The Captain quickly introduced us to his squad, their names echoing in my mind as I struggled to remember each one. They all seemed nice to me, except for Oluo, who stood out as a particularly peculiar individual.
There was something about him that rubbed me the wrong way, making it difficult for me to warm up to him like I had with the others.
With the introductions concluded, we set off towards the dense forest ahead. Riding alongside Petra and the Captain, I couldn't help but notice the tension emanating from Eren, who was positioned just in front of us. Captain Levi had been directing nothing but glares his way ever since we left the base, leaving Eren visibly unsettled.
As we continued on our path, Oluo broke the silence with an unexpected remark about the former Survey Corps HQ.
His words carried a mix of disdain and sarcasm," The former Survey Corps HQ. As an old castle that was renovated to be our base, it definitely looks extravagant. But since it's this far away from the walls and the river, it really wasn't something we needed". Oluo voiced his discontent.
I seized the opportunity to strike up a conversation with Petra, who rode beside me.
Leaning closer to her, I whispered," Hey, Petra...".
She turned her gaze toward me, her eyes sparkling with curiosity," Yes ?".
" Is he always like this ?". I asked, imitating Oluo's smug expression.
Petra looked at me for a moment, her lips twitching with a hint of amusement, before she burst out laughing.
" Maybe not always, but it's been like that for a long time. It's even tiring". She confessed, shaking her head.
Her response immediately reminded me of someone I knew all too well.
" Yeah, I know someone like that who keeps his arrogant façade up all the time. It's hard to see the real him". I stated, recalling my encounters with Draco.
" Oh ? Who is he ? Your boyfriend ?". Petra asked, her voice laced with a mischievous smirk.
I scoffed, shaking my head." No, nothing like that. If I were with him, my brother would have a heart attack. He's a Malfoy, and his father is someone who thinks he's above everyone else. Unfortunately, Draco was raised that way too". I explained, my voice tinged with a mix of frustration and amusement.
" His father seems to be a royal jerk". Petra commented, her tone filled with sympathy.
I laughed, feeling a sense of connection with Petra," You're absolutely right ! I knew I was going to like you".
Petra gave me a small smile before glancing away, her cheeks slightly flushed.
Refocusing my attention on the ongoing conversation between Eren and Oluo, I noticed Eren steal a glance in my direction, only to quickly avert his gaze upon encountering the Captain's stern look. The tension in the air was palpable as Oluo attempted to assert his dominance over Eren.
" Don't get ahead of yourself, recruit". Oluo tried to threaten, his voice dripping with condescension.
Eren's confusion was evident as he retorted," Excuse me ?".
" You may be a Titan or whatever, but a pissy brat like you being under Lance Corporal Levi's watch...". Oluo's words trailed off, interrupted by an unexpected mishap.
He somehow managed to bite his own tongue, leaving him momentarily speechless.
Petra sighed audibly in annoyance, casting a disapproving look at Oluo. Suppressing a laugh that threatened to escape, I struggled to maintain a straight face at the sight before me. The irony of Oluo's attempt to intimidate Eren being thwarted by his own tongue-biting blunder was too amusing to ignore.
It only took a few more minutes until we arrived in front of the famous HQ Oluo was talking about. The grand building stood before us, imposing and weathered by time. The once proud stronghold now wore a worn-out facade, showing signs of neglect and decay. I couldn't help but wince when I saw the sorry state it was in.
Eren stepped forward, breaking the silence.
" I will take care of your horse, Stella !". He offered.
" Are you sure ? Thanks, Eren. Have you given it a name ?". I asked, my eyes scanning his horse.
" Jean". Eren replied with a serious expression on his face.
I looked at him in astonishment before bursting into laughter.
" Blimey, Eren... You're not serious ?". I managed to ask between fits of laughter.
" No, that's not true. I didn't really want to name it, and you ?". He wondered.
" No, me neither. I don't really have an idea, and you know... I would be sad if I gave my horse a name and then it died on an expedition". I replied, my laughter subsiding as I handed over my horse to him.
Eren nodded before leading the horse to the stable, and I took a moment to survey the surroundings. The HQ was situated in an old castle, surrounded by a lush forest. Despite the neglected appearance, there was a certain charm to the place, a quiet beauty that intrigued me.
As I walked through the courtyard, I couldn't help but notice the disarray it was in. Weeds had taken over, and the once neatly paved paths were now obscured. It baffled me how they could have let the place fall into such a state. But then I can imagine they had other priorities.
" This is what you get for yapping away on horseback". I heard Petra scolding Oluo, her voice laced with irritation.
Oluo smirked, his self-assuredness evident," First impressions are crucial. That recruit was scared stiff. I just haven't had time to talk to Potter yet. I'm sure she would have been scared".
I looked at Oluo, tilting my head to the side. I didn't find him scary at all, just rather ridiculous.
" I think he was just surprised by how stupid you were. As for Stella, I'm sure she would have just laughed at you". Petra retorted, hitting the nail on the head.
And you are right, Petra, I thought with a smile.
" At any rate, everything went as planned". Oluo said, brushing off Petra's comment.
" Say, that's not how you usually talk, is it ? If... If that's your idea of imitating Lance Corporal Levi, could you seriously stop it ? Then again, it's not like it was similar in any way". Petra stated, her annoyance apparent.
" Hah... Are you trying to keep me down, Petra ? You haven't gone through the proper steps to act as my wife". Oluo retorted with a smirk, his words dripping with sarcasm.
" Ew". I exclaimed, unable to contain my disgust at his inappropriate remark.
Realizing I had spoken too loudly, I quickly cleared my throat and averted my gaze, pretending to be interested in the forest surrounding us.
Petra chuckled at my reaction before addressing Oluo once again," If only you had bitten off your tongue and died... You're always bragging about your Titan kills, too".
" Relax. I bragged for you guys too while I was at it". Oluo replied, trying to salvage his wounded pride.
Petra huffed in exasperation," Sheesh, you're insufferable".
Feeling bored with the exchange, I turned my attention back to the dilapidated courtyard, contemplating how much time had passed since the Scout Regiment had arrived at this forsaken place.
" There are weeds everywhere. This place is a mess". Gunther remarked, echoing my thoughts.
" It's been a while, after all. The inside is probably covered in dust". Eld replied, joining the conversation.
Suddenly, Captain Levi appeared, his face etched with annoyance. His mere presence commanded attention, and the soldiers fell silent.
" Now that's a problem we can't overlook. We'll get to work immediately". The Captain stated sternly, his voice cutting through the air like a knife.
I shrugged, nonchalantly accepting the task assigned to me by Captain Levi. He instructed me to clean a room adjacent to his, a task that seemed all too familiar. Cleaning was something I had grown accustomed to, having spent countless hours doing chores at my aunt's house.
Opening the window, I was met with a cloud of dust, causing me to sneeze involuntarily. I quickly set to work, determined to restore the room to its former glory. As I went about my duties, memories of Harry, my partner in crime during these mundane tasks, flooded my mind.
We would support each other, teasing and laughing, turning the chore into an enjoyable endeavor. But now, I was alone, left to complete the task in solitude.
Shaking my head to banish the melancholy thoughts, I focused on the task at hand.
I finished cleaning the carpet meticulously, ensuring that every inch was spotless. Satisfied with my work, I began to look around the room to see if I had forgotten anything. Just as I was about to complete my check-up, a familiar voice interrupted my thoughts.
" Hey, brat. Have you finished ?". Came a gruff voice.
I turned around to see Captain Levi walking into the room, adorned with his cleaning equipment. He looked surprisingly adorable, but I quickly recovered from my brief moment of admiration, making sure not to let it show.
" Yes, sir". I replied, standing at attention.
He nodded, his piercing gaze scanning the room carefully.
" That's not bad. You did great". Captain Levi acknowledged, nodding his head in approval.
" Thank you, sir. I know it's not perfect yet". I retorted modestly, shrugging off the praise.
I saw him approach me, his hand reaching up to wipe something off my cheek.
" You had a little dust on your cheek". He remarked, his touch making me blush slightly.
" Thanks, sir". I murmured, gently touching my cheek to confirm its cleanliness.
" I'll go and see Jaeger's work". The Captain stated, his voice crisp and efficient.
" Alright, but I warn you, he's not the best at cleaning, sir". I replied, a playful tone creeping into my voice.
I chuckled to myself as I watched Captain Levi's expression change, a mix of surprise and curiosity. With a nod, he turned and left the room, presumably to inspect Eren's cleaning skills.
Deciding to take a break from my cleaning duties, I made my way downstairs to join Eld and Gunther, who were already engrossed in a conversation. We chatted and laughed, enjoying a moment of respite from our rigorous training and duties.
As we continued our lighthearted banter, the door swung open, and in walked Captain Levi, accompanied by Petra, Oluo, and a visibly exhausted Eren. A mischievous glint flashed in my eyes as I observed Eren's fatigued expression, silently reveling in his discomfort.
Eren noticed my gaze and shot me an expression that seemed to say,' Don't even start'.
I couldn't help but laugh, knowing all too well the toll our training had taken on him.
Gunther, who had disappeared into the kitchen, emerged with a tray of cups and a kettle, expertly serving us tea. It was Eld who finally broke the silence, his voice filled with anticipation.
" I expect we'll be on standby for a few more days, but I heard there are plans for a large-scale expedition in thirty days. And we'll be joined by the new recruits who graduated recently". Eld informed us, his voice carrying a mix of excitement and concern.
" That's rather sudden, especially since the latest Titan attack has undoubtedly taken its toll on them". Gunther chimed in, voicing the worries that lingered in all our minds.
Oluo smirked, his arrogant demeanor on full display.
" The brats must've all lost their backbone". He sneered, trying to provoke a reaction.
Petra, ever the caring soul, turned to the Captain, seeking reassurance.
" Is that true, Lance Corporal ?". She asked, her voice laced with concern.
" I'm not in charge of drafting plans. But remember, this is Erwin. I'm sure he's thinking much further ahead than us". Captain Levi responded in a bored tone, his disinterest evident.
" Well, the situation itself is unusual. The route we advanced at the cost of countless sacrifices to recapture Maria was erased in an instant. Then suddenly, a completely different hope appeared". Eld explained, his voice tinged with a mix of curiosity and awe.
While the conversation unfolded, I sipped my tea, barely registering the words being spoken. Lost in my own thoughts, I barely noticed Eren nudging me lightly, almost causing me to spill my cup.
" Blimey, Jay ! What's the problem ?". I asked with a hint of frustration.
" Sorry, Stella, but you seemed distracted...". Eren trailed off, concern etched on his fatigued face.
Oluo, always ready with a snide remark, couldn't resist taking a jab.
" Too busy dreaming about your boyfriend, Potter ?". He jeered.
Eren's glare could have frozen the air, and Captain Levi shot him an annoyed look, clearly unimpressed with Oluo's lack of professionalism.
" Yeah, I thought that brick wall was fascinating. Much more fascinating than what you just said". I deadpanned, a hint of amusement in my voice.
Oluo's eyes twitched, and everyone around me stifled their laughter, unable to contain their amusement.
Eld cleared his throat, redirecting the conversation to a more serious topic.
He turned to Eren, his curiosity piqued," I still find it hard to believe, but what exactly does it mean to transform into a Titan, Eren ?".
" My memories from that time aren't clear, but I felt like I had lost myself. I do know it's triggered by self-injury, though. If I take my hand and...". Eren began to explain before his eyes widened in realization.
" You guys are aware, aren't you ? The reports cover everything we know now. Well, I doubt they'll stay put either way. But they might go too far and end up killing you, Eren, Estella". Captain Levi interjected, his words carrying a weight of concern.
I furrowed my brow, trying to comprehend Captain Levi's cryptic warning. Who were 'they,' and why would they pose a threat to Eren and me ?
Before anyone could respond or seek further clarification, the sound of loud noises echoed from behind the door. Petra swiftly removed the bar, and Hange entered, holding a hand to their forehead.
" Good evening, members of the Levi Squad. How's it feel living in a castle ?". Hange greeted us with a wide grin.
" Hey, Hange !". I exclaimed, offering a friendly wave.
Hange's eyes lit up with delight.
" Hello, love ! I'm so happy to see you !". They exclaimed, their enthusiasm contagious.
I couldn't help but wonder why they called me 'love'. It was a mystery I promised myself to solve later.
" You're early". The Captain stated in annoyance, his voice laced with frustration.
" I just couldn't stay put". Hange replied, their eyes gleaming with excitement.
" Squad Leader Hange ?". Eren muttered, his brows furrowed in confusion.
" Sorry for the wait, Eren. I'm in charge of investigating two Titans we captured in the city, and I want your cooperation for tomorrow's experiment. I came to get permission for that". Hange explained, their voice filled with anticipation.
" An experiment ? What would I...". Eren's voice trailed off, uncertainty evident in his tone.
But Eren quickly stopped talking when he saw Hange's face light up with uncontainable enthusiasm.
" Well, it's... the most exciting thing ever !". Hange exclaimed, unable to hide their excitement.
" U-Um... I can't grant you permission myself. I don't have any authority over my decisions". Eren nervously told them, feeling the weight of responsibility on his shoulders.
" Levi, what are Eren's plans for tomorrow ?". Hange asked, their eyes shifting towards the Captain.
" Cleaning the garden". Captain Levi responded, his voice dripping with annoyance at the interruption.
" No problem then ! It's decided". Hange said, a mischievous glint in their eyes.
As I observed the interaction, a smirk played on my face. Hange had clearly just derailed the Captain's meticulously planned schedule, and I couldn't help but find amusement in the situation.
" Eren, I look forward to tomorrow". Hange said as they grabbed Eren's hand, their excitement infectious.
The conversation was abruptly interrupted when a sudden movement caught my attention. I jumped slightly as a red envelope materialized in front of me. Startled, I looked around to see Snape's Patronus vanish, leaving me feeling a mix of nervousness and curiosity.
" D-did you...". Eld tried to ask, his voice filled with concern.
" N-no... Oh my God, I'm screwed. It's a threat...". I mumbled to myself, anxiety coursing through my veins as I reached for the envelope.
" A threat ? Tell me who sent it ?". Captain Levi asked, his frown deepening with worry.
Taking a deep breath, I nervously tore open the letter, and it floated in front of me, the words appearing as if written by an invisible hand.
" Estella Lily Potter ! You've just told muggles about your magic, and now everyone in the world you're in knows ?! Do you have any idea how serious this is ? It's not allowed; you've just exposed our world ! You have flouted the Decree for the Restriction of Underage Wizardry.
You're really lucky you're not in Hogwarts right now, young lady! Or you would have been on the train home by now ! From tomorrow, I'll send you spells and potions that you'll need to know perfectly well ! Is that clear ?!".
My heart raced as I nervously swallowed, my eyes widening at the severity of the message. Snape's words carried a weight I couldn't ignore.
The letter turned, as if acknowledging the others who were watching in disbelief, and Snape's voice echoed through the room once more.
" And all of you, if I hear that you have harmed her, I will find a way to come and make you regret it". Snape's words carried a chilling threat.
With a final flicker, the letter disintegrated before me, leaving me breathless and shaken.
" O-oh my... Stella, are you alright ?". Eren asked, still in shock, concern etched on his face.
I massaged my temples nervously," I knew that when Snape found out, it would be worse than this trial". I muttered, my voice filled with both resignation and fear.
Besides, I didn't even know that a Patronus could carry a letter... You don't have to ask how motivated he was to send it to me... Besides, he could have told me that with his Patronus...
" Uh... Who is he ?". Gunther asked, his voice trembling with curiosity.
" And what was it ?". Eld inquired, his eyes wide with intrigue.
" It's a howler... And it was a teacher at Hogwarts... He actually took me under his wing and practically became a father to me". I confessed, my voice laced with mixed emotions.
Feeling overwhelmed, I decided it was time to retreat. I finished my tea in haste and rose from my seat, eager to escape the weight of the situation.
" I'll see you all tomorrow". I said, my voice barely above a whisper as I quickly closed the door behind me, leaving my bewildered comrades behind.
I decided to get some fresh air before I saw a wolf Patronus in front of me. Hey, I know who it is... I just hope I don't get yelled at again...
" Stella, it's Remus. I heard about all your adventures. You really have the luck of the Potters. James was also good at getting into trouble just like Harry. Obviously, you broke a ban, but if it was to help, I can't blame you. We're glad you're okay. Take care, little lioness". I heard Remus' voice tell me softly.
At least one of them won't yell at me, I thought as I watched the Patronus disappear. The comforting words from Remus brought a sense of relief and reassurance, reminding me that there were people who understood and supported me, even in the face of my reckless actions.
Unfortunately, I have never seen Remus in real life, but talking to him is enough for me, and I think he is the best godfather I could have dreamed of. It's the same for Sirius; the time I could speak to him, he was quite nice.
Their presence in my life, even in spirit, gave me strength and a connection to my parents and their friends, who had fought so bravely against the dark forces.
" You could say it was quite a surprise, brat". I turned to the Captain, who walked over before sitting down next to me. His gruff voice carried a tinge of amusement.
" I knew he would be angry. But I still don't regret it. If I hadn't done it, some people would have died". I muttered, my voice filled with conviction.
I understood the consequences of my actions, but I firmly believed that I had made the right choice in the face of danger.
" This is the main thing. I suspect that if he shouted, it was mainly because he was worried. You can be proud of yourself for what you did, I think". The Captain told me, his tone softer now.
He acknowledged the significance of my bravery, offering a rare compliment that carried a genuine sense of respect.
" Yes, you're right, sir. So, you trust me now ?". I asked curiously, searching for a hint of faith in his eyes.
" A bit more than when I first saw you. And then, if you wanted to hurt us, you would have done it already, not like I would have let you do it". The Captain replied, his voice gruff yet laced with a hint of wry humor.
" I see, thanks, sir". I said, my spirits lifting.
The Captain's growing trust meant a great deal to me, as his approval held a special significance in the eyes of the Survey Corps. I felt a sense of validation, knowing that I had earned a small measure of his respect.
" I'm going to go to bed. Good night, Captain". I told him, a yawn escaping my lips as I stood up.
The events of the day had taken their toll, leaving me physically and emotionally drained.
He nodded, his gruff voice carrying a note of concern," Brat. I would advise you not to go into the room we were all in earlier. Hange is talking about their experiments".
" Noted". I said with a smile, appreciating his thoughtfulness.
I decided to make my way to the room I had been given, conveniently located right next to Petra's. The proximity offered a sense of comfort and security, knowing that a friend was nearby. Even if she had been assigned to keep an eye on me for the night, I didn't care.
I quickly changed into my nightclothes and nestled into the softness of my bed, the fatigue of the day washing over me. With a contented sigh, I succumbed to the embrace of a deep and dreamless sleep.
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A/N : I apologize for my long absence ! But I've had quite a few exams that have taken up all my time and energy...which has meant that I haven't been able to publish any chapters. But now that they're over, I've finally been able to publish this one ! I hope you enjoyed it.
- Sanseviera Kana.