Yep, I'm back with another chapter. I felt it was time for Mikasa to explain her past to Jean as it seemed right. I thought Levi visiting Mikasa and meeting her friends would be fun. Since Eren seems like a bully from Levi's point of view, Levi confronting him seemed about right.
I hope you like the new update and please review
Mikasa rolled over wearily in her bed, low grumbles of sleepiness still escaping her lips. The lowlight of dawn peeking through the window, disturbing her from her peaceful slumber. She knew soon enough herself and every other female trainee would soon be woken by Shadis for more training. At first when she came here, mornings had become sluggish and showed obvious signs of exhaustion, but was still capable of fighting and training. Despite the fact that her body wanted her so badly to return to sleep until it was fully recovered. Though she was used to early mornings thanks to living with her uncle, when she was up too early he would tell her to go back to sleep. Though now at the camps such a luxury did not exist, causing her to fall back into old habits again. She was enjoying the comfort and warmth of the bed itself, content with just lying here basking in the silence. Surprisingly none of her bunkmates snored loudly, even Sasha was a peaceful sleeper.
Though sleeping amongst so many other people was a new feeling for her, having only shared a room with her uncle until now. Other bunkmates respected and sought their own privacy here too. So unless someone wanted her company they never really approached her unless it was a friend. Leaving her alone, which she to had to say was a relief. Worried she would be overwhelmed by everyone asking to be her best friend and pestering her with endless unwanted questions she would rather not answer.
Her black hair willowed over the pillow, forming a long tangled mess behind her. The only downside to having long hair was how messy it got on a morning and taking time to brush it. But otherwise she never really had many issues with taking care of it. Thanks to Sasha things had become a lot easier for felt a shift in the bed beside her as Sasha subconsciously huddled towards her for warmth, nuzzling towards her like a baby animal. A light drool escaping her lips which Mikasa couldn't help but smile at. Though teased for being simple and a clutz at the camps, her presence did comfort Mikasa and she truly looked at the girl as a sister she never had.
She reached out to pat Sasha's head gently, knowing Sasha would be the hardest of all to wake up. She was a heavy sleeper and by no means a morning person. But the reason why she was up so early was because she was excited. These thoughts had been plaguing her own mind, though she tried to remain calm she soon found herself restless. Not knowing what to do with herself, mentally preparing herself what to say to him when she finally saw him. She heard somewhere that her uncle would be dropping by for a visit soon enough to speak about his team. Which she would be undoubtedly be joining once her graduation happened, just to be closer to her family. It had been so long since she had seen him the thought of doing so made her so happy. She sighed heavily and pulled the sheets over her face, hoping to gain some more sleep before Shadis made his way to the cabins. Luckily he always headed for the boys first.
Sasha ran her brush gently through Mikasa's long hair, making sure to be extra careful with any knots. She knew from personal experience how painful they could be if they were yanked hard enough. Having grown accustomed to helping Mikasa look her best every day. She had noticed something was on Mikasa's mind, knowing she wouldn't want others to overhear, she had decided to try and ease it out of her in private. "You seem really happy about something Mika-chan? It couldn't be that you're dreaming about Jean again huh?" she teased in amusement. She thought it was adorable how much those two liked each other. They would make such a sweet couple.
She herself hadn't had much interest in crushes compared to her other female teammates, she did like Connie but more so that he was fun. She enjoyed hanging out with him, just joking out. But she was no fool to picking up on attraction, hell you could feel the tension like static electricity in the air. However, Jean and Mikasa were too shy to be able to say out loud how they really felt about each other. But why rush things? They would be able to find the courage to say their feelings out loud soon enough.
Mikasa felt her cheeks heat, she had forgotten about what her uncle said about Jean. He knew better than anyone the depth of her feelings for him. She just hoped he wouldn't say anything embarrassing about it while he was here. "N… No, that's not it. My… um… my uncle is coming to visit the camps…." She mumbled under her breath. There had been a time when she thought being away from home would be the worst thing in the world. It turned out it wasn't, though she was still a little homesick, she had managed to find her footing, one day at a time.
A look of shock came across Sasha's face "What? Do you mean the Captain of the Survey corps? That uncle?!" she yelled. By now some people had heard around the camps of her being Levi's niece. Some spoke rumours or gossiped, most just accepted it and thought nothing of it. She had never asked Mikasa about it as she cared more about bonding with Mikasa and having fun. But she did care about Mikasa and always listened to her problems, her uncle coming up a couple of times in conversation.
Mikasa nodded bashfully, "I… haven't seen him since I arrived here. I guess I'm just a little nervous about it" she admitted. She wanted to run into his arms like when she was a kid, but she worried about making a scene and embarrassing them both. I mean, she was 15 after all, she was still a kid. She was climbing the slow descent into adulthood, she was still figuring a lot of things out. She couldn't help but still be a little childish around her uncle.
Sasha smiled and hugged her gently from behind "You'll be fine Mika-chan, me and the boys will come with you. If anyone gives you bother you know Jean will scare them off" she reassured her. Besides, a few were eager to meet him. Mikasa smiled, a sense of relief filling her. She really was grateful to have Sasha as a bunkmate and her best friend, she had been so kind to her she felt so spoiled. Wondering how her childhood would have been if Sasha had also been her best friend.
Hanji smirked as she watched Levi from the opposite side of the carriage, he was so obvious about his feelings it was adorable. Since he sent Mikasa away to the camps he hadn't been the same. Accidentally making tea for two or three sometimes, expecting to see her in her room and absentmindedly looking for her around the base. The two had rarely been apart when she was first adopted by him, of course being separated would be hard for both of them. It was like the two of them meeting had been fate, that the two finally find their new family after losing so much. Watching Levi heal through the love that grew for his niece.
Levi saw the grin on her face, a shiver running down his back. That face usually meant one of two things, Hanji had another mad scheme or she was up to trouble, either way it never meant something good. "What are you up to shitty glasses?" he grumbled. Was she going to pull some prank when they showed up, god forbid she tried he would make her regret it. He wanted things to run as smoothly as possible today, no mishaps or mistakes whatsoever, he didn't need this right now. Today was simply a family visit, no work business involved whatsoever.
Hanji hummed fondly, she wondered if Levi would ever be honest about his feelings. But that was one of his redeeming qualities, his adorable stubbornness. "You're just so cute is all Levi, you can't wait to see Mikasa" she teased fondly. She doubted anyone loved Mikasa more than he did, not even her. But then again he had raised the girl as his own. It was only natural he felt that way. She knew he would be over the moon when she finally left the camps and joined his team, so he would be able to watch over her every day.
Levi frowned, she better not say anything weird while they were visiting. Though this was a semi business/semi-personal trip. He didn't want any bad situations being caused because she couldn't behave. Hell, he barely tolerated the fact that she had Titans as pets, but he knew despite her manic nature she could handle herself. But what annoyed him most of all was how well she could read him. "You truly speak the most utter nonsense sometimes Hanji" he mumbled.
Mikasa chewed away at her breakfast in silence, today they had been blessed with a supply of eggs as well as bread. So she had chosen to have her eggs on toast to make it last longer and fill her up. She hoped her uncle brought another supply of tea too. There wasn't much choice at this place due to rations, hell she realized how lucky she had been when living with her uncle. Glad of the small shipments he sent her of occasionally, to help remind her of home. But also reminding her of all the things she was missing in this place.
"So, Mikasa I heard your uncle is coming to visit. You must be excited" Marco replied warmly. Leaving home and coming to live in the camps couldn't have been easy for her. It was a big change to leave somewhere familiar for a new place. He knew she occasionally got letters from him which she replied to. But it wouldn't be the same as enjoying his company. Hell, even he missed his own family, everyone in this place missed their family. Home sickness was a given in the military, to be so far away from home.
"God, I bet he's even cooler in person. Though I heard he has a scary temper" Connie babbled. He was infamous for his strength and skill, but how he really was as a person was a myth. Nobody aside from his teammates knew the truth about him. He had a reputation and was one of the most respected men known to nearly everyone here. He was the guy nobody should ever mess with. He wondered if he and Mikasa looked anything alike, I mean he couldn't help but feel a little curious.
"Be nice Connie, he's her uncle. As long as you don't cause trouble or we don't embarrass her. Everything is gonna be great" Sasha reprimanded firmly. She hadn't really met him herself but he meant a lot to Mikasa. So for that, she would be on her best behaviour. She knew Mikasa had been worried about this for hours, what she needed right now was moral support not confrontations. Though she had heard enough stories about him, not always were rumours true about someone. You had to be open minded about these things.
"Jean, you met the guy once right? I mean back when you and Mikasa were kids. What was he like man?" Connie asked. The benefits of being her childhood friend meant he had met Levi in person, god he didn't know how lucky he was. He had to have some details on the guy right? He was their only hope to understand him in any way, I mean Mikasa wasn't very talkative about it so surely she told him something.
Jean nearly choked on his tea, he had nearly forgotten. Honestly he had been on edge all morning. What was he supposed to say? Hey man, I know I totally have the hots for your niece and she's my best friend. But I'm not a creepy guy at all I swear. Yeah, real smooth. Everyone peered over at him in anticipation, so he was the new source of information now was he? God he hoped Mikasa wouldn't get hounded by anyone else today, especially not that Eren guy, she was nervous enough as it was. "I… um….he's… intimidating I guess, but just because he's protective over Mikasa. He's a sort of polite guy sometimes…. He's just not a sociable person… so a better word would be… complicated?" he explained awkwardly. I mean the last time he had seen the guy was five years ago when they were kids, he was bound to have changed.
Mikasa smiled at him gratefully, squeezing his hand secretly under the table for support. He shyly squeezed her hand back in return, glad to have supported her in some way. He would help her through today no matter what. Regardless of his status, this was an important family reunion for her. She hadn't told them much because truthfully she hadn't really told him their names, only that she made friends. She was a little shy on details, often still thinking this life had to be a dream.
"So just don't say anything stupid then" Marco replied casually. In his case that wouldn't be hard to do, but Connie would be in hot water. The guy was known for getting under people's skin and being a prankster. The group laughed and joked a little more before continuing their breakfast.
Eren peered across the dining hall in silent anger, his green eyes filled with frustration and confusion. He would never understand what Mikasa saw in that guy, he seemed like a jerk. But she never seemed to leave his side nowadays. He wasn't an idiot, he could see the way they looked at each other. They were smitten for each other, couldn't she see how bad he was for her? Hell, Jean's best friend Marco seemed like a better match, of all the guys she could have fallen for it was Kirstein?
Armin sighed heavily, Eren had developed a bad habit of watching Mikasa and her friends nearly every day. It was becoming very annoying for her and not a healthy mindset to be in. She had her own life now and habits. "Eren. Leave her be, he's not doing any harm and they're her friends. She's free to do what she wants" he scolded. They weren't kids anymore. He had spent so much time sulking that it was affecting his training, he would never be able to achieve his goals if he didn't focus.
Eren frowned, he didn't understand how Armin couldn't see what was so wrong here. The guy only liked her for her looks. She was so passive and shy around him it wasn't normal. He had to be bullying her or something like that. "She's just so quiet, when I spoke to her about it she was so cold towards me. Back when we were kids she was never like that" he grumbled. She had changed so much, like she was a completely different person. Just when had she started to smile like that? Why had he missed it?
"Eren, I get it. You saved her life from traffickers as a kid, that is a big deal and she owes you that. But you knew her for a brief day of her life. She went to live with her uncle for five years. It's normal that at that time she would meet Jean and befriend him. I hate to say it Eren, but you're a stranger to her" he explained firmly. Mikasa had a whole life without him, she met new people, she lived in different places and she developed new relationships. Eren had too, they had spread out and grown on their own. Eren had nothing to do with her life, so he had no right to but into hers and upset her friends.
A look of anger flashed across Eren's face and he gripped his hands into fists, but he restrained the urge to lash out. He was trying to be better at that, but after what happened to his mum. He had a hard time controlling his emotions very well. Armin was one of the only people he knew from home, the only familiar face he had in his life until now. He hated that, he hated that she had forgotten him and what he did meant nothing now. He just hoped… that they could be friends again.
"Eat up, you'll need it for today" Armin reassured him. But given his mood it would be best he steered clear of Mikasa today. He didn't want to start a fight because he was simply in a bad mood today. Eren relented and continued eating his breakfast if only to appease Armin. He just couldn't stop worrying about her. He wanted her to be safe and happy, he didn't like that she had forgotten him while she never left his mind.
Jean sat out on the porch with Mikasa, he had wanted to speak her to privately and ask how she was doing. This was a big deal for her, that and they had never really spoken about him much. He just knew he was a big deal in terms of status and he had adopted her. "So… your uncle. He's in the military huh? No wonder he sent you to this place, run's in the family I guess" he joked awkwardly. He was trying damn it, he really was. I mean she was an amazing girl, he remembered how his heart fluttered when she saved him from those bullies. She was his first and only love from that day to this one.
Mikasa shifted, she knew he was trying to be funny and that meant so much. She loved that he never cared about her status or labels, he just loved her as she always had been. She was hugging herself out of instinct, trying to calm her nerves. "I… I got lonely a lot as a kid, I knew he couldn't help it. Going away on missions and all that. But after what happened when I was a kid, I guess I got scared he would never come back" she explained, a sombre look in her eye. She had never felt as much relief as hearing the horses come back and looking out of her window to see him amongst them. Sure, he was bossy sometimes and moody, but he showed her a kindness she could not put into words. She loved him in a way she could not explain, he was as precious to her as Jean.
Jean blinked, a perplexed look on his face. What about her parents? She had never really ever spoken about them and as a kid he had never asked. He simply thought her uncle took her out because he opted to. But what about the rest of her family? He had never asked about them because he felt it disrespectful to, but he had always been curious as to why they were never present in her life. I mean he was wrong to assume anything, but the gut feeling that something was wrong never truly went away.
Mikasa saw the look on his face and smiled sadly, it wasn't his fault. She had never really told him or anyone, it was her dirty little secret. The more Eren kept it to himself the better too, she didn't want anyone else knowing about it. For the past 5 years she had kept it locked away in the back of her mind and her head. Leaving them at peace and trying to overcome the wounds in her heart. But now she was opening fresh scars again. Going back to that dark day when she really thought she would die, or worse live a live that would give most people nightmares. But she hadn't, she had been blessed by her life being spared, given the chance at the normal life she had now.
"When… when I was a kid, I lived with my parents until I was ten. We lived in a cottage outside the Shiganshina district in a lakeside cottage. We lived a happy life and lived off the land. We were poor, yes, but we were content. But one day, when we were expecting a doctor's visit, some traffickers killed my father. Hoping to kidnap me and my mum for money, rare Asian blood and all that. She was killed by accident so they took me. If… if not for Eren, I don't know where I would be now" she explained painfully. She remembered how fierce he had been upon the thought of her being taken away, but they had left on good terms. She didn't understand all of his hostility.
Jean stared at her in shock, his eyes wide with awe. His brain went blank, he couldn't find any words. Hell, what was he supposed to say about this? What words could he give to make her feel better? All the time he had known her she had never told him. He was stunned she could smile at all, if he went through the same as her he doubted he ever could. "M.. Mikasa I… fuck… I'm sorry" he mumbled shakily. God he felt like an ass right now. He wished with everything he had that he could have protected her from that, but they hadn't known each other back then.
Mikasa reached out to squeeze his hand again, she didn't mind telling him this. In fact it was because it was him that she could talk about it. She felt a calmness when she was around him like she could forget all her demons. "Don't be Jean, it's because it's you that I can say this. My uncle helped me find a normal life again, act like a kid. But when I met you, that day as kids. I realized how lonely I'd been on my own. That your genuine sweetness made me selfish, how I wanted to see you more. When my uncle took me to your home I could never be happier. It's because of you that I wanted to join the military, if not for you Jean. I don't think I'd still have a soul, I wouldn't have the courage to smile now" she explained.
Jean blushed, was that a love confession from her? God he didn't know but it made him so happy inside. He felt like he had butterflies, he wanted to cry. His cheeks darkening to match her scarf. She had shared something so personal and he felt they had become even closer. "Mikasa, I'm sorry. I was so unhappy during the time we were apart, being able to find you again at the camps, it's been like a dream. I'm no hero, hell you saved my ass more times than I can count as a kid. But… if you ever feel weak, or the demons come back again. I… what I'm saying is… I'll be here" he babbled.
Now it was Mikasa's turn to blush, he was so good to her she couldn't handle it. She gripped the hem of her scarf around her neck, burying her nose into it bashfully to hide her face. She couldn't look him in the eyes right now out of fear of looking like a fool. "Arigato…" her muffled voice replied. He was so sweet to her, he was so giving, he never asked anything of her, he simply wanted her to be happy. He believed in her, he idolized her, and when she looked into those eyes she felt her heart melt.
"Poor Mika-chan, that's so sad. She… her family…" Sasha sobbed, she never knew she went through something so awful. She wanted to hug her so badly and apologize, but she didn't want to interrupt. She knew Mikasa didn't speak much about her personal life, simply believing her to be a private person. But knowing she experienced such trauma made her grateful for the fact her family were still alive and well. Mikasa was such a brave person, to be able to smile after all of that.
"No wonder she loves Jean so much. He really doesn't get how lucky he is" Connie mumbled. Everyone at this camp had experienced some kind of trauma in their lives, but Mikasa had to be the one with the most demons here after hearing that story. Some mystery girl came into his life, sweeping him off his feet and protecting him. It was like a reverse fantasy romance from some mushy book. He had to admit, he wished he could experience a love like that for himself someday.
"I guess Jean is her prince of sorts" Marco hummed. She had been the boy as a child who changed her life and acted as her first love. He always knew there was something special between those two, he just didn't think it would be so serious. They had a bond not many could understand and she was closest to him out of everyone. But he wasn't jealous, the love they had was different from what she felt for everyone else, they were her family and nothing more.
Levi paced through the camps in silence, blocking out the whispers and mumbles of all the students. Honestly, why did kids and teenagers have to be so damn annoying? Didn't they have anything better to do? He hadn't come here to be crowded. "Levi, you have a scary look on your face again" Hanji teased. The kids were just excited, he was an idol to them after all. They didn't mean any harm, so he didn't have to look so annoyed. Then again Levi had never been the most sociable creature, she remembered that from when he came from the underground.
"They are the future of our armies, they have better things to do than stand around and gossip" he grumbled. Though he admired the skill of some younger trainee's clamouring attention seekers were another thing. Soon, a familiar face came into view. Though a few followers he had never seen before clamoured behind her eagerly. It seemed she had made some friends here, that was a relief.
Hanji was the first to speak, pushing past him and running towards Mikasa eagerly. She flung her arms out as she wrapped them tightly around the teenager. "Mikasa! I've missed your sweet face so much!" she sobbed tearfully. Leaving home had been so hard, so many memories pouring into her mind making her miss her all the more. Mikasa was taken aback by Hanji's abrupt affection, she had forgotten this since she was young. Being pulled into Hanji's embrace and being pressed against her chest as she nuzzled against her. But she soon relaxed, how she had missed her hugs. She had truly been a mother to her after losing her own as a child.
Levi tried not to laugh under his breath, she really had been holding back. "Alright Hanji, you're gonna suffocate her" Levi sighed. He had known she would do this the whole way here. But he allowed it, knowing how happy she was. But he worried she was being a little too eager and squeezing her. She really needed to get out of the habit of treating Mikasa like a baby, she wasn't ten anymore, she was soon to turn sixteen years old. Though with Hanji, old habits died hard.
Hanji pouted defiantly, just like Levi to be a killjoy and butt in. He couldn't pretend he wasn't happy to see her too. He was just jealous because he wanted to give her the first hug, he was still a sore loser. "Just a little longer" she protested. Kissing Mikasa's head fondly, nearly crying tears of joy. Her hair had grown so much longer, how pretty it was now. Had she started to style her hair by herself too? God, how many moments had she missed since she became a trainee.
Mikasa slowly pulled her face away to breathe, finally able to mumble some words out. "I missed you too Hanji oba-san" she replied. She wondered what new and weird inventions she had been up to since she was gone. Hanji loved science, she had a massive library of historical books all collections on the subject. Some were centuries old relics from the old days. Should anyone mess with them, they must have a death wish.
Hanji soon pulled away from Mikasa to which she sighed in relief "I see you made some friends. They're so cute, Hi. My name is Hanji" she replied eagerly. They were all so adorable. She hurried towards them, eager to shake their hands and bestow upon them the same tight hugs she had given Mikasa. She was known for being very energetic around new people.
Levi sighed, her friends better be prepared for Hanji's eager affection. She would no doubt dote on those kids without hesitation. But then again, she had never had kids of her own. But she meant well in her own way. She had been the first person amongst the survey corps to accept him when he arrived with Furlan and Isabel. Levi approached Mikasa, his appearance softening visibly. A hint of fondness and kindness flickering in his eyes. She had grown so much since coming here and he was glad she was doing so well. "Hey shitty brat, you look like you've been working hard" he replied reaching out to ruffle her head affectionately.
Mikasa blushed, she had missed this gesture so much. Back when she was a kid he used to do this all the time. He had bags under his eyes meaning he wasn't sleeping well. She always worried that he worked too hard for his own good. She had so much to tell him, so much to ask, but she didn't know how to say it just yet. "I.. I've missed you, uncle Levi" she mumbled. She hoped he wouldn't leave too quickly, she wanted to savour this moment before it came to an end.
Levi sighed if anyone said anything he would simply glare at them to shut them up. He wasn't heartless and he had missed her. She was his damn niece for crying out loud, he was allowed to hold her. He held out his arms and abruptly pulled her into a hug, cupping her head. She had grown up so much, no matter how big she got he would always see her as the little kid he adopted. Her leaving home had been hard to adapt to, missing her every day. "I've missed you too Mikasa" he mumbled under his breath. He would have to visit again soon.
Mikasa hesitated, before shyly wrapping her arms around his back. Returning the hug, burying herself against his chest. He still smelled like tea, she had remembered him being much bigger when she was a kid. Mikasa's friends lingered in the background but couldn't help but whimper and mumble at the cute scene in front of them. They never thought Levi Ackerman of all people could be so lovey-dovey.
Levi sat in silence at the table as he peered at the teens surrounding him. He had brought tea, especially for the occasion since it was a visit. Knowing she loved sweets he had brought her some biscuits, something from home. On the way here she had told him about the tea parties in the barn she had been having with her friends, though he warned her not to get caught, he was glad she was making good memories during her time here. They would become precious when she stepped foot into the battlefield.
Sasha nibbled on some biscuits eagerly, obviously enjoying this treat. He could see why Mikasa would like her, she was similar to Hanji in a way and she was very fond of her. It was good to know that a girl like her was friends with Mikasa. Though to most she would seem clueless, foolish and incompetent, she was surprisingly intuitive, skilled at the vertical maneuver equipment and good at foraging. Showing she had more hidden skills than she let on.
He peered at Jean silently from his teacup, he had certainly grown more handsome since he was a kid. He had a more prominent jawline, he had buffed up nicely and he was indeed a handsome one. Mikasa had good taste in men. He could see that ribbon in her hair, tying it back into the ponytail. He was no fool, it was clear it was a gift from him. The red string of fate, what a ballsy move. He had to say the kid grew up fast and though he believed the kid may turn into a jerk. Mikasa's influence had obviously done him some good, the kid was well mannered and cautious.
Jean saw Levi staring at him and shifted, I mean he did know about his feelings for Mikasa and all. He was still as scary as he remembered him being when he was a kid. He tried not to make a mess while sipping the tea due to nerves. "I... um... it's good to meet you again sir, you look well" he babbled anxiously. He knew that sounded so dumb out loud, but he couldn't think of anything else to say to the guy. I mean they weren't really friends, but the guy didn't seem to hate him either.
"Not bad.." Levi replied casually. He approved of this kid and his relationship with Mikasa. She was happy and he could sense he wouldn't be the kind to break her heart. Their childhood bond made that too clear, he loved her as much as he did back then. They would make a good team together in the military, he was a good leader and she was a skilled fighter. No doubt they would be looking out for one another, hell they already had their own little team put together. They were already unknowingly preparing for their future.
Hanji smirked into her tea, in his own way Levi was giving his approval of Jean. He wasn't the kind to break them up, he knew how much Jean meant to her. He only wanted her to be happy with someone who would treat her well. Jean was that kind of guy. She admired how sweet he was to Mikasa, courteous, cautious, kind and protective, a real sweetheart. But it was amusing to see the guy who once disliked Jean was now warming up to him, it seemed Levi had become soft.
Jean and the others just about choked, they didn't really understand what he meant but he did. Pretty much he was saying "You have the right to date my niece". He had never expected Levi to bring it up so soon. "But try to hold off on getting too excited. You brats are still very young and grandkids aren't on the cards yet" he warned. This time Hanji also choked on her tea and Jean turned beetroot. Had he really just said that?
"U… Uncle Levi! Damare!" she growled. Just what in the hell was he saying towards Jean of all people? God why was he being so damn embarrassing right now? She felt like she could just die. There were a couple of sniggers from everyone else in the group while Mikasa covered her face with her hand bashfully, averting her gaze from the others.
Levi followed the kids outside, Mikasa walking ahead with her face in her hands mumbling in embarrassment under her breath while Sasha comforted her. He had to admit teasing her now that she was older had gotten a lot more fun. However, he came here to do more than tease her. He needed to know how her life was going here and asking Mikasa outright would never be easy with her all flustered like this. "Oi, pigtail" Levi called, nodding at Sasha. He didn't really know all their names that well and he didn't care to learn them right now. He would have time for that when the joined the core.
Sasha stopped dead in her tracks, Mikasa's uncle wanted a word with her? God what had she done wrong now? She nervously walked up to him her head pinned to the ground. "Y…yes sir?" she mumbled. She knew now he wasn't as bad as she thought, but his serious tone and expression could be rather chilling. But she hoped soon enough she would see more of his kind face, like the one he showed Mikasa and Hanji. But she hadn't quite earned that yet she didn't think.
"You're Mikasa's friend right? You sleep in the same bunks as her. Are any of the kids here giving her shit?" he asked calmly. He knew Mikasa would never tell him about bullies, she was that kind of kid. Mikasa could handle herself, but that wasn't to say she would be immune to trouble. Growing up and entering adulthood she would face all sorts of dangers and mishaps, but he would try to make sure to avert any crisis that would raise it's ugly head while he was capable.
Sasha swallowed nervously "Um… there is one guy. Uh… Eren Yeager… he's not too keen on Jean. I mean… he's never really bothered us but he sometimes confronts Mika-chan about him. He doesn't seem to like that they well… have a crush on each other" she explained. Though she was open to call out Eren amongst her friends, telling her uncle seemed a lot more nerve wracking. Like she was being a tattle tale, despite him being worried.
Levi's eyes darkened, Yeager? Wait, that brat from Shiganshina? The one who saved Mikasa as a kid. Why was he bothering her? She didn't owe him anything, she had left as soon as she arrived. What was his deal? He took a deep breath, patting Sasha on the head "Danke, keep looking out for Mikasa for me. I know I'm scary to you, but believe me. I just want her to be safe and happy, that kid deserves it" he explained.
Sasha blushed, he really was an odd person, but he wasn't all bad. She simply nodded in response and followed after her friends.
Levi marched through the camps, he had heard about Eren from some of his teammates. Loud, troublemaker, loved to start a fight, couldn't keep his mouth shut. He already hated the kid and he hadn't even met him yet. He seemed to love intervening in his niece's life. Soon he came across the kid he was looking for, a little taller than him. Hell, he had grown too since he saw him last, but he wasn't going to let some brat bully his niece. He was going to make sure Yeager didn't so much as look in her direction again. "Oi, Yeager" he yelled loudly.
Eren looked up curiously, wondering who would pick a fight with him now, he shivered upon seeing Levi Ackerman approaching. Was this a dream? What was he doing here? He had idolized this guy his whole life. "I…" he began. He was immediately silenced by Levi punching him in the gut, his fist swiftly hitting Eren where it would hurt. His eyes a cold glare as he rained punishment on the guy giving his niece trouble. Eren fell to his knees, pain shooting him in the gut. He coughed, his tone high and his breathing fast. His eyes wide with fear as he gripped his stomach, his legs failing as he fell to his knees. He couldn't speak, he felt tears welling in his eyes, gritting his teeth.
Armin was immediately by his side, panicked as of what to do. Why would Levi be attacking Eren of all people? Unless he had been told about him constantly confronting Mikasa lately which would make sense. "Eren!" he yelled anxiously, he wanted to say something but he knew better than to mess with this guy. What had he done to get on the bad side of Levi Ackerman. He had never met the guy before in his life, or so he thought. Because the Captain sure seemed to be familiar with him.
Levi dropped to one knee, yanking Eren by the collar so he could look him in the eyes. His dull blue eyes cold and hard, he wasn't going to let this kid forget this lesson. "Listen brat. I hear you've been hounding my niece. Whom she dates, whom she is friends with, whatever person she is involved in is not your problem. That Kirstein kid, he's her best friend. That kid means the world to her, so you'd do well to not bother them anymore. You make her cry, you so much as open your mouth around her again. I will know" he warned. Mikasa loved Jean, he was her whole world. He had seen that since they were kids, and though he hated seeing Mikasa grow up. He would never deny her of that happiness. This brat sure as hell wasn't making things easy for her and he would never learn otherwise.
Eren nodded fearfully, how did this guy find out? Mikasa would never tell him, unless… had Jean? Had one of her friends? Someone in that group had to have told him unless he caught him giving evils to Jean at breakfast. He only thought of her well being, but obviously so did Levi if he was calling him out like this. Maybe staying away from Mikasa for a while would be a good idea, for the sake of his physical wellbeing.
Levi released Eren allowing him to slump to his knees coughing in pain. He wouldn't do more, hell the kid may have been an ass but he would learn from this. He had been through worse in the underground when he was his age. The kid was all bark and no bite, a hotheaded little brat who needed putting in his place before his attitude got the better of him. He walked off in silence to find the group.
"That Yeager brat won't be giving you any more trouble, not if he knows what's good for him" Levi replied. Unless he wanted his ass handed to him again, he wouldn't harass Mikasa or Jean again. He knew Mikasa would never say anything to him, he would have to send Sasha a gift basket as thanks, maybe some fancy pastries or baked bread. He had a feeling she may enjoy those from what he had heard from Connie and the others.
Mikasa blinked in surprise, then a look of suspicion came across her face. Yes, Eren was annoying but for now, he was harmless. She was more than capable of dealing with him. She had honestly just decided to ignore him, she had her own life and goals to focus on "What did you say to him?" she asked curiously. She knew he could be protective sometimes, but she hoped he hadn't gotten too carried away.
"I taught him a lesson he won't soon forget unless he's stupider than he looks" he replied bluntly. He didn't mess around when it came to Mikasa, no matter how old she got he would always keep an eye on her. Unless Eren was the kind of kid who looked for trouble, he doubted he would have to pay him a visit in the near future for not listening to his warning. His friend seemed to have more sense than he did, he should start listening to him.
"Woah, Levi kicked Eren's ass? I wish I'd seen that" Connie whistled. Mikasa officially had the coolest uncle ever. I mean, he had no beef with Eren but he did run his mouth an awful lot. He must have said or done something pretty serious to have gotten on his wrong side. At least he knew never to get on Levi's bad side, not unless he wanted to be punished too.
Hanji sighed, Levi had a tendency to take things way too far at times. But he meant well this time, though she would have to have a word with Eren later herself. Just to cool things over.