Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Steel and Cristal

N/A highly recommend to listen to warriors - imagine dragon while reading

After throwing yet another party to celebrate the final prototype of the crystal, we can finally move on to the next phase: creating weapons to attack and defend for the army. Now that we're actually starting the process of weaponizing the crystal, others who were interested from the beginning—those who share our drive for innovation and our desire to defend humanity—are eager to join me, Armin, and Eren.

Mikasa, her expression as unreadable as always, appears at our side with quiet confidence. She may not say much, but I can sense her commitment. She's here to protect Eren and everyone she cares about. Armin, his mind already running through strategies, is quietly analyzing the potential uses and limitations of each design. His gaze is sharp and calculating; he understands that every choice we make now will determine the lives that will be saved—or lost—on the battlefield.

Eren's energy is almost palpable. He's driven, a fierce determination simmering in his eyes, as he envisions the possibilities these weapons might bring. To him, this is one more step toward freedom, a chance to ensure humanity can finally fight back against any threat.

With our group expanding, the room fills with tension and purpose. We know what's at stake. This isn't just about creating weapons—it's about survival, justice, and the chance to finally take control of our future.

As we gather around the table covered in blueprints, metal scraps, and sketches, Levi stands at the edge, his arms crossed, observing silently. His sharp eyes flicker over each design with an intensity that makes everyone straighten up, aware that a single mistake will not go unnoticed.

"Let's get one thing clear," Levi's voice cuts through the room, cold and unwavering. "This isn't some school project or an excuse to play with toys. If these weapons can't kill effectively, they're worthless."

Everyone feels the weight of his words. Levi's not one to sugarcoat anything, and he's not about to start now. He's here for results, nothing less. His presence alone keeps us grounded—he's fought battles we can barely imagine, so his approval is more than a compliment; it's a mark of trust and respect.

Hange, as always, brings a spark of excitement, bordering on madness. They eagerly point out the potential uses of the crystal for each weapon design, rattling off possibilities at a pace that almost no one can keep up with. But there's brilliance in that chaos—Hange has a vision that none of us can quite grasp but are drawn to nonetheless.

Armin interjects cautiously, trying to temper Hange's enthusiasm with practicality. "The crystal's energy output is still unpredictable," he notes, adjusting his glasses. "We need to ensure we're not compromising safety for power. If these weapons backfire..."

"Then we're all dead anyway," Eren finishes, a steely look in his eyes. "But if we hold back, we'll never break through the enemy lines. We need something strong enough to turn the tide." He clenches his fist, clearly envisioning battles that haven't yet begun.

Mikasa's gaze shifts between Eren and the plans, her jaw set with quiet determination. "Then let's make it happen. Whatever it takes."

As we continue refining the designs, a silent understanding fills the room. This is more than just a project or a new line of defense. It's a chance to turn our hope into something tangible—a weapon that can finally give humanity an edge against its enemies. With every adjustment, every idea shared, and every plan laid, the goal becomes clearer.

We're not just building weapons. We're creating a future.

(Y/N) was already at work, sketching out blueprints for the first weapon prototype on a worn, makeshift desk under the dim glow of a single lamp. Fingers covered in ink, they moved swiftly over the paper, bringing the rough concept to life—something compact, sharp, and effective. The idea was a blade with crystal-enhanced edges, designed to cut through the toughest armor. It had potential. But, of course, they'd need to make it practical for soldiers to use on the frontlines.