Yeah, I actually updated this is not a dream. I apologize for the long wait, I've had a lot on my plate at the minute.
Mikasa starts to grow up a little and her relationship with Jean grows. She meets team Levi (since so many people wanted to see that) and some humour
I hope you like the new chapter :)
It had now been over a year since Mikasa had come to live with her uncle, time had gone by so fast, but both had come to accept their lives with one another. Knowing they were all each other had left. Levi had taken quickly to his role as a parental figure and was almost a natural, despite his stubborn nature it was obvious to anyone he cared a lot about her. She too cared about him, though she didn't speak much she tended to show it in gestures more than anything. Sharing her bread with him, making sure he ate and got enough sleep. While he did the same for her, making sure she didn't worry too much and had her time to be able to act like a kid. While making sure she was loved and yet told right from wrong.
Mikasa still didn't like Erwin much, similar to how Levi acted upon their first meeting. Though he had come to trust him and accepted him as an acquaintance, Mikasa kept her distance. Giving him what was nicknamed "The stink eye". Though he was polite and friendly to her, she didn't say a word to him other than "Eyebrows" or "Grandpa" which Levi found hard not to laugh over. The two were so alike other cadets had to restrain their own amusement.
Hanji still doted on and followed Mikasa around like a puppy. Spoiling her and babying her like she was her own, it was no secret that Hanji secretly longed for kids of her own. Playing with her hair and hoping to bond with her in any way possible, to show her affections towards Mikasa. When they were apart all Hanji would do was cry. Obviously, Erwin was jealous of how Mikasa had come to cling to Hanji too. Looking at the older female as a mother/auntie figure. Accepting the close relationship between Hanji and her uncle. While she still didn't like Erwin and would become protective and insulting should she feel he got too close towards him. Warning him to not get too close to Levi.
However, while Levi was stern but kind with his niece, Hanji was openly affectionate and often suffered from separation anxiety. But though Mikasa had at first been shocked by Hanji. She came to enjoy her affection. Obviously missing the affection her mother had once given her and enjoying that she could get that with Hanji. She had imprinted onto Hanji as her new mother figure.
Levi had celebrated his 31st birthday, to which everyone got him a gift. Entering his thirties as easily as he had when he started to become a young adult. Erwin's being appropriate, Mike's out of obligation and Hanji's being one of mutual humour. While Mikasa not having anything else to offer, got him some flowers which he kept on his desk. Everyone had found it cute, though Mikasa had been shy about it since everyone had been able to buy theirs using money. Levi reassured her she had put a lot of thought into it and that was what counted the most to him.
She was a very thoughtful and perceptive young girl and would no doubt be a lovely young lady one day. Growing up quickly before his very eyes in the short period of time that he had known her. They really did mean it when they said that kids grew up too fast. Mikasa was now 11 years old, soon to enter her preteens. Developing from a child into a young woman. However, that did not deter Levi's strong protective nature around her, warning off anyone who gave her shady gazes.
She was still his responsibility and he would keep protecting her no matter how big she got. Even if she didn't need him he would always keep worrying about her. But now he would need to support her more than ever. Soon her life would change indefinitely, a new life and a new role would soon be upon her. For being an Ackerman and worth a hundred men in battle, she had to be trained for battle while she was still young.
Levi and Hanji headed towards Mikasa's room quietly, given she was now 11 nearly 12. It was time she had her own room, given living with her uncle in the same quarters would no longer be appropriate. However, her room was across the hall from him and not too far away given he was still not keen on parting ways with her. She was still young and vulnerable to potential dangers from sneaky soldiers. That and he had gotten used to having her curl up beside him like a warm kitten. Listening to her breathing and rubbing her back when she had a bad dream. It was soothing in a way, after Mikasa came into his life he had started to sleep better again too. They had both helped one another get better, healing one another's wounds in their own way.
"I can't believe she's 11, it's come around so soon. If only I could baby her just a bit longer" Hanji sobbed tearfully. Since when had she gotten so big, she remembered when Mikasa first arrived with Levi. Holding her on his arm and carrying her around proudly but awkwardly, now they acted so naturally around one another it was like he was a different person.
She was really blooming under his wing and obviously looked up to him, otherwise she wouldn't do as he said. Mikasa really loved him and worried about him, she remembered when she ran at him crying when they came back from battle. That had been the cutest thing she had ever seen in her life. She would not easily forget that memory.
Levi groaned under his breath, she wasn't going to let this go was she? Another story he would never hear the end of. "She's still a kid Hanji, she's just old enough to learn how to fight. We need to start her as soon as possible, and don't talk about her like you gave birth to her. I adopted her and brought her here" he replied sternly. Sometimes he wondered if he wasn't looking after two kids instead of one. Though he too was not eager to see Mikasa grow up yet, she was his ward and relative. But she was also a soldier, together they would fight against the Titans to protect humanity. Though her goals were also somewhat selfish, he found it rather cute. She was fighting to not only protect himself and Hanji, but her crush Jean. The people nearest and dearest to her.
"She's still a kid, I'm like her mama. Don't act like you're not upset too" she snapped crossly. This had to be separation anxiety, like when a mother wasn't ready for her baby to grow up. Still wanting to hold it close. She had really bonded with Mikasa since she had come to live with them, she awoke her maternal nature to protect. She just hoped she could teach Mikasa all about the wonders of science too.
Levi rolled his eyes, but yes in a sense she was right. He had raised Mikasa for over a year now, acting as a father figure towards her. Protecting his only niece from danger, making sure she was able to live happily after all she had been through. He had to remind her that there was still good in the world amongst the chaos she had seen before they found each other.
Eventually they reached Mikasa's room, Hanji hurrying ahead eagerly with a spring in her step. You would never guess she was around the same age as Levi given how she acted half of the time. However, upon reaching the room her eyes snapped open wide. A look of shock then concern spreading across her face. "M… Mikasa? Oh, my good sweetie what happened" she replied abruptly her tone panicked.
Now Levi knew Hanji, she made jokes the same as him. Though her jokes were usually childish, or toilet based like his own. And the look on her face now said anything but fooling around right now. He approached Mikasa's room quickly, his paternal instincts kicking in. Wondering what had happened to Mikasa to cause Hanji to have such a strong reaction to the incident before her. His own eyes then widened, blood there was blood. Mikasa was curled up on the floor gripping her belly tightly and crying hard. The stain on her dress creating a patch and was running down her legs. He knew what this was without Hanji having to say anything. Mikasa was now a woman, usually girls started at 13 or 16 depending on the individual. But Mikasa seemed to be an early starter.
He didn't envy her pain whatsoever, he knew from working with females that menstruation was a difficult time for all the female cadets. They had to deal with being a soldier and a woman at the same time. He knew that Mikasa would face this one day, but he hadn't known it would be in this short a time. How the hell was he supposed to react to this upon being caught off guard.
Mikasa looked up through her bangs quietly, her eyes streamed with tears. Her eyes filled with pain, fear and confusion. "Uncle Levi, Hanji. What's wrong with me, my tummy. It hurts, it hurts so much" she sobbed. It wouldn't stop, the pain or the blood and she didn't know why. Was she sick? Was she dying? What was happening to her? This had never happened before, and it was scaring her.
Hanji was the first to step in, having read this up in a book she knew exactly what to do. Rushing to Mikasa's side and placing her hands on her back to rub her supportively. Knowing how scary this must be for her. "Your ok Mikasa, sweetie. You'll be ok. I'm here" she replied gently in a soft cooing sound. This time of the month would be hard on her from now on. Given they lacked the medical knowledge to fully ease the pain. She turned to Levi, her eyes stern, he knew he was freaking out but now was not the time to panic. Mikasa needed to be kept calm or she may hurt herself or make the pains worse. "Levi, run her a hot bath. Put in some herbs too for her tummy. I'll need salt for the blood too, get me a flannel too and some clean underwear" she replied sternly. they needed to make her as comfortable as possible.
Levi snapped out of his daze and nodded quickly. It was one of those times he was glad Hanji was such a science geek as she knew exactly how to deal with this situation. Though he felt bad for Mikasa given how scared she must be. Though he was empathetic towards her situation, as she got older this would be harder to dealt with. One day she would have to deal with this on her own, as well as handle being a soldier.
Mikasa sat quietly on the bed, feeling better after her bath and her tummy no longer hurting anymore. Her eyes red from crying, now changed into a clean pair of clothes as her other ones had to be cleaned. She sat quietly on her uncle's lap, him stroking her hair quietly knowing how scared she must be. Now for the talk, oh how fun this would be. Growing up was never easy, for anyone regardless of gender. But with women came a painful burden that they would have to tolerate for the rest of their lives. One they would hate with a passion but got through time after time despite how crappy they felt as said time. He had a true respect for women during this time, especially given they were given a hard time during their monthly.
But she would get through this, if she was strong enough to get through the loss and heartbreak she had already endured. Of course the science geek had to be the first one to speak her mind on this. "Now Mikasa, your 11 now nearly 12. You're a big girl now, and when you get bigger. Your body goes through some changes" Hanji replied calmly. All kids went through this talk, though she never expected to only a year after meeting her.
Mikasa tilted her head to the side, she wasn't an idiot, but she didn't understand. She had already been through changes, that day those men had killed her parents. What other changes could she possibly go through. She already had this power inside of her that she couldn't understand, but was like having hypersensitive instincts that told her what she needed to know.
Levi sighed, talking to her like that wasn't going to help. While Mikasa was by no means an idiot, she was way too young to understand fully what Hanji was trying to say. She may as well just give it to Mikasa straight, rip it off like a band aid. "Hanji just be honest. You're probably confusing her further" he sighed. There was no doubt by the look on her face that Mikasa had no idea what was going on.
Hanji frowned, Levi really had no tact and she was trying not to scare Mikasa further. She was going through some pretty big changes right now that would be scary for anyone the first time around. But she could at least be simple with this. "So, I'm a grown up and you're a little girl right. But your 11 now, so soon you'll be a grown up too" she replied.
Mikasa stared at her, then she nodded "Like mama" she replied calmly. She remembered her mummy was a grown up and pretty. She had long black hair too and she had a grown-up body. She then pressed her hands gently on her chest, it was still flat right now. But if she was going to be a grown up soon, her body would become like her mothers had been. She was going to go through a new change.
Hanji nodded, relieved she was getting the gist of it. It made it easier to explain and avoided any unnecessary difficulties that may happen due to confusion. "Yes, just like me and your mama. But when you get bigger, you'll be even stronger and prettier than you are now" she explained. As an adult, she would be able to achieve all sorts of things. New doors would be opening to her and entering a whole new world she never knew as a child.
Levi's eyes darkened, and he frowned, she was only a kid. He didn't want Hanji putting those ideas into her head yet. She had training to worry about, he was not going to allow anyone to date Mikasa yet. "Hanji stop putting funny ideas into her head" he growled protectively. He didn't mind Jean, he was a good kid. But Mikasa was far too young to be worrying about all the crap that came with being an adult yet.
Hanji frowned, god he really was overprotective. He couldn't hide everything from Mikasa, she would find out one day. Kids always did one way or another. "Spoil sport, I'm just being nice. If Mikasa is this cute now, imagine how cute she'll be when she's all grown up" she huffed. God she could just picture it now, it made her want to cry all over again. She wasn't ready for Mikasa to grow up yet, she wanted her to stay cute and small. She wanted to baby and dote on Mikasa just a little longer before she got big enough to take care of herself. Given how mature Mikasa was for her age, there was no doubt she would become independent in no time. The idea of Mikasa no longer needing her broke her heart.
Levi rolled his eyes, guess it was his job to say something now. But he wasn't going to sugar coat it the same way Hanji did, but he would be kind. "Mikasa" he replied calmly, his tone stern but gentle. Mikasa looked up at him with big eyes, full of curiosity. She certainly had been through a lot today. He could see the trust in her eyes, she knew he would never lie to her about anything.
"You need to keep this a secret, only me and Hanji can know about this. If anyone else asks, tell them you're not feeling well. Anyone else may be mean or do something bad" he replied sternly. There were a lot of people who could hurt Mikasa and she was in a weakened state. Until she was old enough to take care of herself, he would never stop worrying about her. Especially given how they came to meet.
Young men could be very immature about this sort of thing. Not really understanding the struggles that girls went through, often leading to acts of sexism to make fun of said women. On top of that she would develop more admirers as she hit puberty. Given how people were doting on her now, she would no doubt be getting confessed to ever other day as she got older. Mikasa was his responsibility and family, he would not let anyone touch her.
Mikasa started at him then nodded, this hurt but she knew that it would make people worry. However, there was one person who she didn't want to make worry "Can I tell Jean?" she asked. Though so far she had been the one to look after him, he cared about her and looked up to her. Jean was her friend and she liked him, if she was in pain and he saw he would worry. If she couldn't tell him he would be upset, and she would feel bad. She didn't want to worry Jean, he would cry. Now that she was going to become a soldier, she wanted to tell Jean. She wanted to tell him about her future and what was going to happen. Given they were friends it was only natural they share things.
Hanji smirked and tried not to laugh. Oh, how awkward that would be, but Jean seemed like a nice boy. He had been scared around Levi but respectful towards Mikasa, so he seemed ok to tell. But then Mikasa could show off about becoming a soldier, she could call herself his heroine. Saying she could protect him and all sorts, oh how fun that would be. God, kids grew up so fast. She was barely a teenager and she was already developing feelings for a boy, ah adolescence. Now she had already learned that Mikasa did not just attach herself to just anyone. She didn't like Erwin that much, nor mike. But she did like herself and Levi, so it had to be certain personalities that she felt attracted to. Certain individuals who carried traits she felt drawn to.
Levi frowned, god she really liked this boy didn't she. Well, he didn't see the harm in it, he was too young to understand right now. But then again, she may want to show off about being a soldier. He had seemed impressed to meet him that time. He then held up one finger in an explaining manner "If you're a good girl during training today. I'll let you go and meet Jean for the afternoon, as long as you like until we have to go home ok" he agreed.
Mikasa's eyes lit up, she wasn't feeling great and her tummy had really hurt earlier. She was nervous about learning to fight due to the fact she hadn't even been able to explain how she had attacked those men. But if she worked hard and was a good girl she could go and see Jean. It had been a few months since they saw one another last, she had really missed him. She would be happy to see her friend again. She got so lonely sometimes even with her uncle and Hanji around, due to the fact they had to go work sometimes. Seeing Jean again would make her so happy, given how she had nobody to play with around here. Then they could play together, and she would feel all better again. "Yes" she replied eagerly. She couldn't wait to be able to see him again.
"Where are we going?" Mikasa asked curiously. Now wearing a new white dress and her cardigan due to her old ones being ruined. Her black eyes wide and curious, she had learned so much today and she was in expecting a new surprise. She and her uncle had talked about this when she first arrived, though it felt strange for it to be happening so soon.
"We're going to meet your new teammates. Their currently Levi's new teammates, but when you're a big girl your going to fight with them too" Hanji replied. She was worried about Mikasa getting hurt, but if she was anything like her uncle she would be fine. Squad Levi were good people and loyal teammates, she didn't doubt they would get along well in the future.
Mikasa became worried, she didn't know that many people in this place aside from eyebrows, Hanji and her uncle. She was a bit worried about meeting these new people she would fight alongside. What if they were mean, what if they were scary. What if they didn't like her, what if they made fun of her? There were people around here who gave her funny lucks and insulted her because of her Asian blood.
Levi saw her concern and picked her up, taking her by surprise. It had been a long day and she was right to be scared. But he felt like babying her right now, she was going through a lot of changes. "Stop with the tears, put on your brave face. They aren't mean, but if you act tough. They'll be scared of you" he replied. Mikasa was a sweet girl, but if she showed no fear she would be just fine.
Mikasa blinked, then she remembered how her uncle called Hanji and the other names. He also laughed when she called that blonde man eyebrows or grandpa. "You mean like how I call that blonde man grandpa" she replied curiously. If she showed no fear and acted tough then they would respect her and not be mean to her. Is that what her uncle meant?
Hanji stifled a laugh and tried not to smirk, the memory alone would keep her smiling all day. She doubted that Erwin would ever get over that one, but it was fun to think about all the same. She hoped Mikasa never stopped being this cute, speaking her mind so openly about her feelings towards other people. But then, all kids were like that, they had no filter.
Levi smirked, he had taught her well "Yes, if you don't like them or they are mean to you. You can call them names" he replied. Though he had a feeling she would like Petra, everyone loved Petra. She was a sweet and motherly type of girl, he didn't doubt she would make a great wife to Oluo in the future. Though he better respect her, she was a good woman.
Levi and Hanji approached the new cadets silently, each hand chosen by Levi for their skills and talent. He chose only the best for team Levi and these cadets had proven their worth. There was one girl and three guys in total, not including him. Sometimes they could be a bit of handful, but they were good cadets. Good people, he hadn't had friends like them since Furlan and Isabel.
Hanji decided to speak up on his behalf, given Levi was carrying her and they were also familiar wit her. "Squad Levi, as you may have heard you will be getting a new member of the team. She's a bit younger than you and she's related to Captain Levi. She's going to look up to you guys and learn a lot from all of you, especially Levi" she replied sternly. They were going to be like her big brothers and sisters, so they better treat her well under all circumstances. She was going to be facing a scary new world than one she was used to. They would be fighting alongside one another hand in hand so they better not bully her, she would not tolerate any cruel attitude towards Mikasa. She had been through enough as it was.
Petra nodded, she had heard this person had been adopted by the captain. She admired how thoughtful he was taking in another person after they had gone through such trauma. He really was a great guy. Given that this person was the captains only family, that meant they would be important to him. So they had to be nice to this person and make them feel welcome.
Oluo was not completely impressed, nor was he so eager. Though he deeply respected the captain and tried to be as good a man as he did. There was always the chance that this new cadet was all she was cracked up to be. They didn't need a new member letting the team down. If they so much and made a fool out of Levi he would not hesitate to put them in their place.
Gunter and Eld simply nodded, wanting to do their jobs. They would welcome any new member and show them the ropes. They remembered what it was like to be new faces and they were still kind of adapting. "Be nice, she's been through a lot today and she's nervous about her future. But she's strong in body and mind, she has potential and someone she wants to protect too" Hanji said had goals and dreams just like the rest of them and they would do well to remember that.
Levi nodded quietly at Mikasa, making sure she was ok before they said hello. These were people she had never met before but would become her team, like her family. They were good people and he trusted them. He then stepped forward, holding Mikasa close to him and staring down at the others. He would accept no nonsense and would stand up for his niece if any words were thrown against her.
"This is Mikasa, my niece. She came to live with me over a year ago, and she's learned a lot since then. She's going to be part of this team and will be training at the camps until she is old enough. So, show her respect" he replied sternly. He had faith in Mikasa that she would do well, as long as she had her family, her friends and her teammates she would do well. She would have Jean, himself, Hanji and now her new team. She would never be alone and they would be able to rely on one another through anything.
He knew that Oluo was a cocky shit and looked up to him, he wasn't a bad guy, but he did often act like an ass. But the last thing he would allow was anyone making Mikasa cry, she was his precious niece. A few of the squad members blinked, having obviously not expected her to be so young. But she was sure as hell cute that was for certain. She certainly looked like her uncle that was for sure.
Petra smiled and approached Mikasa, being the first to introduce herself. She really was a cutie. That silky black hair, beautiful big black eyes and such smooth skin. Her complexion really was different than other races. "Hi Mikasa, my name is Petra. If you like you can call me sissy, or big sister" she replied kindly with a warm smile. She was so young, yet she had endured so much, she really was a brave little girl.
Mikasa blushed shyly and nuzzled into Levi but nodded as a response. Still shy about meeting new people but this lady seemed nice and she was pretty. She liked her hair, she had never seen a colour like that before. She had a warm smile that was genuine and honest, this woman was not hiding anything about herself. She knew she could trust this lady.
Petra internally squealed, Mikasa was truly adorable. But she knew that Levi would never let anyone join the squad if they did not carry skill. Given how strong he was, he didn't doubt that his niece would achieve great things too. "I like your scarf Mikasa, it's very pretty" she said pointing to the scarf wrapped around her neck. It matched her cheeks, so warm and friendly. She wondered who gave it to her, they obviously cared about her to give her something so nice.
Hanji chuckled, Mikasa was so cute when she was shy. But Petra had made a good impression and Mikasa didn't seem afraid of her "She likes you" she reassured Petra. Though Mikasa was a quiet one, her reaction showed she had accepted Petra. She was most likely still fazed from earlier and all these new people. But she would get used to them over time.
Levi looked at Mikasa quietly, she was obviously trying to think of something to say. But she didn't have to worry, Petra was a nice girl. "Oi, Mikasa. Say something to Petra" he replied sternly. She didn't have to say much, but it would be rude to not say thank you or acknowledge Petra's kindness. She was trying hard to bond with Mikasa, despite them being strangers.
Mikasa shifted, not knowing what to say. But when she first met Jean she had said something about how he looked, because she liked his eyes. Maybe, that was what she could say to Petra? "Your hair, it's pretty" she replied shyly in a quiet voice. She had never seen hair that looked like Petra's before. It was orange, like a light flame burning in a fire. It shone in the light, which was something she had never seen before.
Petra hummed in eagerness, she was so cute. She didn't mind how little or how much Mikasa spoke, she was just glad to have made a good impression. They had plenty of time to get to know one another, they would be teammates from now on after all. "Danke" she replied gratefully. she got the feeling that Mikasa didn't speak much to people so she was happy for the compliment.
Oluo then stepped forward wearing a suspicious look, obviously she had won over Petra. But he was not so sure, she was a cute kid sure. But cute didn't do anything in the line of battle. Was this kid really an Ackerman? Someone with potential as strong as Levi? But then Levi was never the kind of guy to half ass a judgment on a soldier. He only took the best, so obviously he chose his niece for a reason. He tilted his head curiously eyeing her, she certainly was a clingy one. But she couldn't always rely on her uncle to protect her in the future. Weakness in this line of work was not acceptable. How would she be able to fight titans if she did nothing but hide behind other people? She needed to cut that habit out soon before she became a spoilt brat.
Mikasa stared at him for a while with her big black eyes, before her expression became a frown. She didn't like this guy, he was looking at her funny. But then again, he looked weird too, like grandpa eyebrows. "Wrinkles" she replied bluntly. She could see he didn't like her being so close to her uncle, but he was her family so she was allowed to act like this around him.
Hanji snorted and cupped her mouth, averting her gaze and face as she stifled her laugh. Damn, Mikasa struck again. Seems she didn't like Oluo much, but then he and Erwin had something in common. He should have been nicer to her instead of giving her the dirty looks, she may have been a kid but she sure as hell was no pushover. If Mikasa didn't like you, there was no changing that.
Levi smirked, trying not to break out into laughter like Hanji. He doubted the other cadets would let this go any time soon. Damn, Mikasa certainly didn't hold back on insults. Guess Oluo knew who he was messing with now, like niece like uncle after all. He would have to try pretty damn hard to get on her good side now, she was as stubborn as himself.
Petra cupped her mouth and sniggered under her breath, yep this girl was certainly related to Levi. But then it served Oluo right for being so mean to Mikasa. She was just a kid after all, he should know better. She was clearly not happy at how he was trying to act like her uncle and how he was giving her evil looks. So she was putting him in his place.
Oluo said nothing but was stunned into silence. Having not expected such a blunt answer from such a young face, but then looks could be deceiving. This kid, who would one day join their team had just insulted him. She really was related to Levi no question, she carried the same personality. He walked away slowly, still coming to terms with the mean comment.
Gunther and Eld then stepped forward, nodding at Mikasa politely. Wanting to make a good impression after their other teammate was so cruelly put in his place."Hi Mikasa, I'm Eld and this is my friend Gunther. Don't worry we're not as mean as Oluo. You can call us big brother ok?". Mikasa was a kid after all and they had no filter, besides since she was related to Levi she was no ordinary kid. Oluo had to respect what she had been through, as well as their differences.
Mikasa shyed away again and nodded, she liked the blonde man called Eld. He had a warm smile and reminded her of her daddy. Though his hair colour was a bit brighter than her daddies had been. The other man behind him had a kind face, but he was very quiet. She didn't really know what to say to either of them, but they seemed nicer than the wrinkles man behind them.
Levi patted her head affectionately, she had been a good girl today, but he would have words with Oluo. He needed to respect Mikasa, she was a clever girl and his only family. He would not tolerate disrespect. "Mikasa is a big girl now, so she will be going to the camps soon. But I wanted her to meet you all before she does. So, she knows who you are" he explained. They would be seeing a lot of each other in the future.
"Good luck Mikasa, I hope you make friends" Petra said kindly. She seemed like a sweet girl and hopefully she would meet people who would keep her company. Hopefully she didn't get picked on. People could be mean and given how quiet she was, people may take advantage of her and think of her as a pushover. But if she opened her mouth then maybe she may be ok.
Mikasa's eyes then widened, her uncle promised to take her to see Jean. If she met the comrades, then she could go and see her friend today. They had to go now before it got too late. She then turned to Levi with eager eyes "Uncle Levi, you promised. If I met everyone I could go and see him" she replied anxiously. She had so much to tell Jean, she didn't want to miss her chance.
Petra's eyebrows raised as did the others, Mikasa was a bit young to have a boyfriend. But then she was at that age to be developing crushes and what not. So, it was natural after all. But this boy had to be pretty special if she was this anxious about seeing him and leaving them so soon. Girls in love no matter the age were generally serious about their affections.
Levi sighed, she had been through enough today. She had been good, and she was obviously not feeling well. She would never let it go if she didn't go and see Jean today. She would sulk for hours. "Hanji, can you take over for me" he replied. He could handle it from here, they knew who Mikasa was and they would have plenty of time to get to know one another. He may as well spoil her today.
Hanji nodded and watched them both leave, he really couldn't say no to Mikasa. She had him wrapped around her little finger. But she was a girl in love, seeing Jean was all she could think about. But that was rather cute. She then turned to Oluo quietly, a wicked smile on her face "Oluo, I believe you and I need to have a little chat" she replied sternly.
Jean walked through town quietly, kicking stones and humming to himself. He missed Mikasa, it had now been a couple of months since they had seen one another. He had to admit it was really lonely. He had never met a girl like Mikasa. She was so beautiful. She was the first person to stand up for him next to his mum. She didn't tease him like the other kids she was really nice to him. She called his eyes pretty and she had fun with him, he had never had someone like that before.
He really hoped he could see her again, even for just a while. This place was full of kids but they never wanted to play with him, all they did was harass him and make him feel like crap about himself. It wasn't much fun being on your own after finally being able to make friends with someone. Especially one as pretty as strong and cool as Mikasa.
"JEAN!" a familiar voice yelled. His eyes widened, and his heart skipped a beat, was this a dream? He was just thinking of her and now she was finally here again? God he was so happy he didn't know what to do with himself. He turned to see Mikasa walking towards him with her uncle, a worried and shy look on her face. He wondered what could be wrong, was she not feeling well? Yet she came to see him. She had come all this way, despite how far it was just to spend time with him. That had to mean she was special to him right? His mum had always said that girls who made an effort thought highly of you. So that meant that Mikasa really liked him, that thought made him happier than he could put into words. His affections for her growing deeper.
Levi turned to look down at Jean, since Mikasa was not feeling well he would need to stay close. And he felt like being nice today and he could afford to do something for them to cheer them both up. "Oi brat, is your mum home?" he asked. He could let Mikasa stay for tea as well as a conversation. It was only right he introduce himself since Mikasa had most likely come up in conversation.
Jean blushed and nodded bravely. Knowing better than to go against this guy given he was infamous. He had heard the story that he was hand picked by Erwin Smith himself for his skills and the commander didn't just choose anyone to work alongside him. He just couldn't believe that Mikasa and this guy were related to one another, but then given how strong she was it made sense.
Mikasa stared at Jean quietly, her eyes wide. Was this a dream? Could this be fate? Had her uncle known this was going to happen? She was too happy for words right now. She thought this day had been awful, but it was in fact getting better. From meeting her new comrades to being able to see him again. Knowing that they would see each other again.
Jean blushed, he knew this sounded weird from a kid who always got beat up. But this was his dream, this was what he wanted to do with his life. He wanted to do the right thing for his mum. Mikasa had inspired him to stand up for himself and not let people push him around anymore. So he could be like her, though if any of the other kids knew they would tease him for looking up to a girl. But he didn't care.
"I… I want to join the military, so I can become strong like you" Jean replied shyly. He was tired of getting beaten up all the time and he wanted to protect his loved ones for a change instead. With the military came privileges, he could do things for his mother and take care of her. He knew they made a lot of money. His mother had always done things for him, but he wanted to do something for her too. "I know inside the walls; my mum will be safe from titans. I can protect my mum from danger and have a safer life than we do now" he replied nervously. He knew how weak that sounded given the rep that the inner walls had. They were better than the outer walls that was for sure, but that didn't mean they were living like kings. They had struggles and issues the same as anyone else had. Life was no picnic.
Mikasa watched him quietly, most people would call that selfish. But she knew he meant well with his words, Jean was not a selfish boy by any means. He was soft like dough and his heart was sweet like sugar, he was a good person. The fact that he looked up to her was pretty amazing, I mean given she saw her abilities as normal. But to him she must have been a superhero and that was pretty cool. She then shook her head quietly as a response "No, it's not weird, you love your mum, right? You want to protect her using military influence. I mean you wouldn't want to if you didn't love her" she replied calmly. Even if people made fun of him or insulted him for his dream, she would always believe in him. Because his dream had good motives, he wanted to better by his mother.
Jean blushed and nodded, glad she understood. Most people would call him a coward but not her. That was what he liked about Mikasa, she was kind. He didn't get a lot of people treating him the way she did. But he wondered what would happen to their friendship, if he went to join the military he may never be able to see Mikasa again and that made him sad. He had been all alone until he met Mikasa, nobody to talk to but his mother and nobody to play with. Now he looked forward to the days when they would be able to see each other. The days where his loneliness would come to an end and he would be able to spend his time in her company with laughter and fun. Forgetting about all his troubles and worries.
Mikasa sighed, she may as well tell him. But she felt happier doing so now that she knew that Jean wanted to join the military too. It would be good to have a friend on the inside, so she wouldn't get lonely. "My uncle wants me to join the military too. Because I'm strong like he is, he wants me to train to fight against the titans" she replied calmly. But she was doing so to protect him, to protect the people she loved.
Jean stared at her, given how strong she was there was no doubt she would surpass him. She was so cool that she could do anything she wanted to. But he hoped she wouldn't forget about him. He didn't have that many friends and he wasn't good at talking to people. But if he had Mikasa around he wouldn't be lonely, and he would have someone to talk to. Someone to motivate him.
Mikasa then leaned over and held out her pinky. Since they had the same goal, that made them partners. They were in this together, so they had to look out for one another no matter what. "You have to promise me Jean, that when we get older we will see each other again. We'll both join the military and work together" she said sternly. She didn't want anyone else by her side but him. Jean was nice, he cared about others. He didn't deserve the bullying he got and if she joined the military he could become stronger. They could look out for one another and help their friends. If she ever felt sad and lonely and her uncle or Hanji weren't around, she would be ok because she would have Jean to make her smile again. Then everything would be ok.
Jean blushed, he wondered what Mikasa would look like then. The two of them grown up, as teenagers in the military. He didn't doubt she would be even prettier than she was right now. He smiled shyly and held out his pinky to intertwine with hers. "I promise" he agreed. He would never lie to Mikasa about anything. She was his only and closest friend.
Mikasa smiled at him, though she was scared of what she may face. She knew the dangers that all soldiers faced, the fear she had felt when her uncle went out on missions and the relief she felt when he came back. But as long as she had him, she felt like she could face anything. Like she had been when she met her uncle's team, she felt less scared around Jean. All of her worries seeming to melt away. "Cross your heart and hope to die" she teased.
Jean's cheeks reddened further, almost as red as the scarf around her neck. This felt like a promise two people made when they loved each other, pinky promises were the most serious of promises. Everyone knew that, even grown ups. "Oui" he stammered shyly holding out his finger to intertwine with hers. He felt in his heart they would see one another again. He just knew it.