Levi develops some pregnancy pet peeves, while the trainees hope to make her feel better
Fluff and feels
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Levi was many things, unsociable, short tempered and hardworking. But an idiot wasn't one of them. She was well aware that people were staring at her and had been for what felt like weeks now. Their stares burning into her back like knives, as if she was somehow the human petting zoo and new attraction for their entertainment.
Ever since people found out she was pregnant, endless rumours and gossip had spread around the base. Endless suspicions running around that were driving her up the damn wall. There were a lot of people that didn't like her as it was, meaning they were enjoying seeing her pregnant and making up lies about her child.
Thank god for Erwin using his authority to clear the air and get rid of most of the rats. But that didn't mean it stopped completely, there would always be those who could slip through the cracks. There would always be people asking questions no matter where you went. Desperate to know what happened in every single one of your personal experiences.
She knew what they were staring at, but she could at least be grateful it wasn't because of her height for once. But if they had any form of respect at all, they would avert their gaze at once. If they thought she was scary before, they would have nightmares of what she was capable of doing despite being a pregnant woman.
This was a natural process, all women carried the ability to create life. She was of the right age to and was expected had she not been a soldier. Because of her duty, a family had been out of the question. Not wanting to put her child in a difficult life, not the same way she had growing up. Wanting better for them than what she had been through growing up.
But there was nothing they could do about it now, she had accepted her fate as a mother to be. And secretly, she was excited to raise the life that she and Hanji had so carefully made. Her baby bump was more noticeable than ever, making others around her aware that she was carrying a baby inside of her. However, being so far along she could no longer wear her uniform.
But she had been banned from going onto the battlefield while in her condition. Though they had lost one of their strongest fighters, Erwin was not willing to put the safety of her child at risk. She no longer fit into her trousers, shirt or any of her clothes. Her body having changed compared to what it used to be. But because of being pregnant, she was no longer a soldier, for the time being at least.
Though, returning to the battlefield would be a conflicting decision to make being a mother. Though the child was not born yet, she was already becoming maternal and protective over her baby. Knowing what dangers her child would face, given they still hadn't come any closer to defeating the titans and now she was bringing her child into this.
She could still work in her office and do paperwork, if she could concentrate enough without falling asleep on the desk. Her body prone to back ache and mental breakdowns because of hormones. Every little thing pissing her off, no matter what it was it just caused her to snap. Lashing out at nearly anyone who rubbed her the wrong way or even looked at her funny.
She had a million emotions rushing through her body a mile a minute. Causing her to act a little crazy because of them. But luckily some people were being understanding of her situation. Knowing the strain and emotional pressure that she was currently under, that she couldn't help but act a little out of the ordinary through all of this.
She leaned back against the bench wearily, having wanted to get some fresh air to cure her nausea. Rubbing her swollen belly in hopes of getting the baby to calm down and allow her to feel better. The struggles of being a mother was a challenge and she had respect for women who went through this. Even before experiencing it for herself, knowing how hard a job it could be.
She was now 5 months along with the baby, as it seemed to be growing fast. Meaning it was healthy at least, something she could be grateful for even if it was a pain in the ass. Knowing her child was doing well. Making itself known by moving around in her belly a lot, especially during the night. Making it hard for her to sleep sometimes, that was when she was able to find a comfortable position.
She was grateful at least that her civilian clothes that she was forced to wear at least suited her. She swore if Erwin or Hanji chose something ridiculous or showy, she would have beaten them within an inch of their lives. Though she was weakened because of her pregnancy, limiting her fighting skills. But that didn't mean her strength or power was gone.
Not allowing them to take advantage of her for their own amusement while she carried the baby. Knowing full well they would have their fun when they were able, knowing she had her limitations now. Though she had been skeptical, when she finally saw the dress she had been touched. Allowing her to become nostalgic and somewhat emotional upon seeing the garment chosen for her.
Standing there in awe as she gazed upon it, eventually holding it close to her. Stroking the material as she allowed herself to reminisce and even shed a few tears. Bittersweet memories coming back. The dress reminded her of something her mother would have worn. Similar to the dress she wore right up until she died. Bringing back memories she never knew she still carried inside of her.
It was a plain white dress, that reached just above her ankles. It had long sleeves that reached her elbows and had a V shaped stretched collar. With a slight ruffle on the chest and lace at the bottom. Though it was indeed maternity wear during her time being pregnant, she had thought about altering it, so she could continue to wear it after the baby was born. It would be a shame to waste it.
Though she had no idea where they had managed to get such a thing, she was indeed grateful for it. But if anyone said anything about her clothes, they best be prepared for backlash. She may have been pregnant, but she was no pushover that was for damn sure. She was still capable of putting someone in their damn place if need be. Nothing had changed by that extent.
She was still the same person, she was just making life changes that took a lot to handle. But she had been reassured that she would slowly adapt to the role and become happy eventually. As there was no greater feeling than the love you would feel for your child once it was born. Never realizing how precious something could be to you.
"Captain Levi!" a familiar voice yelled loudly snapping her from her thoughts. Thank goodness, they had found her. Wasn't she tired from wondering about on her feet from carrying the baby? Though he admired her stamina through all of this, pushing herself wasn't good for herself or the baby. She needed to be more thoughtful of her actions, it would have consequences.
Levi frowned, so much for her peace and quiet. Wondering if she could ever get away from people. She already had to deal with Hanji, though she was glad he was eager to be a father. He was awfully touchy feely nowadays, to the point of being annoying. Hoping that he would have learned to keep his distance.
Levi lay on her back with an annoyed expression, trying hard to enjoy her book seeing as there was little else she could do. But this was getting damn near ridiculous now and she had more than enough. Wishing he would find something else to keep himself appeased when his mind wondered and needed stimulation to keep him entertained.
She had known from the start that Hanji would be there for her, after their touching talk when she told him for the first time. Knowing that he wouldn't abandon her throughout this difficult time. Though she was glad he was so eager and happy about this. Personal space no longer seemed to exist, causing her to question whether or not he should sleep outside instead.
If it meant she got some peace and quiet without her stomach becoming a topic of conversation so be it. It was rare anyone talked about anything else when she came up as a topic nowadays. Like they had forgotten the person she used to be before the baby, as if she wasn't humanities strongest soldier anymore. Just an ordinary woman.
"Amazing, truly a miracle. So cute, so cute!" Hanji mumbled happily tears welling up. Birth was not only a beautiful thing but the miracle of life in general. Unable to believe how amazing this was. How Levi had never thought she could be a good mother was a mystery to him. She was already fitting well into the role and looking after their unborn baby like a natural. Showing she had it in her.
Levi was developing fast and she couldn't be any less proud of becoming a father. Eager to meet the face of his and Levi's child when they were eventually born into this amazing world. But feeling them move and communicate with them while in the fetus. It was truly an amazing thing, causing him to want to be closer with her. To understand their baby better.
Levi irked, her eyebrow twitching. While she was glad he was happy about the baby, it was all he seemed to do nowadays. Her body was getting stiff and she would need to turn over at some point. She didn't want to get cramps or that would just leave her in a shitty mood for the rest of the day. Like she said, she didn't want to take it out on Hanji unnecessarily by accident which would cause her to regret it.
However, she was trying to be patient as to not snap at him. But her patience was slowly wearing thin and hormones sure as hell were not helping in this moment whatsoever. She was a mixture between irritated, tired, hungry and emotional. Though she had no idea which side of her would come out first. Thus she was trying to contain herself and not let them show.
"Hanji" she replied calmly. Trying to keep her cool despite the fact she so badly wanted to push him off and tell him to find a hobby. She was trying to be reasonable and not snap at him. But his clingy attitude and obsession with her baby starting to become irritating. Wondering why he couldn't be helpful instead of touchy feely.
Hanji peered up at her curiously still rubbing her belly. He had read somewhere that this sort of thing comforted the baby, thus it would not cause Levi too much discomfort and keep them calm. He had been thinking about her this whole time and tried not to get in her way. But his emotions got the better of him and he couldn't help but be a little excited about all of this.
Levi shifted, seeing his damn face like that melted her heart. Damn it, why did her baby daddy have to be so cute? She then sighed heavily "Could you knock that off. Its getting annoying" she replied sternly. She was glad he was embracing his role as a future father, but this was too much. She wasn't some human petting zoo for him to do more of his research on for crying out loud.
Surely, he had stuff on the titans to do and business to take care of. I mean he wasn't stifled from his duties like she was. So why? Why was he spending his every waking moment with her only to fan-girl over their baby? Wouldn't he get into trouble for it? How was Erwin not being stricter with him about the work he still had to do.
Hanji blinked and then sat up with a smile, then wrapped his arms around her making her blush. God, she was so cute when she was mad, even more so now when she was pregnant. She was blossoming into even more of a mature woman as she went through her development. Her sex appeal advancing at an alarming rate that it was hard for him to hold back.
"I can't help it Levi, I just love you so much. I can't wait to meet out baby" he replied happily. He wondered if they would have his personality and Levi's looks. Or his looks and Levi's personality. Either way their child would be perfect, both a blend of their combined DNA. The bi-product of their affections for one another and hopefully would carry their skills in battle and intelligence.
Levi felt her cheeks heat, that was the cheesiest thing she had ever heard and yet made her so happy. This man was the father of her child, but she couldn't imagine it being anyone else. She bowed her head, resting it on his arm as she felt her cheeks flush. "Idiot" she muttered. She found it hard to believe this guy with the mentality of a curious child was going to be a parent.
Levi looked up quietly, her eyes filled with a silent rage. Hoping to vent her displeasure at being disturbed to whoever was calling her. Maybe if they saw her expression it may scare them off and return her peaceful silence. She looked up to see Eren hurrying towards her. Out of all the trainees he cared for her opinion and idolized her the most. Which was both admirable and creepy at the same time.
Given she was pregnant, her raging hormones gave her little tolerance for a lot of things. One of them being Eren's ability to be a pain in the ass who never stopped asking questions. She sighed heavily, venting her silent rage. "What is it Yeager?" she asked sharply. He better have a damn good excuse to be disturbing her peace and quiet in such a rude manner. It was rare she got any nowadays.
Eren stopped to catch his breath momentarily, having run all this way to find her. He then stood up and saluted her, even if she was pregnant and off duty, she was still his superior. Though she had always radiated authority and power before, she now had a different air about her. She had a sense of maturity and womanhood about her that he had never seen before.
"Um… Captain Levi. Uh… that is. I was wondering if you would join me" he replied awkwardly. The others had told him to be really quiet about this in hopes of surprising her. Knowing how capable he was of running his mouth. He and the other cadets has bunched together in hopes of making her feel better about being a mother. God knows she was under all sorts of pressure as it was through all of this.
Levi blinked and raised her eyebrow suspiciously, Eren was known for his pranks. But she doubted he had the balls to try anything against her. Not unless he wanted to be severely punished. However, nothing in his body language gave away that this was a prank of any kind. So, she could only believe in his words and see what he had in store for her. She then sighed heavily and got to her feet.
Wincing and groaning as she did so, though not being fully swollen being pregnant was still hard work. She then turned to Eren with a silent glare, warning him that this better not be a prank. "Lead the way Yeager" she replied sternly. If this was a joke on his half, she would make sure he would pay for this. Making sure he was thoroughly punished for at least a month.
Eren nodded and quickly started walking ahead, knowing not to test her through all of this. Knowing how scary Levi could be, meaning she would be like Satan incarnate while pregnant. So he was trying to be as reasonable and not cause her any bother, knowing that he would be at risk if he even made the smallest mistake.
Eren opened a door calmly, glad he had managed to get Levi to follow him all this way here. Though he had been skeptical that this plan would work, as always Armin's ideas had followed through. He then entered quietly into the dark room though he was indeed nervous. He could feel her eyes burning into his back, suspicious of whatever antics he had in store for her.
Levi then followed suit after the teen, wondering what the hell he was up to. If he planned on taking advantage of her in the dark, then he was very much mistaken. Damn horny teenagers. She knew a lot of people had crushes on her, but they were just kids so they meant no harm. As long as they didn't overstep their boundaries.
Suddenly, the room lit up surprising her. Curtains being opened to show a bright room full of all the trainees smiling. Banners up, lots of bright colours and many of different food before her. Was this? Were they holding her some form of celebration? But it wasn't her birthday, so why on earth was all of this going on? She really had no idea, but she was pleased by it.
"Congratulations Captain Levi!" a choir of voices replied. Though they never expected this to happen, they were happy for her newfound motherhood. Glad that she was starting this new part of her life. But no matter what she was going to be their captain and would still follow her. But they would try to help out and make her life easier than it had been before. Now that she was to become a mother.
Levi blinked in surprise, in all her years she had never once had a party like this. Celebrations were not something she had ever experienced. So, this meant a lot more to her than they knew. They had gone out of their way make this just for her, obviously having put in a lot of planning and effort into this little get together.
Armin came forwards wearing a bashful smile "We all chipped in, though it's nothing fancy" he replied apologetically. But they had done their very best to make it special for her. It wasn't often someone had a baby after all. Given they were all soldiers, such human desires often had to be put on hold for the sake of humanity.
Levi stared at them all in awe, they hadn't needed to do this. But they still had, and it meant so much. She had forgotten that aside from being her cadets, they were also kids too. She then smiled gratefully, her hormones getting the better of her as she felt tears well up. She was not usually one to cry, but nobody had done something this sweet for her before.
Sasha sat down beside Levi first, though Connie and Jean had gotten on her case about it. She didn't see anything wrong with the kid having such a present. It would be fun to play with after all. "Here you go, Connie and Jean were against it. But I thought it would be cool" she replied with a smile. If Levi liked it, she would have proven them all wrong which was enough for her.
Levi blinked and took the gift, half expecting it to be something strange. Sasha was known for being quirky, but she was none the less grateful for the thought. Though she was an odd girl, Sasha had a big heart and was smarter than she appeared to be. Slowly unwrapping the brown paper that encased the gift inside.
Her eyes then widened in awe at what she saw before her. "Is… is this?" she replied in shock holding up the weapon. It was one of the wooden swords from the training camps they had come from. Though one would expect her to be mad, instead she was simply surprised by how expected this present was. That and how she had smuggled it out.
Sasha smiled in a goofy way, knowing how odd the present seemed. "They may as well learn to look after themselves. Besides, they can pretend to be a pirate" she replied in amusement. The kid would need toys after all. With their imagination they could be whatever they wanted to be, which would make for a lot of happy memories.
Levi stroked the weapon quietly. Though technically it counted as stealing, they were no longer trainees. When she had grown up in the underground, she had first owned a knife too. She then folded it up and nodded at Sasha gratefully. Though she hoped her child would not end up the same way as her, she would be glad that they would know self-defense from danger.
Sasha then smiled back at her and got up, ready to go and boast to her friends about her present. Glad she could prove them wrong on Levi getting annoyed about the present. Showing that even the strangest of gifts, they could be of use to anyone should they know what to do with it. Proving their weight in gold.
Jean sat down beside Levi bashfully, worried he would get teased for this. It wasn't a very manly skill to have but he thought the gesture would be nice. But then again it wasn't much use as a soldier. He then placed the box on Levi's lap, trying to avert her gaze. He had worked for days on this and finally it had turned out nice. Putting sleep on the line just to get it finished it time.
Levi blinked, confused by his state of embarrassment. Wondering if it was an odd present or something, or if he was dared into giving this present. Though brash, Jean did have a good heart underneath his pride. Though it was hard to see. So she doubted this was a form of prank or a dare, he wasn't that type of guy.
She opened the box and her eyes widened, her dull blue eyes locked on it. Stroking the material affectionately, unable to believe that he had made this. He certainly had some skills. This would come in handy though one would not expect it, he could make all sorts of things that could be of use to them during winter and such.
"Its dumb I know. But, at least the baby will never be cold" he replied awkwardly. His mum had done the same to him growing up, teaching him the skill so it would be of use to him one day. It was something it could wear to keep warm as it grew up. Keeping it safe and protected always. Which was always important for a kid.
Levi blinked, inside was a carefully woven scarf and hand made at that. Hours of rigorous work had to have gone into this. But she never thought the likes of Jean would be into needlework. She then placed the cover on the box and placed it down beside her. She then turned to Jean gratefully "You're a good kid Kirstein, if only you were mature enough to not let your temper get the better of you" she teased.
If he was capable of being as thoughtful as this. Then why not show it, his teammates would appreciate him more and Mikasa may see what a good guy he was. But then it was not her place to interfere. But she could always offer advice and give her opinion on the matter, helping them through mistakes so they would come out better.
Jean blushed, not knowing what to say to this. Hearing the tone in her voice which meant she was telling the truth. But he wondered if this was the hormones speaking or if it was herself. "T… Thank you ma'am" he replied shyly. Not wanting to be rude and leave her waiting with a reply. He had thought she would tease him for making such a mushy present for the baby.
He then got up and went to talk to Sasha and Connie about his homemade present. Hoping that they would boost his confidence a little about how Levi had really liked the present. From the corner of her eye she saw Connie give him a thumbs up and Sasha asking him some questions with hopeful eyes. Possibly asking for a scarf herself.
Mikasa sat down quietly beside Levi, feeling embarrassed about this gift. It was something that her mother had given her before she passed away. Now it was time for it to be passed on. Though she would one-day share this with her own children someday, it felt only right that Levi's child have it too. It was a family tradition of sorts after all. So, it was only right to pass it on.
She then handed Levi a crest, it would be wrong to mark it on their skin. Though her mother had done this to her, she had a stronger tolerance to pain compared to most. But whether Levi's child would or not was up for debate. Unlike how her mother did, so forming it on an item seemed better. So, they could keep it with them always.
"My mother gave this to me before she died. It was the emblem of our family, a birth right. So… it only feels right that your child have it too" she replied awkwardly. Though not as mushy as the others, it was still important in her opinion. Their child knowing where they came from, and should they awaken like Levi and herself. What they were capable of.
Levi blinked and then took the handmade crest carefully. This was probably the most emotional of all, though neither Mikasa nor herself had spoken about it. This was something that the girls mother had done before death. It was a right of passage and teaching them about heritage, of their family and what it stood for. Given her parents were both dead, this would mean a great deal to the younger Ackerman.
She then stroked the badge carefully, it was hand woven and firm. Like Jean's it was handmade and must have taken a long time to make. She had learned Mikasa's late mother had taught her to sow. It was funny how the strangest of traits could prove useful to someone, especially when it came to gifts. But she was sure each gift would make her child happy, when they learned the true value.
She then looked at Mikasa, her dull blue eyes hard but kind. Showing her gratitude to the younger female. Knowing this must have been hard to make as it would bring back sad memories. "Thank you Mikasa. I appreciate this" she replied calmly. Though the lineage of their family was a mystery, it was something they should celebrate none the less. For they were a rare breed.
Mikasa nodded, she knew Levi was not one who was good at showing weakness easily. Having developed her strong nature over time, but she knew she appreciated the gift. She then gave her a small smile before getting up to go and join Eren and Armin at the back. As she was feeling a little shy about having shown such a soft side of herself.
Levi sat in the corner, sipping her tea and occasionally eating the cake in front of her. She had no idea of how they had managed to make this given ration control, but it was well made. But then again, ask the king enough and he would give the Military whatever they wanted. So, she had a feeling that Erwin may have pulled a few strings in his favour to make this happen.
She got the feeling Jean and Sasha may have made this, given their skill for cooking. The two held many talents that were often overlooked because of their dorky personality and goofy friendship. Showing there was more to them that meets the eye. The cake was soft and moist, flavoured with a zingy citrus but well made. Something she could appreciate.
These brats, her soldiers whom she was in care of. The future of humanity, they had gone out of their way to have a little party to celebrate her pregnancy. Though she had never expected it. She never thought they would even care, as it was in natural human biology after all. But somehow it made her happy, to know that they did respect and care for her in their own way.
Her child would be loved and spoiled, as she had never had these things growing up. She had lived in a dirty, dark and cold place where the sun barely ever shone, and people were forgotten. Her own mother doing the unthinkable just to get by and put food on the table. But it was something she would forever be grateful for. And a gesture she would never forget, for her entire existence.
She had never thought about it or noticed it before, but these kids really looked up to her. They idolized her and in a sense, they saw her as a guardian figure, respecting her wisdom and leadership. She then took a bite out of the cake quietly, not wanting it to go to waste after all the trouble it had cost. It wasn't often she even wanted such luxuries despite her position, not wanting to stoop to that level.
As she ate, she was pleased by the many flavours that hit her tongue. The baby inside of her liked it too, which meant hopefully she could keep it down. Which nowadays was a rarity given her change in palette. A small smile appearing on her face "Its good" she replied quietly.