STRONGEST HOPE (ERERI❤RIREN)

CHAPTER 9 - ERWIN'S SALVATION

"Where did you get this book, Armin?" the Commander asked. Levi took a deep breath and yawned. He swam towards consciousness, and heard Armin's answer.

"My grandfather had a lot of books like this, but this is my favorite. This one specifically talks about the oceans...the ones Eren, Mikasa and I have always dreamed of seeing."

Levi opened his eyes slowly. What time was it? The sun blazed in through the windows. He moved stiffly and sat up in the chair.

"Eren, how long have you guys known each other?"

Levi's head snapped around to see the Commander, Arlert and Eren Yeager sitting across from one another on the couch, a large book splayed out between them on the table.

Eren looked at the Captain shyly and dropped his eyes to look at the Commander. "We've known one another since we were pretty young," Eren said softly. We've been one another's family since Shiganshina."

Erwin nodded slowly, thoughtfully turning the pages of the book. He said simply, "You were there that day." Armin and Eren nodded. Levi turned his body in the chair to face the group. Erwin said over his shoulder without looking at Levi. "They have seen war, yes Captain?"

Levi frowned. "Yes. More than the others." He got up and walked to the couch, sitting next to Erwin. "You can see it in their faces," he said, looking across to the boys who kept their eyes pinned to the book. Levi noticed that they ever so slightly leaned in to one another. "They are old beyond their years."

Erwin chuckled. "Reminds me of someone I know," elbowing Levi gently in the arm.

"Tch, old man. I'll never be as old as you!"

The boys snickered, and Erwin looked at them smiling, even though his eyebrows raised for Levi's sake. "I'll never be too old to kick your ass, Captain."

Levi rolled his eyes and poured himself tea. He appreciated the levity of the moment. The boys had brought with them a breath of fresh air. Erwin looked better than ever. "Tell me, what made you decide to bring this book to the Commander?" Levi asked.

Armin spoke cheerfully, "Eren thought that the Commander might think it was interesting."

"He did?" Levi asked, glancing at the blushing boy in question.

"Yes! He's always thinking about ways to make things better," Armin prattled on. Eren looked like he could barely sit still. He looked up to see Levi's gaze fall on him. Levi raised an eyebrow. "Apparently he's not just a pain in the ass."

Eren gave a slight smile to that reference. "It makes perfect sense since the ocean is the next practical step after the basement. Commander, maybe Armin could bring you some of the maps that his grandfather created of the land outside of the walls."

Levi turned to see Erwin. Erwin glanced at him and smiled. There it was. The cogs started moving and Levi could see that great mind start spinning. It animated his whole face. Erwin leaned forward and patted Armin's hand." "Would you be willing to spend some time with me? To show me these things?"

Armin grinned, matching his excitement. "Sir, it would be my great pleasure."

Levi looked at Eren in awe. This boy had done it. He'd brought Erwin salvation in the form of a tiny blonde thing named Armin...Eren's best friend. Eren turned to Levi smiling. His eyes registered success. Levi mouthed the words, "Thank you." Eren nodded and looked back to the pair who were already making plans for their next visit. The room was bright with sunshine, yes, but also with hope.

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