Hey, I'm back from my hiatus and made an update, I decided to do another chapter in training. I decided to edit Jean's choice to join the corps instead of the military police for other personal reasons in this.
I hope you enjoy the update and again I apologise for the wait :3
Please review and let me know if you have any ideas for future chapters
Mikasa flew through the air like a bird, the wind flowing through her hair as if she truly had wings. She had never thought such a feeling could allow her such freedom or comfort as if she was born to do this. The scent of the freshness of the morning air filling her lungs, clearing her mind and invigorating her. Any burdens she previously harboured slipped through her fingers like sand, as though she was dreaming instead of training. The cool air tickling her cheeks, her vision perfectly taking in her surroundings, her instincts telling her what needed to be done and what was the correct move. She knew this was part of her future duties for the life she would soon face, but she couldn't help but find this entertaining. To have lived with her feet solely planted on the ground, now to have been gifted with this equipment that allowed her the power of flight. She couldn't get enough of this feeling, pushing the thought of battle to the back of her mind entirely. Knowing she could see the world from a higher place and all that the rest of the civilians behind the walls would never know of. Today, she and many other trainees were using the 3D manoeuvre gear, learning aerial combat to battle the titans they would soon face. Not everyone would be able to pass and not many would be able to cope with the training. The training was harsh, pushing them to their complete limits physically and mentally, preparing them for real life. But she had used her knowledge to help her friends and protect them for what was to come. Though they were naturally gifted with their own skill, they needed to harness those abilities and learn more if they were to survive. She refused to abandon them when she could aid them and make them stronger, that's what friends were for.
Sasha was naturally skilled with the gear but used it for fun, swooping and swinging as though she was a child. As much as she was scolded for her antics by Shadis, everyone else couldn't help but smile at her innocence. She was talented at archery, horseback riding and tracking, which they all learned had come from living in a hunting village growing up. These skills making her a keen soldier and helpful to the cause. But more so, in a worst case scenario she could help them find food and shelter outside of the walls. Though many other students laughed at her for her love of food, there was more to her than people believed.
Connie loved to outdo others and act like the underdog, surprising people with his skill while showing off. Like Sasha, he was having fun with it, while showing people that despite his size there was more to him. He was rarely seen away from Sasha's company, the two often getting up to mischief together but most of the time he kept her from getting into trouble. Connie always looked out for his friends and acted as moral support, having a keen head on his shoulders. He may have come across as a troublemaker and naive, however he carried a constant sense of optimism and cared deeply for the people around him.
Eren was intent on proving himself, flying through the air and attacking the figures like a madman. No doubt he was focusing his rage towards his mother, knowing what happened to her truly broke her heart. This caused him to have accidents and clash with many of his peers due to not trusting people and refusing to understand a point of view from outside opinion. Though she had known Mrs Yeager for a brief time, she had been a kind woman and Mikasa was saddened at her passing. She had been approached by Armin some time ago, introducing himself as a childhood friend of Eren's. Though seemingly passive and soft-spoken, he was a smart individual and a kind person.
"You heard about the fall of wall Maria in the Shiganshina district 5 years ago? Eren and I lived there, we were barely lucky to have gotten out of there. During the attack, we got so confused and frightened. But Eren insisted on helping his mother". Though Eren and his mother had butt heads on their opinions, due to Eren being strong-willed, thick-skulled and impatient. But Eren had loved her dearly, for all his complaining he had been close to her.
Mikasa's eyes widened in disbelief, feeling as though she was dreaming, blacking out the world around her, Armin's words becoming nearly inaudible as she tried to process this information. As brief as her time had been with these people, they had been kind, gentle and homely. They took her in, kept her warm, fed her and made sure she was safe. For such tragedy to befall them so suddenly, it was hard to believe.
She had been crushed under the masses of rubble after a flying boulder landed on their house. Her legs had been trapped underneath it, neither Armin or Eren had been strong enough to move it. Eren had kicked and screamed that they could still help her, that they couldn't leave her to die. Right up until Hannes, a family friend and soldier had dragged them away in tears. Watching as Carla was eaten alive by a titan, struggling until the end.
Eren had snapped, calling Hannes a coward and demanding they could have saved his mother without his help. Hannes had broken down and called himself a coward, admitting his fear had blinded him and prevented him from saving Carla. To which Eren broke down sobbing too, realising his weakness and grief at the sudden loss he had experienced. reducing to his childlike state, acting briefly of someone his own age than a brat. Hannes had raised Eren and Armin as his own, yet carrying the grief and guilt of being helpless to save Carla out of his cowardice. Eren had held a grudge against titans ever since, vowing he would slaughter every single one to make up for his mother's memory.
Mikasa was no fool, the attack had happened shortly after she had departed Shiganshina to live with her uncle as his legal family. Being raised by him, then later forming a surrogate family and befriending Jean. She had been saved from the trauma of what could have been, knowing a happy and simplistic life. She had been given a second chance at happiness for which she was forever grateful. Her parents had owned a farmland near the wall in Shiganshina, raising their own livestock, hunting off the land, growing sunflowers and living in content peace. Living separately from other villagers, educating their daughter as best they could. Had her parents not been killed, they would have been the most vulnerable under the titan attack. With her parents deaths, new doors had been opened for her, being able to make a better life for herself, like her parents had always wished for her. She had found Jean and then formed the friendship group she now had. But Eren had not been so lucky. Compared to the blessings she had been given, Eren had experienced hardships and had nobody to turn to in order to help him cope with these feelings.
She understood how losing his mother so tragically would encourage him to fight against his childhood monsters. But she worried that he had never coped with the loss healthily, causing him to become unsociable, short-tempered and obsessed. He had never truly grieved for his mother, he had never healthily come to terms with her death. He looked for someone to blame instead of accepting the unfortunate unavoidable situation that he was too weak and naive at the time to understand the seriousness of the situation. He had been a child, thrown into an adult situation with no way of comprehending fully of how to handle it. Life was unfortunately cruel, pushing humans to the limit of their psyche, to see how much pain, torment and hardship they could endure until they snapped. She could have ended up like Eren, but her uncle had reached out and found her. She found a new home, a new family and was able to find happiness. But to ponder on the past would only cause further misery, ignoring the blessings that had been given to her now.
Soon a form shot by her from the corner of her eye, averting her gaze to which a soft smile formed on her lips. Trying to fight back a giggle as a familiar figure followed by her. This was one of the blessings she treasured with all of her heart, the boy whom she had saved and fallen in love with, the boy who gave her a flower and called her pretty. The boy who gave her a reason to smile and restored the humanity inside of her which she believed she had all but lost five years ago.
Jean had proven his natural skill with the 3D gear on multiple occasion, as well as his leadership talent. Flying past her to swipe at a figure's neck while flashing a white smile of pride. He did enjoy showing off occasionally, having fun and acting like a dork, but the training he focused on was solely to become stronger, prove his self worth and protect the innocent. Though people mistook it for narcissism, Jean was self aware of his own flaws and wanted to become a strong leader who could protect his troupes and avoid unnecessary casualty. Despite his skill, Jean still doubted himself for his talent and where his future would lead.
Mikasa closed her eyes and withdrew a breath slowly, letting her ki flow through her naturally. Her uncle had always said to follow her instinct if it felt right, it was her gift as an Ackerman. Though her mother showed this innate talent rarely, her father's Ackerman genes had shown themselves in his keen hunting skills and instinct when foraging. He had simply learned how to focus them outside of a battle and educate them into his everyday life. She only wished she could have asked him more on the subject, but luckily her uncle had managed to educate her instead.
As though invisible strings and waves flowed through her, leading her where she needed to be. Telling her what to do, knowing what had to be done "Kutabare" she whispered coldly. Envisioning this as a living breathing creature, the kind her uncle had faced every day and yet somehow defeated, allowing him to return to her. The kind that had caused Eren suffering, the kind her friends would face. She had to protect them with every ounce of her strength, she couldn't allow herself to falter in the face of danger. Mikasa then began to spin through the air, as though she was a falling seedpod from a sycamore tree. Rotating her body faster and faster, her ponytail flipping with her. Slicing through the cushioned neck of the titan model perfectly, as though she was slicing a loaf of bread. The tear so clean-cut nobody could have done a better job.
Many of her fellow students looked on in awe and jealousy, wishing their skills were as powerful as hers. Often acting spiteful towards her because of her innate skill, while they all had to train harder in order to keep up with her. She tried to ignore their cruel words, she had never asked to be born with such power, seeing it as a burden for a long time. But because of Jean and her friends, she had learned to love her power and understand the good it would do. Admittedly, this skill was one her uncle had taught her about. One of his signature talents that he taught himself during his years in the underground. But told Mikasa not to imitate his skill, but to teach herself what felt right. Mikasa anchored herself to flip back into a natural position, looking around to find somewhere to hoist herself. Soon finding a tree and shooting her arrows at it, to aim and rest herself and hang for a while.
Mikasa sat floating aimlessly, staring into oblivion at the soft fluffy clouds above her while she allowed herself to rest. Sweat dripping from her forehead, though this was no strain on her body, the weather was rather humid and training her body like this did cause her to become sweaty. Her ponytail hung downward, her sweaty bangs slightly sticking to her face, Jean's ribbon gleaming in the light. The seasons were changing from spring to summer, the humidity rising, the temperature increasing and the world around them becoming different with every passing day. These rare moments of peace, where she could ignore her responsibilities and appreciate the simple moments meant so much to her. Separating herself from reality and simply living in a dreamlike state allowed her to breathe and relieve herself from all stresses and burdens that had accumulated over time. After all the trauma's she had faced, all the loss she had endured, she was amazed by how the simplest of matters could make her feel so calm inside. Easing the storm of emotions into submission.
"Mika-chan are you ok? Are you feeling sick?" a familiar voice asked. She hadn't moved an inch, if she wasn't feeling well she shouldn't have pushed herself. Mikasa never liked to trouble others with unnecessary problems, despite them insisting that friends looked out for each other. If something was too difficult to face alone no matter how trivial or stressful. Reaching out to someone for moral support was a natural thing to do. She was still adapting to relying on others for help, it was an alien feeling to her given her lonely childhood years and worried about becoming selfish because of it.
"Atsui…" she muttered wearily. She was tempted to remove her jacket and just tie it around her waist. The thickness of layers in their uniform was nearly unbearable in this season, wishing she could find a lake or pond in order to ease her exhaustion and sweating. Given the training grounds were among a forest, it would come with springs, small waterfalls and such. They would simply need to seek one out and take advantage of it without Shadis finding out. Wasn't the point of their training to make memories too?
Sasha blinked, taking in Mikasa's weary expression and smiled softly "Yeah, it is warm today. I can't wait to take a hot shower and sit in the shade. Summer is intense" she agreed. She remembered hunting back home in the summer and how the shade of the trees was a blessing. Creatures with fur in the summer must-have baked to death in such temperatures. She knew Mikasa had lived on farmlands before living with her uncle, giving them something to bond over. But she had developed hacks that allowed her to conquer the heat and find ways to cope with the temperatures, preparation beforehand was key to surviving summer and heat exhaustion.
Mikasa peered up to see Sasha hanging nearby with a cheerful smile, Sasha often got scolded by Shadis for her mischievous nature. But Mikasa only found it endearing, knowing Sasha had faced her hardships yet smiled so brightly. Making Mikasa nostalgic for her own innocent years, wanting to protect Sasha's smile and make sure nobody bullied her. "Do you have any water?" she asked hopefully. Sasha was very intuitive, often sneaking snacks and the likes on her person during training. She often wondered how Sasha's sneak attacks would further improve her status in the Military, if only she understood how talented she was instead of comparing herself to others.
Sasha smiled, revealing a large water canister from her back and handing it to the dark-haired teen. Mikasa smiled gratefully, taking the canister and taking a long swig. Sighing in relief as cool water rushed down her throat, easing her hot body and cooling her from the inside. "You were thirsty huh," Sasha said sympathetically. No wonder she had been lounging about for so long, if she was feeling that dehydrated, she would have collapsed from heat exhaustion causing everyone to worry about her. It was a relief to know that despite all her strength, Mikasa understood and recognized her own limits as a person. It showed that she was growing up and learning from her training like her uncle would have wanted.
Mikasa nodded, handing Sasha back her canister, feeling guilty at taking advantage of Sasha's kindness "Arigato Sasha". She considered taking a nap in her bunk for the rest of the afternoon to cope with the heat. She could simply say she was suffering from heat exhaustion and feeling sick. Maybe she could ask to work in the kitchens instead in order to ease herself from the summer sun. Spending all these hours in such hot temperatures was not good for the body and her brain would feel as though it was being cooked. Her uncle had warned her that the pressures as a trainee would be difficult, but she never thought he would mean the weather too. Soon two more figures approached a look of concern on their faces.
"Are you girls ok? If Shadis sees you slacking off he'll give you hell" Connie asked in concern. That guy took no prisoners when it came to training, giving them the blunt, remorseless truth no matter what. He was very much a practitioner of go hard or go home, if you couldn't cut the training to become a soldier then why bother. Though you had to respect his dedication, you needed limits at some point right? But getting caught neglecting training would put you in hot water.
Sasha smiled, glad they were looking out for their wellbeing "Mika-chan was just feeling a bit warm, but the clouds are fun to watch too". Trying to make shapes from the wisps of cloud was fun, using your imagination to form a figure of your own creation. It had a childish feel to it, but it was so much fun. The feeling of summer, the gentle breeze and the scent of fresh grass. It reminded her of her childhood before coming to the camps.
Connie scoffed, at least someone was being honest about how difficult it was becoming to cope with "I don't blame her, man this is fun but the heat is killer" he groaned. Did Titans even experience sunburn or heatstroke? I mean they had to have some weaknesses right, it wasn't fair with all the numerous casualties one could suffer from in battle while Titans were invulnerable to nearly everything. There had to be more answers to defeating them, someone just had to look hard enough. Alleviating their burdens could remove so much strain from their shoulders.
"Mikasa, do you need to rest? You don't have to force yourself if you feel tired" Jean asked gently. She may have been Shadis best student, but she was still human. The thickness of the material used for their uniforms wouldn't be helping matters either. He felt like he was dying from the heat, the workout with 3D gear was no pushover either. The focus, strength and strain you had to put your body through to perfect your abilities was exhausting. No wonder so many past students had left due to their inability to cope. The military deserved more respect for what they went through all to keep civilians safe from harm. For all people mocked them, they put their lives at risk every day to make sure titans were destroyed.
Mikasa peered at him through her bangs, what did she do to deserve such a gentle person in her life? She smiled sweetly "I'm ok Jean really, Sasha loaned me so water, I'm just passing time with cloud gazing" she replied. She knew how protective he was over her, just as she was in return. The thought of harm befalling either of them brought on an unspoken anxiety. But they would be watching each others backs more adamantly once they left the camps and left the walls protection to the outside in order to fight titans. Looking out for your team members was one of many responsibilities the Corps were burdened with, making sure nobody died in vain and titans were eliminated efficiently. She knew it was selfish, but she wished she could stay in this place with Jean forever.
Jean hummed, a bashful expression appearing on his lips. Remembering the days when Mikasa came to visit him and they would watch the clouds with carefree abandon. She hadn't changed since their separation. "Only this time I'm not getting my ass kicked" he joked. One day he would have to save her instead of the other way around. He couldn't selfishly rely on her all the time. He needed to learn how to stand on his own feet and command respect from others due to his leadership and intellect, instead of being mocked for weakness. It was a tough pill to swallow but there were many soldiers who would be cruel towards their reliance and trust in one another.
Connie snorted in amusement, could these two go five minutes without giving each other heart eyes? It had only gotten worse since the two became an official couple "Geez, enough with the mushy crap I don't wanna get sick before breakfast" he teased. Jean blushed but playfully kicked Connie in amusement, it was great to have friends. Growing up he had longed for a friendship group like this one.
"So, Yeager been giving you any trouble lately?" Connie asked curiously, that guy had beef with Jean for some reason. He seemed to constantly attempt to intervene between their relationship like a jealous ex boyfriend. However, after Mikasa had warned him to stay away from Jean he had obeyed, not wanting to get on the wrong side of Mikasa's temper. However, he still shot glares and dirty looks at Jean every chance he got, letting the other teen know of his disdain towards their relationship. No wonder Eren was so unpopular around here if all he did was sulk and pick fights with his classmates.
Mikasa shook her head solemnly "No, but Armin approached me to apologize, explaining Eren's behaviour. I pity his tragedy but his behaviour is still inexcusable" she replied softly. She could understand that Eren had a lot of emotional baggage, but so did she and just about everyone at the camps. Using that as an excuse to treat people badly and pick fights was not acceptable. Eren needed to learn that there were limits to childish behaviour and it wouldn't be tolerated, soon he would get on the wrong side of someone and learn from his actions in a painful way. But maybe then some common sense may be knocked into his thick skull.
"What happened?" Marco asked curiously. It seemed Mikasa had an inside scoop on Eren and though it was personal, he couldn't help but he curious as to why Eren had such an attitude problem. The guy refused to fail and took every failed hurdle personally, as if it was the worst thing in the world. He just couldn't understand why he would act in such a manner.
"During the fall of wall Maria in Shiganshina, his mother became trapped in the rubble of their house due to flying debris. While she was crushed, Eren and Armin fought to get her out but were dragged away by a garrison. He was a childhood friend who raised them both ironically. Ever since Eren has had an authority issue and a desire to fight the titans to the death" she explained. He would get himself killed if he focused his rage and vengeance in order to win a fight, common sense would go right out the window and land him in hot water. A look of awe and pity flashed across her friend's faces. Now understanding Eren's behaviour just a little better.
"Damn, no wonder he has beef with titans. But the way he's going about it, he'll get himself killed before he can avenge his mother" Connie muttered. He himself was very close to his own mother, having raised him as a single mother. But she would be ashamed of him if he acted anywhere near how Eren did. The guy had lacked an authority figure and role model growing up, which caused him to lash out at others. He understood Eren was angry, but being mad all the time got you nowhere. It blinded you to what was important.
"He must be lonely, but why pick on Jean because of that? Does he have an issue with his father?" Sasha questioned. He might have an issue with authority figures which commonly took on the personification of men. But just what kind of deep seeded trauma had caused Eren to show such disdain for older males? Let alone confident men? As curious as she was to find out, she didn't feel like getting on the wrong side of Eren and being dragged into his drama, it sounded too exhausting for her to cope.
Mikasa shrugged, there was a lot she didn't understand about Eren but it wasn't her place to get involved. "I don't have an answer for that, Eren seems to be more complicated than I recall as a child. Though I pity his hardships, I have no ties to him anymore" she sighed. She had met Eren briefly long ago during her childhood after he saved her, maybe had she not lived with her uncle they could have been friends. But her life took a different path, she was able to move past her demons and befriend new people. Perhaps it was best Eren found a healthier coping mechanism for himself too. He needed to branch out, meet new people and learn to find allies, because working alone would only get you so far in life. Loneliness was one of the worst feelings in the world, knowing you had nobody on your side, nobody to look out for you.
Jean nodded in agreement, he was still stunned by how mature Mikasa could be "If he needs help from others or reaches out when in need, that's a human response. Relying on others when suffering alone is too painful. But taking out your anger on others is childish and cruel". Himself, Marco, Sasha, Connie, they were all innocent, they had done nothing to enrage Eren personally nor to harass him in any way. They minded their own business and focused on their training. Yet Eren loved to berate them for simply befriending her. Like they were leeching off of her, or somehow holding her back, when in fact they did the opposite, they all boosted one another up. Mikasa had been his rock as a child, protecting him from his abusive tormentors who caused his body dysmorphia. Allowing him to accept his weakness and flaws, but to become a better man because of her. He found comfort in her and they licked each other's wounds, without her he never would have found the strength to join the military or the desire to protect others so selflessly. "He's involving all of us in a personal grudge for which none of us is responsible. I know how angry I would feel if something happened to my mum but…" he trailed off. Sensing his anger rising.
Mikasa nodded, reaching out to take his hand, aware of how close he was to his mother. He later confided in her about his negligent father who walked out on him as a child. His mother raising him alone which he had found difficult, given the reason his father walked out was because he believed Jean to be weak and cowardly. Jean had carried resentment towards his father for a long time before he met Mikasa and was able to heal the wounds of his past. "Jean, don't irate yourself, it's not a matter in which you need to get upset over" she soothed.
Jean nodded bashfully and began calming breaths, god knows what he would act like if not for her. Picking fights irrationally and sulking constantly much like Eren, he wanted to be a better man, someone Mikasa and his mother would be proud of. He admitted sometimes he could still be a brat, but he was fifteen for crying out loud. He was a kid, of course he was going to be immature, he had years of growing up to do. But Mikasa helped ease the storm of conflict inside of him, allowing the clouds to clear and the sun to shine again.
"I just feel bad for Armin, having to deal with Eren's crap regularly, the guy has patience" Connie hummed. If it were him, he would have punched Eren or called him out by now. Armin just suffered in silence and endured Eren's crap without a word of complaint whatsoever.
"Guys, enough drama! Let's get breakfast!" Sasha burst out. It was not the time to think negatively, it was time to have fun. They were deciding their factions for the future.
Connie shrugged "All that swinging did make me hungry! Let's get some chow!" he agreed, following after the brunette teen.
Sasha chomped on her toast with delight, Mikasa's uncle had sent her some marmalade as a gift to which she chose to share with her friends. It was fair to say Sasha had found another new snack she loved. She was discovering all sorts of delicious food through Mikasa and to show her love for it would be rude. So eating eagerly and praising the taste was polite. "Sasha, if you eat too fast you'll get a stomach ache" Mikasa scolded. Sasha pouted but agreed, nibbling away at her toast with eagerness. Enjoying the citrusy flavour and fresh rinds formed into the spread. The smell was so fragrant it made her mouth water further. She wondered if there was any other delicious food outside the walls like this.
Connie ate his eggs in content silence but irked at the sticky mess Sasha was making. Nothing could overcome that girls love of food, she was like an eating machine. As scary as the titans were, in human terms the amount of food Sasha consumed on a daily basis was a wonder to him. But he had a feeling it was involved in her childhood at the village she grew up in. Hunting and scouring for food on a daily basis would make any meal no matter how trivial a blessing. She never wasted a single meal no matter what form it came in, he had to appreciate that.
"You were great today Mikasa, floating like an angel or something. It's like you were born to join the military" Marco praised. Admittedly he was a little jealous of her natural skill. She made it look so effortless, while the rest of them mostly looked clumsy. He wished they could learn from her skill and become soldiers the military would be proud of. He didn't know of how much use he would be in the army but he hoped to live an honourable life, someone people would admire as a soldier.
Mikasa shifted, she had a good teacher growing up who was honest about the reality of the life she would lead. Protecting her from the ugliness of the world but reminding her of painful truths when necessary. She was forever grateful to have found a family in him when she had lost everything so quickly. "Well, my uncle taught me that twist attack, but he always taught me to follow my instincts in battle. They may save your life" she confessed. She hoped to prove that none of his lessons had gone to waste, making him proud of her accomplishments. Deep down underneath his cold exterior, he was a good man and she cared deeply for him.
Connie hummed, it was still hard to believe they were related, the thought was just too baffling "Odd to think humanities strongest and scariest human being is a softy" he reflected. The gentleness he showed Mikasa was rather uncharacteristic. But it showed he cared greatly for her and they had a strong relationship. They were all the other had which would be of great importance to them. He could only imagine how hard it was for him to send her away to the trainee camps when she came of age.
"He's just protective" Jean argued. Given he'd raised Mikasa from childhood, he knew all about her past and was worried of her becoming endangered again. Though it was not his place to say, he had a feeling Levi had experienced his own traumas and that caused him to worry over Mikasa. If their family had deep rooted traumas and tragedy, of course that would cause you to cling to the closest people to you. You'd be terrified of losing the things you loved as easily as you had in the past, such a thing was frightening to even consider.
"He's probably anxious about her getting into battle. He'll never be able to unsee her as the cute little girl she used to be. All parents think that" Connie agreed. Knowing she was learning to stand on her own feet and wouldn't have to rely on him as much for assistance, he could imagine Levi crying over it in private. The mental image was so strange he couldn't help but stifle laughter.
"Wonder what he thinks of you two then. I mean didn't he say something like not bad to Jean when he visited?" Marco reminded them. He clearly percepted their attraction to each other long ago, but wouldn't that have caused Levi to attempt to keep them apart instead? He had a hard time understanding Levi's mentality.
Mikasa and Jeans' faces flushed with embarrassment, remembering that embarrassing moment. Sometimes her uncle's perceptiveness could be embarrassing. She and Jean had only just confessed their mutual attraction and feelings for each other, now officially a couple but it was only known among their friends. They didn't want other people being nosy in their relationship. They held hands, kissed and cuddled, sometimes they would sneak off together, their relationship hadn't changed much aside from admitting their intimacy had changed. She was now involved with Jean on a more personal level, both becoming a stronger level of protection.
Jean helped ease away Mikasa's insomnia, her anxieties, her stresses, her burdens, he made things easier to cope with. When she had nightmares or didn't sleep well, he would cuddle her and help ease her into calmness. He would urge her to vent about her problems no matter how small they may seem, he made sure she ate enough, slept well and didn't overexert herself. Taking her mental health and wellbeing into great consideration. Knowing that despite her shy and calm exterior, Mikasa was far more emotional than she let on. Sometimes she stressed herself out so much she would burst into tears from feeling overwhelmed.
Mikasa was gentle with Jean, protective and understanding. She helped him work through his frustrations, anger and focus them positively. She averted him from fights and arguments and to clear his mind. She would relieve him of personal burdens and doubts about himself, helping him see the good he was capable of. She helped him open up, learn how to fight and better his abilities. She didn't tease him for his close relationship with his mother, nor for the bullying he endured as a child. She admired how he wore his heart on his sleeve and valued the friends around him.
"Man, that guy is going to be your in-law, good luck buddy" Connie joked. Imagine having someone that scary as an uncle in law. What Levi would think when he learned they were finally involved romantically. Levi was no kiss ass but he did respect Jean to an extent, as shown by when he stated he didn't want grandchildren. His gut told him Levi enjoyed teasing and taunting people more than meaning to do so out of spite, something he could appreciate. Jean shivered, remembering how afraid he had been of Levi upon their first meeting. But over time he had come to see a softer side of Levi, respecting him all the more. "Did you tell him about team Jean? He's going to be disappointed" Connie joked. He wouldn't be able to keep an eye on his precious niece.
"Speaking of teams, had everyone chosen their ranks? Where we will all lead in battle?" Marco asked. It was an upcoming role they would all have to choose in the future. He knew Jean was seriously considering the Military police for the sake of his family. However, on account of his developing relationship with Mikasa and his friends, his decision had become conflicted on remaining in the corp instead.
"Corp for me, despite the crap people throw at us for funding, we are the most respected and less corrupt. I don't wanna be the Police's lapdogs while they sit on their asses" Connie chided. The Military police were infamous for their corruption, laziness and slackers. Pushing responsibility onto the newer recruits and neglecting missions. He'd rather live an honourable life than a miserable one.
"The Garrison might be fun, being able to see over the wall and watch the people down below. But the freedom of the corps is too tempting" Sasha grinned. She admitted she wanted her Military life to be fun and full of adventure, rather than tedious sitting around and wasting time. She wanted to make the right decision about where her future would lead.
Mikasa hummed, she knew someone of her calibre would be welcomed with open arms into the Military police. However, she knew her uncle would be furious if she followed them into battle. She would rather use her abilities for good and make the world safer for young girls so they wouldn't have to suffer like herself. The corps would be among her friends and good-hearted soldiers. "I don't doubt the Military Police will hound me for my skills, much like they tried my uncle. But I learned a long time ago they aren't as respectable as people think. I'd rather follow my family lineage and fight for the people, not for status". She wanted to listen to her instinct when it came to choosing her future and the Corps felt like the right decision, she didn't care about power or status. She just wanted to protect the people she loved from harm.
"Geez, Mikasa you sound like a battle lord or something" Connie whistled impressively. He knew Jean was supposed to be the team leader but Mikasa made the most sense vocally. She intuitively knew the best decision for herself and followed her gut, which was good leadership skills. He had learned from Sasha about her rare asian heritage, he had heard about them in books but never in person. But being the only one left in your family, that sounded way too miserable and lonely, he felt bad for her.
"I believe in ancient days they were called Samurai or outlaws" Marco reflected. There wasn't much history available on Mikasa's background which was a shame, she had a right to that information now that she was in the military, but finding it would prove to be deeply difficult. How they would get their hands on such materials was a complete mystery to him. What people would have against Asian clans inside the walls he would never understand.
Jean gripped his hands, he had previously hoped to join the Military Police despite the reputation for his mother's sake. He'd do anything for her safety, but now she wasn't the only one he had to worry about anymore. Sasha and the others were like his family, Mikasa was his rock, his girlfriend. He couldn't abandon them for some selfish childish dream. "I… The Military police was the fastest way to the easy life, I could have protected my mum in the inner walls. I could have lived a happy and carefree life. But… I'd rather be around people who give a shit than corrupt entitled assholes" Jean chuckled.
Mikasa smiled, reaching over to squeeze his hand tightly "Wings suit you better than a horse". She knew the emblem of the unicorn was something he had hoped to wear with pride but the wings suited his personality more. Jean was too good hearted to become a member of the military police. He would be broken hearted at the internal corruption within the group he admired so much. He was making the right decision by choosing the survey corps instead, following his heart rather than worrying about status.
"You know that's my line right? You glide so naturally using the gear, you look like a bird" he scoffed. The sun rippling through her silky black hair, the way her skin was illuminated in the sunlight. Her black eyes bright and full of life, she was the most amazing woman he had ever met. Sometimes he truly believed it was fate that they met as children, the ribbon he had gifted her with indeed signified that. He was still nervous about introducing his mother to Mikasa someday, she would dote on her like crazy.
Mikasa smiled, touched by his compliment, she Jean admired her for many reasons and she was touched by his genuine love for her "If I'm a bird then you're my stallion, speeding through the air like a wild beast" she teased. He never gave up in battle and constantly pushed himself to achieve, he was strong willed and determined, it was an admirable trait. Learning from his mistakes in order to better himself as to not stumble again.
Jean blushed, averting his gaze awkwardly, she really was a strange girl sometimes but it was just who she was "You know, your probably the only woman I'd let call me a horse" he frowned. He knew Eren loved to call him horseface and he hated him, given the mocking he dealt with as a child. But when Mikasa said it, it came from a place of love and he didn't mind it so much.
"Jean" Mikasa called softly, she had been hoping to have a word alone with him, away from the prying eyes of their friends. She knew he was sensitive and easily embarrassed, the last thing she wanted was to make him uncomfortable and possibly hurt his feelings. She knew it was easier for him to speak his mind privately with her occasionally. She knew he was becoming anxious at their upcoming graduation but she felt the same way, their future looming closer with each passing day. She squeezed his hand to reassure him "You decided to join the military for us didn't you?" she smiled. She knew how much his dream had meant to him, something he had hoped for since he was young. Putting others well being above his own.
Jean blushed, her perception often frightened him, he could hide no secrets from her. He remembered telling his mother about the military police before he departed and how emotional she had been. But now his views had changed, altering from what he previously believed he had wanted "Y… Yeah," he mumbled. The last thing he wanted was for Mikasa to hate him or make a bad decision, his gut told him that the survey corps were the best decision and he stood by that.
"You know it will be dangerous, Survey corps have the highest level of fatality" she reminded him. Her uncle and Hanji had told her all the gruesome stories of the Survey corps growing up, all the fatalities and all the dangers she would face. Preparing her for the line of work she was expected to experience after training. It was a harsh life and killing titans was a frightening thing. Protecting people from becoming prey to the titans, but being mocked for their inability to truly wipe them out. At the end of the day, they were only human and carried certain limits, no matter how strong or powerful they appeared to be. They were fighting for a peaceful world, which never came easily. The days of her childhood she spent watching out of the window, waiting for her uncle to return. How frightened she had been that he would never return to her.
Jean shivered, he knew all too well how high the risks were. He had never been someone who enjoyed violence, but knew how to handle himself in a fight need be. The one thing he wanted to avoid was casualties. They would be running around like naive fools, for all they had been trained for battle, fighting mannequins and real titans were two completely different matters altogether. Truthfully, he knew all too well how dangerous this would be, facing cannibalistic giants who could kill them in endlessly painful ways. But they couldn't give up, many people were relying on them to bring peace and prosperity to their homes. "If we don't fight for our freedom, we're just giving up right?" he muttered. He wanted a peaceful and happy life alongside her, Mikasa had suffered enough, she deserved a life free of sadness. Outside the walls lay other lands, lands that were historic parts of her family lineage. Mikasa deserved to know about those things, they had been kept from her long enough. All living generations deserved to live a life free of control and fear, to live as they wished instead of inside walls of stone.
Mikasa smiled, Jean was truly a kind person, though he didn't like to admit it he was a softy. He just wanted what was best for others even if he was bad at saying so "Hai" she agreed. He was a complex person, showing weakness as a child had led others to pushing him around, causing him to put up walls to protect himself. But thanks to her he slowly learned to reveal his weaknesses and admit his self consciousness in front of her.
Jean shifted, he knew Mikasa had learned basic Japanese from her mother and the few books her uncle could uncover. He had never heard a language like it, but he couldn't understand her either. For whatever reason, long ago there had been an entire culture of Asians like herself living, but they had all vanished without warning with no explanation why. Hopefully she would find further links into the culture during their duties in the Military, using her connections to discover personal history. He knew it was selfish but he hoped to learn what he could about it, to become closer to her. "Mikasa, you… you speak some Japanese right? The language of your mother, before she passed" he stammered.
Mikasa blinked then nodded "Mm, my mum taught me what she could before she was killed. My uncle was able to scavenge some rare records but I don't know much else" she confessed. The resentful expression he wore when talking about it meant he knew something about what happened, but wanted to protect her from it. She knew there were some questions better left unanswered but she couldn't help but want to feed her curiosity. Her mother had marked her with the family symbol as a child, saying one day she would pass it onto her own children. Something so important couldn't be ignored.
Jean knew how stupid this sounded, but he hoped it would bring them closer together. A secret that only he knew about her "Do… do you think you could teach me? I mean… if you want to…" he babbled. There was a lot he didn't understand about Mikasa, but he was willing to learn. Her mother had taught her daughter as much as she could to embrace her maternal lineage. He respected her and he wanted to understand, but if she wasn't comfortable he would forget he ever asked.
Mikasa blushed, she spoke some Japanese out of habit due to being raised with it. But after losing her mother it became a precious memory, but she never thought she would be sharing it with someone. She fingered one of her bangs bashfully "Atarimae" she agreed. She doubted anyone else would be as curious, aside from Sasha. She'd think it would be super cool. She wondered what her mother would say when if she had ever met Jean, there was so much she wished she could have asked her.
Jean grinned childishly, feeling as though they were children again. "Cool, I guess you're my teacher now" he chuckled. He learned all sorts of amazing things from her, how to improve his fighting stance, his 3d gear and now he was learning a new language. Mikasa snorted, Jean said the strangest things sometimes but she knew he always meant well.
"She's teaching you Japanese?!" Connie yelled in amazement, he knew Mikasa was of rare Asian descent. He'd never seen anyone like her before, to come from such an extinct bloodline was rather impressive. Mikasa was hesitant talking about her family and they all understood why, with her traumatic history it wasn't something a person would ever want to reminisce about. But she trusted Jean enough to share something so personal with him, he really didn't understand how lucky he was.
Jean blushed and nodded, honestly this felt like a dream. They could share private words that only they knew, like a secret language. It would bring them even closer in the field too. If they were in danger or sneaking around, nobody would be able to understand them if they spoke in a different dialect. It would confuse their enemies and distract them while they defeated them. Not all of their enemies would be titan and he knew that, they had to be prepared for anything.
"Man, I'm jealous bro. I wish I could find a girl like her" he sighed. Yeah he goofed off during training and joked about how boring the camps were, but even he dreamed about love and other mushy stuff. He was only human, watching his best friend experience such happiness made him a little jealous, not just admiration. Most guys wanted a girl to be lovey dovey with, they were only human after all.
Jean smirked, he'd had a feeling that Connie may be harbouring a crush on Sasha for a while but never spoke out about it. The two were so close it would be so cute if it ended up becoming a reality. "What about Sasha, you two are joined at the hip" he teased, he already had his support and everyone else would agree. But everything was down to whether Connie would act on his possible feelings.
Connie blushed, pouting defensively "Sasha… she's… it's different!" he growled. Connie ran his hand across his stubbled head in frustration "You're a lucky man. Mikasa's a loyal girl, she'd do anything for you. I pity the idiot who attempts to even look at you funny. You found a winner". The world was a messed up, tragic and scary place, but during his loneliness, Jean had met Mikasa. He knew it was only a matter of time before they admitted they liked each other. "Mikasa barely told Sasha anything about her parents, she was hesitant about it. But she trusts you more than anyone. The fact that she agreed shows how much you mean to her".
Jean nodded absentmindedly "Y'know, sometimes I think about how lonely I'd have been if we never met. I can't imagine a life without her, the friends I made. I'd probably be a jerk" he chuckled. Having someone who defended him, who was kind to him and cared about him so much meant the world to him. Someone who wiped his tears away and made him feel wanted. Hoping that they would be reunited in the trainee camps like they had promised as kids.
Connie grinned, he was head over heels for Mikasa and it was starting to show. He had been hit by the love bug so bad, but he was glad Jean was happy "Good thing you have Mikasa to keep you on the straight and narrow" he mocked. Jean punched him in the arm playfully, but he had to admit Connie was correct.
"Won't your uncle be mad at you for defying him?" Marco asked curiously. He had wanted her to join his team for a reason. He had introduced her to members of his team at a young age to familiarise herself with people whom she would work alongside. Now that she had changed her mind and chosen to work with them, wouldn't they be disappointed? He couldn't help but consider the problems they would cause and the aftereffects of their decisions.
Mikasa nodded, she would be having a long and detailed conversation with her uncle on her choices. She didn't doubt he would become annoyed and complain, but she knew he would also respect and understand her choices too. They both had their personal reasons for choosing the paths they had. "Hai, but he'll understand. I have to make my own choices, besides we'll run into each other more often" she chuckled. They would reunite for tea, banter and other such matters when it wasn't involved in Military talk. They were family, their affection for each other and familial bond wouldn't be broken so easily. The same way if anyone meant her harm or insulted her, Levi would break someone's nose, if someone spoke down about her uncle she would have no issue breaking something either.
"I bet Hanji will be over the moon to learn you're a couple at last. I can't imagine Levi will be too pleased" Marco snorted. He knew the glasses woman and her uncle were involved, an odd pair but they suited one another. She had become Mikasa's surrogate mother growing up and cared deeply for the girl, vocally and physically showing affection whenever they were reunited. But despite her attitude, Hanji was an intelligent woman whom both Mikasa and Levi respected.
"Hanji is a very loud person, but she has a good heart. He doesn't show it, but Uncle Levi has approved of Jean already" Mikasa reassured him. He had a funny way of showing affection and voicing concerns, but despite his negative personality traits he was a good man. He took her in after she lost everything, raised her as his own and bonded with her as family. Despite the risk of getting into trouble, he took her out on trips with Hanji when he got tea, he allowed her to visit Jean, he spoiled her in so many ways. He tried to make her life happier despite her heartbreak.
"You know, I'm jealous. The bond you two have is touching, how much you trust and confide in each other" Marco admitted bashfully. Jean was his best friend and he would do anything for the guy. Before he was reunited with Mikasa, he had been the only person who believed in Jean. But anyone could tell that Mikasa was someone whom could never be replaced in his heart. But he would continue to support his best friend come what may.
Mikasa gave him a sympathetic look "You mean a great deal to him too Marco, as does Sasha and Connie. You mean a lot to me too, I've never had friends like you before". She had endured a lonely life growing up, living in the grief of losing her family and learning to smile again. Then she met Jean and had a reason to smile, then she found the trainee camps and made a group of misfits who became precious to her. "My uncle is my family, but so are you, Connie and Sasha. My brothers and sisters".
Marco smiled, the unwavering affection she held for them was as bright and strong as the scarf and ribbon she wore. Always making sure the people closest to her were reminded of their value to her. He reached over to pat her head affectionately, "Then we best look out for each other. Make sure we all stay out of trouble" he reminded her.
Levi peered silently out of the window with a look of boredom, his eyes watching the rainfall heavily as it pattered against the windows like miniature bullets. Somehow rain was soothing to him, he could sit for hours watching it, passing away the moments carelessly as he watched the simplicity of nature. Allowing him to reflect on his thought in peace, before he was forced to return to his duties and endless paperwork that always seemed to pile up. He remembered it never rained in the underground, it was always dark, sometimes cold, sometimes too warm, but it never rained. Sheltered from the world above and ignored. He remembered how amazed he had been upon finally being able to see the world for himself, beyond what he had ever envisioned. Despite having lived above ground for many years, it never ceased to amaze him.
"You're going to get frown lines if you worry that much" Hanji teased in amusement. She could tell he was anxious about Mikasa's upcoming graduation, he insomnia was acting up and he was getting distracted. Not many would be able to tell the difference, but having known Levi for so long she could notice. But it just went to show much she meant to him. He had been suffering from separation anxiety ever since she left home to train to become a soldier, adapting to living on his own again.
Levi huffed, sometimes he forgot that his close relationship with Hanji meant he had few secrets. But sometimes he did wish he could have more privacy "If I do, it will be from your antics stressing me out" he mocked. She wasn't a kid anymore, she was growing up, but she was still immature and naive. This would be her first time in the battlefield, mistakes and accidents could occur, it was unavoidable.
"I know Mikasa's training is ending soon, her graduation into a military position is upcoming. But we already know what she's going to choose" she reminded him. She admired her uncle deeply, she respected him. She would make the right decision and do him proud, yes she would make mistakes as expected but she would follow her heart and do the right thing. Though having doubts was expected, they couldn't control her choices in life only give advice when they could and hope she learn from them.
Levi scoffed, the longer he considered it the more irritated he became "That brat will follow Kirstein into the Military police due to the blindness of her affection. I refuse to allow her to become part of those immoral snakes" he growled. He despised the military police for abusing their status and slacking their duties for days of leisure while thousands perished. The military police cared more about status and power, stepping in at the last minute to take control rather than use common sense. He would never allow Mikasa to fall to their level. "Mikasa has a bright mind and natural morality, someone like her could do good in this world. If the Military police get a whiff of her, she'll become their latest weapon".
Hanji sighed, she knew Levi thought the world of Mikasa but he couldn't make choices for her. But she doubted Mikasa would ever fall into the life of the Military police, it clashed with her beliefs. "She's a smart girl, she has been ever since she was a child. She'll follow her friends into the same career as you. She'd never make such an irresponsible mistake" she grinned. Levi softened, moments like these reminded him of how grateful he was to have Hanji by his side to encourage him when he was troubled. "But you know, now that Mikasa has friends and a boyfriend, you're going to have to get used to Jean calling you Ouji-san too" she grinned.
Levi glared, a shiver of disgust running down his back, he may have accepted Jean but he would not allow the brat to call him something so intimate so early. "Shitty glasses, are you trying to piss me off?" he growled. He had forgotten that Mikasa was smitten with the Kirstein kid, no doubt they would have confessed their feelings and become a couple eventually. He wondered if the brat had bucked up the courage yet, part of him didn't want to know, so long as he treated Mikasa right.
Hanji grinned, she had seen this side of Levi all too often "Ooo, scary. I've made Levi mad" she teased. But seeing him turn into a protective guardian was often amusing to her, even if he hated being teased for it.