Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Forged in Fire

Later that afternoon, after the "broccoli incident" had finally been resolved (with (Y/N) grudgingly agreeing to eat at least one piece under Levi's watchful eye), the group gathered outside in the training grounds. The air was charged with anticipation as everyone stood around, inspecting the newly-crafted weapons they'd worked so hard to bring to life. Sunlight glinted off the crystal-enhanced blades, casting a faint shimmer that hinted at the weapon's true potential.

(Y/N) held the prototype blade in her hands, the weight feeling just right. After days of designing and refining, this was the moment they'd all been waiting for: the first real test. She glanced at Levi, who stood nearby with his usual impassive expression, though his eyes betrayed a spark of interest. He nodded in silent approval, a small sign that he trusted her work.

Eren clenched his fists, eyes blazing with excitement. "I can't believe it's finally ready! We're going to show them what we can do. I've never felt this confident going into a fight."

Armin adjusted his glasses, a proud smile breaking his usual calm demeanor. "All of this hard work... it's finally paying off. If the crystal holds up as we expect, this could give us a real advantage."

Mikasa, standing beside (Y/N), nodded quietly, inspecting the sharp edge of the blade. Her expression was focused, her eyes sharp as she imagined how she could wield this new weapon in battle. "This is good work, (Y/N). It's compact, but I can already tell it's going to be effective."

Hange bounced over, practically vibrating with enthusiasm as they peered over (Y/N)'s shoulder. "Look at that beauty! Just think of the possibilities! This blade could cut through Titan flesh, maybe even harder materials. Oh, I've got so many ideas for future prototypes—just imagine what we could do with more crystal!"

Levi crossed his arms, his gaze shifting from (Y/N) to the rest of the team. "Enough chatter. You've all had a hand in making this, but now it's time to see if it holds up where it counts. No fancy maneuvers, no overthinking. We keep it simple, and we observe."

The team nodded, the weight of his words grounding their excitement. Levi's tone was even, but there was a rare hint of encouragement in his voice, like he wanted them to succeed as much as they did.

(Y/N) took a deep breath, raising the blade and gripping it firmly. She looked to her friends, their faces a mix of pride and eagerness, and then to Levi, who gave her a subtle nod. This was it.

As she took the first swing, the blade whistled through the air with a precision and sharpness that felt exhilarating. Eren and Mikasa moved in tandem with their own blades, testing angles and strikes, their movements flowing with practiced ease. Even Armin, who wasn't typically one for physical combat, couldn't help but take a swing, grinning when the weapon held steady in his grip.

Hange clapped their hands together, practically bouncing with excitement. "It's a success! Oh, Levi, just imagine the field tests we can do. This could change everything!"