Attack On Titan: Beauty & The King(Mikasa X OC Story)

Chapter 51- Declaration of War

Arthur opened the front door to his and Pieck's shared home. It was late, so he made sure to be extra silent in order not to wake Pieck. He knew she needed as many hours of rest as she could get. The assholes in the military push her too much, and it breaks his heart to see his partner in such a knackered state all the time.

Arthur slowly shut the door behind him. As soon as the latch clicked, the sound of sheets and blankets rustling caught his attention. He looked across the dark room at the couch that was pressed up against the wall. There, in a heap of blankets, was the sleepy girl he was afraid to wake.

Pieck sat herself up on the couch, her dark hair a tangled mess that fell around her. She still wore her day clothes, which were now wrinkled and uneven in some places. Her eyes looked heavy as bags hung under her pretty grey orbs. Even in disarray, Pieck finger still had a beautiful appearance about her.

Pieck: (Sleepy) A-Arthur, is that you?

Arthur: (Softly) Sorry, I didn't want to wake you.

He walked over to the couch, ensuring he placed his bag of supplies near the door.

Pieck: It's okay. I didn't mean to fall asleep. (Stretching) I wanted to stay awake until you got back. I guess I failed at that.

Arthur: (Sigh) Why do you do this to yourself, Pieck?

As he approached, he gently brushed her raven hair back behind her right ear. She looked up at him with loving eyes.

Arthur: You should really take better care of yourself.

Pieck: (smiling softly) You'll have to make me.

Arthur: Don't tempt me.

The two shared a soft chuckle, savoring the moment before falling into a comfortable silence, each appreciating the sight of the other's eyes. After what felt like hours, they reluctantly snapped out of it, clearing their throats awkwardly. Pieck shifted over, tucking her legs under her to make room on the sofa.

Pieck: Come, sit.

Arthur: (smiling) Thanks.

Arthur settled down beside Pieck, rubbing his thighs as the woman beside him turned to give him her full attention.

Pieck: How did the party go? Did you learn anything?

Arthur: It was... interesting. I met Willy Tybur. He's quite the character.

Pieck: Is he the War Hammer?

Arthur: No, he's just the figurehead. The man who makes all the decisions. (Sigh) I ran into an old acquaintance, unfortunately.

Pieck: (Reaching out and placing her hand on his bicep) An old acquaintance? Don't tell me you've been found out.

Arthur: It's a little more complicated than that.

Pieck: I'm sorry, I don't understand.

Arthur: (Placing his hand on Pieck's thigh) Don't worry about it, okay. Everything will be fine, I promise.

Pieck: (Looking at the man beside her with a sad expression) Don't make promises you can't keep, Arthur.

Arthur: (Using his finger to lift her chin up higher) Oh, but I can keep this one.

Pieck: And how is that?

Arthur: Because earlier tonight, I found out who really holds the War Hammer.

Pieck sat up straighter.

Pieck: Really? You did? Who is it?

Arthur: Lara Tybur... Willy's younger sister.