Let me tell you our story. It revolves around a family that has served as tailors to a specific royal family, hence we call ourselves "The Schneider."
According to our parents, we were under their control for a hundred years until the Great Titan Strife began, also known as the Civil War among the Eldians. The war was brought to an end when Helos slew the Devil, as the people from different lands claim. During that time, the king of that era, Karl Fritz, cowardly retreated to an island known as Paradis Island or the Island of Devils. He took along with him the chosen commoners, nobles, and royals, leaving the rest of the world behind.
For the rest of the Eldians stranded on the mainland of Eldia, Marley took control of the continent. What's more, they are treated poorly or even worse, turned into Titans against their will to fight on behalf of Marley. Some of them are even sent to Paradis Island as a form of punishment.
Except for the 'Schneider' family, who were never Eldians to begin with, but rather Marleyans. They managed to conceal their true background for a hundred years until now.
In the year 835, I, Henry Schneider, was born in Marley and I'm five years old. I consider myself fortunate to be born a Marleyan. Before my birth, I already had two older brothers who were not only geniuses but also kind-hearted towards the Marleyans. They, along with the other Eldians, were often referred to as the "spawns of devils."
It all seemed peculiar to me. Whenever my brothers and I went for a walk, they were not treated with the same hostility as other Marleyans. Instead, they were treated with humanity. On one occasion, while we were at the park, I noticed my second oldest brother, Grendel, engaging in a warm conversation with an Eldian woman. It struck me as unusual, considering the common perception of Eldians among the Marleyan population.
??? Eldian: I'm glad to hear that you see me that way. It makes me feel happy.
Grendel: Please don't cry. I believe that it doesn't matter what you are; what truly matters is who you are as a person.
The woman shed a few tears upon hearing my brother's words. They exchanged warm smiles in the park, sharing a moment of understanding and connection.
??? Eldian: Thank you. Maybe we could have dinner at our home sometime?
Grendel: That would be nice... But the policy of maintaining connections with Eldians could bring great harm to our family. I can't take that risk.
??? Eldian: I'm sorry for asking. I understand.
A somber atmosphere enveloped them as they both recognized the potential consequences of their interaction. The strict policies enforced by the Marleyans could bring misery upon them if they were to break those rules.
Grendel: Cheer up! Soon me and my brother gonna make a biggest change that will turn the time we live in.
??? Eldian: Yes yes I knew your a scientist, finding ways to cure this disease that you called ' Titanization' hehe.
Grendel: What is so funny being a scientist?
??? Eldian: No, it was an admiration you go to school at the same time you are a scientist I can already see you can make that change.
My brother blushed slightly while talking fondly to the Eldian girl. It was evident that he held deep admiration for her. Not to mention, she was a striking beauty, with blond hair cut straight with bangs, shoulder-length hair, and captivating teal-colored eyes. It seemed that he had shared his dream with her - a dream to find a cure for Eldians, preventing them from transforming into the colossal creatures known as Titans. I could only stand in awe of his heartfelt sentiments towards the Eldians, and it became apparent that his connection with her played a significant role in his desire to help them despite his introverted nature.
*RING*
At dawn, a bell rang, summoning all Eldians back to their internment zone for confinement, effectively separating them from their homes and the outside world once again.
??? Eldian: Grendel, I have to go now, or I'll face severe consequences. I wish we had more time together.
Grendel: I understand. It's difficult, but we must abide by the rules. Until we meet again, take care.
The two of them nodded and bid their goodbyes, aware of the forbidden feelings that blossomed between them. Despite the challenges they faced, Grendel's unwavering determination left a glimmer of hope. Deep down, they both believed that someday, somehow, Grendel would find a way to break through the walls that separated them, allowing their feelings to flourish freely.
Grendel walked towards me with a joyful hum, a smug expression on his face.
Henry: Big Bro, who is she?
Grendel: She is my friend, Riza.
Henry: Aren't you bothered by the fact that she's an Eldian?
SMACK
Grendel punched my head and scolded me for my prejudiced views towards Riza.
Henry: Ow, what was that for?
Grendel: That's for your discriminatory views towards her.
Henry: I didn't mean it in a bad way.
Grendel: I know, but it's important to be mindful of our words and attitudes. Let it serve as a reminder.
Seriously, I am well aware of the indoctrination that takes place through history lessons. However, I refuse to let it affect me. I was raised to be just and fair towards all fellow humans, regardless of their ancestral background. I believe in treating individuals based on their character and actions rather than judging them solely based on their lineage.
Grendel: We need to go home now. Our oldest brother is coming back from his political campaign for a while.
Henry: Really?!
My eyes lit up with excitement upon hearing the news of my brother's return from work.
A few minutes later, we reached our cozy little home where we all lived together. Our parents were buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting the arrival of our older brother. We couldn't contain our own anticipation and eagerly joined in the anticipation for his return.
Mother Schneider: Boys, could you please set the plates on the kitchen table?
Henry/Grendel: Yes, of course!
Mother Schneider: Thank you, kids.
Father Schneider: I've brought some special beverages from the market, especially for me.
Mother glared at Father as she understood his implications. Meanwhile, we continued preparing our food, eagerly awaiting our brother's arrival. Just then, the door swung open, and there stood our brother, finally home.
??? 1st Brother: Are we all just going to stand here like statues? Come on, give your big brother a proper welcome!
Wearing a business suit, he exaggeratedly opened his arms wide, posing dramatically. Without missing a beat, we playfully lunged at him, delivering a barrage of light punches and playful hits. Laughter filled the room as we indulged in our playful sibling antics, showing our excitement and affection for our returning brother. It was good to have him back and immerse ourselves in some much-needed family humor.
Grendel: After all these months without sending a single letter, you still have the audacity to crack jokes?
Henry: Gnaw Do you realize how worried we were, waiting for at least one letter from you to make sure you were okay, Herbert? Gnaw
Herbert: I get it! I get it! Just stop beating me up and give me a break before I even settle in!
We continued playfully bickering and roughhousing, until our mother stormed in, delivering swift retribution by giving each of us a well-deserved whooping on our backsides. The pain made us stop in our tracks, and we groaned in both protest and submission.
Grendel: It seems like things haven't changed much for us over these past years, huh?
Henry: You said it.
Herbert: Really?
Henry/Grendel/Herbert: Pfttttt... HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA....
Mother Schneider: Sigh You boys really do get along well, don't you?
As the three of us laughed together, our mother couldn't help but sigh happily, witnessing her children being complete and enjoying this precious time together. It was a moment of pure joy and warmth.
Mother Schneider: Now, now, everyone, let's gather around the table and enjoy our meal together. We have a lot to catch up on.
Henry/Grendel/Herbert: Nodded
The whole family settled around the table, eagerly anticipating the delicious meal. My brother, the ingenious inventor and politician, had created remarkable inventions like the refrigerator and dishwasher. And boy we couldn't be more grateful for his innovations, especially Grendel and me, as we despised doing the dishes. It was a small blessing that made our everyday chores a little easier.
Herbert's decision to enter the world of politics during a time of brewing conflict across the world was driven by the same reason that motivated Grendel, his deep empathy for the mistreatment of Eldians. Witnessing the cruel treatment inflicted upon innocent Eldian children, who were treated as nothing more than playthings or reminders of past sins, deeply disturbed him.
He couldn't bear to see their suffering go unaddressed, and he believed that through politics, he could work towards creating a fair and just society, where discrimination and prejudice had no place. It was his heartfelt desire to bring about positive change and ensure a better future for all, regardless of their bloodline.
Henry: I need to go to the bathroom.
Grendel: Make sure you flush properly this time.
Henry: I WILL.
I was finished doing things in the bathroom till I hid behind a door listening to their gloomy conversation about Herberts affairs.
Herbert: Father, it seems they are not willing to accept my proposed ideas.
Father Schneider: I'm not surprised. The officials and leaders of Marley are obsessed with sending their warriors to that island, stealing the Founder to bolster our military strength.
Herbert: But this plan is too hasty. It could provoke the king and lead to catastrophic consequences, even endangering our own lives.
Father Schneider: Not all Marleyans think like you three. You boys have always been open-minded, seeing things from a positive and just perspective.
Grendel: Dad, these Eldians of today shouldn't be held accountable for the sins of their ancestors. We can't continue to perpetuate this cycle of hatred.
Herbert: Grendel is right. We can't pass down the sins of the past onto innocent newborns in this world.
Listening to their conversation filled me with a sense of awe. They genuinely wanted to change the relationship between Eldians and Marleyans. However, I couldn't help but agree with my father. As long as people hold onto the grievances of the past, it will be challenging to break free from this cycle of hatred and prejudice.
Father Schneider: ENOUGH... Look, I can't do anything about it right now because of my position as an official. But I do agree with what you're saying, still...
Herbert: Still what, Father? Doing nothing? Our morals may differ from other Marleyans, but I can't stand to see them treating Eldians like broken dogs!
Grendel: Herbert, calm down...
Herbert: I lost someone I loved. She was an Eldian. Since I was fifteen years old, I witnessed her brutal murder under a tree. I had to avert my eyes to avoid being accused of treason.
Mother Schneider: Herbert, please stop.
Father and Herbert continued to shout at each other, while Grendel tried his best to calm Herbert down. The conversation became heated and complex as Herbert expressed his deep pain and desire to change the cruel world they lived in.
(A/N: SEE you next week I'll do 2500 word next time.)
Creation is hard, cheer me up!
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