A little death [Levi Ackerman x OFC]

Chapter 8: You Have Beautiful Eyes

The dining hall of the Survey Corps headquarters was alive with activity, filled with the sound of clattering plates, raucous laughter, and the murmur of conversations. Long wooden tables stretched across the room, crowded with soldiers who had gathered to unwind. The scent of roasted potatoes and freshly baked bread mingled with the bitter tang of ale, creating an atmosphere that felt strangely comforting.

Kaia entered the hall beside Captain Levi, her eyes scanning the room as they walked. Soldiers turned their heads, curiosity evident in their expressions as they glanced her way, whispering amongst themselves. She kept her gaze forward, her posture straight, determined to maintain her composure. Stay focused, she reminded herself. First impressions matter.

Levi's presence seemed to act as a shield, warding off any immediate approach. They weaved through the tables until they reached a group seated near the end of the hall. She recognized Petra from earlier—a warm, inviting presence. Beside her sat two other soldiers: one, a tall man with an air of confidence, and the other, a leaner figure with sharp features and an easy smile.

"Kaia, meet your squad," Levi said, gesturing to the group. "This is Petra, Oruo, and Eld."

Petra's eyes lit up as she extended a hand. "Welcome again, Kaia. We're glad to have you."

Kaia shook her hand, her expression polite, though her posture remained reserved. "Thank you. It's good to be here."

Oruo leaned back in his chair with a knowing smirk. "So, you're the one the Commander brought in early, huh? Must've done something impressive."

Before Kaia could respond, Eld nudged him with an exaggerated roll of his eyes. "Easy, Oruo. Don't scare her off before she's even had a chance to sit down."

Kaia met Oruo's eyes, raising an eyebrow slightly before allowing a small smile to tug at the corner of her lips. "Can't scare me off that easily," she said coolly, sliding into her seat. "I'll do my best to live up to expectations."

Levi remained silent, though his intense gaze flickered briefly over her before he motioned for the squad to settle in. Kaia took her place between Petra and Eld, adjusting to the rhythm of the group. The camaraderie was evident—banter and easy conversation flowed around her, punctuated by laughter and the clink of mugs. The bonds they had formed over years of shared experiences were clear, and Kaia couldn't help but feel like an outsider despite their welcome.

Petra leaned in slightly as they ate, her voice kind but curious. "You must be excited," she remarked, her tone light. "Joining Levi's squad is no small thing. We're a close-knit team."

Kaia nodded. "It's an honor," she replied, keeping her voice even. "I've heard a lot about the squad." Her eyes flicked briefly to Levi, who was engaged in a conversation with Oruo, though she caught the way he glanced in her direction occasionally. She quickly shifted her focus back to Petra. "You seem like a strong unit."

"We are," Petra said with a soft smile, though her gaze momentarily drifted toward Levi as well. There was a subtle tension in her shoulders—something unspoken. She turned back to Kaia, her expression more guarded. "But we also look out for each other, inside and outside of missions."

Kaia could sense the weight of Petra's words, feeling the sincerity behind them. "I understand."

As the meal progressed, the atmosphere grew livelier. Mugs of ale were passed around, toasts were raised, and laughter echoed across the hall. Eld poured Kaia a generous amount, offering her a lighthearted nod. "Come on, Kaia. It's tradition for new recruits. You've got to have at least one drink with us."

Kaia hesitated, eyeing the mug warily. "I'm not much of a drinker," she admitted, pushing it away slightly.

Oruo chuckled, raising his own mug. "One drink won't do any harm. It's good luck."