#i like eruri for the fact that Erwin and Levi have a balanced relationship and they both hold an equal amount of power

[project-zorthania]

Let’s move on to The Look™ on Levi’s face in ch 137

I’ve seen a few different takes and talked to friends here and there about what that face means and how Levi might carry on from here on out, but until we see it in motion animated or have some sort of acknowledgment about it in conversation from the next chapter, it’s really all up to interpretation at this point.

Was it shock? Disbelief maybe? Did he feel as relieved and accomplished as he thought he would, or is he despairing as he realizes his final tangible link to Erwin has finally been severed? Isayama called him something akin to a floating balloon of sorts, having lost his sense of direction after Erwin’s death. Is this the moment he feels Erwin letting go of the ribbon that grounded him for so long, or is he realizing that Kenny hit a little closer to home than he thought? That he is in fact a ‘slave’ to being a hero and still feels the need to see the worth in all those sacrifices, that it never stopped at just fulfilling his vow? One could argue that not having killed Eren when he went rogue was another order that Levi bungled- is he moving to see that fulfilled?

I think at the very least it’s clear to everyone that Levi was not expecting to have had another opportunity at killing Zeke, but it came to him on a silver platter this time and you can see the raw desperation on his face when he realizes he has the chance to fulfill the very promise that’s been haunting him for the past 4 years.

So what now, especially with how the rumbling has stopped? I know there’s still debate as to whether Eren survived the blast, but let’s assume he died and the last two chapters are leading up to an epilogue or aftermath of what they’ve all managed to miraculously stop.

In the calm, Levi gives out and dies of his battle wounds paralleling his uncle’s passing?

Levi survives and lives his remaining days a handicapped retired vet and dies quietly and alone of old age?

Levi loses all purpose to live having completed his goal and commits suicide?

I’ve crossed that last one out because that’s exactly what I wanted to ramble about here, and I know a lot of people would disagree with me when I say this but Levi is the last person I ever imagine committing suicide.

( @elivra-fanfiction​ and I have talked about this quite a few times and I think we’ve come to terms with the fact that we’ll just have to agree to disagree pffahahah)

I know this is a particularly sensitive topic so if I say anything in my rambles that rubs anyone the wrong way, please feel free to come into my dm’s and have a chat with me. I promise I don’t bite and I’m always willing to learn <3

There are only a handful of people I can imagine taking their own life given what circumstances were thrown at them. Reiner of course goes without saying, perhaps Armin, Erwin I could imagine if he didn’t have the support and warmth of his loved ones as well, but Levi?

There is ample evidence throughout the entire story that depicts that Levi cherishes life, that it as something precious to him. A man who carves the Wings of Freedom from the coats of his fallen soldiers and stores them in memoriam, a man who gives comfort and absolves his comrades in their dying breaths by telling them their efforts were worth something, a man who managed to somehow balance the needs of humanity against his deepest desires to kill that which was responsible for robbing him of his other half, a man who first and foremost prioritizes survival above all else and demands as much from those who would follow him into battle.

How cruel that he who has such a love for life despite everything that was thrown at him would witness everything that he ever touched perish before him. That is his curse, to outlive that which he loves, and he has done it again and again and again.

Levi is strong, he is humanities strongest because he is weighed down by loss and anguish and continues to survive despite it all. He honors the dead vicariously just by breathing, by living the life they were stripped of. He is an archive of their memories, of their spirit, and he very desperately wanted to see all those sacrifices be worth something.

It would feel very out of character for him to take his own life when so many others that he begged to give meaning to were stripped of theirs against their will.

I don’t expect Levi to pack up and travel the world and do the things that the fallen didn’t have the opportunity to, to live whatever remaining days he has left alive to the fullest now that his vow has been fulfilled. I know... he is tired beyond measure, has at last fulfilled his main purpose and the passing years have been harsh on him. Like most eruris I desperately want to see him at peace and reunited with his loved ones, but not by his own hands.

I was hoping that Levi would’ve died in battle as a sacrifice of sorts, not unlike Hange, but with the way this last chapter wrapped up, there seems to still be a chance that he’ll pass away very much like Kenny did. If that happens, I’ll have to write a letter to personally thank Isayama for the rollercoaster of emotions and possibly the gayest relationship to have ever graced this planet.

[fallenrazziel]

EruRi Analysis, by fallenRaziel ~ Part Four

This is the English translation of a very long analysis in 5 parts I made about EruRi in French. I apologize in advance if some terms are not very clear or identical to those of the English language, because I translate quite academically. Do not hesitate to take me back or ask me if it is not very clear ^^ Articles are meant to be read separately, so there will be analyzes that will sometimes be repeated or viewed from different angles.

4. A HIERARCHISED AND BALANCED RELATIONSHIP : Two complementary personalities

Erwin and Levi work in pairs, so much so that one rarely sees them without the other if nothing prevents them. Before attacking the details of the manga, one must address an important element of the structure of the Survey Corps : the official and unofficial hierarchies.

In Outside (p.46), we are given an overview of the SC's hierarchical structure. It includes the familiar ranks and statuses we know through the manga : squad leaders, team leaders, simple soldiers, all under the command of a major (danchou, in Japanese, commander in English). And what we end up noticing without thinking at the beginning is that ... the rank of Levi is not mentioned ! We all know he is the leader of the tactical operation squad (ie the SC elite), but when all the others (Mike and Hange) are called "squad leaders", Levi himself is entitled to ca poral-chef (heichou, in Japanese, captain or lance corporal in English). This does not seem to indicate anything in the SC's organization chart because it is not supposed to see any rank between squad leader and commander.

This seemingly insignificant detail has everything to do with EruRi. When Levi meets Erwin, he is a squad leader, and Shadis the 12th commander. When the first squad of Levi dies (that of Flagon), it seems obvious that in view of his extraordinary abilities, he had to join the squad of Erwin, considered the most successful (that's what they say Shiganshina residents in Shadis flashback). When Erwin also rose in rank, one can also perfectly deduce that it was the same for the men of his squad : Mike became in turn chief and Levi also. It is therefore concluded that it was Erwin who gave Levi that rank of lance corporal, nonexistent until then, and which seems to have only an honorary function. One could wonder why.

First possibility : to signify that he is such an exceptional soldier that his like has never been seen before. This title would then be a kind of honorific distinction comparable to Humanity's Strongest. By his rank, Levi seems at once integrated but also outside the SC, as if what was so much beyond the understanding that we can not really classify it like the others. But there is another, and much more likely, possibility that relates to the unofficial hierarchy of the SC.

When Erwin announces to Levi that it is Hange to take over if he dies, we can be surprised. Because until now, the almost permanent presence of Levi at his side could suggest that he was his direct subordinate. But this is not the case, at least in the official hierarchy. The right of seniority seems to be in order. In Birth of Levi, we realize that Hange is already a member of the SC before Levi integrates him. So she is older, regardless of her age and ability, so it is officially her that the grade returns after Erwin. If Mike had lived, maybe it would have happened before Hange, but in the current situation, she was therefore her successor.

However, the unofficial hierarchy says something else. It is Levi who is the confidant and the right arm of Erwin (this is even known to the pundits of the capital) ; when the veterans of the SC are asked to report to Mitras, it is Levi who accompanies Erwin through Stohess in the same carriage, not Hange nor Mike. In the interviews of the characters, the journalist considers Erwin and Levi as "the two most important people of the SC", those who give hope to the people. How to explain that everyone considers Levi as the direct subordinate of Erwin if the official hierarchy says the opposite ?

The unique rank of Levi is not for nothing. By this title which belongs to him, Levi thus indicates his proximity with Erwin. His rank is between of the Commander and of the squad leaders. This means that he is not for Erwin only a squad leader, but a kind of hyphen between him and the soldiers. In addition, the title Heichou almost ends up being part of the surname of Levi (who has no last name known), so that everyone calls him Lance Corporal Levi (Levi Heichou in Japanese). As if Erwin had wanted to give Levi a clearer and more precise identity. Heichou and Danchou are inseparable in the minds of others.

If, in the official hierarchy, it is Hange who became the direct subordinate of Erwin, all those who know the unofficial hierarchy of the SC know that it is Levi who has more the ear and the confidence of Erwin Smith . Mike may have had this privileged place before Levi's integration (we see that Erwin and he are very close, maybe childhood friends), but later, even Mike alive, Levi will indeed take this place. If Shadis looked like a alone commander, Erwin prefers to surround himself. However, Erwin had to keep Shadis in the same role Levi holds after him. Ackerbond less.

Now that these details have been addressed, let's look at their hierarchical interactions in the manga.

Levi always obeys Erwin's orders ; and only Erwin’s, according to Levi's own words. However, he is not servile. He sometimes questions Erwin's orders before executing them. Because Levi is not stupid and wants to know why he does things, especially if the goal is not obvious. So, when Erwin orders their fallback to Trost, he needs to explain to Levi that there was an attack before it was executed. Erwin does not insult the intelligence of Levi by giving him orders without sense.

When Eren is surprised that Levi is so obedient - he thought he was more rebellious - he does not have all the data in the equation. Levi does not obey everyone but only Erwin. So if Erwin decides to comply with Zackley's orders, Levi will do it too, quite logically. But if Zackley allowed himself to give him a direct order, not sure that Levi would execute it. He only recognizes Erwin's authority.

Similarly, if Erwin had not ordered Levi to take Eren in charge (Hiroshi Kamiya's interview), he would never have done it himself (yes, in fact, ereri owes everything to EruRi! ). If Erwin had not considered that Eren's existence was an indispensable element to the victory of humanity - and also to achieve his personal goal - Eren would have been handed over to the special brigades and end of story. And that would not have prevented Levi from sleeping. His reversal, while seemingly reluctant to execute this order, is of the same type as his need to explain Erwin's orders : Levi needed to confront the problem - namely Eren - to make a decision in full knowledge of cause. He has no doubt judged that Eren's strength of will would be a big problem if he were to turn into a titan and attack humanity, and Levi being what he is - the hero's complex, and all in fact, he is the only one who can stop him if it goes wrong - he took that responsibility. But he probably would have done it anyway, Eren being the key to Erwin's plan, that Levi always does everything to realize.

When capturing the female titan, Levi is one of those who learned about the plan. He does not tell his soldiers because he knows why Erwin does not want it. He follows the plan of the commander to the end, while leaving Eren room for maneuver that does not encroach on the initial plan - if Eren had transformed and defeated the female titan, she could just as easily have been captured. When Erwin suspects that the host of the female titan has escaped, he orders Levi to refuel. Once again, Levi discusses the order because he does not see the point. But Erwin sees it, and Levi knows that Erwin sees things much better than him. That's why he runs, even without explanation on his part. Their partnership adapts to emergencies. When Levi feels the look of Erwin (review the article on communication by the look), it no longer asks. Which allowed him to survive this confrontation. If Levi had joined his squad without refueling, he would have found himself defenseless against the female titan and would be dead, just like them.

After the smash, the officers are summoned to the capital to explain themselves. It is Levi who leaves with Erwin, without that raising a debate, sign that it is in fact quite normal that it is him who accompanies it. To make a little digression on the "Boyfriend Jacket" - it seems obvious to me that this jacket is Erwin's - Levi most probably hides a gun inside. Indeed, a jacket at its size would not have allowed him to hide this weapon effectively. If he is so armed it is because he is in civilian clothes and Levi being Levi, to walk without a weapon is unthinkable. Moreover, it is very probable that when Nile stops the convoy and threatens Erwin with his rifle, Levi is himself holding him with his gun. His position - slightly in the back and pulling on his jacket as if to conceal something - allows him to fire on Nile, as he would have done on Nick. This is only an assumption on my part, but it is very plausible, since Levi is walking with this gun later. Clearly, he would have shot Nile if he had shot Erwin - or shot before to stop him, his reflexes being dazzling. Erwin is his superior and his life is placed above all others for him.

I will pass on the fact that Levi rushes to separate Eren and Annie, because not only does it go against his dismissal, ordered by Erwin, and Levi would never have done that, but in addition this action does not does not exist in the manga. If it was not necessary in the manga, it is not necessary in the anime, and Levo would never have disobeyed Erwin for something futile. I see more here a willingness of the animators to keep the fans of Levi - who must probably have judged that we had not seen enough - in front of their screen.

During Erwin's recovery, Levi takes care of the administrative chores so that the commander can feel calm on waking up and recovering at his own pace (Levi's interview). Again, even if the official hierarchy places it behind Hanji, the unofficial is more important.

When Erwin wakes up and learns that the titans are actually humans, Levi is shocked. And it is also Erwin's smile, because he thinks that it has the exact opposite meaning of his expression. Levi must imagine that Erwin is happy that humans are titans, which is not the case, he is glad that his father was right (which is not the same thing). What must be understood here is that Levi never questions the acts he committed under Erwin's orders. Whatever the real purpose - to save mankind or to allow Erwin to achieve his goal, which, let us remember, is the same thing - Levi knows that what he did must be done. Erwin is not responsible for this truth about titans. Levi just blames him for not sharing this theory with them. Be that as it may, it is very doubtful to imagine that this knowledge deterred Levi from fighting. Levi does not say that he fought wrong, that the titans killed should not be ; he just regrets that Erwin was not quite frank with him - which is not a lack of trust but a way to protect them and retain their esteem (Erwin does not have such a high esteem for himself).

Despite this new awareness, Levi continues to follow Erwin and obey his orders. Even if his confidence is not quite intact, it remains sufficient to lead him to make the coup, which says a lot despite everything. Levi understands that Erwin's goal, even more personal, is to the benefit of all, so he does not change his course of action.

The Ackerbond dynamic necessarily includes a hierarchical order from top to bottom (as well as Kenny and Uri). So it's Levi who obeys Erwin and not the other way around. From this perspective, it is not surprising that Erwin sulks the advice of Levi : as a commander, he is perfectly entitled to ignore it - even if, as you know, this whole conversation several levels of reading. Levi has placed himself in this dynamic by agreeing to follow Erwin, whom he recognizes as superior to him (Answers, p. 169). It would be easy to speak of domination or voluntary servitude. But as I said, Levi had the choice. And Erwin, on his side, does not treat Levi as a slave. If he gives him many orders - which is normal, Levi is his best "weapon" - he has with him a relationship of equals (insinuated by Isayama). Concerning the guard of Eren, one can imagine that Erwin first asked Levi for his opinion instead of imposing it on him. Otherwise, Levi would not have finally made his decision in the dungeon but would have accepted without discussion. In the same way for the guard of the serum, Erwin asks Levi if he wants to take care of it, he does not order it, which Levi is astonished. Because as with Eren's guard, it's a decision that can have a really big impact on the whole SC. So, if Erwin orders most of the time, he also sometimes asks.

Levi recognizes Erwin's intellectual superiority over his own, and says without any problem that he prefers to leave everything to him about strategy. He, his job, is the fight. We are dealing here with an archetypal duo, even in their physical appearance! Duets in fiction are not lacking, and are always complementary, even when they are antagonistic. The taller is judged as the most stupid and the one who gives the blows ; the smaller as the most intelligent and cunning. These duets alone form a full-fledged character most often, to the point that even their names are usually contiguous. Concerning the Erwin / Levi duo, the stereotypes about force / intelligence are present, but are reversed according to appearances: here, it is the smaller who is the strongest and the taller who is the most intelligent. This does not mean that Erwin is weak and Levi stupid, but these features stand out despite everything. This inversion of the expected stereotypes only gives more flavor and originality to their duo, which prevents them from falling into the cliché.

After summarizing their differences, I will speak of their greatest common point : the meaning of sacrifice. Erwin and Levi are both aware that the world is hell, that if we want to change things, it is necessary that lives be sacrificed. The two men sacrificed many things to the SC, Erwin probably more than Levi.

Levi has already expressed the fact that Erwin is able to make sacrifices, with a view to a noble goal, make his pride to follow him. Levi regrets useless sacrifices, but if they are made with a view to a grand design, he understands its meaning and necessity. Levi hates useless deaths - whether they are others or himself - but he is not a choirboy. He grew up in a very harsh environment that made him leave part of his humanity very early. When he claims to have no fear of being a "nasty executioner" if it can protect innocents of the titans, he confirms his full conscience to leave behind what makes him a human for a more noble purpose. It is a sacrifice similar to that of Erwin, who agrees to turn into a demon to do his job properly, with the least state of mind possible, which is the characteristic of a warlord. In this sense, they understand each other perfectly.

If Levi did not make a huge sacrifice in abandoning his life before - not very satisfactory and unworthy for him - his entry into the SC required another type of sacrifice : the death of Isabel and Farlan, who symbolically represented "his former him". This ritual sacrifice seemed almost necessary for the "new" Levi, destroyed and then revived by Erwin, to become fully the one he was destined to be. Subsequently, Levi will continue to lose comrades. Like Erwin, Levi has a fatalistic way of seeing things. Those who engage in the SC do not do it imagining living happy and long. Losing people is inevitable. But because of his complex hero, Levi always tries to go against this fatality and to do everything to save as many people as possible (and we can say that it does not happen often). Levi is therefore fatalistic, he has no illusion, but still seeks to influence the course of things at his level. But the very meaning of sacrifice has no secrets for him. He shares it with Erwin, and it is probably for that reason that he will resolve to let him die.

Erwin sacrificed much more. Those who do not like Erwin (or even hate him) tend to forget about that. His life, in every sense of the word : his emotional life, his life as a human and his whole life. His possible emotional life, symbolized by the enigmatic character of Mary, to which he gave up to devote himself solely to the SC. Not wanting to make Mary a widow, he will leave her to his friend Nile. Nile represents for Erwin the life he refused in the name of his ideals. His humanity, then, because to assume his load, a certain amount of detachment is necessary. A soldier does not engage in the military so that his superior tells him a story before tucking him into bed. Erwin does not lie and announces the thing. This ability of detachment coupled with the sense of sacrifice - of others, but also of oneself - has been verbalized by Armin who shares the same mentality. Only those who are capable of sacrificing for a higher purpose are changing things. This is also Levi's point of view about Erwin ; he follows him because he is a visionary who is not cold in the eyes. And as it is the same, their partnership has imposed itself.

Levi and Erwin also share this awareness that a useful death is a good death, even if it hurts. Because it is not because we are aware of the merit of the sacrifice that we necessarily enjoy it. Levi obviously suffers from the death of his subordonates (his expressions after the discovery of the bodies of the members of his squad attest to it), but he is able to survive there. Erwin did his best to limit the deads on the expedition, and ensured that the revolution went off without casualties - which will be thwarted by the intervention of Kenny and Rhodes Reiss. If that does not suffice, it remains to be seen that his growing sense of guilt at the end of his life has psychologically destroyed him. Erwin cared for the lives of his men far more than he let appear.

But in spite of everything, life must continue and their duty must be fulfilled. Sacrifice is also for themselves. The sense of sacrifice of others is maintained by those who survive. Neither Erwin nor Levi would run away from death. Erwin knows that he will pay his debt of blood to his fallen soldiers only on the day of his own death. It is something of which he has an acute conscience. And Levi would follow Erwin to hell without any regret ; it is enough for his death to make sense, and he will die satisfied. They are both reluctant heroes.

So I choose the guy whom I want to put my faith in. Erwin is like that, too. No one knows what he is really thinking deep down. But I trust his judgement. He may be inviting the worst outcome, but he’s not afraid of that, he is able to choose something. That’s the kind of guy he is. That’s why I chose to follow him. And I chose to fight. In order to fight against this shit world, with this hand I’ll grab hold of the freedom of going beyond the walls for the first time. I have chosen for myself. Even if I am led into hell, I have no regrets. Not one bit.

Levi's Monologue

[sugardaddyerwinsmith]

Color Me Romanced

Erwin and Levi put a lot of effort into getting each other thoughtful gifts to exchange during the lovers' holiday. (There's just one small foreplay smut scene so I rated mature instead of explicit.)

This fic is for Maeve @ackermom for the 2017 eruri valentine exchange. Your prompt was simply canonverse so I tried to do some world building and explore casual lifestyle within the walls. Thanks to Ashy and Melli for organizing the secret valentine exchange!

Sorry for the late post, this is my first fic and I was really nervous so I kept rewriting to make it as good as I could. I hope you enjoy my first fic <3

EDIT: now on AO3!

There he is again, Levi thought, frowning. Like many times before, the captain had left Erwin late at night after helping him cut down his precariously balanced stack of paperwork and returned in the morning hours later, unsurprised to discover his commander asleep at his desk, drooling on something official-looking.

Levi sighed at the sight, and moved forward to set down the tray carrying their morning rations, two mugs, a bowl of warm water, and his small kettle. The sound of Levi shuffling papers to make space for their breakfast caused Erwin to stir. Bleary-eyed, the commander let out a yawn, raising his head and stretching his arms out. He caught Levi looking at him with an eyebrow raised as he ran a hand across his tired face; he heard a distinct crinkling as his palm connected with the folded paper stuck to his cheek.

Levi focused intently on setting out their dishes, giving Erwin a moment to collect his dignity. Unfortunately for the commander, his saliva had mixed with the ink overnight and when Levi lifted his head he saw the thin black smudge at the edge of his lip. Levi could not help a small smile at the sight, which caused Erwin to frown, ink pulling down the corner of his mouth into a lopsided pout.

Levi rolled his eyes, with fondness, and pulled out his handkerchief, dipping it in the steaming water and moving around the desk to wipe at Erwin’s mouth. Erwin looked up at his lover, lips turning up, and Levi carefully rubbed his face. As Levi pulled his hand back to check his work, Erwin gently kept it in place, turning Levi’s wrist so he could place a soft kiss there. Levi flushed slightly at Erwin’s silent thanks, waiting a moment before pulling his hand away. “That's better,” Levi grumbled, “Can’t have our upstanding commander looking like such a shitty idiot.”

Erwin smiled while Levi pulled up a chair, pushing Erwin’s mug of coffee toward him as he poured himself a cup of black tea. Erwin lifted his mug of swirling brown and white, savoring the sweet in the bitterness. As the caffeine slowly cleared the morning fog from Erwin’s brain, they began breakfasting in comfortable silence.

Between bites of dense bread with plum preserves, Erwin contemplated his plans for the near future. Yesterday, about a third of the corps took off for their scheduled leave. Soldiers are allowed up to six weeks of leave per year in order to visit home or just have a relaxing vacation. Most of the survey corps take leave during the winter months because expeditions are rare in the freezing weather. This week is especially popular for the younger soldiers because of the lovers’ holiday. Lovers show their affection by exchanging gifts with romantic sentiment.

Erwin looked toward his companion, who had finished his meal and was now leisurely sipping at his tea. Erwin watched Levi critically survey the office, probably looking for something to clean for when he finishes breakfast. Their professional relationship had been much more intimate for a couple of years now, ever since they first kissed about six months after Levi joined the military. Erwin’s mind began to wander toward what happened after their kiss… But it was too early in the morning for that so he firmly thrust it from his mind.

Instead, Erwin thought about what he was going to give Levi for the lovers’ holiday. For Levi’s birthday several weeks previously, Erwin had presented him with some expensive tea from Mitras. Though Levi wasn’t usually one for materialistic displays of affection, he had enthusiastically showed his gratitude later that evening… Once again, Erwin had to reinforce his mental self control and keep his mind from wandering.

While Erwin was lost in thought, Levi had finished his tea and began cleaning up. He enjoyed seeing Erwin like this in the morning, relaxed and tranquil. He still looked a bit disheveled from sleeping at his desk, but Levi liked that Erwin is comfortable enough with him to let himself be mussed up. In fact, Levi wanted to run his hands through Erwin’s hair himself and pull… But that would have to wait, he needed to do something first.

“Oi, Erwin.” As the commander’s blue gaze met Levi’s, Erwin smiled at him to show he was paying attention. Trying not to be distracted by the warmth in Erwin’s eyes, Levi continued, “I need to go to Sina for a couple days. I have a meeting. I plan on leaving after breakfast.” Levi knew Erwin would be disappointed, but he only frowned for a moment before schooling his features. Levi could not help himself from teasing, “Are you sure you’ll be fine without me for a night or two?” Erwin looked down and reached for Levi’s hand, holding it gently as he spoke. “I suppose I will be, but I cannot say that I won’t miss you.” Levi felt himself grow hot as Erwin looked back into his eyes, full of emotion. After being together for so long, he was still not used to how damn charming Erwin can be.

Unsure what to say, Levi cleared his throat and nodded curtly, standing to begin gathering up their dishes. Erwin rose too, looking fondly at Levi as he helped clean up their shared space. When everything was back on the tray, Levi lifted it and began heading to the door. “I look forward to your return, Captain,” Erwin called out. Levi nodded at Erwin again before heading out.

Erwin’s gaze lingered on the space where Levi disappeared, his heart feeling a bit heavier.

* * * * *

A few hours later Erwin finally finished his pile of paperwork from the night before. He rolled his neck and heard a few cracks. He stood to go to the window and heard a few more. Sighing, he decided he should go exercise while it’s still light out. Levi would say he’s becoming a frail old man. Erwin smiled at the thought as he put on his gear.

Grabbing his cloak on the way out, Erwin headed to the training area. There was a brisk chill in the air and Erwin made sure to secure his green winter cloak around his neck. He decided to do a short but fast paced routine to get his blood pumping and stave off the cold. Firing his cables toward a line of nearby pines, he was soon flying through the air.

Erwin decided to practice controlled falling. He has never been a fan of heights but he forces himself to practice falling in order to keep himself for giving into his fear. What sort of commander can honorably lead his troops while fearing for his own life, Erwin thought to himself. Once he was deep enough in the small forest, Erwin paused high up on a thick tree branch to survey his surroundings. Because of the cold and the holiday, he did not see or hear anyone training near him. Unsheathing his blades, he picked out a spot for training and launched himself toward a distant tree. About halfway to his destination, he released his cables and began free falling, trying to remain in control of his descent. After falling several meters, he fired his cables again and connected to another thick branch, working on maintaining his balance as he’s pulled up.

Erwin continued his practice for about twenty minutes, falling and rising as the sunk began to sink in the background. Erwin took note of the setting sun and decided to make this next fall his last. Choosing a particularly large branch as his target, he fired away and was focusing intently on his target when he noticed a deep blue spec in the corner of his eye. Instead of falling, Erwin redirected his cables toward the nearest tree and quickly descended, landing a bit too heavily on the lightly snow-covered ground. He skidded a few feet to the base of the tree that caught his eye.

There was a large whirl in the bark in which small plants were growing. Erwin kneeled down and reached out to touch the small blue petals of a cornflower. There were a few dozen growing between the cracks in the pine bark. Although cornflowers are technically weeds, he was surprised to find so many alive during winter. Maybe spring was coming sooner than he thought.

Erwin gently picked enough cornflowers for a small bouquet and hurried back to the base, cradling the flowers carefully in his hands.

* * * * *

The following morning, Levi woke early to the sound of the innkeeper’s rooster. He had spent the night in a small room at a cheap inn and although it wasn’t too terribly dirty, he didn’t want to spend another night here if he could avoid it. He wanted to complete his business and get back to base. After a hearty breakfast stew to restore his energy, Levi visited the stables next to the inn and checked in on his horse. The mare seemed comfortable in her warm stable, chewing lazily on some hay. He spent a quarter hour brushing her down and fed her an apple when he was done. Patting her nose, Levi left the stables and began a leisurely stroll through the town.

Yarckel was a small district in West Sina, where Mitras has most of its fine goods imported from. There was a small lake just outside the district in Wall Rose, where artisans got their fine sand to create impressive glassworks for the wealthy to purchase. Levi had ridden several hours the day before to get to Yarckel before the end of the business day. After finding an inn and housing his horse, he was able to meet the master glassblower he had travelled to find and was the master’s last customer of the day. Levi explained what he wanted and the glassblower had been very accommodating, even giving Levi a small discount as thanks for his service. Levi was glad to find someone who appreciated the goal of the survey corps and noted to tell Erwin about him when he returned.

It had been about half a day since Levi commissioned the artist and he was eager to see the finished product. He had been told to return in the morning to pick it up. Levi took his time walking through town, knowing he had plenty of hours of daylight left for the return trip. He had heard of the fine works made in Yarckel while he was in the Underground and had fantasized about stealing them from the rich aboveground and selling it back at a much higher rate. Kenny gave him a bedtime story once about a finely crafted pine walking staff that he managed to nab from a rich citizen. Kenny had boasted about ransoming back the family heirloom at a ridiculous price, although his plan was ultimately foiled when some soldiers noticed their shady exchange. Kenny had only managed to grab a fraction of the money before fleeing and young Levi had still been very impressed at his uncle’s daring. Levi smiled, thinking about it now.

During his reminiscing, Levi found himself on the street he was looking for. He looked through the shop window to make sure the master was in, then let himself through the door, nodding hello. The glassblower greeted him happily, ushering him to his back room where he kept his commissioned pieces. After a moment of searching, he offered Levi his glass piece. The artist chatted at him about the process while Levi inspected it. The spun glass was a delicate shade of swirling rose, with small, smooth knobs decorating the outer part. It was about a half a foot tall and as Levi admired it, the shopkeeper went to find him appropriate packaging for his fragile piece. After it was securely padded and contained, Levi paid for his purchase. He gave the glassblower a short but genuine compliment on the quality craftsmanship then headed out with a polite wave, walking back to his inn faster than he had away from it.

Levi was excited now that he had his present and he was eager to see Erwin’s reaction. He gathered some traveling rations from the innkeeper and saddled up his horse, happy to know that he would be able to spend more of the holiday with his lover.

* * * * *

Erwin didn’t know when Levi would return, so he decided to to get all of his work done early with the hope that Levi would be back that evening. The night previously, he had tried to take care of his bundle of cornflowers as soon as he got back to the base. In lieu of a vase and with no experience in plant care, he placed the flowers in a tall mug of water and set it by his window. In the morning, he had switched out the water and adjusted the mug so it got some sunlight. He hoped the treatment would help liven up the flowers but by the time he finished his paperwork and exercise for the day he couldn’t see any difference. The flowers weren’t wilting yet but the petals were smaller than normal, probably because they grew in the cold. Erwin was thankful that at least he hadn’t damaged them further.

A few hours before sunset, Erwin began preparations for his gift making. He laid out a towel over his desk and gently placed the small flowers on it. He left them there to dry, heading to the dining hall for an early dinner. He grabbed an extra large portion since he planned on being locked up in his rooms for the rest of the night. In his excitement, he took too large a bite of meat and ended up choking a bit. Luckily the only people nearby were a few cooks and they were too busy preparing dinner to notice his lack of composure. Erwin forced himself to eat slower to avoid any more embarrassment.

Back in his office after dinner, Erwin was tidying up so Levi would be pleased when he came back. Once he finished up organizing his papers, Erwin contemplated how best to transport the delicate flowers from his desk to his living quarters. He didn’t want to expose them any more to the elements, especially with the chilly wind blowing outside, so he decided to roll them up gently in the towel and carry the bundle to his rooms. After mentally preparing himself to step out into the cold, Erwin rushed across the base to the living quarters. As he passed the barracks, through the window he saw a group of new recruits bonding with some older fighters with a few expeditions under their belts. They were sitting by the communal fire, drinking together and playing cards. He was pleased to see his soldiers bonding since they couldn’t go home for for the holiday. The commander considered stopping in for a moment, but he didn’t want to ruin the warm atmosphere. Besides, he had a gift to make. Erwin smiled, thinking about Levi’s reaction to his present, and continued on to the next building.

Soon he arrived at his personal rooms, setting his package down carefully before shedding his winter cloak. Erwin quickly set about making a fire and within minutes the room had warmed up enough that he felt comfortable without his boots and jacket. He continued undressing, unbuckling his straps and loosening his bolo tie, before setting down to work on his project. He laid out all the cornflowers gently at a small table next to a pile of long grasses that he had collected and cleaned earlier in the morning. As soon as his fingers had warmed up enough, he began working on his project.

Over two decades previously, when Erwin was a young boy, his father had taught him how to weave a ring of flowers out of the local plants that grew around their home village. In the beginning of spring, Mr. Smith would take his son on a long, meandering walk in search of their favorite flowers and grasses.They would start immediately after breakfast and walk southward to where many wildflowers grew. The flowers they picked would vary from year to year but they always made sure to grab plenty of blooming cornflowers because they reminded Mr. Smith of his wife’s eyes. He said once that Erwin’s eyes were like his mother’s, the color brought out by the deep cornflower blue.

Their walk would end around midday when they reached the town’s graveyard, which was really just a flat plain scattered with dozens of carved rocks of various weathering. Mrs. Smith’s grave was toward the eastern side of the plot; her husband chose to bury her there because she loved to watch the sunrise. After presenting their freshly picked plants, Mr. Smith and his son would share a small picnic together as they made flower rings and twists to place on her stone marker. After an hour or so, they would say their goodbyes and leave their flower creations behind, save two circlets that they wore on their heads for the journey home and the rest of the evening.

As the commander’s fingers twisted the delicate stems into place, he remembered his father’s tender smile at the graveyard, a smile he only showed when he thought of his wife. His father put all his love into remembering her and raising their son. Erwin wanted to show Levi that same devotion; he wanted to share this part of himself with the person he loves.

Erwin worked diligently on his present until the sun began to set. It was not turning out as well as he had hoped - some petals were wilting and his ring was somehow more oblong than circular. At least the color isn’t faded, he thought to himself. The blue was the symbol of his love. He noticed the natural light in his roomer growing dimmer and sighed to himself. Levi probably wouldn’t be back tonight. Erwin missed him, but he didn’t want to hope that his captain would travel in the cold. He decided to bathe and prepare for bed, not wanting to ruin the flowers more in his frustration. He left his work station and moved dejectedly to the toilet room to clean up.

Erwin felt a bit better after a quick bath and in a quarter hour he stepped out from the water, scrubbing himself dry with a worn military-issue towel, which he nearly dropped when he reentered the main room. To his surprise and delight, Levi was sitting in his chair by the fire, absentmindedly stoking the flames. Levi had arrived about ten minutes earlier after stabling his mare. He wanted to see Erwin as soon as he got back but when he realized the commander was busy he decided to settle in and get comfortable. Levi watched the shock cross Erwin’s face and the delight that followed. Levi rose from his seat as Erwin shortened the distance between them and embraced his captain tightly.

Levi allowed this for a moment, reveling in Erwin’s warmth, before clearing his throat and stepping back a bit. Erwin tried to bend down for a kiss, hair still dripping and mussed up, but Levi kindly placed a halting hand on his cheek. “I’m fucking disgusting from traveling all day. Is the bath still warm?” Erwin nodded, pouting slightly from the rejection. Levi hid his smile by kissing his commander’s palm tenderly, then started moving toward the bathroom. “Keep the towel on and bring me something clean to wear. I’ll be out shortly.”

Twenty minutes later, Levi exited the side room wearing one of Erwin’s softest uniform shirts. The hem hung around mid thigh and Erwin watched it rise tantalizingly high when Levi stretched his arms above his head, looking much more clean and relaxed. Levi smirked at his lover’s attention and walked leisurely to where Erwin was leaning against a table, dressed only in his undershirt and a pair of briefs. Levi paused a few feet away when Erwin shifted his body against the table. “What are you hiding over there?” Erwin smiled as turned his torso to reach behind him, grabbing his circlet gently and presenting it to Levi.

His expression remained unchanged as he received it with open palms, delicately probing fingers brushing against the petals. He didn’t see any unnecessary dirt, not that he expected an unclean present from Erwin, and started admiring the texture and color of the woven plants. “These are cornflowers. When I was young, my father would take me every year to lay these rings at my mother’s grave. My father chose these flowers because he said they reminded him of my mother’s eyes. I made because I want to share my love with you.” Levi’s eyes softened as Erwin slowly lifted the circlet from his palms and placed it tenderly over his head, settling coolly against his clavicle. A few small petals remained in his hand and he lifted them up to compare. The flowers are a deeper blue, but Erwin’s eyes are more beautiful. They were also full of warmth and coming closer as Erwin leaned in to finally place his lips on Levi’s. They kissed slowly and lovingly for a minute before Levi pulled away again, although Erwin was smiling this time. “I have a gift for you too. Come with me.”

Levi lead Erwin into the bedroom and went to the dresser to pull a smallish rectangular box from the travel bag he had placed there when he arrived. Levi’s hand on Erwin’s chest gently urged the commander to sit on the edge of the bed and with his other hand he placed the package in the waiting palm. Curious, Erwin began opening his gift as Levi watched from above. The commander’s thick brows were drawn down as he got his first glimpse of soft red and were then drawn up in confusion when he pulled the blown glass piece from the box. It was about six inches long and one across, curved slightly with scattered bumps warping the red swirls in the center. “It’s...pretty?” Erwin suggested. Levi snorted at his comment and righted the glass in his hand, dragging his fingers slowly up the bumpy surface. Erwin swallowed as he heard the amused voice above him. “It’s more than just decoration, commander. It has a very practical use.” Erwin felt his skin flush as he realized exactly what Levi had gifted him, watching Levi’s index finger stroke downwards slowly.

Levi raised his finger to under Erwin’s chin, lifting his head to stare into blue eyes. “Would you like a demonstration?” Instead of waiting for an answer, Levi moved in to press hard against unsuspecting lips, parting them slightly to deepen the kiss. Erwin reacted immediately, grasping the toy in his left hand and using the other to pull them closer. In response to his enthusiasm, Levi pushed Erwin back flat against the bed, climbing onto the commander and spreading his thick, bare thighs. Levi distracted Erwin with his tongue, using his right hand to pin down Erwin’s arm, sliding it down to the glass dildo and stealing it from Erwin’s hold. Levi righted himself and slid his right hand appreciatively down Erwin’s chest through the undershirt, down to feel Erwin’s already half hard length. Levi placed the dildo next to it, appreciating the contrast of rose glass against gray cotton. He moved the toy against Erwin, pushing gently so Erwin could feel the smooth bumps brushing against his briefs.“It’s not as big as yours, but I think I can still make it feel good for you.”

Levi dragged the dildo lower, pressing it along Erwin’s taint. Erwin’s arm reached out to touch Levi again and Levi’s right hand gripped the incoming wrist, twisting slightly to stop its progress. Erwin tried again and reached out with his other arm so Levi dropped the glass, swatting Erwin’s hand aside and grinding his pelvis against the commander’s ass. Keeping Erwin’s wrist pinned down and Erwin’s legs spread open, Levi growled out, “How bout you let me take care of you tonight, hmm?” Levi dug his tumbnail lightly into the skin of Erwin’s thigh. “I want to thank you for my present.”

Levi knew he wasn’t completely ready to give up the fight, but after a moment Erwin relaxed his body and stopped straining against his lover’s hands. “Good choice,” Levi purred, fisting a hand in Erwin’s undershirt and pulling him up for a rough kiss. “You won’t regret it.”

* * * * *

An hour later, the couple was cuddling together, legs tangled in a thin blanket. Erwin’s head was resting against Levi’s chest, sated and content to feel Levi’s thin fingers run gently through his hair. “You know,” Erwin spoke after a few happy minutes, “I had no idea what you were planning for this holiday. I thought you didn’t like material gifts.” Levi hummed shortly, kissing tousled blond locks before responding. “You are always so thoughtful about me. I wanted to do something special to show how much I appreciate it. And you.”

Erwin grinned, fingers brushing against some of the crumpled blue petals that had accidentally been scattered across the bed during their enthusiastic lovemaking. “I think you had the better gift, this time.” Levi laughed at that. “Mine wasn’t better, it’s just less fragile. We both put a lot of thought into it.” Erwin shifted his body to face his lover, resting his weight on one bended arm. “I was very surprised by my present. How did you come up with such an idea?” Levi stroked Erwin’s cheek and Erwin turned his head to kiss his palm. “I’ll tell you later. But I do have something to say.” Erwin straightened up and looked into Levi’s eyes to show that he was paying diligent attention. “I think we had similar ideas. You wanted to put me in blue since you’re a romantic sap, but that cornflower is your color. I chose the reddened glass because it reminds me of how flushed your cock gets when I’m teasing you. And of the blush on your face when I made you come from your ass.” As Levi expected, his words had brought a pink tinge of embarrassment to the commander’s cheeks and chest, but after a moment Erwin just laughed and leaned up for another kiss.

After pulling up the heavier blankets from where they were pushed onto the floor, the captain and his commander settled in for the night, still embracing each other as they drifted off into a blissful, much deserved sleep.