles over your clit. Your other hand lifts the fabric further up your body so you can grasp one of your breasts, lightly pinching your nipple for stimulation. You let out a small gasp, followed by breathless moans as you react to your own touch, but you need more. You arch your hand to gently plunge two fingers deep inside of you, curling them upwards and feeling your own walls clench around you as your palm rubs against your clit as you push them in and out.

You’re close, already breathing heavier with the inevitable on the cusp of your reach. Your left hand hasn’t stopped squeezing and prodding at your breast, but the stimulation slows on your nipple as you lose your concentration. You wish you had more hands. You sacrifice the contact with your breast in favor of rubbing quick circles on your clit, enabling your fingers to reach as deep as they can in your eager attempts to cum.

When you hit your peak you let out a louder moan than you intended, practically yanking your fingers out of you to use them against your clit while your dry hand slaps itself over your mouth in attempts to muffle your sounds. Your back arches off the bed, debilitating bliss coursing through you for a moment until you settle back down, slightly sticky from sweat. It’s only when you feel the cool breeze on your skin that you realize you left your balcony doors open and hope no one heard you.

But Levi heard you. Down below he was walking in the gardens of the castle, making his way to Auguste’s bedroom before their morning meeting when he heard it. Sweet, breathless moans coming from an open window above him. He couldn’t figure out where it was coming from at first until he saw open balcony doors, making him look down the castle wall to figure out who’s room he stood below when he realized it was yours.

Levi could feel the heat behind his cheeks and knew his ears were pink from the blush that now fell over his skin. He hasn’t seen you in weeks and this is the first reminder he receives of your presence? He hates how sweet your breathlessness sounds, the only sound besides the birds chirping as the sun makes it’s way over the horizon. He wants to scold you for leaving your balcony doors open at night in case there was an intruder, but then you would know he heard you.

He stands there in shock until he hears a louder moan leave your room, followed by a series of muffled noises as you finish. Levi shakes his head to clear his thoughts and walks away before the chances of you noticing him below become significant. The heat between his legs and the rapid pace of his heart bothers him.

You just needed a stress reliever. It’s been three weeks of servants bustling around the castle, preparing for the departure to the frontlines. Levi has been with Auguste in meetings about strategy and travel details you presume. Theo has been brushing up on his training with Furlan ever since you expressed your concerns about his skill level.

It’s been significantly more lonely than usual. Your walks are no longer filled with Levi’s snarky remarks, only the wind that seems to play it’s sorrowful song everyday graces your ears. Isabel has at least been making attempts at visiting you more throughout the day, giving you tea during lunch hours as well now instead of skipping that meal time, knowing you won’t eat anything until dinner. You know you could summon her presence, but you suppose you should get used to the feeling of being alone while your brothers and their Chevaliers would be gone on duty.

You sit up in your bed, hair out of place and your sheer nightgown draped back over your body. You had finally taken down at least two of the pieces of harrateen that created the curtains for your bed, allowing the sun to fall on the foot of your mattress and naturally waking you up at dawn. Isabel and Mrs. Kirstein would be in soon to prepare you a hot bath, something you were immensely grateful for in the mornings.

You pushed the navy blue blanket off your body, crawling out of the grey silk sheets to wrap a robe around yourself. The coming spring equinox justifies the chill in the air that still graces your mornings, the biting breeze nipping at your sticky skin as winter makes it’s end. You wander out onto your balcony, peering over the edge of the ornate stone railing to see if anyone was below. Thankfully, you spot no one before a knock sounds at your door, perfectly on time as always.

You open the door to see Isabel standing there, water spots on the front of her dress and two giant buckets that look like they’re about to rip her arms out of their sockets dangling from her hands. Her bright red hair plastered to her forehead makes her look like a drowned rat. Mrs. Kirstein is nowhere to be found.

You let out a small gasp and reach for one of the buckets, relieving Isabel of some of the weight. “Is, what are you doing? Where’s Mrs. Kirstein?”

You hold the door open for her, both hands holding the heavy bucket in front of you as she walks inside. “Your mother,” Isabel starts with absolute venom in her voice, “apparently needs her until supper. A load of shit, if you ask me.”

You let the heavy door close behind you, following her to your ensuite bathroom to fill the tub with the hot water she had carried all the way here. “Levi influenced your developing years too much,” you comment, referring to her language. She’s never been one to speak eloquently, simply stating things as they were, but swearing was something she had only started to do with Levi’s growing presence around her. “What could she possibly need her all day for?” you ask once the two buckets are emptied in your bathtub.

“She doesn’t. Your mother is already ready for the day,” Isabel grumbles with a huff, taking a seat on the storage bench at the foot of your bed. “They requested your presence at dinner tonight.”

“What? They never need me there.” You frown, confused and angry over the notion of you joining them for dinner. Isabel shrugs as you take off your robe to undress.

“Your mother didn’t elaborate on any discussion points,” She stands up to prepare your bath, adding a sachet of lavender like usual and making sure you have enough lavender oil on your vanity. “Apparently it’s important. Furlan and Levi are going to be there along with the Marquis and Brigadier.”

“Commander Erwin and Hange Zoë never make appearances at our family dinners,” you scowl, pulling your nightgown over your head and tossing it into a basket that Isabel will collect tomorrow for washing. “I’m assuming she wants me to wear a dress.”

“You know how your mother is,” Isabel sighs, knowing your disdain towards the fine silks your parents always insist you wear. “She’s asked for you to wear the maroon one with a black lace cravat for modesty.”

You scoff at your mother’s unbelievable outdated notions of modesty. “The one with the large skirt?” You step into your bathtub, Isabel following to sit down on a stool next to you.

“Precisely.” She hands you your lavender soap and a fresh wash cloth.

“That thing is twice my size and unbearably warm for the season.” You lather the soap, handing it to Isabel once you have enough on your wash cloth and begin bathing yourself.

She’s always offered to do it for you, but you’ve never been comfortable with the concept of anyone touching you to wash you. You’ll let your handmaidens dress you and see your body, but the feeling of someone’s hands on your skin in a private matter makes you squeamish.

“Unfortunately, I need you to be dressed perfectly with your makeup ready by four o’clock.”

“Four?!” you shout incredulously. “That’s hardly dinner. We might as well have tea.”

“Your mother–”

“Insists. Yes,” you sigh. “Sorry, Is, you know how I feel about all of this.”

“I know,” she smiles at you reassuringly, “I’ll make it as bearable as possible, but I’m just letting you know now that your mother wants everything a specific way. That includes an updo for your hair.”

With reluctance, you hurriedly finish your bath and allow Isabel to dress you in the many layers required for such an ostentatious dress. She throws your chemise over your body, straightening it out before she laces your corset over it. You brace yourself against the post at the end of your bed, allowing Isabel to tug the laces as tight as possible to cinch your waist and lift your breasts sufficiently. You tended to wear a corset day to day, but never this tight. No, it was only when your mother wanted to flaunt you as a show animal to people of importance that you were forced to wear it as tight as possible.

“You’re going to break my ribs if you pull any tighter, Is,” you choke out.

“Sorry!” she yelps and ties the laces together now instead of pulling further.

You take a moment to catch your breath, albeit a bit challenging, and let Isabel tie the skirt support around your waist to accentuate your figure once the fabric lays over it. You feel like you’re already sweating, breathing labored and uncomfortable as you let Isabel dress you completely. A black skirt made of silk is tied around your waist next, followed by the heavy, main component of your dress; a skirt made out of thick cotton that had been dyed a deep maroon color. The final piece to it all was a petticoat made from the same cotton and dyed the same color to match with a mock neckline. Isabel would have to do your makeup and hair before tying the black lace cravat around your neck.

“I feel like a walking sculpture,” you laugh humorlessly at yourself in the mirror. You do look pretty, especially after Isabel adds a small amount of blush to your cheeks and tints your lips red. Your hair is elaborately done in an updo, pins poking into your scalp but not uncomfortably so, and pomade was used to ensure the curls Isabel had worked so hard on stayed in place all evening.

“A beautiful sculpture,” she says as she takes a step back to admire her work. You smile at her in the mirror, appreciative that you could have such a close friend there for you when it felt like you had no one else. She knew what these kinds of events meant to you; a reminder of your isolation from your family. “One more thing.”

She steps in front of you and ties the black lace cravat around your neck, completing the look just in time to be escorted to dinner by one of the castle guards. You never had your own Chevalier, considering you were merely just a woman and could not go out on the battlefield. It would be silly to waste resources on you since you would just be wandering the halls of the castle. At least, that’s what your father had told you when you had voiced your concerns about being left alone. “Levi is around sometimes,” he had told you, waving his hand in dismissal.

You turn and grab the redhead’s hands. “Thank you Isabel. Always.”

“You deserve it Aeron,” she beams. You don’t try to argue that you don’t. “Armin will be escorting you today. Levi has been instructed to accompany Auguste at all times by your father.”

“Ah, of course.” It’s not like Levi would give you any insight beforehand about what this meal would really entail. Perhaps you could weasel information out of Armin on the way there, but you could never take advantage of the boy with those innocent blue eyes.

You kiss Isabel on both her cheeks before opening the door to Armin waiting, hands behind his back and dutifully standing off to the side of your door. You bid her farewell and begin making your way to the dining hall where you’re sure bad news would arise, Armin closely in tow. He seems anxious as he fails to hide his nerves that show themselves through shaky limbs and wide eyes. You don’t know him very well, but you can tell something is amiss.

You’ve grown quite tired of being subjected to unfavorable news being thrown in your direction.

The same white doors greet you as you step towards the dining hall, allowing Armin to pass you so he can open the doors and allow you to enter with the same bow Levi performed. You‘re met with silence, only Auguste standing so he can help you settle into your chair at the dining table – the Commander and Brigadier have not arrived yet. You’re grateful for his assistance as you haul your heavy skirts with you, sitting down in the chair and blindly trusting Auguste as you can’t see anything below you.

Once you’re situated, you take a look at the dining hall and notice Furlan and Levi stationed by the entrance. Armin had already taken his leave the moment you stepped through the doors. Furlan gives you a small smile while Levi has a look plastered on his face you’ve never seen before, but you have a feeling it’s nothing good and his eyes are only taking in how miserable you probably look in your formal attire.

You look away, noticing how the dining hall remains silent as your family sits in wait. It feels awkward, almost as if they are afraid to speak now that you’re here, but you’ll chalk it up to the anticipation of the Marquis and Brigadier making an appearance. You fiddle with your skirt, anxious to get this over with and know what the hell is going on since you always seemed to be left in the dark.

Levi looks at you with both sympathy and embarrassment. Not embarrassment because of your current situation or because you’re being forced to wear a dress that he knows you find uncomfortable. His thoughts are only wandering to this morning when he heard your sweet sounds floating down from your balcony. You look ethereal with the way Isabel did your hair and makeup, a rare occurrence from the usual bare face you wear and natural locks that fall on your shoulders. The dress and petticoat may be uncomfortable for you to wear, but it flatters you well, the black lace cravat around your neck attempting at sultry modesty, but in all honesty he’s just imagining what it was like this morning when you probably wore nothing but a nightgown.

He attempts to preoccupy his mind with what’s to come with this dinner. Auguste had already informed him of the news on his way here as he walked through the halls and attempted to hide the stutter in his steps when your brother told him. You were going to be heartbroken – devastated. And as much as he hated having you around, he would never wish such a thing on even his enemies. He watches as you now fiddle with the hem of your petticoat instead of your skirt.

The large doors open to reveal the tall, muscular blond man you’ve met only once before and the bespectacled person next to them; your military Commander and Brigadier. You remain seated as your father stands, greeting Erwin and Hange before motioning to the nearby servants to pull out their chairs for them. Erwin allows, being well-versed in diplomacy while Hange simply sits and pulls their chair in by themselves. You hide your smile at the look on your father’s face.

“Please, excuse our tardiness, your grace,” Erwin politely greets your father.

“Nonsense, we’re happy to welcome our home to you in any circumstance.” Your father snaps his finger at one of the servants, signaling to begin service and irking you beyond belief. You hate when your father treats the working people of your castle like peasants, commanding them with austerity and unkindness. You keep your mouth shut, knowing the way this castle worked would not be changing under his ruling. It didn’t matter what their skin tone was, or their gender, your father treated the wide variety of people in Mirlenas as if they were hardly human.

The food is brought out and placed on the table; servings of roasted duck and seasonal vegetables lining the table, a much more lavish meal than usual, followed by a red wine that was poured into each of your glasses. You eat quietly while your father and the commander conversed, only sometimes listening in if your mother has something ignorant to say and observing Hange’s reactions to it. By the looks of it, Hange can also tell your mother is oblivious to the ways of war and politics. She never did bother to try and further her education.

By the time the meal was over you had an empty wine glass after your second refill and Auguste had joined the conversation. It was only when he had placed a hand on yours that you started to pay attention again, slightly inebriated from the alcohol.

“Aeron, we have some news for you,” Auguste gently starts, only to be cut off by your father.

“Let’s cut to it, Auguste. I’m sure Erwin has much better things to be doing than worrying about the standing of her relationships,” your father impatiently sighs.

You sit there, anxiously waiting to be told the bad news you’ve been anticipating all night.

“Quite the contrary,” Erwin politely interjects, “I would like to make sure this arrangement is settled before I take my leave.”

“What arrangement?” you interrupt before anyone can say anything. You’ve sobered up now, the anxiety of the next words to flow out of anyone’s mouth getting to you.

“Aeron–”

“You’ll be meeting Zeke Jaeger in a week's time as his new fiancé and future mate,” your father interrupts.

You sit there, stunned into silence, and absorb what your father has just told you. You’re almost grateful for the blunt way he had told you, knowing Auguste would have gone for a gentle approach to try and spare your feelings.

“They’ve been on their journey for about two weeks now. I just wanted to give you some notice to prepare yourself to meet with another high standing individual since you seem to lack basic diplomacy skills.” Your father just keeps talking, as if he isn’t signing away his own daughter’s life.

Zeke Jaeger. The current prince of Kaslogon, son of Grisha Jaeger and his late wife Dina Fritz, and an absolute tyrant of a man. He’s known to be the most ruthless in his kingdom with only his father standing in the way of total control and dictatorship of his country. He’s the next heir to the throne with his brother Eren, son of Grisha Jaeger and his now wife Carla Jaeger, behind him.

“We’ve negotiated through letters and Zeke and Grisha will only accept the terms for your hand in marriage. This will end the war once the two of you are mated and there’s no other option. Our resources are running out and if saving the kingdom means marrying off my only daughter to a man like Zeke Jaeger, then I will,” your father casually drones on. You look up from your fixed gaze on the edge of the grey placemat in front of you to meet his stare. His eyes are empty, lips turned in a slight frown, but you’re almost positive his face always looks like that.

You look over at Auguste, feeling the tears that are puddling on your waterline break and trail down your cheeks, ruining all the hard work Isabel put in for you today. “Auguste…” you meekly plead. He’s the only one that can manage to save you.

He grabs both of your hands, preventing you from practically tearing apart the seam of your petticoat. “You’ll be courted until you’re twenty-five. In two years time is when you will marry,” Auguste provides details for you in attempts to quell your anxiety.

But truthfully, your emotions are bubbling over. You look over at Theo who’s looking at you with sad eyes, his sandy blonde hair styled for the evening, but still shadowing the look of sorrow he’s sending your way now. Your eyes flicker to Hange next, skipping over your own mother in favor of not seeing her impassive features, and instead seeing the overwhelming amount of sympathy in their eyes. Erwin’s face is stoic, giving you nothing on how the man truly feels, before you look at Auguste again. Those big, stupid brown eyes staring back at you with his own tears threatening to spill over.

“I’ll make sure you’re safe. I promise,” Auguste tells you, giving a squeeze to your hands in reassurance before your father starts speaking again.

“When you are of age to rule Kaslogon, you’ll be married to Zeke and hopefully provide peace for our nations in the future.”

“What about the war now? You’re just going to marry me off to some feral monkey to end a war in two years?” you spit at your father. You’re outraged now, ripping your hands out of Auguste’s grasp as you stand up from the table, your chair skidding across the polished floors behind you. You could handle being ignored or looked down upon inside the castle walls, knowing eventually Auguste would take the throne and your life would improve, but marriage was never on the table for you. You refused to be shipped off across seas and into a man’s grimy awaiting hands.

“The war will be put on hold and will only resume if you do not mate with Zeke. However, you will be, so this will inevitably end the war for good once your meeting with him is complete in a week,” your father tells you as if it’s obvious.

You scoff. You’ve heard enough. “It was a pleasure seeing you,” you nod at Erwin and Hange cordially before stomping your way to the dining hall doors.

“Levi, please escort her to her room,” Auguste calls before you make it out of the now opening doors.

“I don’t need an escort!” you shout without looking behind you.

Levi follows anyway, obeying Auguste’s orders despite knowing you’re going to take your anger out on him. He watches as you take the petticoat off, revealing just your chemise and corset underneath, but he’s too focused on preparing for your rage. He feels relieved when you don’t say a word the whole time, only silently fuming as he follows your brisk pace through the halls, until you reach your door and you’re spinning on your feet so you can face him.

“You knew, didn’t you,” you seethe, throwing your petticoat on the ground and crossing your arms in front of your chest. Levi doesn’t say anything, only looking at you with a blank face to hide his emotions and you let out a dry laugh. “I knew you hated me, Ackerman, but fuck. Enough to get rid of me to the worst man alive?” You huff and uncross your arms, taking a few harsh steps until you’re only a mere foot away from him. “You could’ve given me a warning. Anything that could have prepared me for that!”

For the first time, Levi grimaces at your tone. He can hear the hurt in your voice, the sound of you realizing your family’s complete and utter betrayal. Even Auguste had seemed to turn his back on you, but you had no idea of the plans that went through that man’s head to protect you.

“It wasn’t my place, Aeron,” is all Levi can offer.

“Yeah?” You lean forward, a scowl and a snarl on your features. “Are you too much of a coward to go against my father’s command just once in your life?!”

“You’re going to cause a scene,” Levi grits out between his teeth. He’s trying to hold it in, for your sake and due to his own fear of being overheard talking to you in an improper manner. He already knows he’s a coward. He’s been one his whole life while he just watches from the edge, never able to step up and actually do something.

“I don’t fucking care anymore!” you shout, tears forming in your eyes. “I’ll be mated to the worst man alive and out of your hair soon Levi. Don’t you worry.” You laugh, but your expression is empty, like you’ve finally given up.

“You’ll be living in another castle. I’m sure you’ll be fine,” Levi snaps. You’re ungrateful. Ungrateful of your brothers and everything that’s handed to you. Ungrateful of Isabel’s hard work. Ungrateful of Levi’s protection.

You slap Levi across his face without hesitation. “How dare you?” You’ve completely snapped. “Are you blind? Do you think I enjoyed being treated like human garbage my whole childhood? Sure, at least now they ignore my presence instead of berate me all the time, but fucking hell do you honestly think I enjoy living like this? I would give it all up if it meant I didn’t have to deal with this.”

“You get everything you could ever want!” Levi matches your volume, completely letting his pent up anger flow through him instead of keeping it in check as he feels the sting on the side of his face. “You’re fed, Isabel does whatever you want her to, your brothers would do anything for you. I– I’m always there for you.”

“Do you honestly think I enjoy your presence when all you do is insult me?” you bite back, turning so you’re no longer facing him. “I’m tired Levi. I’m tired of everything and now the rest of my life has been sealed in some sort of agreement over a pointless war I have no part of.”

Levi’s anger falters hearing your defeated voice, no longer the threatening and hate-filled woman standing before him, but rather someone who’s had enough. “You’ve always hated me, Aeron. Ever since we were little. I was only ever returning the sentiment.” It’s a pathetic lie and Levi knows it. He knows how cruel he was when the two of you were children, but he thought the two of you were merely bickering as adults. He had never realized that your witty comebacks were only a defense mechanism you had built up and that you were simply tired of having any real arguments with him.

He’s never thought of himself as your friend, and he still doesn’t, but part of his heart aches seeing this. He knows how cruel Zeke Jaeger’s reputation paints him to be, but he also knows Auguste is scheming a plan in his mind to protect you.

“Aeron,” he calls to you when you still haven’t turned back around to face him, his voice uncharacteristically soft. When you turn he can see the trails your tears left behind, the small amount of blush that was on your cheeks now ruined. It takes all of his effort to keep his features neutral.

“You never gave me a chance, Levi,” you meekly respond. “You shot me down right from the beginning.”

“You had grass stains on your trousers Aeron–”

“You think I was upset over you not liking the grass stains on my fucking trousers?” you interrupt him, actual shock at his stupidity taking over your features. “You hated me. You made me feel like I would never belong, and I never did.”

Levi blinks as he recalls the moment you’re so clearly remembering. He thinks he had said something about the name Aeron being a boys name, but in all honesty he was having a hard time remembering the events from twelve years ago. “We were kids. I only teased you because you always shot it right back at me.”

“Well I guess you’ve dug yourself into a hole Levi.” You turn and reach for the handle of your door after picking up your petticoat. “You’ve made me hate you, and I can’t find a redeemable quality that might change my mind.”

You close your door behind you, leaving Levi stranded in the halls as he thinks about your words. You truly hated him and Levi could only suppose he hated you too. He didn’t know what else to call the strong feelings he got whenever he was in your presence, the annoyance of your actions usually affecting him more than anyone else in this household. His feet don’t move for at least five minutes before he realizes he should check in with your brother before he heads to his own small bedroom on the other side of the castle.

You climb in bed after shedding off the pounds of clothing that adorned your body and remembering to close your balcony doors. You finally release the rest of your tears, crying until you have no more to give and you’re sleeping on your tear and makeup stained pillow.

—

You stare at yourself in your bedroom mirror, shaking like a leaf and trying to compose yourself. Isabel had done her best, styling your hair with curls to perfection in an updo that allowed your dress to shine. Your face was lightly powdered to match society’s absurd beauty standards, along with your lips being stained a bright red with blush on your cheeks that flattered your skin tone.

Your dress was the most extravagant thing about your appearance tonight, your mother opting for the least modesty possible it seems in front of your unofficial fiancé. You wore a less modest chemise, one that didn’t cover your shoulders in any way and is mostly just guarding your midriff so your corset didn’t irritate your soft skin. A skirt support had been tightly tied around your waist, allowing the soft, silky red fabric of your dress to flow down perfectly.

The neckline is what stood out the most – if you moved the wrong way you’re sure your breasts would fall out. It was low cut, with short sleeves that fell off your shoulders and allowed your collarbones to be prominent. Your breasts were pushed up by your corset, allowing your bust to steal the attention from anything else – you would not be bending over tonight.

It wasn’t your dress, or your hair and makeup that concerned you, no, it was the evening you had been dreading since you received the news.

The moment you would officially meet Zeke Jaeger and his brother, Eren Jaeger, was mere minutes away. Auguste was due any moment now that Isabel had taken her leave, wishing you the best with the saddest look in her eyes despite you telling her you would never accept pity. That didn’t stop her from embracing you before she left, straightening out your skirts before wiping her tears and closing the door behind her.

There was a soft knock on your door followed by Auguste’s gentle voice announcing his visit. You gave him a meek “come in” as permission to enter, fidgeting with your skirts and obsessively smoothing out the front of your torso. You watch Auguste’s form enter in the mirror, turning to close the door behind him before he meets your gaze through the glass.

“You look beautiful, sister,” Auguste compliments, finding his seat on the bench at the end of your bed.

“Thank you,” you murmur, turning around to properly address him. Your hands are held in front of you as you try your best not to touch your dress further.

“I’ll be escorting you tonight,” he tells you with a small smile. “I wanted to speak to you candidly about something pertinent to your situation.”

“Please, Auguste.” You wave your hand with impatience. “If you’re going to speak candidly, please, do so already.”

“I will not allow you to marry Zeke.”

Your heart skips a beat. “What?”

“The man is a tyrant. Did you honestly believe I would stand by and allow my sister to be married, let alone mated, to a man like that?” He scoffs, standing up to cross the room to you.

“I thought…” your voice trails off. You thought you were truly alone, with even Auguste feeding you to the wolves.

“I know. I’ve had… a conversation… with Erwin Smith,” he looks away, a light blush gracing his cheeks before he turns back to you. “He has a plan. A plan that he says is a gamble, but assures me you will be protected. When I return we will discuss details.”

You take his words in for a moment, noticing his flustered appearance at the Commander’s name. “How can you trust that he’ll follow his word? He’s loyal to father, is he not?”

“I can promise you he’s a man of his word. I know he would not do me wrong and go against that,” Auguste assures you.

And then it hits you. The flushed features, the fondness in his voice – they’re all telling signs of what you had yet to confirm. If you didn’t know Auguste as well as you did, you would simply assume that he admired your kingdom’s commander for his position and strength, but you can see that while Auguste does admire him, it’s not simply for his strength as a leader.

“I will trust your judgment of the man, Auguste,” you tell him for now. “If he gave you his word and you trust him, he must be an exceptional man.”

Auguste simply takes your gaze in, clears his throat, and turns on his heel. For the first time ever you’re sure you’ve just made your charismatic brother speechless. He walks over to your vanity, grabs your bottle of lavender oil, and returns in front of you.

“You forgot something,” he mutters, not meeting your gaze. You stifle a small laugh, sparing him from his own embarrassment, and hold your wrists out for him to place two small droplets on each with the dropper inside the bottle. You pat your wrists together, bringing each one to the sides of your neck to spread the scent, and thank him.

“Shall we?” he offers his arm after placing the small bottle back in it’s place.

“I suppose,” you sigh. You’ll never be quite ready.

Auguste guides you out of your bedroom into the halls, greeting Levi as he stands straight from his place of leaning against your doorframe in wait. You don’t bother with a greeting. You haven’t seen the man for a week, choosing to avoid your daily outings and evening walks in favor of not being accompanied by him. You would rather stay in your bedroom and read with your balcony doors open. At least the men in your stories did not betray the people they were closest to, being honest and genuine instead.

It takes all of your willpower to not fidget with your dress, instead opting to just clench and unclench the fist that was not preoccupied by squeezing Auguste’s forearm too hard. It was your best option to just press crescent moon shapes into your palms, allowing your nails to almost draw blood from the pressure.

The familiar halls feel like they’re caving in on you, their grey and white painted wood collapsing in on itself with the navy blue curtains shrouding any light that might have had a glimmer of hope at peeking through the windows. You feel claustrophobic, breathless �� and not from the corset Isabel cinched too tight again. Everything was getting to you and it felt like you might hyperventilate and pass out before you make it to the ballroom.

You hear Levi clear his throat behind you, briefly pulling you out of the abyss your mind was drowning in. “Monsieur, if I may.”

Auguste stops, in turn making you stop, before turning around to face Levi. “Yes? What is it?” You simply choose to look down at the parquet floor below you, but after too much silence you look up and meet his gaze.

He’s looking at you, but he actually looks quite nervous to even be speaking at the moment – almost as if he wishes he never opened his mouth. He looks to Auguste. “The princess appears as though she might faint,” he enunciates clearly, “I just wanted to be cautious, monsieur.”

You look down again, surprised by Levi’s candor and more surprised by how much better you feel from the distraction. “Ah,” Auguste nods, “the nerves are certainly overwhelming tonight. Thank you for your concern, Levi. I’m sure Aeron will be fine once the night is over, but she should know we will all be in her presence as well during tonight’s events.”

“Of course,” Levi nods curtly.

You carry on to the ballroom, resisting the overwhelming urge to look behind you at Levi to read his expressions in an attempt to figure out what’s going on in his mind. When you reach the doors to the ballroom your resolve breaks and you spare a glance behind you, a bewildered expression no doubt painting your features. His eyes seem to soften for a moment, hardening again in an instant as he gives you a brief nod. Trust your brother, his actions seem to tell you.

You take a deep breath to take in all the oxygen you can so you don’t hyperventilate. Your brothers will be with you, Furlan will be on guard, Levi will be on guard. You’re not alone.

You struggle to swallow the lump in your throat as Jean and Marco open the silver lined ballroom doors, and especially when you see everyone turn to appreciate your entrance. It’s quite horrifying to see every person’s eyes on you, especially when you don’t recognize anyone besides the same people that joined you at dinner a week ago.

It takes all of your courage to take that first step forward, allowing Auguste to guide you down the very few steps of stairs so you don’t fall. It’s only when you reach the main floor that your breath hitches.

A man you don’t recognize is standing next to your father, in between him and Erwin Smith. Commander Smith’s gaze looks determined, but his eyes also hold a hint of affection when you realize he’s not looking at you, but your brother next to you.

You look next to him to take in the unfamiliar man and you instantly know you’re looking at Zeke Jaeger. He holds himself with a level of confidence that seems to radiate his arrogance, his posture proper and the smile on his face makes you feel uncomfortable. His blonde hair is parted in the middle and you’re grateful that he at least hasn’t succumbed to society’s typical ballroom appearances of powdered faces and wigs.

The one thing that catches your eye is the red cravat he wears – the fabric is identical to your dress.

He takes a step forward when the rest of the guests seem to turn away and occupy themselves with food and drinks. Auguste leans into your ear and whispers, “trust us and your Chevaliers.” He excuses himself and navigates through the crowd directly to Erwin’s side, nodding to Zeke on his way.

You look behind you briefly to find Furlan and Levi, double checking to make sure they were assigned duty inside the ballroom. You’re relieved when you meet Furlan’s eyes, a small smile greeting you back and alleviating some of your anxiety. You find Levi already staring at you and he gives you the smallest nod, one barely noticeable by anyone else, but something that still gives you the comfort you need.

“It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, darling,” Zeke greets you as soon as you turn around and find yourself face to face with him. He’s only standing a couple feet away, maybe a meter if you’re generous, but his presence already feels overwhelming.

“The pleasure is mine,” you choke out, clearing your throat when you hear how weak you truly sound. He reaches out for your hand and you simply give it to him, not wanting him to come any closer than he has to, and he kisses your knuckles. You wish you could recoil and jerk away your hand, but you watch as his rough lips make contact with your soft skin.

“May I get you a drink?” he asks politely, holding onto your hand still in front of the two of you. Perhaps his suggestion isn’t such a bad idea.

“That would be wonderful, monsieur,” you give him a small smile, being as polite as you can manage.

“Please, call me Zeke,” he grins at you. “You are my fiancé after all.” You try not to grimace at the declaration, but it seems that he enjoys your presence. You didn’t want to be around him anymore than you needed to, but it would appease your mother and father and you could only hope that Commander Smith’s plan would work out in your favor.

He simply waves at a nearby servant that’s carrying a tray of champagne, summoning their service and grabbing two glasses for the both of you. You take a greedy sip once it’s in your hands, eager to relieve some of your stress, but remain composed. It’s going to be a long night of draining chivalry and manners, something you’ve never been fond of in the first place let alone with a man you already hate. The two of you make your way over to your father after Zeke offers you his arm – you’re grateful he’s at least remained a gentleman.

You’re soon joined by Grisha, Carla, and Eren Jaeger and you find yourself surrounded by people that seem to radiate confidence. You feel like the black sheep of the herd, simply standing there to look like a prize on Zeke’s arm. “It’s so wonderful for you to have us,” Grisha greets your father diplomatically.

“It’s a pleasure to welcome you into our home,” your father nods, “I’m overjoyed by the union of your son and my daughter. It’s truly something to celebrate.”

You try to remain stoic, a small smile remaining on your features while they converse around you. When you look around you accidentally lock eyes with Eren – he was already staring at you – and the look on his face concerns you. It’s as if he knows how you’re feeling already without you speaking a word to him, his emerald eyes regarding you with sympathy and silent scheming.

“It’s so delightful to meet my future daughter-in-law,” Carla’s voice breaks you out of your staring match with Eren as she grabs your hand, giving it a light squeeze while she smiles at you.

“The pleasure is all mine, Mrs. Jaeger. I’m overjoyed to be engaged to Zeke,” you feign happiness, turning your head to look at Zeke with a smile that doesn’t quite reach your eyes. If he notices he doesn’t show it, only returning your smile with one that actually does seem to show his affection in the rest of his features.

Carla let’s out a small laugh. “Please, sweetheart, call me Carla.” She smiles and let’s go of your hand.

“I hope your journey went well?” you ask out of politeness.

“Ah yes, darling,” Zeke intervenes, “the traveling was well worth it to see you in person for the first time. Shall we dance?”

You try not to frown at Zeke’s attempt to drag you away from the conversation. It may not have been the ideal situation, but at least you weren’t alone with the man like you were going to be now.

“Of course, Zeke.” You give him a small smile. He pulls you away from the group and you give an apologetic smile to Carla before you’re on the dance floor with Zeke.

The music is slow enough for you to just sway, a hand on his shoulder and the other grasped by his. His other hand finds purchase on the small of your back, too low for your taste and bordering inappropriate. Your eyes meet and you can see the admiration gone from his gaze, instead replaced by a look that unsettles you.

“You are quite beautiful, Aeron,” Zeke starts, “I’ll be staying in the castle tonight before I leave tomorrow morning and I’d like for you to spend it with me.”

You furrow your eyebrows before managing to get a grasp on your composure. “Zeke, respectfully, I don’t think that’s appropriate,” you hesitantly tell him. You can only imagine what a man like him would do to you.

He roughly pulls you in so your chest is pressed to his, looking down at your cleavage and back up at you. Your eyes widen at his nerve, feeling the grip on your back tighten while your hands remain loosely on his form. “I can tell you are not fond of this arrangement, but I suggest you get accustomed to my presence,” he harshly whispers in your ear, practically scolding you for denying him.

He backs his face up only enough to look you in the eyes, noses just about to touch. “Need I remind you we are not married yet,” you hiss at him, quietly enough to not alert any of the nearby guests.

“I’m sure your father wouldn’t mind an early ceremony if I were to put my seed inside of you and you were blessed with my child.” Zeke smirks at you, a glint of hunger in his eyes clear as day to you. Your heart is racing and you’re sure he can feel it with how tight you’re pressed against him. You feel like a deer being hunted, a tool merely meant for breeding and nothing else. “You wouldn’t want me to stop once you feel me and I bite that sweet spot on your neck.”

Levi watches from the edge of the ballroom, eyes like a hawk on you as Zeke manhandles you. He’s silently fuming, wishing with every fiber of his being that he could aid you in some way and rip Zeke’s hands off of you. How dare he touch a member of the royal family in such a way?

He watches as you separate yourself from Zeke with what looks like “excuse me” coming out of your mouth as he watches your lips move, a bewildered look in your eyes. He briefly looks over at Auguste to see him already staring at you before he makes eye contact with Levi, mouthing the word “go.”

And so Levi follows you as you push your way through the crowd and to a staircase that leads to the gardens outside, ensuring that you’re safe from any harm. When he manages to make it through the crowd and out of the ballroom, he’s surprised to see you running with your dress in your hands. He doesn’t blame you for wanting to get as far away as possible.

You’re running as soon as your feet touch the pathway leading into the gardens, trying your best to just get away from everything. You feel like you’re going to vomit, Zeke’s words already haunting you. You never want that man to touch you, you never want him to be the one to claim you, but there was only so much Auguste could do to keep the man away from you for now before Commander Erwin’s plan could be put in effect. You would have to do all that you could to keep his hands off of you if you were ever alone with the man.

“Aeron!” a voice sounds behind you and in all of your panic you don’t recognize who it is. You keep running, only coming to a stop when you reach the end of the gardens, and you turn around.

You see Levi, jogging a few short steps so that he’s in front of you. “Levi,” you whisper. You’re not sure if you’re happy to see him or not – at least it’s not Zeke.

“You can’t just run off, brat.”

“I–” you look down, dropping the skirts gathered in your hands from running. Your voice is weak, fear evidently laced within your words. “He’s a monster,” you whisper, more to yourself than anything.

“What did he say to you?” Levi asks, only the furrow of his brows alert you that he’s angry when you look up at him, his voice remaining composed.

“It doesn’t matter,” you mutter, “Auguste has a plan right? I’ll be fine?” You meant for it to be a statement, a reassurance to yourself that everything would work out the way it was supposed to without you getting hurt, but it came out as a question – an uncertainty for your future. You trusted Auguste with your life, but the Jaegers were a powerful family with just as much influence as yours, if not more. What could someone like you do against a man like that? Someone who's known for being a tyrant and getting everything he wants. Eren’s look tells you he’s well aware of his brother's insanity, but what can he do about it when he’s the younger heir?

“It matters, you idiot,” Levi rebukes. You frown at his insult, not in the mood for him to start berating you while you’re so mentally sensitive.

“He wants me to spend the night with him in his quarters tonight,” you murmur, barely loud enough for Levi to hear.

“Absolutely not,” he says vehemently. “I’ll speak with Auguste and you won’t be let out of his sight, or mine for that matter.”

“He’s my fiancé, Levi,” you helplessly tell him. “What else am I supposed to do when the man summons me? I know my father expects me to give the man everything he wants and–”

“We’ll get you through tonight and hopefully your brother’s plan will be put into effect before you meet with him again,” Levi interrupts you.

“You’re leaving for the frontlines in a week,” you point out to him. “If he visits then what will I do?”

You look over at a stone bench that’s placed against the hedge bordering the gardens and take a seat. Your hands are visibly shaking and you’ve given up on trying not to fidget with something, grabbing at the fabric of your dress in your lap. Levi follows, choosing to stand a meter in front of you to still respectfully address you – well, respectful in Levi terms.

“You stubborn woman,” Levi curses, “It’s going to be a short expedition with the war ending. Your engagement ensures that Kaslogon’s forces will pull back and we will be doing the same. You worry too much about nonsense that won’t happen.”

“You can’t predict the future, Levi.” You scowl at him, looking up from your seat on the bench.

“Do you always have to argue with me?” Levi scoffs. “Trust me, for once in your life, trust me.”

“It seems I’m needing to do a lot of that lately,” you mutter with a roll of your eyes.

“It’s a month long voyage. Zeke won’t make that within the time we’re gone,” Levi sighs. He takes two steps forward and kneels in front of you, surprisingly letting his knee touch the grass below him. “I promise the man will never touch you, Aeron. It’s my duty to protect you no matter where our personal relationship stands.” He looks up at you and you’re speechless by not only his words, but the soft look he’s giving you now. You can see that he means every word and for once you feel at ease, the nerves from Zeke’s touch and words diminishing into background noise.

Levi looks up at you and he’s never seen your eyes reflect more disbelief and peace all at once. He wants to grab your hands to stop them from fidgeting – you’re starting to wrinkle the fabric of your dress. The most he can offer you is the one promise he can keep; he’ll always protect you and your brothers.

“Okay,” you whisper.

Levi stands up. “Your presence is still, unfortunately, needed inside.”

“Right,” you mutter, glancing down at the hand Levi has extended to help you from your seat on the stone bench.

You accept it for the first time.

—

You spend the rest of your evening attached to Zeke with your arm intertwined with his, feigning happiness to be next to him despite your rapid heart rate that never ceases. Levi found Auguste the moment the two of you entered the ballroom, alerting him to the situation and escorting you directly to him. It was only when Zeke found you that you were forced to entertain the idea of being engaged to him, acting like the happy fiancè.

Luckily, Auguste has been accompanied by Commander Smith for most of the evening and now that you are back inside they both never seem to leave your side. Both of their charisma combined manages to keep you within close proximity, never straying too far despite Zeke’s attempts as you’re pulled into the conversation multiple times. Normally, you would hate conversing this much, but you couldn’t be more grateful for their help and Levi’s. Theo has joined as well, normally not keen on the idea of attending a ball, but he’s here for you.

“You are such a pleasure to have around, your royal highness,” Commander Smith addresses you. “It’s no wonder your brother speaks about you often in our meetings.”

You give him a knowing smile. “Please, Commander Smith, you may call me Aeron.”

“Only if you call me Erwin,” he grins at you. You can see how Auguste could be so taken by him, his bright smile and blue eyes hold you with such endearment that you can only imagine the way he looks at your brother when the two are in private. You nod, acknowledging that the two of you are on equal standings with each other.

“Alright, darling, I think I am going to retire for the evening,” Zeke interrupts. He puts a hand on your jaw, pulling your gaze to him so you’re looking him in the eyes. “Won’t you join me?” You try not to cower from his touch and eyes that are telling you there’s no other option.

“My sincerest apologies, Zeke, but my sister and I had a prior engagement to attend to after the gathering. I’m sure you understand,” Auguste smiles at Zeke as he let’s your face go, turning to look at your brother.

“Of course,” He responds, but you can hear the hostility in his voice. “I’ll see you tomorrow morning before my departure,” he addresses you.

He roughly places a hand on your jaw again, turning your face towards him, and plants a rough, sloppy kiss on your lips. You have no time to react before he’s pulled away and he’s walking out of the ballroom, Eren in tow.

You stand there, stunned, as Levi and Furlan join you, your brothers, and Erwin. “Furlan, please escort Theo back to his bedroom. I think the party is over.” Auguste requests. “Levi, I’ll have Erwin escort me to my own bedroom. Please take Aeron to hers. I don’t trust our guests enough to allow her to wander the halls by herself.” He places a hand on your shoulder, pulling you out of your frozen state to look at him.

I’m sorry, his eyes tell you.

I know, your’s reassure him.

You notice the crowd of people already leaving as Furlan and Theo make their exit before your eyes meet Levi’s. You don’t say a word, only putting your arm through his and grabbing onto his bicep so he can lead you out. You’re too frazzled to stand strong, the feeling of Zeke’s rough lips still lingering on your own. If Levi is surprised he doesn’t show it, only guiding you out with a strong arm and protective aura, ready to defend you if needed. You push your personal issues aside, needing him as your Chevalier the most. The two of you don’t say a word the whole walk back and it isn’t until you turn down the hallway for your bedroom that you’re truly grateful for his presence.

Zeke stands, waiting outside your bedroom door as he leans against it. You don’t question how he found out it was your room to begin with, only unintentionally gripping Levi’s arm tighter as your steps stutter. You barely recognize the noise of a growl coming from the man next to you as the two of you step closer.

Zeke looks up, a sinister grin painting his features. “I don’t think you should have your hands on what's mine,” he sneers. “Levi, is it? Take your lowlife paws off of her. I’ll take her from here.”

“Sorry, monsieur,” Levi grits out between his teeth. “I have direct orders to ensure she makes it to her own room, alone.”

“Surely, you understand that this is my fiancè. You can trust me with her,” Zeke feigns innocence, opening his arms wide in surrender.

“Leave willingly or I can summon guards to escort you to your own quarters for the evening, monsieur,” Levi spits. You look over at him, hardly recognizing the protective aura radiating from him.

“No need to get so hostile, Levi,” Zeke chuckles, “I’ll find her in the morning then.” He walks away, but not before winking at your trembling form.

You don’t release the breath you’re holding until you see him disappear behind the corner of the hallway in the opposite direction. If it weren’t for your iron grip on Levi’s bicep, you’re sure you would have fallen to the floor by now. He guides you to your bedroom door, walking as slow as you need him to.

“I’ll fetch Isabel for you to help you undress and bathe. Don’t forget to lock your balcony doors and windows.”

“Thank you,” you mutter weakly. You’re utterly drained, exhausted from Zeke’s overbearing presence and the constant fear from the evening. It’s hardly the time you’re used to going to bed and you’re glad Isabel would still be awake. You need the comfort of a friend right now.

You untangle your arm from Levi’s, noticing his stiff stature as he remains ready to catch you if you need it. You don’t spare him a glance, embarrassed by your neediness and too tired to entertain formalities as you open the door to your bedroom. You lock the door behind you and make sure your windows and balcony doors are locked as you wait for Isabel to make her appearance.

Once Isabel shows up, Levi doesn’t leave his position outside of your door. He doesn’t feel like he’s able to walk away as long as Zeke is on castle grounds. The man is a nightmare, someone that didn’t deserve even just your presence and could only cause problems for women in general, let alone the age gap of ten years between the two of you that bothers Levi more than he would admit.

He leans against the wall, hearing the quiet and indistinguishable murmurs of you and Isabel’s conversation for what feels like at least a couple hours. Levi plans on standing here until morning, ensuring that Zeke is unable to access your room, and send him on his way without a single goodbye to you. Levi will spare you the trouble of Zeke’s presence again by doing so.

He straightens when he hears footsteps approaching your door from the other side before it opens and Isabel exits. She doesn’t seem to be surprised to see him there, giving him a sad smile.

“Thank you for staying here,” Isabel whispers softly. “Someone needs to protect her. I don’t feel okay about Zeke being anywhere near her. She’s– She’s scared to death, Levi.”

“I know,” is all he can say back to her. He saw the panic in your features when Zeke undoubtedly whispered disgusting things to you. “I’ll be here until he leaves the castle grounds.”

“Thank you,” Isabel tells him, placing a small hand on his shoulder before making her leave down the hallway in the direction of the opposite side of the castle where the handmaiden’s quarters are.

You don’t see Zeke in the morning.

[theearlgreymage]

Hello and Welcome to my grand project - May Their Blood Boil

This Fic originally started out as a small idea, meant to be a small birthday present for @ic3-que3n. And then the idea grew, because I love them and wanted to do something BIG. And then I reached out to multiple artists and friends (a complete list of those involved can be found below.) So, now this is a beast (haha) of a project. At the time of this initial posting, I have 70,000 words written for this fic -- my lovely editors and beta readers are helping to make sure each of those words is ready for uploading!!

For now, updates will come on a weekly basis.

I hope you all enjoy!!

Summary

Born in the Underground, Levi has been raised on the fringes of civilization. Never once getting to feel the sunshine on his face. But when one of his closest friend grows sick, the only way to procure the life-saving medicine is to take a dangerous job. One that will lead them above ground. Levi never would have guessed the route this treacherous job would lead them. Raised on the surface, Erwin has lived a life of lies and deception. Knowing more than he should and still nothing at all. He wants, more than anything, to uncover the mysteries that the nobility keep to themselves. Willing to go down a dark road and do whatever it takes to find the answers he seeks. When Levi and Erwin's paths cross, they find themselves inexplicably intertwined. Working together to unravel the lies that Eldia is crumbling beneath. But uncovering the truth will be tricky. The journey dangerous. All the magic in the realm serving as nothing more than a cage. And too often spilling blood is the only way to be set free.

Read the entire Fic here on AO3

Prologue | Chapter I | Chapter II | Chapter III | Chapter IV | Chapter V | Chapter VI | Chapter VII | Chapter VIII | Chapter IX | Chapter X | Chapter XI | Chapter XII | Chapter XIII | Chapter XIV | Chapter XV | Chapter XVI | Chapter XVII | Chapter XVIII | Chapter XIX | Chapter XX | Chapter XXI | Chapter XXII | Chapter XXIII | Chapter XXIV | Chapter XXV

A Special Thanks to

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For Their Illustrative Contributions to this Work

(Links to Artwork will be updated as Individual Artists upload their pieces. Please be mindful that Artwork may contain spoilers.)

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Listen to the May Their Blood Boil Playlist on Spotify

Rating and Additional Information Below the Cut

Fandom | Shingeki no Kyojin | Attack on Titan

Rating | Explicit

Warnings | Graphic Depictions of Violence

Relationships | Levi Ackerman/Erwin Smith, Levi Ackerman & Erwin Smith, Moblit Berner/Hange Zoe, Nanaba/Mike Zacharia

Characters | Levi Ackerman, Erwin Smith, Hange Zoe, Moblit Berner, Nanaba (Shingeki no Kyojin), Mike Zacharias, Petra Ral, Oluo Bozado, Eld Jinn, Gunther Schultz, Flagon (Shingeki no Kyojin), Caven (Shingeki no Kyojin), Rod Reiss, Frieda Reiss, Zeke Yeager, Kenny Ackerman, Kuchel Ackerman, Erwin Smith's Father, Nile Dok, Dot Pixis, Eren Yeager, Armin Arlert, Mikasa Ackerman, Annie Leonhart, Bertolt Hoover, Reiner Braun, Ymir of the 104th (Shingeki no Kyojin), Krista Lenz | Historia Reiss, Furlan Church, Isabel Magnolia, Yelena (Shingeki no Kyojin)

Additional Tags | Alternate Universe, Alternate Universe - Fantasy, Alternate Universe - Magic, POV Alternating, Magic, Blood Magic, Rebellion, Espionage, Revolution, Secrets, High Fantasy, Fights, Fist Fights, Blood, Blood and Injury, Royalty, Nobility, Illnesses, Terminal Illnesses, Loss of Limbs, Minor Character Death, Miscommunication, Slow Build, Slow Burn, Emotional Slow Burn, Kissing, Boys Kissing, Rough Kissing, Gentle Kissing, Neck Kissing, Gentle Sex, Angst, Oral Sex, Anal Fingering, Anal Sex, Gay Sex, Sex, Fanart, Additional Tags to Be Added

[giggly-squiggily]

AKENFKELFKR I WAS GONNA ASK IF YOU HAD ANY LEVI HCS AND BOOM YOU BLESSED MY DAY ahhhhhh this really makes me realise how little there is levi tk content. In one of my favorites (i cant find the fic anymore😔) levi sees cadets rougly playing and tickling each other outside and erwin realises levi seems to study whats going on and when he finds out levi actually doesnt know what’s happening, he is in for a lesson. And now you fed my brain even more ideas and I LOVE that. The only four people who would get away with tickling levi (for different periods of time, erwin probably the longest because shhh yess husbands) hange and isabel and furlan😭😭 and don’t get either of us started on how levi handles affection in general because he really and I mean really had to get used to it with erwin.

AHHH YAY!!! I'm so glad I could bring you some fluffy HCs for the tiny old man! (Not gonna lie- I'm gonna need them the more I watch the final season *cries*) I think I know what fic you're talking about??? It might be on A03- if I find it I'll reblog with the link but AHH THAT ONE WAS SO CUTE???

Oh god now you've got me thinking about @/ticklishfanart's incredible Levi art and HCs where he's got tickly back-ribs and UGH. Erwin pokes him there whenever Levi's got the sour face (you know the one) and Hange's just reckless brave. Maybe one time they ordered Eren to poke him just to see what happens but he backed out the second Levi looked at him akjlrajkrajkjkaejr

Listen-LISTEN. Levi is so touched starved, god help him? He won't let you hug him for long because he knows he's gonna tear up and he just can't deal with that right now (He might let Erwin hold him after a long, long day though), and if you kiss this man on the cheek he's just;

Levi.exe has stopped working. Someone spill something, that'll snap him out of it lakjlrkjarkjaejkrajke

Thank you for sharing, friend! :D

[bisluthq]

I can link some resources I use to teach this stuff divided by age if you need/if she’s interested beyond a chat with her older sibling… //

That would be really cool actually, if you don't mind!

ok so for elementary kids, there are several Anne Frank cartoons (one is called Where is Anne Frank? which has like a magic aspect to it too but tells the story) and this playlist also has age appropriate videos for kids who are like 8-11. There is also a book on Anne Frank: Little People, Big Dreams: Anne Frank by Isabel Vergara & Svetlana Dorosheva AND The Story of Anne Frank: A Biography Book for New Readers by Emma Berne. Twinkl has some comprehensions on Anne Frank you can use after the videos and some of these books too. I love using Anne Frank to teach it to little kids because they can relate to a little girl right like she... wasn't that different to any of them. When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr is also fab for this age group (and there are two follow up books about the same characters because pretty much everyone survives so ACTUALLY may be a better first book to read because obv Anne and everyone there dies). There is also a When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit movie.

Then for middle school readers (or really bright elementary kids) there are a few great books: Number The Stars by Lois Lowry and I Am David by Anne Holm and My Survival: A Girl on Schindler's List by Joshua Greene and Hana's Suitcase by Karen Levine (can be suitable for older students too to discuss artefacts) and at this age I'd also start just showing survivor testimony? USHMM has a great archive and sorts by topics covered and Yad Vashem has everything from shorter videos to full length documentaries. USC Shoah Foundation site is comparatively difficult to navigate imo but they also have some great materials. I'd also, for middle schoolers, start talking about other groups Nazis persecuted (gay people, Roma and Sinti people, disabled people, Black Germans). There's a movie called Where Hands Touch which is about a young Black German girl. Nothing Sung and Nothing Spoken by Nita Tyndall is a really beautiful queer love story (appropriate to middle schoolers who are avid readers). You can also look at some middle school textbooks because some do start covering the events - I tend to mix and match and if you're just talking about stuff then the above should be fine. Oh, Maus is a graphic novel (and I think there's a cartoon also) that's great for middle schoolers too. The Children of Willesden Lane can also be used for older elementary and more immature middle schoolers. Beautiful book.

For high school I'd say move away from fictional stuff but there's a movie that I think is a must watch called Europa Europa - it's pretty old but it tells the story of a Jewish boy who "disguised" himself as an Aryan to survive (it's based on a true story). It's great in sort of explaining just how random the Nazis' whole worldview and theories were. I'd even say it's okay for slightly younger viewers as nothing THAT horrible happens given yk the context BUT there's quite a lot of full frontal male nudity so idk about showing it to younger viewers and especially younger girls. I'd also show Schindler's List. Otherwise some great books are Night by Eli Wiesel (MUST read and all of Eli Wiesel's other work), The Holocaust: A New History by Laurence Rees (with my A level students I basically say read this and go write the exam lol), Survival in Auschwitz by Primo Levi (and all of Primo Levi's other work), more survivor testimonies, and really a focus on how Nazism got going. Facing History and Ourselves has a lot of resources and suggestions on how to teach the topic comprehensively. Again, the USHMM website and the Yad Vashem website (which I've already linked) have a lot of good resources beyond the survivor testimonies in terms of covering the period. The Holocaust Education Trust also has decent resources tied to the UK curriculum. Again, with high schoolers I really stress like the fact that Nazism was a democratic process, I focus on eugenics a lot, and the pseudoscience of racism (and eugenics) which led to genocide.

Hope this helped!

[dreamingon-forever]

hi can you give some levihan headcanons as a couple , maybe in modern au

Thank you so much for the request! This is my first headcanon request so I tried to make it as perfect as possible! Also, bear with me because I got overexcited with the ask, and instead of the point form HC formulation I should've followed, I may or may not have thought up their whole freaking backstory... and their follow up story... Oops. I won't post it here today, but I do think I will make it a separate post some other day if anyone is interested enough. Either way, thank you so much and I hope you enjoy!

AO3 link: 💚💜

I like to think that even in modern AU, Hange would still have her cheery personality, but instead of obsessing over Titans, she'd be more interested in microbes (I know, transition between giants to microorganisms, LOL). She'd still be interested in saving humanity, but more in the bacterial and medical kind of field instead.

Levi on the other hand, no longer having to be a soldier, he'd happily run the tea shop he'd always wanted right next to his best friends Isabel and Furlan.

The two met on a subway ten years ago on Levi's first day of work in the city. Where an unfortunate mix up of personal belongings caused by clashing into each other got them acquainted and familiar with each other. Despite the unfortunate meeting and the roller coaster of events that unfolded from their collision, it eventually became a pleasant story to tell their friends or at parties when asked how they met.

They were complete opposites of each other. Hange loved the outdoors while Levi preferred staying at home. She was loud and upbeat while he preferred silence and tranquility. Hanger had a habit of being free willed and letting her spontaneity take her, while Levi liked to have everything planned and set before getting into anything

And it wasn't just their preferences that differed, it was every aspect of themselves. Their life choices and ways of thinking were drastically opposing. Even the way they disagreed on what they wanted to eat for dinner caused heated discussion when brought up, as Hange would pick sweets for dinner instead of something sustainable like Levi wanted.

They were complete and utterly the opposite of each other. And while everything pointed to them not working out and onlookers put their money on their relationship ending in a messy breakup, they proved everyone wrong every time with how much their bond only grew stronger overtime. And how their loving partnership became more and more obvious the more time spent around them, erasing any doubts they had about the couple.

Yes, they fought occasionally, and they drove each other absolutely insane. But their differences also brought them out of each other's shells, together experiencing new things they would've never seen without the other otherwise. They saw the world in a different light through each other's eyes, and came to love the new combined word they created together. Because with being opposites of each other, it also meant they filled each other's holes and missing pieces. Almost like creating a stained glass window meant to be clear with splashes of purples and greens instead. Creating an accidental masterpiece that came to be adored by those lucky enough to bask under the kaleidoscope of colours in their inner chapel. Bathing those closest to them with the deep love they had for each other.

Throughout the years of getting to know each other, they found a way to put their differences away, and somehow managed to build up their relationship status to best friends. So much so that Isabel and Furlan, Levi's childhood friends complained about being replaced so quickly. Although, in all considerations, it felt to Levi like he was the one being replaced by Hange instead with the way his friends loved her. Hell, even his mother and uncle seemed to love her more than him.

"Welcome home, runt. Where's Hange? I wanted to discuss about the new wine she mentioned to me last time." His uncle would say when he'd visit.

"Oh Hange! I've made your favourite pudding!" His mother would greet, throwing herself at his girlfriend before she caught sight of her own son staring at them with a roll of his eyes. "Oh, Levi! Nice to see you too of course."

Contrary to his grumbles and complains about Hange being overburdened by his family every time she visited, he couldn't help but feel his heart beat happily at knowing the love of his life was accepted by his family, and that they loved her as much as he did himself. Having the two most important parts of his life get along was all he cared about.

Despite having known each other for ten years, having met when Levi was 26 and Hange 24, they didn't start dating until... well that was a mystery of its own as they themselves didn't really know when they started dating. Not fully at least.

Somewhere along the years of their friendship the lines blurred, and they somehow ended up with the shocking, yet not surprising realization that they were and had been dating each other for a while. But the way they realized it and came to terms with it wasn't an easy one. When Levi finally came to terms that he harboured feelings for his best friend, he initially thought that Hange had feelings for someone else. And he could only put up with the unbearable pain he went through when he overheard Moblit mention to Nifa that Hange couldn't meet with them for a work dinner because she had a date already.

So one can only imagine his surprise when Hange showed up with a smile at his shop door on Saturday, greeting him and his workers as happily as ever. Even throwing herself at him for a hug like she always did whenever she visited. A hug that would be considered too personal and close for two individuals that were only considered friends. But not once during her whole afternoon spent there did she mention anything about meeting up with anyone else, but the suspense was absolutely killing Levi by the point the clock struck half an hour to dinner time.

But Hange continued being her usual self. Greeting new and old clients alike as if she'd been friends with them for ages. Making a complete mess of his usual clean counters only to be scolded off by Levi to go to the corner and read instead, and even teasing him about random things like she always did. All the while being completely unaware of the turmoil and the pain Levi felt at thinking about how he would have to hide his feelings and having to pretend to be happy for Hange being with someone that wasn't him the rest of their live. It was becoming an unbearable and depressing Saturday to say the least. His mood only soured more as Hange still acted all upbeat and nonchalant as ever. Not once having brought up her dating life to him, despite being her so called bestie. And it brought about this ugly feeling of disbelief and jealousy out of him that he'd never experienced before.

As nighttime fell over the streets, Levi finally broke his silence and lashed out at her bitterly, asking why she was hanging out with him when she already had plans with someone else.

And out of all ways she could've reacted to his interrogation, being laughed at was something he didn't expect.

"But Levi, YOU are my date." She finally gasped, having finally gained the capacity to breathe again after having laughed at his question.

"Huh? How am I your date, fucking Four- Eyes. We never made plans for anything. Besides, I overheard your coworkers talk about you meeting someone instead of eating with them... How can I be considered your date?"

Hange tilted her head, amusement flowing in her brown eyes as she caught the usual poised and self-assured raven-haired individual lose his composure. "Huh... But I thought we've been dating for while now, Shorty. I've even been referring to you as my boyfriend to my friends and coworkers for the last few months."

Turns out, her date was none other than Levi. And her idea of a date was hanging out with him at his tea shop on the weekend like she's been doing the last five years. And Levi, as clueless to feelings as ever, never put two and two together.

The whirring of machine cogs and espresso machines filled the silence between them as Levi processed whatever Hange had just said.

"The fuck?! You can't simply just call me your boyfriend when I haven't even been aware of us dating this whole time!" He finally retaliated, throwing the rag in his hands onto the tabletop.

Hange giggled, noticing the reds on his cheeks. It wasn't a no, she could read from his eyes. "I like you too, Shorty. So? Are we officially dating now?"

"You better make up for the last few months I've been out of loop of my own relationship."

They ended up adopting a black goldfish adorably named One-Eyed Moody after the professor of the dark arts from the Harry Potter series for the fact it was both very moody and in fact, one eyed. Levi had reluctantly agreed to let Hange get a pet for their apartment once they had moved in together after a year of dating. He expected her to get a cat, a big dog, or a lizard for all he knew. Although he made it very clear the last one were on the black list.

Instead, Hange had found One-Eyed Moody on a cart ready to be discarded off at the pet shop. Having instantly connected with it, she begged Levi to get it. And with a heavy sigh, he couldn't say no. Mind you, it was pretty much dead at that point, but through endless observation and whatever mutated food concoction Hange whipped up, it came back to life in a matter of weeks. And in turn, Levi had somewhat grown attached to it. Hange liked to joke that it was their baby and it resembled them both in some ways.

Their days spent together were a blend of their interests mixed into one. When Hange wanted to settle down and read, Levi would do skin care for both of them to make use of their time. All the while Hange reading aloud the words from her book so Levi could listen as well. When Levi wanted to clean the house, Hange knew better than to lend a hand as he was peculiar in his ways. So instead she'd make some tea for both of them and cook dinner for a famished Levi by the end of his cleaning session. On days Hange felt like watching a documentary on bugs or microbes, Levi would lay his head on her lap as she brushed her fingers through his locks. The soothing motion letting him get some shut eye he usually never got due to his insomnia.

Hange had a habit of working overtime, and sometimes even staying overnight at her lab. On days like these Levi would pack up some sweets from his shop and some warm tea and bring them to her office as he kept her company. On the off days Hange had a day off, she'd use it to help around in Levi's shop. Chatting up customers and bringing a bright feeling to the atmosphere. Levi absolutely adored watching her laugh and interact with regulars from behind the counter. Although he'd never voice these thoughts aloud. But it wasn't needed, as his employees, Jean, Sasha, and Connie all make kissy faces to each other whenever they caught Levi glancing a little too long at his partner.

Levi didn't like to admit it, but most of his photos on his phone were of candid pictures of Hange. But not the flattering ones most boyfriends take of their girlfriends that are Instagram worthy. No, most of them were completely unflattering. Many consisting of Hange snoring with her mouth wide open, of her laying in a pile of dirt after having chased a squirrel. Of Hange throwing a middle finger to the camera after being caught without caffeine early in the morning, or even of her snorting in laughter after something funny Erwin had told them during one of their get togethers.

He was absolutely infatuated with her. With her quirks and her being. He was in love with Hange Zoe.

And similarly, Hange kept a record of all the plants and bouquets Levi gave her over the years. A collection of pressed flowers and dried leaves from every flora and fauna he'd ever gifted her. Because as much as she loved flowers, she loved more the effort gone into picking a different flower each time they had a celebration. Because as Levi had once told her, she was so unique that not one flower could ever describe her, and that he could never tie her down to one specific plant.

Normal dates like going to the mall or watching movies before dinner on a weekend weren't their thing. Instead, beach dates in mid freezing February nights, stargazing spontaneously on a random Wednesday night, running around the fields of the neighbourhood Hange grew in during summer afternoons, hiding from thugs after trespassing someone's property to take a look at the size of a wasp's nest, ending with the nest falling to the ground and its inhabitants swarming around the local outlaws on a spring morning... All were chaotic memories that belonged only to them. Those were the kind of dates they had.

They never had to verbally express their admiration or love for each other openly. Or make it everyone's business to know that they were together because they had upmost trust in their partnership and relationship without having to project it to the world in a fright of being misunderstood. Both knowing perfectly well how much they cared and loved each other in the small gestures they shared: The little brush of fingertips as they greeted each other goodbye before work. In the way they worked in sync when working together on a project for their new home. Of how they made love to each other in the warm embrace of each other, blinds closed and moans silenced between their interexchange of kisses. Making their love known only between themselves. It never became a pressing matter having everyone else know their business or feeling the need to explain their relationship to others. In the end, their actions spoke louder than words, and everyone could tell that they had the upmost trust in their relationship.

But in the calmness and safety of their bubble, eventually doubt would emerge, and leak a hole in their safe haven, no matter how much effort they put into keeping it afloat.

Hange absolutely loved and had a strange fascination for energy drinks infused in coffee, the ones that had 10 times the amount than should be allowed by any manufacturers or allowed to pass inspections. So much so that she'd stop by the convenience store on the corner of their apartment every time she came back from work. Bringing with her at least 10 cans with her.

Levi, despite his eye rolls and grumbles about over caffeination and annoyance at having a bunch of empty cans to constantly recycle, still got them for her whenever he passed by on his way from the tea store nonetheless. Loving and having a soft spot for the way Hange's eyes lit up and the way she threw herself at him every time he brought it for her.

Due to their different time schedules they never got to meet up to shop together, but nonetheless they each become regulars in the little shop for the drinks Hange so badly craved.

It was one day that Hange came back, a look of complete defeat on her face as she slummed against the door that Levi understood something was wrong. That, and the fact her hands were empty of her usual drinks.

"Finally figured out you were consuming poison?" Levi questioned as he started unclasping her shoes, carefully placing them on the shoe rack.

Shaking her head sadly, Hange sighed. "No... they hiked up the prices again. I know we're tight on money so I can't go buying five dollar coffee from the convenience store anymore... I guess I'll just have to settle for the stale decaf coffee they have at the office."

"Tch... don't exaggerate, Four-Eyes. The drinks were never more than two bucks." Levi muttered, taking her jacket off and placing it on the hanger.

Hange's brows furrowed. "Two bucks? When have they ever been that cheap? I've always been paying four fifty."

"Huh? What fucking store have you been to? It's been two fifty since we've moved here." Levi grumbled, flicking his finger over her forehead.

The topic brought on an argument that lasted the whole night over who was right and wrong. And it only settled when they both agreed to go to the store the following day together. Luckily it was a national holiday and neither had to go to work.

The following day, in typical Hange fashion, she'd forgotten to feed One-Eyed Moody. Refusing to leave the house without feeding him first, she told Levi to go on first, and that she'd meet him in the store.

But what she found as she entered the familiar shop was something she'd never expected. The usually bored clerk was suddenly chirpy and chatting up no other than her boyfriend. Levi on the other hand, seemed quite discontented from the conversation, but kept adding a word or two in politeness.

Suddenly catching his girlfriend's gaze, Levi started raising his hand to signal her over, when Hange crossed her hands in front of her, shaking her head vigorously as she unlinked and relinked her arms in the cross motion, signaling behind the cashier's back for Levi to not blow her cover.

Confused at her sudden antics, he furrowed his brows, but did as instructed, following Hange's pointed look to the cooler housing her favourite drinks before she mouthed "cashier, go pay for them!".

It was only after he exited the store ten whole minutes later, an annoyed look on his face that Hange finally pounced on him.

"So?"

"So what? You left me to listen to that girl talk about bad dates alone for ten minutes. Here's your stupid drinks." Levi grumbled, throwing the plastic bag into her arms.

Shaking her head, Hange stopped him from walking towards their home's direction. "NO! I meant, how much did you pay?"

"Ah... like I said, two bucks each." He said, annoyance still laced in his words.

And that's when it clicked for Hange. "Ah huh! I knew it! Levi! She's into you! She's been giving you a discount in order to get you to pay attention to her! She's been flirting with you this whole time!"

And instead of how a typical girlfriend would act after having found out their boyfriend was being hit on by someone else, Hange looked absolutely elated.

"Why you so happy about that? Are you not afraid that I'll reciprocate her someday?"

Of course they both knew he was kidding. The bond and love they shared with each other, despite being subtle, was very much irreplaceable.

"Because, it means that from now on, I get to stock up on my favourite drinks at a nice price!"

"Tch... you don't even know if she actually lowered the price, Four-eyes. Maybe you got charged extra by accident."

But having stepped into the store and bringing back a drink with her, Hange had confirmed for both of them all they needed to know.

And so, that day forward, it became their little secret. Levi would get Hange her drinks at a discounted price because of a crush the cashier had on him.

At first everything seemed alright, but slowly as time progressed, Levi seemed more distant and dejected every time he returned from the store. Hange seemed to pick up on his change of mood, but wasn't sure what was causing it. So instead she watched on in silence as Levi's presence became more and more cold.

Unsure of how to bring it up, she watched silently, until eventually Levi was the first to bring it up.

"Hange... are you okay with someone else hitting on me? Are you fine of having others perceiving me as single?" Levi asked suddenly one night. They were doing their usual pre-bed night routine as Levi prepped their ten stepped skin care for both of them. Hange resting her head on his lap, a book open in front of her.

"Hm? No... Should I be?" She asked, her eyes still glued to the words on the pages before her.

Levi's hands stilled completely, bringing a silence over them following Hange's words.

"No... nothing." He muttered finally, getting up. "I'm done. Don't go to bed too late." He said before walking towards their shared bedroom, his face concealed by the dark room.

At first Hange sat there in confusion. What was up with him and his weird questions? She thought about going to him and getting an answer out of him, but as her gaze fell over the bottles of her favourite drink sitting by the doorstep, realization fell over her. And her heart shattered.

The following day, Levi was doing the usual run. Head downcast and eyes unfocused, he forced on a smile that didn't reach his eyes as the cashier continued telling him something he assumed was supposed to be funny.

"Anyways, that'd be ten dollars."

The usual conversation... the usual dissociation... the same dull pain he felt at pretending to be interested in someone he had no feelings for.

"If you're free, I've been thinking... maybe we can get to know each other outside of the sto-"

As Levi started handing over the bill, already coming up with a plausible excuse to not go on a date, a hand suddenly stopped him, pulling him back.

"Sorry, I think you've got the wrong price! The price tag reads five dollars for a drink, and we got five of them here. I think- I think you might be undercharging us!" A bright voice chirped out of breath.

"Hange?" Levi asked surprised, turning to see the mess of a woman before him. She was absolutely out of breath, her lab coat was still on her figure, where a bunch of stains of various unnatural colours painted the once white cloth, and worse of all, she had goggles over her glasses, and that wasn't counting the pair that hung from her neck or the one on her forehead.

"Sorry I'm late. Work took longer to finish than I thought." She puffed out, throwing him a wide smile.

The cashier cleared her throat, noticing the gaze between them, not liking how close they seemed. "Uh... I'm sure I put the price right... I'll go check on the price tags after I ring this customer." She said as she turned back to Levi, her eyes still turning to take a look at Hange. "Don't worry about it, pay the usual price you pay."

But before she could continue, Hange inserted herself once more. "No need! I've got the rest of the money here." She said, pulling out a bunch of lose change from her pockets. Some which fell to the floor if not rolling on the counter.

"Oops..."

"Ma'am... I'm sorry, but can you please wait for your turn? I'm helping this customer over here first. I'll get back to you af-"

"We're paying together. These are for her. She's my girlfriend." Levi said.

A stunned silence fell over the three of them at Levi's words. His confession even surprising Hange as it was the first time she'd heard him introduce her as his girlfriend to anyone else other than their family and friends.

There was a certain pride in his eyes as he finally got to call her his in public. He wasn't one for public affection, or making the world know of his business. But there was something that warmed his chest in having others see them as a couple. Of having made it known that Hange was his. And only his.

Hange smiled. "25 should be the full price." She said, picking up the forgotten coins on the counter before interlacing her fingers with Levi's, and rushing out the door together with his hand in hers. The wind carrying her contagious laugh as they made their way to their apartment. Onlookers and everything else be damned.

"Aren't you sad?" Levi finally asked as they crashed onto the floor of their entrance hall after having run all the way up the stairs to their home.

"Over?" She asked breathlessly, turning to look at her lover.

"The fact you'll have to pay more for the drinks. Or at least cut down on them."

Hange chuckled, a bright twinkle of amusement amongst her brown eyes. "It's worth it. I'd rather pay more for my drinks than lose that warmth of yours... I don't want the love of my life to feel like I'm hiding our relationship. Besides... It was kind of sexy having you put claim over me in front of someone who had eyes on you for a long time."

"Fucking unbelievable." Levi grumbled, causing Hange to giggle before rolling over so she was just over his face. A serious look suddenly taking over her features.

"I love you, Levi. You and no one else."

"I love you too, Four-Eyes." Levi whispered back, placing a hand to the back of her head to bring her closer to him. "Who else can drive me as insane as you?"

And with it, they melted into a kiss.

[snowstar716]

SUPER SMASH BROS. CHARACTER THEME SONGS (in my opinion)

Mario: Jump - Van Halen

Donkey Kong: Jungle Boogie - Kool & The Gang

Link: Centuries - Fall Out Boy

Samus: Iron Man - Black Sabbath

Dark Samus: Take Me Over - Red

Yoshi: Walk The Dinosaur - Was (Not Was)

Kirby: Counting Stars - OneRepublic

Fox: Wings Of Steel - Wings Of Steel

Pikachu: Thunder - Imagine Dragons

Luigi: Ghostbusters - Ray Parker Jr.

Ness: It's The End Of The World As We Know It - R.E.M.

Captain Falcon: Don't Stop Me Now - Queen

Jigglypuff: Symphony - Clean Bandit

Peach: Holding Out For A Hero - Bonnie Tyler

Daisy: Umbrella - Rihanna

Bowser: Be Prepared (Cover) - Jonathan Young

Ice Climbers: Ain't No Mountain High Enough - Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Sheik: Keep It Undercover - Zendaya

Zelda: When You're Gone - Avril Lavigne

Dr. Mario: Doctor - Jack Stauber

Pichu: Electric Avenue - Eddy Grant

Falco: Birds - Imagine Dragons

Marth: Hero - Skillet

Lucina: Time - Pink Floyd

Young Link: Go The Distance - Michael Bolton

Ganondorf: Hail To The King - Avenged Sevenfold

Mewtwo: Animal I Have Become - Three Days Grace

Roy: Burning Down The House - Talking Heads

Chrom: Awake & Alive - Skillet

Mr. Game & Watch: Game Over - Falling In Reverse

Meta Knight: Wrong Side Of Heaven - Five Finger Death Punch

Pit: Fly Away - Lenny Kravitz

Dark Pit: Bring Me To Life - Evanescence

Zero Suit Samus: Unstoppable - Sia

Wario: Thrift Shop - Macklemore

Snake: Seven Nation Army - The White Stripes

Ike: Legend - Jaroslav Beck

Squirtle, Ivysaur, & Charizard/Pokémon Trainer: We Are The Champions - Queen

Diddy Kong: It's Tricky - Run-DMC

Lucas: I'm Just A Kid - Simple Plan

Sonic: Runaway Baby - Bruno Mars

King Dedede: Fat - “Weird Al” Yankovic

Olimar/Alph: Rocket Man - Elton John

Lucario: Aura - Dennis Lloyd

R.O.B.: Boom - P.O.D.

Toon Link: Come Sail Away - Styx

Wolf: Three Little Pigs - Green Jelly

Villager: Psycho Killer - The Talking Heads

Mega Man: More Than Meets The Eye - Linkin Park

Wii Fit Trainer: Physical - Olivia Newton-John

Rosalina & Luma: All The Stars - SZA

Little Mac: Free Fallin’ - Tom Petty

Greninja: The Ninja Song - Cory Williams

Palutena: Goddess - Iggy Azalea

PAC-MAN: PAC-MAN Fever - Buckner & Garcia

Robin: Magic - Mystery Skulls

Shulk: Into The Future - Chef’Special

Bowser Jr., Larry, Roy, Wendy, Iggy, Morton, Lemmy, Ludwig: Horrible Kids - Set It Off

Duck Hunt: Atomic Dog - George Clinton

Ryu: Karate - Tenacious D

Ken: Through The Fire & Flames - DragonForce

Cloud: Push It To The Limit - Scarface

Corrin: The Middle - Maren Morris

Bayonetta: Daisy - AshNikko

Inkling: Paint It Black - The Rolling Stones

Ridley: Die MF Die - Dope

Simon: Whip It - Devo

Richter: The Sound Of Silence (Cover) - Disturbed

King K. Rool: Crocodile Rock - Elton John

Isabelle: Best Day Ever - DJ Cadence

Incineroar: Eye Of The Tiger - Survivor

Piranha Plant: Mean Green Mother From Outer Space - Levi Stubbs

Joker: The Joker & The Thief - Wolfmother

Hero: Magic - Pilot

Banjo & Kazooie: Best Friend - Weezer

Terry: Fight To Win - Your Favorite Martian

Byleth: School’s Out - Alice Cooper

Min Min: Unleash The Dragon - JT Music

Steve, Alex, Zombie, & Enderman: Diamonds - Rihanna

Sephiroth: Evil Angel - Breaking Benjamin

Pyra & Mythra: Warriors - Aaliyah Rose

Kazuya: My Demons - Starset

Sora: When Can I See You Again? - Owl City

Mii Fighters: Critical Hit - No More Kings

Sans: Spooky Scary Skeletons (Remix) - The Living Tombstone

Cuphead: I Ain't Worried - OneRepublic

Vault Boy: Sugar, We're Going Down - Fall Out Boy

Shantae: Friend Like Me - Robin Williams

Doom Slayer: Out Of Hell - Skillet

Hammer Bro: U Can't Touch This - MC Hammer

Chain Chomp: Who Let The Dogs Out? - Baha Men

Thwomp: Crushcrushcrush - Paramore

Waluigi: Loser - Beck

KlapTrap: Chomp Chomp - Alestorm

Skull Kid: Masks - Aviators

Moon: Bad Moon Rising - Creedence Clearwater Revival

Midna: The Wolf - SIAMÉS

Ghirahim: Welcome To The Black Parade - My Chemical Romance

Metroid: Parasite - DAGames

Mother Brain: Intergalactic - Beastie Boys

Nightmare: Nightmare - Avenged Sevenfold

Knuckle Joe: Fighter - The Cast of Glee

Chef Kawasaki: Eat It - “Weird Al” Yankovic

Andross: Imperial March - John Williams

Krystal: Keep Holding On - Avril Lavigne

Samurai Goroh: Heavy Metal Samurai - Metalucifer

Starman: Starman - David Bowie

Jeff: Rocketeer - Far East Movement

Tiki: Dragonhearted - TryHardNinja

Lyn: Forsaken - Within Temptation

Black Knight: Fight The Knight - Crush 40

Phosphora: Electric Shock - F(x)

Ashley: Hocus Pocus - Marnik

Burrowing Snagret: Angry Birds Rap - JT Music

Kapp'n: Another One Rides The Bus - “Weird Al” Yankovic

Riki: Happy - Pharrell Williams

Color TV-Game 15: New Game - Nitro Fun

Sheriff: I Fought The Law - The Clash

Devil: The Devil Went Down To Georgia - Charlie Daniels

Takamaru: Warriors - Imagine Dragons

Dr. Wright: We Built This City - Starship

Flies & Hand: Fly - Marshmello

Prince Of Sablé: Adventure - Matthew Parker

Sukapon: Robot Rock - Daft Punk

Isaac: With Great Power - JT Music

Starfy: Shooting Star - Owl City

Nintendog: Dogsong - Toby Fox

Dr. Kawashima: Teach You How To Die - JT Music

Vince: Happy Accidents - CG5

Nikki: Mi Mi Mi - SEREBRO

Dillon: Rollin’ - Limp Bizkit

Yuri Kozukata: The Spook - KSHMR

Arcade Bunny: Drunk Arcade - Bombs Away

Spring Man: This Ain't A Scene, It's An Arms Race - Fall Out Boy

Squid Sisters: Just Dance - Lady Gaga

Ghosts: Ghost - Mystery Skulls

Bomberman: Dynamite - Taio Cruz

Alucard: Vampire - Lazyboy Empire

Wily Capsule: Crazy = Genius - Panic! At The Disco

Zero: On My Own - Ashes Remain

Knuckles: Fight Back - NEFFEX

Shadow: Pumped Up Kicks - Foster The People

Guile: This Is America - Childish Gambino

Akira: Kung Fu Fighting - Carl Douglas

Gray Fox: Another Way Out - Hollywood Undead

Rodin: Heathens - Twenty One Pilots

Shovel Knight: Diggy Diggy Hole (Cover) - Wind Rose

All Pokémon: Evolution - KoRn

Master Hand & Crazy Hand: I Will Not Be Moved - DAGames

Giga Bowser: Godzilla - Eminem

Ganon: The Beast - Tech N9ne

Galleom: I Am Machine - Three Days Grace

Rathalos: Dragonborn - Jeremy Soule

Dracula: In The Dark Of The Night (Cover) - Jonathan Young

Marx: Alastor’s Game - The Living Tombstone

Galeem & Darkhon: This Is The End - NateWantsToBattle

[cr1msonsta1ns]

For anyone interested in me making Headcannons, here are the characters I am willing to do them for.

I do Love and Deepspace, Creepypasta, The Legend Of Zelda, Attack On Titan, Demon slayer, Hunter X Hunter, Mortal Kombat, and Homicipher.

Creepypasta:

Male->

- Laughing Jack

- Eyeless Jack

- Jason the Toymaker

- BEN Drowned/ Benjamin Lawman

- Nathan the Nobody

- Jeff the Killer/ Jeffrey Woods

- Liu Woods/ Homicidal Liu/ Sully

- Bloody Painter/ Helen Otis

- Masky/ Tim Wright

- Hoodie/ Brian Thomas

- Ticci Toby/ Tobias Erin Rodgers

- Zalgo

- Slenderman

- Splendorman

- Trenderman

- Offenderman

- Kagekao

- Herobrine

- Surrenderman

- Hobo Heart

- Candypop

- Black Eyed Children

- Glitchy Red

- Scissormouth

- Smiling man

- X Virus

- Dr. Smiley

- Puppeteer

- Will Grossman

- Lost Silver

Female->

- Jane Everlasting

- Nina the Killer

- Lulu

- Sally Williams

- Lazari Swann

- Nurse Ann

- Judge Angel/ Dina

- Kate The Chaser

- Clockwork

- Zero

- Stripes

- Suicide Sadie

- Sadiya

- Kris Nelar

- Mary Vaughn

- Hachisukasama

- Laughing Jill

- Rouge

Monster->

- Rake

- Smiledog.jpg

- Seed Eater

- Mr. Widemouth

- Grinny Cat

- Glitchy Red

- Sonic.EXE

- Skin Taker

- SCP 173

- Red

- Pinkemania

- Momo

- Teki Teki

- Tails Doll

Legends Of Zelda:

Male->

- Link (Any)

- King Rauru (Totk)

- Ganondorf/ Ganon

- Robbie

- Master Kohga

- Sidon

- Deku Tree

- Tulin

- Teba

- King Dorephan

- Yunobo

- Beedle

- Sheik?

- Shad

- Colin

- Dark Link

- Shadow Link

- Ghirahim

- Happy Mask Salesman

- Revali

- Tael

- Zant

Female->

- Zelda (Any)

- Princess Midna

- Princess Mipha

- Queen Sonia

- Purah

- Yona

- Mineru

- Impa

- Paya

- Riju

- Buliara

- Navi

- Great Fairies

- Nabooru

- Princess Ruto

- Saria

- Tatl

-Urbosa

Animal/ Beasts:

- Chickens

- Epona

- Bokoblins

- Keese

- Horoblins

- Lizalfo

- Hestu

- Korok

- Demise

- Skull Kid

Attack On Titan:

Male->

- Levi Ackerman

- Connie Springer

- Eren Jeager

- Armin Arlert

- Grisha Jeager

- Zeke Jeager

- Porco Galiard

- Falco Grice

- Bertholdt Hoover

- Reiner Braustess

- Erwin Smith

- Marco Bodt

- Moblit

- Farlan

- Kenny Ackerman

- Kitz

- Dot Pyxis

- Hannes

- Keith Shadis

- King Fritz

- Nicolo

- Jean Kirschtein

- Onyankopon

- Floch Forster

Female->

- Mikasa Ackerman

- Yelena

- Sasha Braus

- Ymir (both)

- Petra

- Dina Fritz

- Hange Zoë

- Isabel

- Zofia

- Kiyomi Azumabito

- Carla Jeager

- Kuchel Ackerman

- Annie Leonheart

- Pieck Finger

Demon Slayer:

Male->

- Tanjiro Kamado

- Inosuke Hashibira

- Zenitsu Agatsuma

- Tengen Uzui

- Sanemi Shinuzugawa

- Giyu Tomioka

- Kagaya

- Obanai Iguro

- Gyomei

- Kyojuro Rengoku

- Muichiro Tokito

- Urokodaki

- Genya Shinuzugawa

- Yushiro

- Muzan Kibutsuji

- Rui

- Kokushibo

- Senjuro Rengoku

- Tanjuro Kamado

- Tecchin Tecchikawahara

- Kotetsu

- Hotaru Haganezuka

- Yoriichi

- Douma

- Akaza

- Hantengu

- Gyokko

- Gyutaro

- Daki

- Enmu

Female->

- Kanae Kocho

- Mitsuri Kanroji

- Amane

- Shinobu Kocho

- Kanao Tsuyuri

- Aoi Kanzaki

- Sumi Nakahara

- Kiyo Terauchi

- Naho Takada

- Nezuko Kamado

- Lady Tamayo

- Spider demon Mother

- Spider Demon Daughter

- Biwa lady/ Nakime

- Hinatsuru

- Makio

- Suma

Hunter x Hunter:

Male:

- Gon Freecs

- Killua Zoldyck

- Milluki Zoldyck

- Master Wing

- Zushi

- Isaac Netero

- Pariston Hill

- Ging Freecs

- Morel

- Hisoka Morrow

- Illumi Zoldyck

- Hanzo

- Kite

- Knov

- Shalnark

- Geretta

- Tonpa

- Zeno Zoldyck

- Silva Zoldyck

- Gotoh

- Kiriko

- Mike???

- Chrollo Lucilfer

- Kastro

- Feitan

- Phinks

- Franklin

- Bonolenov

- Omokage

- Uvogin

- Kortopi

- Razor

- Bloster

- Pokkle

- Meruem

- Shaiapouf

- Menthuthuyoupi

- Meleoron

- Welfin

- Cheetu

- Leol

- Zazan

- Koala

- Flutter

- Rammot

- Ikalgo

- Knuckle

- Shoot

Female:

- Alluka/ Nanika Zoldyck

- Biscut Krueger

- Neferpitou

- Cheadle Yorkshire

- Melody

- Palm Siberia

- Anita

- Ponzu

- Aunt Mito

- Kikyo Zoldyck

- Kalluto Zoldyck

- Amane

- Canary

- Tsubone

- Machi

- Shizuku

- Pakunoda

- Neon Nostrade

- Reina/ Shidore

- Komugi

- Hina

Mortal Kombat:

Male-

- Kung Lao

- Kenshi Takahashi

- Liu Kang

- Johnny Cage

- Bi-han

- Kuai Liang

- Raiden

- Rain

- Kano

- Smoke

- Shang Tsung

-Reptile

- Geras

- Jax

Female-

- Mileena

- Kitana

- Sindel

- Tanya

- Sonya Blade

- Cassie Cage

- Ashrah

- D'vorah

- Nitara

Love and Deepspace:

-Zayne

-Rafayel

-Xavier

-Sylus

Homicipher:

-Mr.Masque

-Mr.Crawling

-Mr.Chopped

-Mr.Stitch

-Ms.Blue Clad

-Mr.Gap

-Mr.Scarletta

-Mr.Machete

-Mr.Hood

-Mr.Silvair

-The Bride

-Ms.Nurse

-Mr.Wheelchair

-Hooded Child

-Hairdresser

-Mr.Hugeface

And these are whom I'm willing to make headcannons of. If you request any of these characters and I will happily make a headcannon of them as you request.

[sakuraswordly]

Spoiler Tsofph Season 10(Chapter2 Fake World) Sad Ending

Sonic: This is not the end......we did defeat Kujaku but not in our original timeline.

Punch: ........................

*Flashback*

Kujaku: You guys don't have the slightest clue what will happen if the fake world disappears, do you? It won't matter for normal people, since they don't remember anything anyway...If I were to disappear, all memories of the fake world would disappear with me, as would any recollection of the fate that awaits you. They won't remember anything including both Syaoran and Peter. Even if you save everyone in the real world to the original state, people including your friends from the fake world will vanish forever and never ever bring them back.

*End of Flashback*

Music background play: Knife

Punch: The other me.........Peter.........*Starts to break down and cry for losing them even Punch knows the result if she destroyed the fake world*

*Flashback*

Source: Levi told Punch about him and life in the underground with Isabel and Farlan. And told Punch how this world is cruel and in the end, he ends up alone. Levi knew how powerful Punch was and her life was very similar to his.(In Tsubasa of Phantasia, Isabel and Farlan are still alive thanks to Punch's group saving them) Levi will tell Punch everything what Kenny taught him and to not regret it like Levi did.

.

Peter: You're going to live forever, right? Even after you've destroyed this timeline away?

Punch: That's right....

Peter: Then I'm not saying goodbye, either, because no matter what my heart will always be with yours, Punch.

Punch: Are you sure that you will always be with me? You're going to forget anyway.....

Peter: I won't. If the chain of memories comes apart, the link will still be there, right?

Punch: Maybe you're right.

Peter: I'll always love you.

Punch: And I'll always love you too, Peter.

*End of Flashback*

Punch starts to scream and cry and lets out all her emotions as a human. Sonic also start into deep sadness.

Punch: We won't forget them as long as we exist....right, Sonic?

Sonic: ........Um.....

Punch: I've been thinking lately. No matter how human my heart becomes, I am still non-human, a freak to all lives. Because of that....that makes us alone no matter how much we succeed.....we lose everything.......we will end up alone like this in the darkness....

Sonic: But even so.....

Punch: I won't forget everyone that I lost even their memories.

*Flashback*

Colette(Fake): Say....we will always be together right?, even if one day we fell apart?

Cerberus(Fake): What's up with that it's hilarious!

Viridi: Hey! Don't laugh! It's not funny!

Lloyd(Fake): Man...I'm really sick of looking at silly of Edward's face!

Isabel: You tell'em!

Levi: Hey......you want to die?

Envy: I'm ready for this!

Yue(Fake): That's not what stupid Lloyd means.

Yuri(Fake): Even so Lloyd is right.

*Everyone is laughing*

Vanellope: I'm just saying it looks that way, sheesh!

Shadow(Fake): Alright...who's ready for drinks then?

Bibble & Tinkerbell(Fake) & Terence(Fake): ME!!

L: Say mother(Punch)......now my meaning of life is to protect my friends here and now. Because I want to be together with everyone!

Historia: Me too....L.

C.C.(Fake): I think everyone too.

Peter: Just like me.

PUNCH: WE'LL ALWAYS BE TOGETHER!!

Everyone: Punch!!

*Everyone starts laughing with Punch*

*End of Flashback*

.

PUNCH: Everyone... I realize now that I have friends as well. You don't have to save the world to find meaning in life... Sometimes, all you need is something simple, like someone to take care of. I'll keep on living no matter what so that I can protect you...

Cut to a scene where Gilgamesh lost Enkidu

*Crack Snap* The sound of thunder

But, is that so surprising? The fact that all life ends one day has nothing to do with Kujaku. Death is a natural occurrence in the cycle of life. Don't all humans and all lives realize this?

That's right....

Gilgamesh: (Someone that dearest the most....? That's right......Punch and Peter....! I can't give up now because of this nonsense death! I need to keep moving!)

to be continued.........