Your Wings - Reader X Levi Ackerman

Chapter 43: Eldians and Marleyans

The morning sun streamed through the windows, filling the house with a warm glow as you and your grandmother woke bright and early. For the first time in what felt like ages, you were well-rested, your body and mind ready to take on whatever came your way.

The two of you sat in the dining hall, the aroma of freshly brewed tea wafting through the air as you sipped from delicate porcelain cups. Breakfast was simple but comforting, with warm bread, fresh fruit, and a hint of honey. Your grandmother, ever the gentle soul, kept the conversation light at first, but soon her curiosity got the better of her.

She asked softly about your experiences in battle, her voice laced with both pride and concern. You hesitated but eventually shared some of the things you'd seen-the chaos, the horrors, and the terrible price of war. Her expression grew somber, her hands trembling slightly as she absorbed your words. Though she tried to mask it, you could tell she could never stomach the atrocities you'd endured. The pain in her eyes mirrored the compassion in her heart, and it tugged at you deeply.

Sensing the weight of the conversation, she quickly shifted gears, her tone lightening. "Why don't we go to the market today?" she suggested, a small smile gracing her face. "It's been a bit since we've spent time together. Let's make up for lost time. I think it'll lift your spirits a bit."

You hesitated, the images of war still fresh in your mind. Even though you were no stranger to the battlefield, the sight of corpses-especially human ones-was something you doubted you could ever grow numb to. Titans were easier, their grotesque forms easier to detach from. But people? That was different. That stayed with you.

Ultimately, you nodded, grateful for the distraction. "Alright," you said quietly.

"Good," she said warmly, her smile deepening. "Go pick out something nice to wear while I clean up here."

You agreed and headed to your room, the sunlight dancing across the walls as you rifled through your belongings. After some thought, you chose a simple yet beautiful blue dress. The fabric was soft and lightweight, with ruffled sleeves that added a touch of elegance. The hemline cascaded down to your ankles, flowing gently as you moved. You slipped on a pair of sturdy boots for comfort, the practical choice bringing balance to the outfit.

Deciding to make an effort, you styled your hair more carefully than usual, taking the time to smooth and arrange it neatly. For the finishing touch, you pinned your favorite accessory-a delicate brooch your grandmother had gifted you on your birthday the year before-into place. It gleamed faintly in the morning light, a reminder of her unwavering love.

On a whim, you reached for the small box of makeup she had given you some time ago. You weren't particularly skilled at applying it yet, but you carefully brushed on a hint of color to your cheeks, eyes, and lips. When you finally stepped back to look in the mirror, you hardly recognized yourself. Gone was the soldier in the utilitarian uniform. In her place stood someone who felt... softer. Brighter. It was strange, but you didn't dislike it.

When you returned to the dining hall, your grandmother's face lit up. "Oh, look at you!" she gushed, her hands clasping together. "You look so lovely. Just like your mother."

Her words brought a bittersweet pang to your heart. You forced a smile, pushing the sadness aside, and nodded. "Thank you."

She beamed and motioned for you to follow her. Together, the two of you stepped outside, the fresh air greeting you as you began your walk to the market. For the first time in a while, you allowed yourself to look forward to the day ahead.

The streets were bustling, alive with the energy of a new day. People crowded every corner, their voices mingling with the sounds of merchants calling out their wares. Mothers held baskets of groceries while their children tugged at their arms, pleading for sweets. Young women lingered in front of boutique windows, admiring delicate jewelry that glittered in the sunlight, while men seemed drawn to finely tailored suits and fashionable hats displayed on mannequins. It was a far cry from the grim silence of the battlefield, almost overwhelming in its normalcy.