Beyond These Walls (Levi x Reader)

Reunion is Only the Beginning

Levi's P.O.V

Erwin stalks to my side and places an empathetic hand on my shoulder. His grip is menacing as it stabilizes my trembling frame. "There is still time. Have a Cadet return to Wall Rose and seek medical aid from the Garrison. Then, return to my side. Your talents will be needed." He commands with unfaltering determination. In an abrupt upheaval, I wrap (f/n) in my arms and bound towards the stationed horses. When I arrive, Cadet Blouse rushes to my aid in panic. I thrust (f/n) into her arms, causing her to stumble backwards from the sheer velocity of my unparalleled rage.

"Retreat to the Garrison and seek medical attention." I seethe through my sharpened fangs. The growl of a deranged beast escapes my fiery throat. "If anything happens to her, then I will have you ripped limb from limb and for the first time YOU will be the meal." Her pupils pulse back and forth in terror at my constitution. She salutes me wearily and mounts her steed. I stare vacantly into the horizon as I watch a priceless treasure disappear in the distance. Returning my attention towards the battle, I convulse as my body is encased in sinister revenge. My eyes cloud over with a lust for decay and suffering. The remainder of the battle turns into a transient blur. The most I could recall was the flush colour of crimson against the burning sky as my blade tore through flesh. I was no longer called Humanity's Strongest Soldier. Words such as the Devil reincarnate or purgatory butcher bestowed the lips of those who witnessed that day. A merciless soldier for a merciless world.

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Your P.O.V

Stagnant darkness. The insurmountable pressure of crushing waves rolling over me in tow of the tide. Walking the jagged edge above a ridge of regret. The inability to breathe as I scratch with wild claws for the chance to rise. To rise above death. That is what it feels like to have life ripped away from beneath your feet. Eventually, your soul ceases resistance and gives way to the inert current. I feel my being falter in its resolve and I cringe in order to hold on. I won't give up. Not now.

My eyes flutter against the weight of a deep slumber. I fight against the defaming pressure and light erupts in my vision. My senses begin to awaken again and I hear the clatter of ceramic along with the subtle sinusoidal tapping of cautious footsteps. I lift myself to a sitting position and bring my hand to my temple. I grunt at the throbbing of my brain against my skull. "You're awake!" A familiar voice rejoices beside me and I turn my head in its direction. I am met by the overjoyed grin of my friend Eren. He brings his finger to his lips and signals me to remain silent. Then, he motions for my lap and I follow his gesture to the mass attached to my side. There, Levi dozes peacefully, his warmth radiating against my legs. I feel my heart rejoice with relief and I stare at his expression intently. His brows are not furrowed in an irritated scowl and his lips do not curl downward. In this lax state his youth is restored. I blush slightly at his undeniably handsome features, my chest igniting with affection and attraction. I bring my hand towards his face and gently rub circles into his surprisingly soft skin. A gentle breeze flows from the open window and displaces the loose strands of hair that surround his face. He looks relaxed, devoid of stress and grief. I wish there were a way to maintain this adorable expression at all times, it suits him better. I giggle lightly at this unusual sight.

"He's been by your side since the mission ended. He's barely eaten or slept this past month." Eren interrupts my swooning and I sigh to myself. So that's how long it has been. I continue to study the Corporal's features with warmth and admiration in my eyes. "It was scary, you know. For the first week we couldn't stabilize your pulse. You were always on the verge of death. I've never seen the Corporal make that expression before, one of dread and distain. He never gave up on you. I don't think I'll ever be able to rid my mind of that image." My eyes fall on Levi's and I notice the thick rims of grey that surround them. They are the marks of a long and perilous battle. His lids swell with agony from the weeks of steamy tears, their presence evident as tracks cascade down his cheeks. His skin is washed of its healthy colour and the frailness of his frame settles into my consciousness. My eyes water slightly at the unnecessary grief I have caused him. Eren continues. "His body hunched over yours, pumping furiously against your chest. His resolve was so intense he even broke a few of your ribs, shouting profanity and pleas. 'If you die on me, so help me god, I will find you in hell and punish you myself' and 'you can't leave me yet, not now." I can't resist the tears that spill from my grateful eyes. This man saved my life. I feel my chest explode beneath me and I finally understand the feelings that pour from my soul. I love him. I stifle my sobs and wipe the hot tears from my vision, proceeding to ask Eren a question.