Sana stood in the center of her barracks, the large blueprint spread out on the table before her. Around her, her team buzzed with activity, their voices mingling with the rhythmic clatter of tools and the occasional spark of welding torches. The air was thick with the smell of oil and hot metal, the hallmark of invention in progress.
"Alright, everyone," Sana began, her voice cutting through the noise with ease. "Today, we're tackling one of the most ambitious projects yet. This device will revolutionize how we communicate during battle."
She gestured to the detailed sketches on the blueprint. "We're aiming for a wireless communication device that operates using sound waves transmitted through a compact crystal oscillator. The signal will be picked up by receivers tuned to the same frequency. But we're working with limited resources, so let's think creatively."
Alisa raised her hand, a spark of curiosity in her eyes. "What about power? How will the device function without relying on a stable grid?"
"Good question, it makes me happy when you all ask questions" Sana replied, smiling. "We'll be using a hand-crank dynamo to generate the necessary energy. I'm sorry I can't make compact batteries yet. So we have to use this. It's compact and easy to use, even on horseback. The challenge is designing it small enough to carry while maintaining durability."
Hudson, who was busy tinkering with a prototype casing, chimed in. "And what about range? We're talking miles of separation between squads in the field."
"That's where the oscillator and antenna come in," Sana said, tapping the diagram. "The oscillator will amplify the signal, and the retractable antenna will extend the range. For now, we're aiming for three to five miles. Any further, and we'll need more sophisticated tech. And if anyone can come up with something even better you are most welcome. Right Logan?" She said with a sweet smile on her face noticing that he wanted to talk to her and ask a million question about the project.
Logan smiled back. He wasn't beaming with energy but finally today he smiled.
The team nodded, their determination palpable. Over the next several hours, the barracks became a hive of innovation. Alisa worked on winding copper coils for the dynamo while Hudson hammered out protective casings from lightweight alloys. Others focused on calibrating the oscillator and testing antenna materials for optimal conductivity.
Midway through the day, a test run was conducted. The team gathered as Alisa turned the crank on a crude prototype, her hands steady as the device hummed to life. Sana held a matching receiver, her heart racing with anticipation.
"Testing, one, two," Alisa said into the transmitter.
A crackle of static preceded her voice, clear and sharp, coming through the receiver. Cheers erupted from the team, their hard work bearing fruit in that simple yet monumental moment.
"It's a start," Sana said, her grin wide. "But we need to make it smaller and more durable. Hudson, can you reinforce the casing to withstand shocks? We'll also need to waterproof it."
"On it," Hudson replied, already sketching modifications.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting the barracks in a warm orange glow, Sana called for a pause. "You've all done incredible work today. Let's pick this up tomorrow."
Her team dispersed, leaving her alone with the humming remnants of the day's efforts. She leaned against the table, staring at the blueprints with a mix of pride and determination. This device could change everything.
---
~~Later that evening, Sana and Levi sat in her modest quarters, a small oil lamp casting flickering shadows on the walls. The atmosphere was relaxed, a stark contrast to the bustling day they'd both endured. Levi leaned against the edge of the table, his arms crossed, while Sana sat on the stool, a notebook in her lap.
"We need to set a date," Levi said bluntly, his usual directness softened by the faint curve of his lips. "For the wedding."
Sana looked up, her eyes widening slightly before a smile crept across her face. "A month from now?" she suggested. "That gives us time to prepare without dragging it out."
Levi nodded. "Works for me. Simple and to the point. Just like us."
She chuckled. "Simple doesn't mean it won't be meaningful. I want it to be…" Her voice trailed off as emotion welled up. "Perfect. Not extravagant, just perfect."
Levi's gaze softened, and he reached out, placing a hand over hers. "It will be. Because it's us."
The quiet moment stretched, filled with unspoken promises and shared understanding.**
---
The following day, Sana and Levi set out to share the news with their closest friends. They started with Farlan and Isabel, who were overjoyed at the announcement. Isabel's infectious excitement filled the room as she hugged them both.
"Finally!" Isabel exclaimed. "You two are perfect together. Can I help with the preparations? Please?"
"Of course," Sana replied, laughing. "We'll need all the help we can get."
Next, they visited Erwin, Hange, and Mike. Erwin, ever composed, offered his congratulations with a rare smile. "You've both earned this happiness," he said, his voice warm.
"And Erwin San I have something to show you. The prototypes done. You can visit me whenever you get time." Sana said before leaving.
"Yes, sure why not. I think now you should take a break from all this for a while." Erwin said with a smile on his face.
Hange, on the other hand, was anything but composed. She practically tackled them with a hug, her enthusiasm spilling over. "This is amazing! When's the big day? Oh, wait—do you need someone to handle the logistics? I'm great at logistics!"
"No, Thanks we will manage. And please try to keep this a secret, Hange." Levi said looking at her getting over excited.
Mike, though quieter, offered a sincere nod and a few heartfelt words. "You'll make a strong pair. Congratulations."
As they left, Levi couldn't help but feel a pang of longing. He glanced at Sana, who seemed to sense his mood.
"You're thinking about your mother?" she said gently.
He nodded. "She would've liked you. She would've liked this."
Sana reached for his hand, squeezing it. "She's a part of you, Levi. And through you, she's a part of this."
Levi looked away, his jaw tightening as he fought the wave of emotion threatening to overwhelm him. Sana stepped closer, wrapping her arms around him in a silent promise of support.
---
That evening, back in the barracks, they sat together, the weight of the day settling into something warm and comforting. Sana's thoughts drifted to the idea of family—a real family.
"Levi," she said softly, "this… this is more than I ever imagined. Thank you."
He looked at her, his expression unreadable but his eyes betraying a depth of emotion he rarely showed. "You deserve it. All of it."
As they sat there, planning their future and reveling in the joy of the present, the world outside seemed to fade away. Together, they were ready to face whatever came next, their bond stronger than ever.