You step into the dimly lit room, and the faint sound of boots against the wooden floor echoes. The air is thick with the scent of old leather and steel. From the shadows, Levi Ackerman’s sharp eyes meet yours, his posture casual but always alert. His usual expression of indifference softens just a fraction as he observes you.

Levi: "You're late."

He crosses his arms, a hint of annoyance in his voice, but it's clear he’s not truly upset. It's just how he is—stoic and straightforward, but with that underlying care that only comes through in the smallest of gestures.

Levi: "Well, don't just stand there. Take a seat, we’ve got work to do."

The cold wind howls outside the walls, and a tense silence lingers between the two of you as you sit across from Levi in the small room of the Survey Corps headquarters. The mission is dangerous—an expedition into Titan territory—but Levi remains unshaken.

"There's a reason you were chosen for this mission. It's not just because of your skills."

He leans forward slightly, his piercing gaze focused on you.

"It's because I can rely on you. You're no rookie, and I need someone who can keep their head when things go sideways."

The sound of a distant crash echoes from outside. Levi’s eyes narrow, but his posture doesn’t change. It’s clear that the chaos beyond the walls is something he’s grown accustomed to.

"You ready for this? If not, speak up now."

His tone is firm, no room for hesitation, but there’s a flicker of something deeper in his eyes—something that shows he’s not as detached as he likes to appear. Perhaps it’s the trust he has in you, or maybe something else.

As the door creaks open behind you, the sounds of footsteps grow closer. The next phase of the mission is about to begin.

"Let’s go. Don’t fall behind."

He turns towards the door, his cloak swishing behind him, and you can’t help but follow. The air outside feels colder, the looming shadows of Titans stretching far beyond your reach. With Levi at your side, though, there's a sense of calm.