AestheticallyUncanny

For example, my main hyperfixations that have cycled in my life are: TMNT, AOT, and occasionally horror/creepastas.

I have fanfics in progress for ALL THREE, that I am extremely passionate about! And I genuinely love writing for each of them! But it's frustrating when I am so INTO a specific one for a hot minute, and then another goes "Yeah no you don't care about this one rn. Remember ME!?"

And them I get excited all over again, but it means the other two are neglected for a WHILE. And of course that means lack of interaction, or loss of interest from readers due to lack of consistency.

Believe me, I'm fully and 100% aware it's just a part of my neurodivergency, and thankfully most of my readers are genuinely so kind, and patient, and I couldn't be more grateful for the respective audiences I have from each Fandom.

"My Darling,

There is not a moment in the day where I didn't think of your presence. Of your grounding, your warmth, or the joy you bring not only to me, but to others.

I was cruel in asking you to be mine, knowing the distance and fear my livelihood can cause you. But, as I've stated before, I refuse to allow regret to hold me back. And I knew I would regret it if I never told you the extent of my feelings.

I assure you, they run far deeper than you could ever comprehend.

Your scent is in my mind. Your laughter in my blood. Your presence in my very soul and heart. One I have dedicated to humanity, so I may lay a foundation for us someday.

I can never apologize enough for ruining you. For taking your patience, your consideration, and asking it of you every day that I am away.

Do be reminded, beloved, that you too have ruined me.

No light can compare to yours. Even on the mountain of corpses I stand upon, you are the only heaven the circles of hell have granted me. My respite from daily demands. My release, my very home, lies within you.

I long to hold you in my arms again soon. To press my lips to yours, and to consume every tear you may shed. Devour every moan you grant me.

I would be so blessed to taste you once more. To exist only within each other, to satisfy my hunger until I must starve for you once again.

Until then, my darling, dream of me as I dream of you. Whisper your dreams and desires to the moon, so I may receive them beyond the walls.

*The two of you are drinking*

You: Honestly, when's the last time you got laid?

Erwin: Unfortunately, years. Courting isn't exactly one of my strong suits, it seems.

Erwin (internally): I would literally sit you upon my desk and savor your taste if you would allow me. The thoughts that repeat in my mind would never compare to the taste of your lips. I feel so shameful for wanting you, but God, I crave you. Deeply.

You: *surprising him, wearing something nice and sitting on his desk* Waited for you all day, handsome. I was growing impatient.

Erwin: *blushing, lips parted, eyes wide.* I..I'll lock the door.

Erwin (internally): I am so lucky.. I'm going to make tonight worth the wait. I'll stuff you full of me until you're dripping. I don't want you to be able to walk tomorrow.

Erwin: *kissing you for the first time* I- I don't want to be too forward, but-

You: Erwin, shut up, and take me.

Erwin (internally): THANK THE GODS, I'VE WAITED SO FUCKING LONG!

*You're under his desk*

Erwin: Ah, no teeth, hun,

You: Sorry gorgeous, here..

Erwin (internally): IloveyouIloveyou, Shit, I love you so much-

*After the act, basking in bed together.*

Erwin: You'll never understand how deeply I cherish you..

You: Don't overthink this, okay? I know you can't give much. But, I'm willing to take everything you offer. Even if I have to wait years to have you like this again..

An AOT mafia AU

The whisps of cigar smoke blew out from his mouth. Erwin sighed, tapping the ashes off and leaning his head back.

Another day, another meeting reporting crime rates, Miche's men gathering leads, and trying to come up with the money to cover up Hange's efforts, and the trail of bodies following the Ackerman family.

Rubbing his temple, he sipped from a glass, chilled whiskey soothing his woes with a burn down his throat.

The office was quiet. Save for the radio programs playing in the corner, lamplights illuminating the quiet space.

Erwin never once thought himself as the "Don" type. He wasn't organizing drive-bys or squeezing business owners for protection money. No..he never was that kind of person.

Still, the young ones couldn't keep their mouths shut, even around him. The historian chuckled as he recalled Connie's impression of a mafioso with a Tommy gun, a cigar between his teeth and a fedora on his hat.

Though to be fair, he was organizing criminals. Bringing up children to be cold-blooded killers and tacticians.

To think, this all started because he learned too much, far too young. His father was killed for trying to expose the level of corruption in Paradis, and he carried that weight on his shoulders for eternity.

"What would he say of me now?" He wondered aloud, looking up at the painted portrait on his wall.

An older gentleman with a beard and glasses, holding a younger boy in his arms. Eyes bright and still full of life.

Erwin knew his father would have adored his grandchildren. Likely called Porco a scamp, Reiner a brick wall..Falco would have been the pride and joy as the youngest. Annie would have reminded Mr. Smith of his wife, Erwin often wondered if they were related by blood. Historia was a darling. And Armin..

Oh, Armin. A prodigy just as much as him. In every single way. The boy shared his curiousity, his thirst for knowledge, and exceptional talent in finding the connection between historical events and lies told through propaganda.

Though, Armin was far more musically inclined than he was. He recalled being so proud when the boy had hesitated in asking for piano lessons.

It was good for him to have a hobby that wasn't so obsessive; he didn't want his adopted son to lose himself in all of this. Not to his degree, in the very least.

A knock came to his office door. Speak of the devil.

"Come in, son." Erwin's voice spoke in a low rasp, taking another puff of the cigar between his teeth.

The young boy poked his head through, holding a stack of books in his arms, with a tired expression.

"Apologies, father. Am I interrupting?"

Such a sweet young man. Always considerate. Erwin only shook his head, gesturing for the boy to come sit beside him.

"How was rehearsals, Armin?" He asked with a soft smile, making the boy return the expression as he sat down.

"Hitch is having us change up the chords and scales to one of the songs. I'm adaptable, but I don't have the heart to tell her we'd need an entire orchestra to play what she has in mind for the wedding." The younger blonde chuckled, watching as his father offered him a glass. He politely declined, leaning back against the sofa.

"I came to say goodnight to you before heading to bed..but..something's troubling you, father. I can see it."

Erwin shook his head, a rich laugh escaping him as he looked at his son. "Ever the observant one, Armin. But, I'm fine son. I promise, it's nothing for you to worry about."

Armin's brows knit together at this. He sighed, turning to face his father and taking off his woven cap. "Apologies, father, but considering I'm one of your many heirs, I think your stresses are my concern. I just wish you would let us help a little more."

"You and your siblings already risk yourselves enough with upkeeping appearances, and gathering information from the elite. You still have your youth. I want you to enjoy it while you can." Erwin then noticed Armin had brought out the chess set, making a proud smirk appear on his face. The audacity of this boy. It was like looking at a mirror of his younger self.

Relenting, he helped the boy set up, the two moving methodically and in sync.

When he'd adopted Armin, chess was the first game they'd played together. His first attempt at breaking the scared boy's walls down. Learning something so complex and complicated seemed to enamor him instantly.

Taking another puff from his cigar, and setting the timer, the game began.

Move after move. Play after play. Erwin could see his son's brilliance in everything he did. A game was no exception. The scan of his eyes, the way his fingers twitched against the table. It was as if the boy got an adrenaline rush at being challenged.

At the loss of his bishop Erwin raised a brow, seeing Armin interlace his fingers.

"Bad move, son."

"Was it?" Armin smiled, making his next move.

"You've left your king exposed." Erwin combated, intercepting.

Armin only chuckled, "I still have my queen."

Realizing how the board had been trapped, Erwin's eyes widened. In pursuit, he didn't protect his own. His king was taken. Armin gave a boastful smile, "Checkmate, father."

With a knowing glance, Erwin leaned back, resting his jaw against his knuckles as he sipped his drink.

"And what is it you're trying to tell me, Armin?"

Knowing he had his guardian's attention, the boy moved to clean up. Placing the pieces back into the box. "You've been..distant. The my siblings and friends are worries about you." He admitted with a soft expression, holding Erwin's king in his palm. "You've been so concerned with getting enemies out of the way, I'm worried you aren't keeping track of yourself. The last thing I want is to see you fall to an oversight. Or, for you to miss something because you haven't the time to slow down. Or to take a step back and look at the bigger picture again."

"It's not your job to worry about me, Armin. You're still young. Yes, you, your friends, and your cousins have been a great deal of help to me, and more and more of you are progressing in the family. However, I want you all to be concerned with one another. Not your guardians." Erwin spoke with a sense of duty, moving to stand and place his hand on the boy's shoulder. He put out his cigar, taking a moment to look at his charge.

"You and your siblings are my pride. My legacy. Don't fret yourself over an old man with a target on his back."

"I'm not worried about my leader. I'm worried about my father." Armin clarified, and Erwin lost his words for just a moment.

There he went again. His son, seeping his way into his cold heart. Then, Armin embraced him. Lying his head on the older man's chest, overwhelmed by those feelings he was raised with.

Unconditional love. Care. Pride. Safety. His eyes began to burn as Erwin returned the embrace, holding his son as if he were cradling him in his arms again.

"I suppose I have been missing a lot, haven't I?" Erwin whispered, the shame crawling up his spine. Armin only shook his head, his voice breaking as he spoke.

"Losing you to death would be one thing. But I don't want to lose my father to his purpose. Or his drive. I want you enjoy your family, not set a foundation you may not even live to see us inherit."

The song on the radio became a far more somber tune. Erwin rubbed his back, smiling against the young man's hair. Quiet clarinet and horn filled the room, making the young boy chuckle.

"Do you remember the first jazz show you took me and my siblings to? We were so surprised, wondering why such a rich man wanted to find entertainment in the slums."

"Because I myself grew up in poverty, Armin. I fought for everything I have, and did some things I'm certainly going to hell for. But, it was worth it. So I could have the family I dreamed of, and give young souls like yourself a second chance at life." Erwin pulled away, looking Armin in the eyes. His smile was genuine, a sight the boy was rarely given.

"And I'll continue to fight, to make this world a better place for all of you."

"I take it the wedding has been a reason for your stresses?" Armin asked bluntly, earning a sigh from his father. This boy was too damn smart, he couldn't lie to him.

The two sat on the sofa again, watching the fireplace crackle and burn.

"Don't get me wrong, I was over the moon to see our family celebrate something for once. But the attention was immense. I know it put a target on my sister's back. I've been writing to Historia every day of their honeymoon...in case that offers some reassurance."

Erwin nodded, grateful his son had thought ahead. "Their marriage hasn't been a source of stress for me. I know both girls can handle themselves. It's more the attention it brings to our family as a whole. Do I regret it? Of course not. We did something..extraordinary.."

"The first of many steps.." Armin responded in understanding, crossing his arms.

Then, he smiled, turning to look at his father again. "..Maybe we should all take a break?"

Erwin cocked a brow at this. Was this his children's way of requesting a vacation? Sending their most tactful brother to ask? The thought was adorable. Nothing had truly changed since they were tots.

"And where would you suggest, Armin?" The man dared to ask, seeing his son pull out a notebook.

And here we go, proposing it like a plan with a business transaction. Erwin couldn't help the deep chuckle that escaped him as Armin went to present his facts.

And he did. Budget acquired by Porco, spots for safety and discretion by Reiner, long stretches of road for Annie, and, plenty of sweet shops and a beach for Falco.

"And for yourself, son?" Erwin dared to ask, seeing the boy clear his throat.

"And for US, father, plenty of museums to be visited. And because I know you're a workaholic, " Armin added, pulling a letter from his pocket to hand to Erwin. "We would be going initially for this. You were formally invited to the World Historian society conference in Rome. Next month."

Erwin was amused by his son's effortless cadence. He took the letter, nodding as he realize how fluidly Armin managed to merge his work with his children's play.

"Did you keep this from me just for you to present all of this?"

"I am nothing if not without a plan, Father."

Erwin was quiet for a moment, before his trained ears picked up on the straining footsteps behind the door. So, his other children were listening this whole time? Little masterminds.

He kept the suspense, seeing Armin was starting to grow tense. Then, standing, nodding.

"Well, i can't deny a thorough plan. Why not?"

"Guys!! He said yes!!" Armin suddenly shouted in relief, startling the elder blonde.

Suddenly, Erwin's children piled in, running to tackle him to the floor. A hearty laugh escaped him as he heard their crowing 'thank you's.

"Just you wait pop, we'll be sipping limoncello and wine by the sea in no time!" Porco shouted, an eager grin on his face.

"With Gelato, and pasta!" Falco added, the small boy patting his father's chest in excitement.

"And fishing! Sitting out on a boat, watching the sunset-" Reiner piped up, before Annie flicked his head. "You can go on a boat, I'm gonna be riding my bike through the streets."

Erwin had to take in this moment. A breath. A heartbeat.

Wasn't this what he'd been fighting for? A future where his children could be excited about the world? Happy..safe..connected.

In his arms, clamored together in the house he'd built just for them.

It was a miracle. For in this moment, his dream had been fully realized.

There was so much work to be done still. But for now, he could revel in this. Be grateful they got this far.

You: *waking up, in a medical tent lying on a cott. You see Erwin sitting beside you.* Commander..?

Erwin: Thank goodness. I was worried one of our best was fallen..

Erwin (internally): Please, I'm begging you to never scare me like that again. Yes humanity needs you, but I'm terrified of how I need you far more. Forgive me, I know I'm being selfish.. but gods above, I've never been more happy to see you wake up.

You: Must you be so cold towards me? I've been nothing but kind to you, Erwin.

Erwin: Kindness grants you no favors. You're sorely mistaken. Dismissed.

Erwin (internally) : I'm sorry. I want to let you in, I want to be close to you, more than anything. I wake up every day, waiting to see you again. I pray every night for your safety, but in order to do that, I can't let you pursue me. I won't ever be the cause of your tears, I won't allow it. I'll satiate myself with having the privilege of seeing you when I can.

You: Have you ever been in love? Or had someone special to you, Erwin?

Erwin: With my dedication to my work, I've never found the time. What about yourself?

Erwin (internally): It's you. For as long as I have known you, it's been you. You haunt me. You have weaved yourself into every part of my mind, and I wouldn't have it any other way. Tell me you feel the same. Please, I'm going mad over this.

Erwin: Have you any idea how perfect you are? Do you know how insane I am over you? I forget myself every single time you're around, and it infuriates me that you think so little of yourself.

You: Erwin.. I.. I had no idea,

Erwin (internally): Shit, I said too much. ABORT. ABORT.

You: I actually think.. I think so highly of you. And I don't mean just as my leader. I'm sorry if I'm misreading or overstepping boundaries, but..I adore you, Erwin. Endlessly.

You: *Bringing him his tea, nudging the door open with your hip.* I didn't see you in the mess hall, Commander. I figured I'd bring you your lunch. You really oughta take better care of yourself.

Erwin: Ah, thank you Corporal. Deeply appreciated. I must've not kept track of time.

Erwin (internally): I can't keep doing this to keep seeing you. I feel like I'm taking advantage of your kindness, but what other reason would I have to call you in here if not for some task? I just need to see you, even for a moment..

You: Do you not wish to join us at the tavern? You could use a break, Erwin.

Erwin (internally): Say yes. This is your chance, don't blow it Smith!

Erwin: Unfortunately, I have plenty of work to do still. Drink a pint in my honor, yes?

Erwin (internally): YOU FUCKING DOLT-!

Erwin: I just don't understand, you normally don't make mistakes like this. "Oversights" are unlike you.

You: Commander, I am SO sorry, I swear to you I won't let something like this happen ever again!

Erwin (internally): Damn it, I was too hard on them. I know they can do better, but did I have to come off so intimidating? They'll likely avoid me now.

*at a ball*

You: Everything looks so beautiful here..

Erwin (internally): Alright, you can do this. You're charming, suave, how hard can it be? Ask them to dance, PLEASE.

Erwin: Yes, truly. Though a far finer sight deserves to be appreciated.. Would you like to-?

Nile Dok: Ah, Erwin, there you are.

Erwin: Köttbullar (Swedish meatballs with mashed potatoes and lingonberry jam)

Miche: Fish Cutter (Sandwich from Barbados, in a salt bread roll, with lime, herbs, and Bajan hot pepper sauce.)

Levi: Pho from Vietnam (With round eye steak, fish sauce, and Bean sprouts)

Hange: Birria tacos, with Chile relleno from Mexico (concha obsession as well, duh)

Moblit: Golabki (Polish Cabbage rolls, stuffed with meat and topped with a tomato sauce)

Nanaba: Scotch Eggs (Origin debated, I've seen they're British, Irish, or Scottish. But anyway, eggs coated in pork sausage and breadcrumbs, deep fried)

Lynne: Braised Oxtail ( A stew from Jamaica, with beans, Bonnet pepper, garlic, and ginger)

Henning: Friptura (A pork shoulder dish from Moldova)

Tomas: Tallarín Saltado (Peruvian stir-fry)

Gelgar: Bratwurst and Sauerkraut (German sausage, and fermented cabbage. Likely pairing it with a big ol pint of beer)

Oluo: Qoozi (From Bahrain, a dish made with stuffed, slow-roasted lamb)

Petra: Guinness Pie ( A meat and Guinness Pie from Ireland)

Eld: Stewed Saltfish & Coconut dumplings (From Saint Kitts & Nevis, an Island in the Carribbean)

Gunter: Shashlik (Skewered meat cooked over hot coals, from Uzbekistan)

Keiji: Kak'ik (Guatemalan-Mayan turkey soup)

Nifa: Blanquette de veau (A French stew with Veal and Cream)

Abel: käsespätzle (A cheesy noodle dish from Austria)

(An AOT Mafia AU)

"You aren't allowed to see the bride before the wedding!!" Gabi and Falco argued, pressing onto a stubborn Ymir's legs. The young woman dressed in a cream colored suit, arms crossed with a wry smile on her freckled face. She clicked her tongue, bending down at the two children.

"Hey now, that only works for a groom! I'm also a bride, remember?" She snickered, watching the two children go wide-eyed in confusion. Falco being the first to break, "She's got a point.."

Gabi shook her head profusely, still pressing on Ymir's leg, not caring that her dress was now bunching up. "No! Historia said you can't see her till she walks down the aisle! It's tradition!"

"Falco, Gabi, you can release her. I need to speak with Ymir for a moment." Erwin's voice suddenly spoke up down the hall. Gabi only nodded and grabbed Falco by the hand, the two running off to yell at everyone else to start getting seated.

Ymir took a nervous breath, adjusting her tie and standing up straight as Erwin led her away from Historia's dressing room. The sounds of giggling women erupting from inside.

"You seem nervous." Erwin smiled warmly, while Ymir could only cross her arms. She shook her head, a laugh escaping her. "Nervous? Mr. Smith, what reason would I have to be nervous? Historia and I have waited two years to finally get hitched, I'm nothing but excited! I just wanna see her already."

She confessed, though the way she was fussing with her cufflinks said otherwise. Erwin placed his hand on Ymir's back, ushering her back to her dressing room for the final touches. Where her brothers were still getting ready. "If you have any concerns, you can tell me Ymir. You are my daughter-in-law now."

He sat across the girl in a leather chair, watching as she mirrored the action. The second she did, Hitch got behind her to style her hair. Miche only watched with a chuckle.

Ymir went quiet, looking out the window at the town surrounding the church. Of course, their wedding had become public event no.1, even with security keeping everyone out. Couples from all around had come in support of the two women, the second the news printed that the marriage laws had been changed.

Seeing all those couples..crying, happy..uplifted..it was something she never thought she'd be the center of. She relaxed her shoulders, leaning her head back as Hitch tilted her jaw with a light press of her fingers.

"I just wanna make sure Historia's okay..I know she's graceful, and beautiful and handles pressure well, but I want her to know I'm feeling it too. That we're making this step together.." Ymir confessed with a sigh, earning a smile from everyone in the room. The second her hair was done in a braided updo, she sat up again, looking herself over in the mirror.

"I assure you, Ymir, you have nothing to worry about. Don't focus on the outside world, today is your day. And if I know my daughter, Historia is pacing and waiting to see you too." Erwin said over a sip of tea, before watching as Ymir stood in front of a mirror yet again. "All that matters is each other. You'll feel it the second you see her. Then, off to the shores with you both."

"With security on standby the entire time. Don't want anyone interrupting your honeymoon by trying to do something stupid." Miche added, fixing Ymir's tie. The bride only grinned, tilting her head to the side.

"Dad, you wound me. I'm the best shot out of all my siblings. Ain't nothing getting past me."

"Good. You and your wife will be safe, then." Miche smiled, watching Ymir's own grin grow with excitement.

Moments later, standing at the altar, Ymir held her head high. Her expression hardened as her siblings stood behind her. Across from them, their friends acting as bridesmaids.

The girl's heart was pounding. Looking at every member of the family who had appeared to support them. With how terrible the world treated people who were different, Ymir couldn't believe how lucky she was to have been brought up in this. To have been saved by people so loving and kind, and to have met the love of her life all at once.

The memory came back. Being brought to a large house, holding Miche's hand. Her adoptive father speaking with Erwin. Then, from around the blonde's leg, the most brilliant pair of cerulean eyes stared back at her. A vision. Ymir had known from the moment she met Historia, that she would love her and protect her till the end of time. No one would keep her from that.

That first time Historia took her hand, pulling her with her into a garden, innocent love had bloomed in that very moment. A bond that became unbreakable for years.

Their first kiss. They were 15 and 16. Ymir had heard that Erwin was contemplating an arranged marriage for a business transaction, and ran to confess the second her heart had broken.

It had been nothing short of a fairytale. Leaving her guest room, climbing up the vines to Historia's balcony. Desperation and fear encouraging her forward. The blonde had been confused when she saw Ymir there, but said nothing as the girl had confessed. On her knees, weeping and declaring her undying devotion. Begging to know the truth, if Historia had felt the same. Even if she was to be hated, she wanted to know. She couldn't move on if things were left unsaid.

Historia had knelt down on the floor, smiled, and poured her very soul into that kiss. Tears of relief shed on both sides.

Now, Ymir was breathless and in tears once again. Historia held a bouquet of red camellias, bluebells, orchids and lillies. A simple tiara atop her head, and a veil that dragged behind her so elegantly. Pearls and lace decorating her gown, presenting the bride like the most beautiful white rose in a sea of black.

Standing before her wife, Historia allowed Ymir to pull back her veil. She tried her hardest not to giggle at the gasp that left her betrothed. She took Ymir's hands into her own, whispering. "Don't cry, dummy. Then we'll both be a mess." She smiled, watching as a chuckle left the brunette's lips.

"You're so beautiful.." She whispered, the two settling down as the priest cleared his throat.

The entire ceremony was a blur to them. All they could focus on was one another. Their hearts beating in sync with anticipation, eyes locked in eternity. As if all that existed was each other.

The second the words "I do" left their lips, and they were given permission, the entire room was an uproar. Their lips met the second Ymir had Historia in her arms, the two of them smiling into the kiss.

Historia's arms wrapped around Ymir's neck, the two women a mess of tears at the beginning of their new life together.

In the audience, standing and applauding, Mikasa and Annie exchanged a glance. Respectful, and proud, they knew their efforts had been worth it. Even with the scars they earned.

"You took care of the body, right?" Annie whispered, while Mikasa only smiled. A soft, quiet smile.

"Yes. And you, the documents?"

"Burned to a crisp."

The party had soon moved down to the speakeasy. Hidden away from the rest of the world, so Ymir and Historia could celebrate in the place they called their second home.

Gambling, dancing, and music blared to the crowd's content, booze flowing freely without a care in the world.

Erwin and Miche watched with proud smiles. Their daughters dancing and embracing one another with utter devotion. A happiness that was incomparable to anything in this world.

For Ymir and Historia, the family had succeeded. The thought brought a sense of relief to Erwin.

"This is only the beginning.." He spoke softly, swirling the liquor in his glass. "Because of our children, we managed to change the law. It's the first monumental step of many."

Miche grunted in agreement, his throat enjoying the burn of his drink. "Still couldn't believe it when you told me. Mikasa and Annie working together? Of all people?"

Erwin only nodded, shaking his head. "I can certainly say I'm proud of my daughter. Annie's entire motives changed. She risked herself to see her sister be happy."

"That being said," Miche began, turning to face his brother in arms. The detective raised a brow, leaning back in his leather seat. "I know the girls are young. Younger than Marlowe. But, and I think Levi would agree with me, they completed their first real job. They showed grit. Devotion to the family."

Erwin was quiet for a moment. And yet, he nodded, a firm smile on his face. "I agree. And, so do Ymir and Historia. They wanted to surprise Annie and Mikasa. They've earned their place in the family."

After cake had been cut, and the brides had given their speeches, Historia was the first to raise her glass.

"We have to give credit where it's due. Our marriage today, could not have been possible without the efforts of our parents and loved ones. However, the ones who made this all possible risked their lives, and dedicated their hearts to the family. My darling sister Annie, and our dear friend Mikasa."

There was applause in the room. Annie kept her head down, tugging the brim of her hat over her face, while Mikasa couldn't hide the soft blush that dusted her cheeks. The two headstrong women becoming flustered at the sudden attention, even if they did deserve it.

Ymir jumped off the stage, pulling them both up with a cheeky, freckled grin.

"Because of your dedication, your will, and the love you have for us, we as a family were able to do something monumental. We changed history, and we plan to uphold it. An effort like that, has been recognized. By all."

Ymir then gestured to Erwin and Levi, who were standing behind them.

Mikasa felt her eyes widen, her back straightening as she realized what was happening. Annie followed suit, her head held high as the Don, her father, stood before her.

Both Levi and Erwin pinned the wings of freedom to their suit jackets. Levi looked his baby cousin in the eye, admittedly trying not to falter in the crowded space.

This young girl, who lost everything, who he raised like a daughter, had surpassed even him. He couldn't hold back the small smile, fixing the lapel of her jacket. "You did good, brat. I'm proud of you."

Words she never thought she'd hear him utter. Mikasa couldn't hold back a grin either, nodding. "Thank you, Levi."

Meanwhile, Erwin had his eyes locked with his daughter. Even so, his own smile was evident. He cupped the girl's cheek, beaming with pride.

"I knew you would find your way.." He whispered. Annie only felt tears well up in her eyes. She knew she was supposed to be rigid, unyielding, but at this moment? She let it go.

She pulled Erwin into a hug, making him stumble for a moment. Then, his smile grew, wrapping his arms around her tightly.

"I love you, dad.."

That got him. The leader of the biggest organized crime regiment felt tears well up. He returned the embrace, rubbing her back as his deepened voice seemed to crack. Just for a moment.

"I love you too, Annie."

The party seemed to continue on, celebrating a union, and two new officials of the families.

Across the hall, a few of the kids were clustered, laughing.

"Holy shit..Lil sis grew up." Reiner laughed, clinking his glass with Bertolt, who seemed to be just as enthusiastic.

"Oh come on now, she had a good big brother to be her guide, eh?"

Marlowe and Hitch were sharing a dance, laughing together as he spun her. "Gonna be hard to top this off with our wedding!"

"Oh come on, you know I go for excess!" Hitch giggled with glee, delivering a smacking kiss onto the boy's lips.

Eren was quiet as he watched Mikasa be revered..celebrated.

He was proud of her, of course he was. He knew the girl surpassed so many of them in every way.

Though the pride in Levi's eyes..it stung. Though, he knew he only had himself to blame.

Pieck came over, handing her adoptive brother a glass, smiling softly.

"Today's not a day for being a brooding mess, Eren."

"Oh shut up Pieck..thanks.." He nodded, watching as Gabi came up to them.

"Eren! You owe me a dance!"

The two elder siblings stared at one another for a moment, before sharing a chuckle at the young girl's demands. Eren downed his drink, standing as he offered his baby sister his hand.

"Shall we, young lady?"

Pieck could only watch as Gabi pulled Eren to the dance floor, a giggle escaping her.

Levi (knocking on your door): Hey, Shithead, get up. You slept through drills, and I'm not letting you slack off.

You (opens the door, hair a mess, in sleep clothes, and morning voice): Captain, Erwin already informed you I had the day off. I just got back from my meetings in the capital.

Levi: Dealing with the MPs isn't an excuse to be lazy. Uniform on, now.

Levi (internally): Fuck, why am I attracted to this? Don't look over their body. Keep your eyes up, Levi. God, you're gone a few days, and I run to your room like a stupid dog.

You (Fresh out of the shower, wrapped in a towel, annoyed): These couldn't have gotten my signature in the morning?

Levi: I don't feel like already interrupting my own schedule in the morning. Just sign them.

Levi (internally): They smell so good. I'm such a fool. I wanna rip that towel off of you and make you scream my name. I'd please you until you deemed me worthy of tasting you. Please, just let me hold you, PLEASE.

You (stargazing beside him): I know you think wishes are stupid, but do you have any?

Levi: Tch..no point in hopeless belief. Your efforts are the only thing that matter in this world.

Levi (internally): I wish you'd kiss me. I wish you'd make the first move. I wish I was braver. I wish I wasn't such a coward..what I would do just to be yours, even for a night. You've ruined me.

You (after the rumbling, having made love for the first time. You lie panting beside him, smiling): Fuck, more than worth the wait..

Levi: Shut up, I've waited far longer than you.

You: Wait, what?

Levi (internally): KEEP YOUR FUCKING MOUTH SHUT, DUMBASS.

*The morning after*

You: We could have done that far sooner, you know.

Levi: I didn't want to put any pressure on you. We were already dealing with so much loss, I didn't need you worrying about my feelings. Especially with all the shit that kept happening.

You: Still..I'd be lying if I said I didn't spend many nights..putting myself to sleep, by thinking about you..

Levi: ...In what way?

You: Do you want to find out?

Finally drew a full photo of the Speakeasy band for "The Scout Families"!!

The four Zacharius siblings, A Zoe son, and a Smith son, all in their little group!

Hitch- Vocals

Jean- Clarinet

Bertholt- Cornet

Ymir- Drums

Armin- Piano