𝐑𝐞𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞𝐝 |𝐒𝐍𝐊/𝐀𝐎𝐓|

𝐂𝐇𝐀𝐏𝐓𝐄𝐑 𝟏𝟖

I pulled at the buttons of my more professional gown, securing them together. In front of the mirror, I stood as I pulled at my braids, pulling them apart and securing them with a gold pin that matched my buttons.

Today was the day.

I smiled to myself, reminded of this morning's interaction with the Captain. He'd never been one to seek me out, so I was surprised when I opened my eyes to him towering over me nudging me at the early hours.

He didn't say anything as he helped me up, folding the blanket for me as I stifled a yawn and adjusted my gown. I could see in his eyes, the doubt and it made my stomach drop.

Before I could speak, he grabbed my hand and dragged me out the door, the soft snore of the other soldiers leaving me to realize how early it still was. The sun hadn't risen, but the light had peaked through the trees. It must have been around 4 or 5.

The time didn't matter, as I felt Levi's grip tighten as he pulled me up stairs, a quickness to him. He was careful, making sure I wouldn't trip over my own dress.

It seemed we'd been sprinting forever, until he finally pushed open a door. I was met with the smell of something like cleaning supplies and black tea. My eyes scanned the room, finding a desk, paperwork stacked and untouched. The window was opened, the breeze causing me to shiver.

There was a couch with a small table with two cups of tea to our right and on our left was a shelf filled with spray bottles, buckets, and towels. The table in front of it held his ODM gear. My thoughts were interrupted as he let go of my hand. He seemed to calm down. I stepped forward, attempting to look at him but he kept his eyes down almost seeming embarrassed.

It wouldn't take me long to figure out even the Captain was uneasy with the days expedition.

I couldn't hide the happiness at his trust in me as I pulled at my top, the skirt detachable. I really didn't want to wear shoes but for the sake of meeting the kingdom today and sending farewells I pulled some on.

I wonder if anyone had seen that side of him. The vulnerable side of him.

I felt honored.

Now I needed to live up to his trust.

───

Now I was terrified.

Historia has just finished explaining to me that the entire kingdom now knows I exist. I was thankful I wouldn't have to give a special speech, I'd mainly have to smile and wave.

"I'm sorry to suddenly put this pressure on you, I finally finished the article last night," she explained, causing me to shake my head, "No no, it's okay, it would make sense to reveal who we are, and send my aids on there way as well."

Lake and Oliver were already with the scouts, the second command of different squads to ensure the soldiers were evenly dispensed.

Historia nodded, "Remember, you don't have to say anything."

I smiled.

William next to me, held my hand down, the shaking becoming very noticeable within the small carriage.

The carriage came to a sudden stop, I could hear an excited chatter through the town.

"That must be the Queen's carriage!" I heard a voice exclaim as Historia pulled back the door. In front of us was a building, I was surprised to see stairs. As we climbed up them, I could faintly hear an explosion it almost sounded like, but it was probably the titan weapon Hange was very proud of.

As we climbed the steps, sunshine broke through, "HANGE!" A voice exclaimed as I caught sight of the soldiers.

Along the wall the same wooden elevator we rode up, that fateful day was pulling up Hange, Levi, Oliver and Lake.

They waved as I came into there view, causing me to return it quickly. Seeing all of the soldiers together made the pit in my stomach disappear, as a sense of proudness filled me instead. I wished I was there, on my way to battle. Or at least there to comfort those preparing to sacrifice themselves for the war.

I wanted to believe, my reasons were selfless... but I knew a little part of me wanted to tear apart anyone who dared laid a hand on them. To destroy there hearts and break there bones, and kill them slowly so as to atone for everything they'd done. That part of me, was a part I wanted to keep locked away.

So I smiled. I could see Levi nod once, causing me to return it, knowing that was his promise. The promise he would return.

───

After the positive interaction between the crowd and the scouts I could feel everyone was reenergized. Erwin was very good at giving speeches. It was nice to see the smiles through the village.

"So this is Queen Delphine, your majesty," a cook bowed causing me to chuckle, "Please, that will not be necessary."

He smiled softly, "You're a queen aren't you? Historia tells us of how bravely you've fought for your own people and how you've willingly given your military force for our scouts."

I looked down shyly as he continued talking, "Here, have my best sweet bread," he gestured to a newly placed pan. I began to shake my head, only for William to step forward, "Thank you," and took the bread.

The cook laughed, "Is she always so hesitant to take gifts?"

William sighed heavily, "You have no idea."

I was very tempted to push him or punch him but I opted for being kind and instead smiled softly as I brushed up against his shoulder. He chuckled nervously as if knowing what I wanted to do.

William was quick to distract me with the smell of the bread, "Oh doesn't it smell delicious?"

I couldn't deny... wait no... but brea-... no... you know what it did smell delicious, my eyes cut to his noticing the silent prayer in his eyes. I smirked as I took the bread, causing him to sigh filled with relief.

As we exited the shop I heard the owner chuckle and yell out, "Come back soon! I serve lunch and dinner too."

William waved back, "We definitely will!"

Historia sighed a smile present as we met her on the street, "are you all ready?"

We nodded, the bread filling my mouth. I was quick to conceal the moan at the deliciousness and it wasn't long before we were making our way back to the carriage.

The building for the orphans must be farther out.  

𝐚/𝐧: 

omg i did it again. i can't believe i published the wrong chapter.... i was kind of in the hurry to a doctors appointment anyway. but almost forgot to publish this guys. i hope you guys liked it!