Yesterday's Enemy [AoT]

THIRTY-SIX

'Tradition is the glue of human society. After each generation has carried had their turn to carry the torch, it becomes both a glimpse into the past and a bridge to the future. I have considered the word 'evolution' without end, but there is so much I wish for us never to change.'

-An extract from the book 'Evolutions' written by philosopher Adette Briggs.

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THIRTY-SIX

Wall Maria, South Region, Port Noaks, Noaks Survey Corps Base of Operations

It was about two weeks later, and tonight was the night of Yule. The Havasian spiritual solstice was near.

Lorelai hadn't been seen much at the base. She had been busy setting up in Noaks and preparing for the night of merriment. Levi had assisted where he could, but on the whole, this was a Havasian affair that he did not intend to meddle with. Besides, parties had never really been his scene.

He checked his pocket watch; it was about 1700 hours, and the sun was steadily setting outside. It was probably about time for him to make his way over there.

A few days ago, he had not planned on attending at all. However, Lorelai had insisted that he make at least a brief appearance so that she might give him his birthday gift.

Sighing, he tied his cravat over one of his nicer collared shirts. On top, he wore a black woollen overcoat— proper, yet suitable for the cold weather. He scowled at himself in the mirror; it seemed Lorelai need only ask, and he'd do whatever she wanted. How annoying. To finish, he ran a comb through his black hair.

He stepped out from his quarters, fixing his sleeve irritably. Most in the Survey Corps had jumped at the opportunity to get black-out drunk and party in Noaks— they were all getting ready. Levi glanced down the hall; Erwin, impeccably dressed, was just emerging from his quarters.

"Erwin," he greeted monotonously.

"Ah, Levi. Perfect timing as always; shall we make our way over?"

He nodded, walking at Erwin's side down the corridor. They could hear the sounds of eager soldiers chatting avidly through the walls.

"Are we really doing this?" Levi grumbled. "A party? Of all things."

"One night of merriment can do no harm."

"You wouldn't usually say yes to something like this." He looked at Erwin at his side. "You like her, don't you?"

Erwin met his eyes, amused. "I admit, personal feelings may have influenced my decision a little."

Levi stayed silent. Erwin had no idea what he was getting into; it was all fun and games when it was just innocent flirting, but if both Erwin and Lorelai honestly liked each other... it became less of a love affair and more of a political scandal.

The Commander of the Survey Corps and the Havasian Ambassador, that's sure to give the press a field day, Levi thought.

"What would be your advice?" said Erwin calmly, stepping into the carriage.

"I can think of about a hundred different reasons you and Lorelai is a bad idea."

"As can I," he sighed. "In any case, we'll see where it goes."

Levi knew Erwin, and that almost certainly meant he didn't want to face the problem. Either way, it wasn't his business.

The carriage pulled up to Noaks' town square, and it became clear that Lorelai had truly outdone herself. The square was decorated with beautifully patterned bunting; stalls had been set up selling a variety of Havasian goods. The frozen river and been transformed into an apt skating rink.