Kikyo stared blankly ahead of her as she rode her horse through the woods. She could feel everyone's eyes on her and that damn Oluo guy wouldn't shut up. However she was blocking them out as best she could.
Since learning about her being an Ackerman, having Asian blood and her spiritual powers. She had become the topic of conversation next to Eren and his Titan shifting. Like she was some form of god in human form.
She would rather they said whatever was on their mind to her face. Mutters and whispers only frustrated and annoyed her. The growing rage and frustration becoming stronger as every moment passed.
Eren was currently feeling nervous while everyone else's eyes were on him. He was also getting a few sharp words from Oluo. She kind of felt sorry for the boy; being around a bunch of strangers and getting death threats.
Oluo very clearly acted like Levi and mimicked him in every way possible. While Kikyo knew, he looked up to Levi; it was rather annoying how much he acted like him. Like an obsessed fan girl only with a dick.
He was his own individual and should act like himself. Trying to be a carbon copy of another person only made him look like a fool. Nobody would take him seriously if he kept trying to be something he wasn't.
Petra was currently in a calm mood while talking with Eld and Gunter. The three of them getting along rather well. From what she knew Petra was engaged to Oluo and had a strong respect for Levi. She was amazed anyone could tolerate Oluo with how much he liked to brag.
However she could only guess that they knew each other from childhood or he showed a different face around her than he did now. It was the only plausible explanation she could fathom.
Levi was currently glaring daggers at Eren and looking him up and down. He was trying to figure him out while trying to learn new things about him. From the very beginning he had made it clear to Eren he was only keeping him alive because he proved useful to him.
However, should he go against them, transform without orders or lose control. They would kill him like a dog without hesitating whatsoever. He had no care or affection for Eren and made sure he knew this.
She herself had said exactly the same when she prevented Eren from shifting. He was useful to them and their fight against the titans. But that did mean she was friends with him or liked him.
Eren was responsible for killing her team; even if it was accidental. For causing chaos and destroying an entire inner town full of innocent people. It was fair to say she held a grudge against him.
From what she knew they were going to be staying at an old mansion/ church. It had a cellar in which Eren would be sleeping in case he went Titan on them. They would have to clean it first and then sort out each other's quarters.
Later on, Hanji would be showing up and helping them with their missions. She was the Squad leader of the team and made most of the decisions; she was second in command next to Erwin.
Levi saw Kikyo's expression and became worried. She had barely spoken the entire way here and she had been furrowing her brows for a while. He himself had been told by others he sometimes appeared conflicted; so he imagined she wore the same face he did.
From what he knew Kikyo was quite a loner in her past teams. She respected and helped her teammates but kept to herself a lot. She distanced herself from them but made sure to help them out in battle.
Being named "Kodokuna Yurei" in old Asian language or "Einsamer Geist" in German. It translated to "Lonely ghost". It was odd how that nickname oddly fitted her. Being so beautiful and yet being very haunting or mysterious.
Now that she was part of his team she would have to get used to being around a lot of people. Having to work with others rather than alone. She may not like it but it was the way things would be from now on.
"They're not all bad" Levi retorted abruptly. She would get used to them in time much like he had. Yes it had been difficult at first having to move on and get close to people while being reminded of Furlan and Isabel; but he had managed to eventually.
She had the same air about her that was similar to Mikasa and himself. However, she seemed more tragic and lonely than the two of them put together. A human that had the air of blood and sadness about her.
Kikyo was rather taken aback and she stared at him in confusion. She hadn't expected him to talk or to even know what she was thinking. Hell she hadn't really expected him to initiate conversation after hearing he wasn't really a big talker.
Very few people could read her moods or emotions. Even her own sister had a hard time asking her things or being able to predict her intentions. This caused people to think of her as an enemy a lot of the time.
Levi looked at her his eyes calm and yet patient "They are more energetic and outgoing than most. But they are good people and skilled soldiers" he explained. He trusted them with his life.
Petra did seem to be very motherly and pester her teammates. But she was a skilled fighter and had a level head in battle. She had a good head on her shoulder and she knew how to keep Oluo in line.
Oluo loved to test people's patience and liked to run his mouth a lot. But he was a loyal fighter and had a soft side deep down. He showed more affection and genuine kindness around Petra.
Gunter and Eld were more mature and tactical; acting as the voice of reason. They were good leaders and level headed individuals. But they were able to relax and act like big brothers to younger scouts.
She hadn't expected him to be able to read her so easily; especially after knowing her such a short time. Not even InuYasha had been able to do such a thing. It had taken him a long time to understand her methods.
Yet a man she had only just met could read her like looking through glass. How he was capable of such a thing she didn't know. However over time she could guess he would reveal all sorts of surprises.
She bowed her head quietly feeling ashamed "I apologize. I seem to have upset you by not taking well to your teammates. I am simply more used to being alone" she replied quietly.
Fighting demons, protecting a village, purifying the shikon jewel and performing her duties as a Priestess. She had done it all alone without help from anyone. She had carried these duties upon her own shoulders.
So, when forced to work in a team to help fight against the titans. It was all new to her; being forced out of her comfort zone. She had very rarely helped other people; only teaming up with Tsubaki once in her life.
That same kindness had caused Tsubaki to turn against her out of spite and jealousy. She fell to her own dark powers and desires even teaming up with a demon for more power. She was only glad that Tsubaki now lay at peace in her grave.
Levi shook his head "Not at all; even I find them draining sometimes" he admitted a small smile on his face. While he did appreciate those around him; even they could wear him out.
Kikyo smiled and laughed quietly. She was rather surprised to see the stoic captain acting so unlike his stereotyped infamy. "I should hope you keep that a secret. I doubt they would be very pleased to know such a thing" she teased her brown eyes mischievous.
Levi smiled to himself; this girl was certainly a lot of fun. She had a very mischievous side and her eyes lit up when she laughed. It was good to know despite their first meeting she was capable of making such expressions.
Meanwhile
Eren looked behind him as the two dark haired individuals spoke to one another. He had never seen anyone with such pretty black hair apart from Mikasa. But hers was different; her appearance mimicking that of a princess.
He had never seen another Asian woman before in his life. However, she seemed to be a lot more mature than his adopted sister. Her way of speaking and how she presented herself was a lot more mature.
"Something catching your eye Yeager?" Oluo retorted defiantly. He had been staring at Captain Levi for quite a while now. He wondered what his intentions towards him were.
Eren swallowed nervously "I…I was just wondering. Who's that girl riding beside Captain Levi?" he asked curiously. Geez it seemed nothing got by Oluo; he was like Levi's guard dog or something.
"Her names Kikyo. She's of the same descended family as Captain Levi and your adopted sister. She's also a lieutenant in the survey core" Petra explained. She had heard everyone had stared at her when she entered the courtroom; she now understood why.
She had such smooth skin like alabaster and big brown eyes that gleamed in the light. She was the prettiest girl they had ever seen and while they hated to admit it; she looked very good next to Levi.
"How old is she?" Eren asked curiously. She appeared to be in her late teens like Reiner; maybe about 18 to 19 years old. But she looked very mature for her age due to her hairstyle.
"Don't know. We haven't really been fully informed on her yet" Petra explained. However, they had been promised more details once they arrived. But the waiting was not helping their nerves or curiosity.
"I see; which district is she from?" he asked curiously. Her past was as mysterious as the captains yet he was eager to know. He could guess she was maybe from Trost from the way she acted.
Petra shrugged "Nobody knows. She never says where she came from or who her family were. She pretty much keeps her secrets sealed tight" she explained. While it did bother her a little; she respected the woman's privacy.
Eren was stunned by this; nobody knew how old she was or where she came from. She was pretty much a stranger or ghost in the survey core. She couldn't be traced and had no information to be held against her.
Petra smiled warmly "But Captain Levi trusts her and she was handpicked by Commander Erwin. If those two approve of her then she is part of our team" she explained.
Levi and Erwin were the leaders for a reason. They made good decisions and followed their gut instinct no matter what happened. If they could trust this woman and believed in her capabilities then they had nothing to worry about.
Eren blinked in awe but asked no further. He greatly respected Levi and since the man was in charge of his life he wasn't going to argue. It would only dig him deeper into shit he didn't really need.
However, he was curious as to what kind of person Kikyo was and where she came from. I mean surely, she had history before she came to join Levi's team, right? I mean she was a person with her own life.
But he would rather wait for her to explain herself than bombard her with questions. He would feel rude going up to her and confronting her since she was a higher up. On top of that he had seen just how skilled she was with a sword. She had just about sliced off his finger in one shot.
Kikyo was definitely an Ackerman; but she was stronger than Mikasa and probably the only person capable of rivalling Levi. She had far more experience in fighting and knowledge on the battlefield.
Because of this he would rather stay on her good side then to test her. If she was capable of taking him down with ease he would rather not become her enemy and stay an ally.
Later
Kikyo stood by the stables quietly gazing into the distance as the wing gently blew her hair. While everyone else had been put in charge of cleaning she had been put in charge of taking care of the horses.
So far, she had given them fresh water and food, put away numerous bridles and saddles, and then given them blankets. She was now rationing out the food and water situation to give to them all. Like humans they had to share the food equally between them.
Being around horses reminded her of the feudal era. Of how they were used to transport and carry goods or humans from region to region. Yet how they were also used for war and carrying soldiers.
They were hard working creatures and yet they were forced to face war alongside their human owners. How tired and hungry they must be from all their hard work. Walking and running all that distance to get here.
She reached out quietly and began petting one of the horse's noses. He was so soft and peaceful; his eyes showing he trusted her. Kikyo smiled gently and hummed to herself. He was a very handsome and friendly horse; so well behaved and well tamed.
"Your very good with them" a familiar voice said in an impressed manner. Usually it took a long time for them to get used to most riders. Neighing and panicking due to the stranger approaching them.
But she bonded very well with them; almost instinctively. They trusted her and allowed her to approach them. She was calm and understanding while allowing them to get used to them.
Kikyo turned to see Levi wearing a cloth over his head, a cloth around his mouth and stripped down to his shirt, wrap, buckles and trousers. He looked very casual instead of his usual military attire. More approachable and easy going; rather than his usual intimidating self.
She stifled a laugh and smiled at him "I like your outfit captain" she teased playfully. It suited him very well indeed. She wondered how many of his teammates had to hold back their laughter.
Levi clicked his teeth and frowned; she was teasing him but he would allow it. But he had to admit it was nice seeing her smile instead of acting so seriously. So for today he would let her off the hook.
"Cleaning is a serious matter Miss Ackerman. I don't half ass it in the slightest" he retorted sharply. He would not tolerate any form of remaining dust or filth on any surface whatsoever.
Kikyo hummed in amusement "I don't doubt it; But I never would have guessed Captain Levi to be a clean freak" she smirked. She wondered how many of his fans and admirers would act knowing such a thing. Would their image of him be shattered?
Levi folded his arms and raised his eyebrow "And I never would have guessed Kodokuna Yurei was capable of smiling" he replied defiantly. Two could play at her little insult game.
She was usually very moody and sharp tongued. Speaking only seriously and not getting close to others yet showing respect. Yet here she was challenging him and even throwing a little shade at him. You'd have never guessed they were the same woman.
Kikyo stiffened and frowned; she was used to hearing that name around the other trainees or a few cadets. But she had never had it said to her face before. Just hearing it made her angry.
"Touché" she replied dryly. Ok, now they were even. That was a very clever comeback from the likes of him indeed. She would do well to not insult him in the future so easily again.
Levi smirked to himself but remained composed "Are you about done here? We still need to locate you to your room and bathe" he stated. They were all to have a short bath before dinner. They were all sweaty, hot and dirty from their ride here.
He had no desire to dine with a bunch of people who didn't know how to bathe. He would rather be licked by a titan; than sit in a room of sweat. Just the mental image made him want to cringe.
Kikyo nodded "Just about; I was just saying hello" she explained calmly. They had seemed rather nervous at their new surroundings. Horses had better hearing than humans did. They could hear things from a further distance causing them to be spooked; which made her worry about them.
Eventually she put down the remaining bucket of feed and left the stables. No doubt she would smell like hay, horses and dry leather. However at least she didn't smell like shit.
Levi blinked and then reached out causing her to stiffen. It had been a while since anyone had been close to her in this manner. Yes, she was used to being around Kaede but that was different. This manner of touching was similar to how InuYasha would have in the past.
She flinched as his hand found itself winding into her hair. His dull blue eyes stern and not hesitating; staring her down like a fish. She felt her heart racing in her chest like an animal about to be prey.
He then pulled his hand away to reveal a strand of straw in her hair. She blinked and her expression became a little surprised. She hadn't expected him to have such sharp eyesight like herself.
Levi raised an eyebrow "Are you that scared of me Miss Ackerman?" he asked curiously. Her whole body had reacted to him attempting to get close to her. It made him wonder if she had been abused in the past.
Kikyo gripped her fists tightly and shook her head "No I…Its just…I'm not used to physical contact" she explained quietly. She wasn't exactly lying. She had only ever been hugged by her sister growing up in this new life inside the walls.
It had been many centuries since the feudal era in Japan where she had been lovers with InuYasha. After her demise, she had distanced herself from him despite her genuine love and affection.
Since then she had never really been touched, held, kissed or even loved by another human being. It had become quite an alien feeling to her. She just wasn't used to receiving affection or attention of any kind.
Levi relaxed but became curious. Didn't she have any family or friends? Did she spend all of her time alone? Or was it she had been bullied in the past and wasn't used to being treated kindly.
Kikyo shifted "As you know my family is descended from many great priests and priestesses. Growing up that left very little time for…. being a kid or…a woman for that matter…" she explained reluctantly.
In her past life as a priestess she had been forced to throw aside her womanhood. She had been forced to give up her femininity and selfish desires. Such things would only hinder her.
She had been forced to give up on love and relationships. She couldn't wear kimono's or wear makeup. She had no combs or any form of ribbons; to be as plain as a priestess should be.
She had to focus on her ki and concentrating her powers so she could protect the jewel. Fighting demons and being on guard to protect her village. She could not falter or show hesitation whatsoever.
In her reborn life amongst the walls she had been allowed more freedom. She could wear a dress and brush her hair; play with other children and her sister. She could ask for things and take her time to enjoy herself.
She could show her emotions openly and be selfish or bratty. She had no need to conceal what she was feeling for the sake of her family or duties. She had been able to cry or get angry openly.
However, she had to hide and stay close to her family; not speaking to strangers. She couldn't go out of her parent's sight and she had to keep her powers and abilities a secret.
Being an Ackerman she had been forced to hide; but also because of her Asian blood she had to be protected. Being 2 of the rarest bloodlines in the world a lot of traffickers were after her.
Levi stared at her in awe; this woman truly had been forced to endure a hard life much like himself. But then again, the strongest people came from the worst situations. Quite a sad but true fact.
Having capabilities stronger than 100 men was nothing to them. However, being able to hide your emotions and be as resilient as they were; that was something to be proud of.
To come as far as they had with such tragic backstories; that was something to celebrate. It showed you had a strong spirit that could not be broken. You were a truly amazing human being.
He then patted her head "I should leave you in charge of the horses more often. You look your happiest around animals" he said casually. Her eyes lit up and she smiled when she spoke to them; a subtle fondness about them.
He would also have to say more jokes around her as she seemed to stifle a smile when he did. If those things brought out her humanity and happiness; then so be it. Everyone had their odd quirks after all.
Kikyo blinked and then gave him a grateful look "I would like that very much" she said kindly. She didn't mind smelling like horses if it meant she could do something she liked.
Levi smiled but then turned and headed back inside "Dinner preparations will take place soon. You'd best make your way to your room" he said sternly. He liked this girl; he didn't know why he just did. There was something about her that warmed his soul. Making him feel alive again.