Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Rising Above

After a few days of careful collaboration, the moment we had all been working toward had finally arrived. Eren, Armin, and I gathered in the lab, surrounded by the remnants of our brainstorming sessions and the remnants of our experiments. The lab was abuzz with energy, excitement palpable in the air as we prepared to unveil our perfected prototype of the crystal.

"I can't believe we made it this far!" Armin said, a wide grin stretching across his face. "All those late nights and endless calculations were worth it!"

"Yeah, I just hope this thing actually works," Eren added, his brow furrowing slightly. "What if it explodes or something? We'd be in serious trouble."

"Stop being such a worrywart, Eren," I said, rolling my eyes playfully. "We've tested the individual components thoroughly. This prototype is solid."

"Solid, huh? That's reassuring," Eren said, smirking but still looking skeptical.

"Let's just focus," I urged, pulling up the schematics we had been refining on the screen. "We've done all the calculations, and now it's time to see it in action. Ready?"

"Ready!" Armin exclaimed, adjusting his glasses with a determined look.

"Let's do this," Eren said, clenching his fists, excitement mixing with nervous energy.

With a shared glance, we moved to the workbench where the prototype sat—a sleek, shimmering crystal encapsulated within a containment chamber, wires and devices connecting it to our equipment. I took a deep breath, my heart racing with anticipation as I initiated the power sequence.

"Activating the prototype in three... two... one..." I said, my voice steady despite the flutter of nerves in my stomach.

As I flipped the switch, the crystal glowed brightly, light radiating outward in a mesmerizing display. I could feel the energy pulsing through the room, and I glanced at Armin and Eren, their faces lit up with awe.

"Look at that!" Armin exclaimed, eyes wide. "The reaction is stable!"

"It's beautiful," Eren said, leaning closer to inspect the crystal. "I can't believe we actually did it!"

The prototype hummed with energy, and I carefully adjusted the dials, ensuring the output remained within safe parameters. The crystal pulsed rhythmically, and as I watched it, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. All our hard work had led to this moment.

Suddenly, the lab door swung open, and Hange rushed in, her wild hair bouncing. "What's happening in here? I heard something about a prototype!"

"Perfect timing, Hange!" I called out, gesturing to the crystal. "We just activated it!"

Hange's eyes widened as she took in the sight. "No way! This is incredible!" She rushed over to join us, practically vibrating with excitement. "I can't believe you guys actually did it! Can I touch it?"