Chapter Text
APRICITY (Noun): The warmth of the sun in winter.
On a day like today, Pieck felt nothing could get her out of bed. Clumps of snow danced down from the gray sky and the temperature was low enough to see even the smallest breaths. It was beautiful, but Pieck wasn’t built for the cold. She was perfectly content to stay bundled up in her blankets, cozied up next to her partner.
Thinking of them caused Pieck to roll over in bed and take in their typically fast-asleep face. Instead, Hange was fully awake, facing her and smiling once she turned over.
“Good morning, beautiful!” They chirped, kissing Pieck’s forehead.
Smiling herself, Pieck scrunched her nose happily as Hange greeted her.
“Morning lovey,” She yawned back, “I thought you’d be asleep!”
Nodding in admission, Hange visibly agreed with Pieck. They often were the last to drift off, and therefore the last to wake in the mornings.
“Not with the day I have planned for us today,” Hange smirked, obviously hoping Pieck would question them.
“Oh?” Pieck said, taking the bait willingly, “And what kind of day is that? If you intend to drag me out of bed in this weather, you’d better have an awfully good reason,” She giggled, knowing she’d do just about anything they asked regardless.
Hange obviously knew Pieck didn’t like the cold. Being a couple for over six years had made them well aware of every idiosyncrasy the other possessed. Pieck had always loved how attentive and perceptive Hange was, it was one of the many things that continued to charm her after all this time. Unbeknownst to Pieck, she was absolutely right. Hange was not taking her out today for something as menial as an alliance meeting or market trip. They had something slightly more important in mind. Something they’d been planning for ages, and had been dying to do from the moment they met Pieck. Something involving a small box well hidden in their dresser, and a question to end all questions.
Hange was proposing to Pieck today.
Unwilling to give up any more information, Hange grinned and brushed Pieck’s hair back.
“You’ll find out soon enough, darling. For now, let’s have breakfast then get our winter gear on,”
Pieck chuckled and kissed Hange softly. They always tasted so sweet in the morning. Though she was excited to see what they had planned, she certainly wasn’t opposed to staying like this forever. Lucky for her, that forever was closer than she thought.
-
Hange had never been more grateful for this weather. The moment they exited their flat with Pieck, an immense wave of anxiety washed over them. When Hange was anxious, they had a tendency to turn bright red in the face. Now, with the cold and snow, rosy cheeks were the status quo. They certainly matched their companion, who’s porcelain skin morphed crimson the moment she was outside. Despite their nerves, Hange chuckled upon seeing Pieck’s complexion as she tried to keep a stoic face on their doorstep.
“Poor girl,” Hange cooed, kissing her cheek softly, “I promise I’m not taking you out in this for nothing. In fact, our ride should be here right…” They trailed off, turning to the poignantly on time carriage that was approaching their front gate.
“Now!” Hange grinned, looking at Pieck.
She smiled back at them and squeezed their hand. Hange adored how willing she was to go along with their plans. For so long, they’d always felt being overzealous and extroverted would be their romantic downfall. It was hard to see anyone sticking it out with them through their highs and lows. Now, Hange could easily say Pieck was their person. She was a stabilizing force in their chaotic life, a calm amidst the storm. She never flinched during their low moments, and supported them vehemently through their high ones. This was one of the countless things Hange loved about Pieck, and one of the many reasons they wanted to marry her.
Taking up her arm, Hange led Pieck to the carriage and helped her inside. They waved briefly at the driver, who was one of few privy to their plan today. Hange had spoken to him weeks prior about the route to take to their destination, as well as what they intended to do after they arrived. They figured it wouldn’t hurt to play the “I’m proposing to my girlfriend today so please drive very carefully thank you,” card just this once.
Once they were situated, the carriage departed. Pieck gazed out the window momentarily before turning to Hange and raising a curious brow.
“Alright you. I’ve been pretty compliant so far, so will you tell me where on earth you’re taking me? For all I know this is a kidnapping,” Pieck toyed, poking Hange’s side playfully.
Hange laughed heartily, fighting off Pieck’s jabs with hilarious weakness.
“Fine! Fine! I can’t tell you everything, but I’ll give you something,” They snickered, pulling Pieck’s side closer to them, then leaning into her ear.
“You’re honestly adorable if you think I’m spoiling any of this,” Hange whispered with a devious smile.
Pieck dropped her jaw open in fake offense, then crossed her arms.
“You’re such an idiot,” She jeered with stifled giggles.
Hange smiled back, wrapping an arm around Pieck’s shoulders and kissing the side of her head.
“Maybe,” They sighed, “But I am your idiot,”
Pieck hummed in agreement and scooted closer to Hange’s side. The pair watched the passing scenery out the window slip by slowly. Hange’s destination was about an hour from their flat, on the outskirts of where wall Rose used to stand. Since the aptly named ‘Battle of Heaven and Earth” in which Hange, Pieck, and their fellow alliance members defeated Eren Jaeger and stopped the rumbling, days like this were rare. Both Pieck and Hange were ambassadors of the Eldian race, attempting to bring peace and unity to this new world. It was never easy. There were days where the peace they sought so desperately seemed impossible to reach. But when Hange looked at Pieck, and the endless happiness and love she had brought them, they knew they’d fight ceaselessly just so she would never have to again.
The confines of Trost district began dwindling away, and soon enough there was nothing around them but road and snowy fields. Hange noticed the snow, that had been falling heavily since this morning, began to subside as well. They sighed with relief internally, as too much snow would absolutely hinder their plans. The spot Hange had picked to propose was an overlook of a beautiful mountain range that was even more incredible after a freshly fallen snow. They had visited the place numerous times in the past few weeks whenever Pieck was away, simply to ensure everything was perfect. Hange was confident the location itself was ideal, but they couldn’t help worrying about their own delivery. This wasn’t exactly an everyday question. Though Hange had never been at a loss for words, they feared this moment may leave them stuttering.
Amidst their self-doubt, Pieck suddenly turned to Hange and rested her chin on their shoulder with a smile.
“You’re awfully quiet. What’s going on up there, love?” Pieck tapped Hange’s temple lightly.
Grateful she was here to eliminate their anxiety, Hange took Pieck’s hand from their head and kissed it.
“Not much. Just thinking of this girl I know. She’s the most incredible person I’ve ever met. Drop-dead gorgeous, a tad short, dark hair. You know her?” They snickered.
“Hmm, don’t think so,” Pieck grinned back, “I’m far too busy thinking about this tall, intelligent, and horribly attractive commander I’ve completely fallen for. I’m sure you know them?”
Hange shook their head sarcastically, then gave in to their laughter that was building up. Of course Pieck could make a time like this so much easier. Hange wished they could thank her for easing their nerves, but the ends justified the means more than ever right now. All they could do was follow their plan, and let their heart take care of the rest.
-
Upon arrival at this mystery destination, Pieck was even more confused seeing a trailhead marker ahead of them. She wasn’t very familiar with Paradis’ geography yet, as she’d really only been to the cities and settlements. The trail seemed to wind further into the snow-covered forest surrounding them, and looked practically untouched by other people. Pieck wondered if they were even in the right place, but Hange’s excited look as they helped her out of the carriage reassured her immediately. Though she had no clue what they were planning, Pieck trusted her partner fully. As long as she was with them, everything was perfect.
Hange waved to their driver, then took Pieck’s arm as they walked towards the trail. Still curious about their intentions, Pieck decided to probe her partner a bit more.
“Well Han, as much as I can usually predict your surprises, this one has absolutely stumped me! What are our plans here? Or is my lack of knowledge still required, oh suspenseful one,” She giggled.
Shrugging defiantly, Hange gave her a clueless look that only made Pieck more inquisitive.
“Oh come on!” Pieck pestered, “I’m dying here, commander! At least tell me why we’re at this trail I’ve never heard of until just now,”
With an exaggerated sigh, Hange nodded slightly as they continued on the trail.
“Alright, fine. Do you know what today is?” They queried to Pieck.
Pieck thought on that briefly, but came up empty. She had no clue, and thus shook her head.
“No idea. National annoy your girlfriend by not telling her where you’re taking her day?” She jabbed.
“Not quite,” Hange snickered, “Today is actually the anniversary of the day we first met,”
Looking at Hange with shock, Pieck shook her head again.
“Darling, either you’re going senile, or I am, because I’m positive we first met after the rumbling started,” She replied in confusion.
“Well, maybe as humans, but we did indeed meet today for the first time. Ten years ago in Shiganshina. Remember when you grabbed Reiner from some scouts then rushed off?” Hange asked with a smile.
Pieck pondered again, then had a look of realization.
“No way. That was you?” She replied in awe.
Hange nodded admittingly. Though she really had no idea, Pieck felt a twinge of guilt for not noticing or remembering. Her smile faltered so briefly that it would normally go unnoticed, but not to her partner, who saw right through her.
“Mhm!” Hange grinned, “And I’m actually glad you didn’t remember, because that makes my tangent far more interesting,” Their reassurance relieved Pieck immediately.
As Hange went on to retell, in intensely dramatic detail, exactly how their first meeting occurred, Pieck felt herself slipping into a pure contentment. Hange often had that effect on her. She could listen to them talk for hours and never tire of hearing them speak. She found their voice to be both calming and captivating. Pieck hardly noticed Hange had asked her something amidst her loving stupor.
“Did I lose you, doll?” Hange chuckled, obviously a bit nervous they’d bored her.
Pieck immediately shook her head and leaned her head into their arm as they kept walking on.
“No, not at all. It’s just something about listening to you that puts me in a trance, it seems,” She replied softly.
Hange squeezed Pieck’s hand close to them, sighing slightly.
“I could say the same to you,” They hummed.
The walk continued as the couple took their time up the trail. Pieck was happily chatting about recent stories from work, while Hange listened contently. Though she was known by most for being soft-spoken and calm, there was a far more extroverted, talkative side to Pieck that only surfaced around Hange. Even Pieck herself never realized how much she enjoyed conversation, not until they gave her the confidence to. Hange occasionally would point out random woodland flora and fauna to tell Pieck about, and happily babbled about their various facts. Although this was typical for them, something Hange's cadence seemed different suddenly. Whether it was their speech, their behavior, or the inclination that this was no usual date, Pieck noticed Hange was beginning to seem nervous. That was hardly a common occurrence. Though she wanted to pick their brain regarding the circumstances of this date and their increasingly odd behavior, Pieck resolved to let those answers come naturally. Hange was the person she trusted and loved above anyone else. As curious as she was, Pieck was equally happy to be surprised by whatever Hange had planned.
-
Just as the small box in their coat pocket was beginning to burn a hole through their side, Hange noticed the trail sign displaying the words “Scenic Overlook Ahead”. The lookout was coming up. This was it, the most important thing they’d ever done. All the battles, all the treaties, they all felt so simple now. War suddenly seemed less daunting. It made sense to be nervous, but for all their nerves Hange feared the moment wouldn’t be as perfect as they’d hoped.
A slight turn in the path brought the lookout into full view, and Hange heard a small gasp emanate from Pieck. She’d never been here before, so hopefully the surprise of the view would allow for even more ambience. Hange smiled slightly as they continued towards it.
“The view from there is something else, wanna check it out?” They offered, as if it was even an option.
Pieck nodded and sped up her pace, pulling Hange along. The trees quickly subsided, leaving the open view of the trail lookout, and the range of mountains spanning in front of it. As soon as she reached the clearing, Pieck stopped abruptly and stared at the scenery in front of her, mouth completely agape. Hange stood next to her, stealing glances of her reaction.
“Not bad, huh?” Hange crowed.
Shaking her head, Pieck silently stepped towards the fence of the lookout cliff. Below them was a vast forest of pine trees spanning beneath the mountains, and a river snaking through the trees that still ran free despite the cold. Pieck stood admiring the view in utter amazement, but Hange couldn’t pull their gaze from her. Her inky hair shimmered against the pale snow around them, and the sparkle her gray eyes housed was twinkling brightly. She was astonishing, and Hange was grateful this view had invoked the reaction they were hoping for. Time for the next phase.
“This place, this overlook, is pretty special to me,” Hange began, causing Pieck to turn to them and listen intently, “I used to come here a lot as a kid, with my grandmother actually. She and I would hike up here for picnics and stay until sundown. It was so nice. We’d play card games, draw pictures of the mountains, and best of all, she’d tell me stories as the sun set,”
As Hange spoke, Pieck shuffled closer to them and wrapped her hands in their’s gently. They were already getting incredibly vulnerable, and her touch nearly made them cry. Still, Hange continued.
“One story has stuck with me for a long time. She once told me that if you come to these mountains, and tell them your greatest wish, that they’d help make it come true. Ever since then, when I had an important decision to make, I’d come to this same lookout, and ask the mountains for help. It sounds silly, I’m sure, but every time I asked them for help, things always seemed to work out,” Hange smiled.
Pieck placed a hand on their side while giggling at their remark, but her smile quickly faded upon feeling how hard Hange was breathing. They hadn’t even noticed themself, their nerves and the cold were practically numbing every part of their body. Pieck looked up at them with concern, cupping their cheek in her hand. Hange quickly took her hand and kissed it reassuringly.
“I’m fine, sweet girl. Promise,” They chuckled, shaking their head. Fine seemed like a blatant lie. Their chest felt ready to explode, but Hange would stop at nothing to see this through.
“I wanted to bring you here because there’s something I have to ask both you and the mountains today, if that’s alright,” Hange uttered softly.
It was almost impossible to fully look Pieck in the eyes now, they were far too terrified. With a gentle squeeze of their hands, Pieck pulled Hange’s gaze back to her. She was tearing up. Hange’s eyes widened as they instinctively fumbled in their pockets for their handkerchief. They had no intention of making her upset. Had they already messed up that badly? Just as they were about to pull the cloth from their coat, Pieck took Hange’s hand back into her grip. Hange met her gaze again, only to find her smiling and shaking her head.
“Keep going,” She implored softly.
Confused, Hange shook their head slightly, not fully comprehending Pieck’s reaction to be one of joy versus apathy.
“Hange darling,” Pieck whispered, “Keep talking,”
A request from Pieck was something Hange would never deny. They nodded, feeling their own emotions swelling now. If she knew where this was going, but still told them to continue, perhaps Hange was in the clear now. Smiling, they held her hands tighter.
“Pieck. My darling girl, my angel, my soulmate,” Hange spoke clearly now, their fear evaporating with each word, “We met under the most unimaginable circumstances, but the way you have captivated me since then is something I never intend to lose. Everything about you amazes me. You’re the most beautiful, intelligent, and incredible person I’ve ever known. Every day I wake up next to you is like I’m living in some perfect dream. Honestly, I don’t know what I’ve done to deserve you, but if you’d give me the chance, I want to spend the rest of our lives proving how much I love you,” Hange’s hand drifted into their pocket as they sunk to one knee in front of Pieck.
The box felt lighter than air as Hange pulled it out and opened it, revealing a stunning silver engagement ring that glistened against the snow around them.
“You’re my entire world, sweetheart. The moon, stars, and sun in my sky. I love you more than anything. So I want to ask; Pieck Finger, my love, my light, my everything, will you marry me?” Hange asked, the question of all questions echoing in the silence around them.
Tears fell freely from both of the pair’s eyes now. Pieck’s hands covered her mouth to stifle the joyful near-sobs that were trying to escape her. Hange couldn’t help but laugh with tearful giddiness themself. As soon as she could, Pieck nodded repeatedly as she lowered her hands from her face, holding the important one down to Hange.
“Yes! Yes, of course!” Pieck choked through her happy tears.
Hange carefully removed the ring and slid it on the finger they’d been dying to place it on for ages. As soon as they had, they quickly stood and swept Pieck into a passionate embrace. She kissed them tenderly as they lifted her into their arms. Pieck continued peppering their face with kisses as Hange laughed happily, twirling around with her through the snow. Pieck Finger’s ring finger now had a beautiful reminder that she and Hange were life partners. It made Hange grin just catching glances of it as Pieck cupped their cheeks to kiss them again.
“I love you so much, Han,” Pieck grinned, tears still streaming down her face.
Hugging her tightly, Hange ran their hand down Pieck’s hair and closed their eyes contently. This had gone even more magical than they had expected.
“I love you too, darling. Thank you for loving me the way you do,” They replied softly.
Pieck looked up and ran a hand over Hange’s face, causing them to look at her too.
“It’s the easiest thing in the world,” She sighed happily, “I can’t wait to do it forever,”
Hange kissed Pieck softly once more, then set her down in front of them slowly. Still keeping her close with one arm around her waist, Hange turned to the outlook and smiled slightly.
“I wanted to ask you here because I really do believe the mountains out there help make your greatest desires come true. Now I’m sure they’ll be with us every step of the way. After all, I asked them to help me propose to you today,” They smiled knowingly.
Pieck looked up at Hange with a wide-eyed grin.
“Did you? Well then, thank you, mountains!” She giggled, “And thank you, my love, for everything today. This couldn’t have been a more perfect day,”
Hange shook their head, gazing out at the scenery with their fiancé cuddled to them. This whole experience felt entirely surreal. Hange wished this moment would never end, they were more than happy to stand here for eternity. They kissed the top of Pieck’s head, happily stealing glances at the ring they wished they’d placed on her ages ago.
“Don’t mention it, beautiful. As long as you forgive me for doing this when it’s so cold out,” Hange quipped down to her.
“Hmm, let me think,” Pieck snickered before staring down at her ring for a moment, “Yeah, I think we’re good!” She smiled widely at Hange, who pulled her in closer to them with a happy sigh.
“Mhm, we’re good,” They remarked into the cold air.