Retrieving Footsteps [Levi x Reader]

Phase two

Shortly after the demonstration, we were ushered into the conference room, where the higher-ups had gathered to discuss the future of the crystal project. The atmosphere was tense, and I could feel everyone's anticipation—each of us was holding our breath, waiting to hear if our work had truly impressed the powers that be.

Levi took his place at the head of the table, his expression calm but alert, his gaze sweeping over each of us before settling on the line of stern-looking officials. Hange, Eren, Mikasa, and Armin sat nearby, their expressions a mix of pride and nerves. I took my seat next to Levi, feeling the weight of both excitement and anxiety.

One of the officials, a tall man with a sharp gaze, cleared his throat. "The work your team has done is impressive, Captain Levi," he began, his tone measured. "You've given us something promising, a potential edge that we hadn't anticipated."

Another official leaned forward, a hint of skepticism in his eyes. "But there's more to this than just the demonstration. Developing weapons is one thing; integrating them into the battlefield is another. These crystal weapons... Are they practical? Will they hold up in real combat?"

Levi's eyes narrowed slightly. "We've tested them under the closest conditions possible," he replied, his voice low and unyielding. "Every weapon has shown its durability and effectiveness. But if you're still unsure, allow us to continue testing in controlled combat settings."

Hange chimed in, her enthusiasm barely contained. "Actually, we have plans for a series of field tests—simulated battles. The more data we gather, the more we can adapt and refine each weapon to maximize its effectiveness."

The officials exchanged glances, nodding slightly as they considered Hange's words. One of them finally turned to me. "And you, (Y/N)," he said, his tone scrutinizing. "This project has been largely driven by your design and calculations. Are you confident this will deliver the results we're looking for?"

I felt Levi's presence beside me, a steadying force, and I took a deep breath. "I am confident, sir. Every detail, every piece of data we've gathered has led to this point. I believe these weapons can not only stand up to the Titans but give our soldiers a fighting chance to turn the tide of this war."

The official raised an eyebrow, seemingly impressed with my determination. He turned to the others, nodding. "Then we will grant your team permission for further field testing. But understand this: failure is not an option. We're putting considerable resources into this, and we expect results."

Levi's jaw tightened. "Understood. We won't disappoint."

As the officials stood up to leave, one of them approached Levi and whispered something I couldn't catch. Levi's expression didn't change, but there was a hardness in his eyes when the official moved away. Once they had all exited, leaving us alone, Levi turned back to the team, crossing his arms.

"Looks like we're officially on for phase two," he said, his tone clipped yet satisfied. "We'll conduct field simulations, gather any data needed, and prepare to make adjustments. But remember, we've set the bar high. From this point on, it's all or nothing."

A wave of excitement rippled through the team. Armin and Hange were already exchanging notes, discussing possible strategies. Eren cracked his knuckles, ready for action, and Mikasa nodded, her expression focused and determined.

Levi gave a faint, approving smile, and his eyes met mine briefly. "You heard them," he said quietly. "We move forward—and we don't look back."