In The Eyes of A Stranger [Levi Ackerman x Reader]

Chapter 8: A New Horizon

Later in the week, you joined Eren, Mikasa and Armin in the barracks, all of you focused on the upcoming regiment selection tests.

"I'm nervous," Armin admitted, fidgeting with his notes.

"You'll do fine," Eren reassured him. "We've trained for this."

You looked around at other cadets, aiming for the top to enlist in the military police. You and your friends didn't share their determination. The Scout Regiment was your goal, the only way to truly make a difference.

The day of the tests arrived, and the cadets gathered at the training grounds. The instructors explained the ranking system: a series of physical and tactical challenges that would push you to your limits.

You steeled yourself, ready to face whatever lay ahead. This was it — your chance to prove yourself, to join the Scout Regiment, and to change the course of your world.

As you took your places among the other cadets, Levi's words echoed in your mind: "You'll make a good soldier." You knew that no matter what challenges lay ahead, you'd face them head on, fueled by your determination and the secret promise you shared with Levi.

---

The tests concluded, and the cadets gathered anxiously for the announcement of rankings. Your heart raced as Commander Erwin stepped forward, a stern expression on his face. He began to go down the list.

"The following cadets have demonstrated exceptional skill and strategy," he began. "Armin Arlert, 10th rank, Eren Yeager, 5th rank, (Y/N) (L/N), 2nd rank, Mikasa Ackerman, 1st rank."

You exchanged proud smiles with your friends, relief washing over you.

The grand hall echoed with laugher and cheers as the newly trained soldiers celebrated their completion. You sat alongside Eren, Mikasa and Armin, enjoying the warmth and camaraderie.

As you raised your cup in a toast, your mind wandered to Levi. You wondered where he was, what dangers he faced on the expedition. A flutter in your chest accompanied the thought.

One of the soldiers broke into your thoughts. "To new beginnings!"

You smiled, clinking cups with your friends. The festivities continued, but your thoughts drifted back to Levi.

Why did he choose to train you? What did he see in you? These questions rotated in your head endlessly every day. You recalled the intensity in his eyes, the way his gaze lingered on yours.

You became lost in thought, your mind drifting back to a conversation with Levi during one of your secret training sessions.

"Assuming you're joining the Scout Regiment, I've been tailoring our training to focus on agility and strategy," Levi said, his eyes narrowing as he observed your movements.

You paused, intrigued. "You assumed I'd join the Scouts?"

Levi's expression turned thoughtful, a rare sight. "I did. Your skills and determination... it seemed logical. But perhaps I shouldn't have assumed."

His gaze locked onto yours, searching for confirmation.

You smiled, keeping your answer concise. "You weren't wrong. This is why I'm here."

Levi's mask slipped, revealing a flicker of satisfaction. His eyes crinkled at the corners, ever so slightly.

"I see," he said, his voice low. "Good."

The conversation had ended there, but the memory lingered. You sensed Levi's investment in your decision, his desire to see you thrive in the Scouts.

As you reflected on that moment, you realized Levi's stoic facade hid a depth of emotion. He genuinely wanted to help you grow, to prepare you for the challenges ahead.

A warmth spread through your chest, knowing you'd made the right choice — for yourself and for Levi's unspoken expectations.

"Tomorrow," you whispered to yourself, "I'll officially join the Scout Regiment. And Levi will be watching, from afar."

The thought sent a shiver down your spine, a mix of excitement and trepidation.

As the night wore on, the hall grew quieter, the celebration winding down. You excused yourself, stepping outside into the cool night air.

The stars twinkled above, and for a moment, you felt a connection to Levi, as if the same stars shone down on him. You whispered a silent wish:

"Come back to me, safe and sound."

~

Levi stood atop a rocky landscape, gazing out at the darkness. The expedition had been grueling, but his mind wasn't on the Titans — it was on her.

He recalled their final training session, her determination burning brighter than ever. Joining the Scouts would be a crucible, but he had faith in her. And something more...

A faint smile creased his face, a rare sight. He'd never felt this... pull before. This desire to protect, to be near her.

"Leviii!!!" Hange's voice called out from below.

Levi descended, his expression neutral once more. "Report."

As Hange briefed him on their findings, Levi's thoughts lingered on the young soldier. Her strength, her courage... and her smile.

For the first time in years, Levi felt vulnerable. He'd built walls around his heart, but she'd slipped past them, silently claiming a piece of him.

The darkness seemed less daunting with the thought of her waiting back home.

---

The next day, you and your friends reported to the wall's maintenance crew, tasked with repairing worn sections, and tending to the cannons. As you worked, the breathtaking view of the surrounding landscape stretched before you.

Lost in thought, you gazed out at the horizon, Levi's parting words echoing in your mind.

Mikasa gave a slight smile to you all, calling out. "We'll be joining the Scouts tomorrow!"

Armin grinned. "We did it. We're one step closer to reclaiming Wall Maria."

Eren's eyes burned with determination. "We'll make a difference, together."

Your thoughts drifted back to Levi, wondering what he was doing, and thinking about right now.

Suddenly, a deafening roar shook the ground beneath your feet. The Colossal Titan emerged from the distance, its massive form casting a dark shadow over the landscape.

Gasps and screams erupted all around and below you. The world seemed to freeze.

"What... how is this possible?" Eren stuttered.

The Colossals appearance shattered the fragile sense of security you'd built. Tomorrow's induction into the Scout Regiment now seemed like a daunting, perilous journey.

Yet, amidst the chaos, a spark within you ignited. You steeled yourself, ready to face whatever lay ahead, alongside your friends and the Scout Regiment.

Levi's face flashed in your mind, his hidden emotions a mystery waiting to be unraveled.

The fate of humanity hung in the balance. Your journey was about to begin.