a deadly kiss.

chapter three: a fork in the road

┏━°⌜ 恋人たち ⌟°━┓ 

Date: 841, 29 April.
Location: Trost District, Survey Corps Headquarters.

What would the world look like in your eyes, I wonder? Would it be any different from what mine see? These questions have been wavering in my thoughts as of late, as I reflect on the state of our world, the people who inhabit it, and its current events have taken place... In your eyes, is all mankind worth fighting for? I'd like to imagine you saying yes, and proving to me all the reasons why I'm wrong, seeing as you're always one to cheer for the underdog. It's a quality I've admired in you since the day we met. Your unwavering belief in the inherent goodness of people, your compassion for those who struggle, it's all so inspiring.

As I look out at the world today, I can't help but wonder if I share your optimism. It's not that I've completely lost faith in humanity, but rather, I've seen the darkness that can cloud people's hearts. The injustices, the cruelty, the never-ending conflicts. It's hard not to be disheartened by it all.

But then, I remember your optimism for things getting better; your ability to see the potential for change, for growth, for a better world. And it makes me reconsider my own view.

Perhaps, in your eyes, the world is a place where kindness and empathy can prevail. One day, at least. A place where the underdog can rise above their circumstances and make a difference. Maybe, just maybe, it's worth fighting for that vision, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

I just wish I can see a day such as that so we may have something to discuss whenever we see each other again.

Date: 835, 4 June.
Location: Unknown, 55 miles from Wall Maria.

The world was painted in hues of deep indigo and anticipated violet as Sonya Lagner rode on horseback, following the silhouette of her fellow scout soldiers through the predawn darkness. The scent of damp earth and the cool air nipped at her cheeks, making her grateful for the snug, Scout coat she wore that she'd since pulled the hood up to hold onto the body warmth she had. She had been thrust into a different formation position on short notice, joining Erwin Smith's squad just minutes before their departure due to some unfortunate miscommunications. The sudden change had left her somewhat disoriented, but now, in the serene moments before sunrise, she found herself lost in the beauty of the shifting colours of the sky.

The auburn-haired woman had always been fascinated by the transition from night to day, and this was a particularly enchanting display. The sky above them was an ever-evolving canvas, transforming from deep purples to softer blues with a touch of orange at the horizon hidden in between the thick trees they passed. Stars still clung to what remained of the heavens, twinkling faintly against the impending daylight.

As they rode, Sonya's stormy grey eyes remained fixed on the celestial spectacle, her heart stirred by the ethereal beauty of it all. Taking in a long, deep breath, she admired the small sting it brought when the cool air entered her body. She felt the gentle sway of her horse beneath her, a comforting rhythm that harmonised with the gradual unveiling of the morning. It was as if nature itself was putting on a grand show just for those few souls who dared to venture beyond the safety of the walls and to notice all the little wonders the world around them had to bring.

Lost in her reverie, she didn't notice Erwin Smith, her newly appointed squad leader and her acquaintance from earlier that morning, drawing closer until his voice broke through the spell. It was a voice that was soft yet carried a commanding presence, a juxtaposition that characterised the man himself.