Ah. So it wasn't enough for him to "be the titan" -- the threat of danger wasn't the end itself, but only one of the means. This was the kind of deep game Levi had come to routinely expect from Erwin, and for the nth time, he was thankful for the consultation. The bittering relationship between he and Mikasa might have become irreparable if this conversation had never occurred.

Another man might have taken a moment to air his complaints. It's still insane. You're asking too much this time. Levi was feeling rather the opposite. The vague images and prognostications that had been floating in his mind -- of transforming Mikasa into an untouchable soldier, of fighting with her brilliantly in tandem while turning the tide of the war -- these had gained an exciting clarity.

Certainly, it was a tall order. But those Levi enjoyed all the more when he came out successful -- and he would again. There was no other option.

"I see."

He returned to his tea, taking a longer sip.

"Do you actually expect the Ape Titan to appear?"