Annabeth Evergarden: Percy Jackson x Violet Evergarden Crossover

Chapter 2

The city of Machtig glowed with golden candlelight as the Major spoke to Violet.

"It's Thanksgiving. This city was occupied by the Gardarik forces for three years, but they were finally liberated." His swirling emerald eyes met her stormy blue-grey pupils. "You realise, Violet, that you did all this."

The man's attempt at crediting Violet only earned a small nod from the young soldier, who had only ever known fighting and so did not see it as hard-earned.

"It's Thanksgiving tradition here in Machtig to give gifts to those you are thankful to," he continiued. "So, Violet, is there anything you want?"

"Something I want?"

The Major nodded.

"Yes, sir. I will do so at once if that's your order."

Gilbert seemed confused for a moment before a slight look of remembering came across his features.

"It's not an order," he clarified, "it's actually just my way... to thank you. For all the fighting."

His gaze traced the barely-healed scar on her cheek, making him shift uncomfortably.

"Come on, let's take a walk."

The two walked together in contempt quiet, until Violet asked, "Major... Do you know what would be appropriate for me to ask for?"

"Let's see... A girl your age would want dresses or accessories."

"In that case, I want dresses or accessories."

The pair continiued walking through the street lined with stalls of all sorts.

The gleam of an emerald coloured brooch caught Violet's eye, and she couldn't help but wander toward the pretty piece.

"Your eyes..." she said quietly.

Gilbert turned back, "What's the matter?"

"It's the colour... of your eyes." the girl told him. "When I look into this… it’s like… What is it called?"

"It's a beautiful brooch, isn't it?" the shopkeeper said.

"You said... beautiful?" the woman nodded kindly. "But that word... I don't know what it means. Does it mean the same as pretty?"

"Yes, that's right."

Walking down the street again, Violet admired the bright gem, intricately bordered with gold, resting in her small hand.

"Are you sure you didn't want the one that was the colour of your eyes?" the major inquired.

"I am. This one was... the most beautiful one."

She felt as if she could stare infinitely into the swirling deep, but pulled herself away to meet the colour just as endless.

"I did not know that word before, so I had never spoken it. But I thought your eyes were really quite beautiful, ever since we met."

Now facing each other, Gilbert held out his hand.

"The brooch," he requested.

"Yes, sir." Violet complied.

Gentle yet firm hands fixed the brooch to the blonde's collar.

A small smile crept onto her face.

"Thank you, sir. Thank you very much.

***

Back at the western front, the soldier's idle chatter filled Gilbert's ears until he heard a familiar voice calling his name.