Attack on Titan: A Blacksmith's Tale

Chapter 76: Rise of the Blacksmith

(Tybur Household)

(One month later)

Stressful situations weren't uncommon for the Tybur family to deal with. As the secret rulers of Marley, they had to deal with all issues be it domestic or international. Domestic situations were easy to deal with in the long run. Disgruntled Eldians and traitorous Marleyans were the most they had to deal with. However, the international situations were something else entirely, especially now. Tensions had been rising steadily for a while in the neighboring countries. Were they not dealt with in a proper manner, Marley would have a war on their hands.

To calm his nerves, Atticus was performing an emotional regulation using his powers. In short, he was dulling his anxieties and increasing his confidence. Normally, he wouldn't use his abilities like this, but considering the grave consequences should things go wrong, they were absolutely necessary. A knock on the door interrupted his process.

"Sorry to interrupt you, Atticus, but our driver has arrived," his wife announced on the other side of the door.

Trying to keep his irritation out of his tone, he responded with, "I'll be there soon."

Cautiously, Lara Tybur entered their bedroom, a look of concern on her face. As per usual, her black hair was tied in a neat bun. Her simple dress made it seem like she was one of the maids attending the house, but in reality, she was actually the younger sister of Willy Tybur and the wife of Atticus.

"Honey, you look exhausted," she said. "How many hours did you sleep?"

"I'm afraid I can't remember," he answered sheepishly. "Maybe three or four hours."

"You promised me that you would get some rest." She wasn't angry, but she was definitely disappointed. "How can you expect to deal with the ambassadors if you have trouble staying awake?"

He let out a sigh while he attempted to put on the damn tie again. As usual, he was failing miserably. "I tried, Lara, but every time I shut my eyes, I couldn't stop thinking about them. Ecrya and Cadron are looking for any excuse to wage war against us. Maybe it's because they want revenge for the sanctions we placed on trade. Maybe they decided to free all the Eldians in a misguided attempt to be righteous. Or maybe it's because they don't like my-to hell with this tie!" He tossed the demonic article of clothing onto his bed, panting heavily. When he realized he was making a bit of a scene in front of his wife, he said, "Forgive me, Lara. I'm... not doing well today."

Lara gave him a sympathetic smile and began to help him with his tie. "Do you remember the day we met?"

That brightened up his mood somewhat. "Yes. EIght years ago, I laid my eyes on the most beautiful woman in the world."

"Do you remember what your first words to me were?"

"I said, 'Maid, bring me a glass of your finest wine."

She gave a soft chuckle. "And I responded with, 'I'll be sure to bring you some from our finest toilet."'

He laughed back, remembering that memory all too well. Unfortunately, the present reminded him of what was at stake. "Honey, Ecrya and Cadron's ambassadors are arriving soon. I should be confident. We have many advantages at our fingertips in case they try something, but..."

"But you can't shake the feeling something is going to go wrong," Lara finished for him, letting go of his tie. "Every time a visiting dignitary or tourist shows up, you always feel this way."

"You think I'm being paranoid, don't you?"

"No. Just extremely cautious." She poured him a glass of wine, giving him an encouraging smile. "We have been blessed with a miraculous gift, Atticus. Because of Dillon, we will be able to defend our borders from every possible threat. Even if they try something, you have a contingent of Psions ready."