#smartpass interview

[lostcauses-noregrets]

Hello! Sorry for any mistakes, English is not my first language-...

Soo... I'm kinda new in fandom (I watched full AoT in April 2024) but I wanna know more abt Eruri. I read all page in shipping wiki about Eruri and some of smartpass au (but... Not much). But I'm Still unsure. Is there anything you would recommend to read from official/canonical things? Idk-... I JUST WANNA KNOW EVERYTHING ABT ERURI😭😭😭

I'd like ANY recommendations, it would really help me 👉🏼👈🏼

Thanks!!!

Hello and a very warm, if belated, welcome to the Eruri fandom!  Your English is perfect, no need to apologise at all.  The good news is that there is a HUGE archive of Eruri meta and information here on tumblr that fans have created over the years.  A lot of it is old now, because it was written at the time the manga was being published, but that doesn’t make it any less relevant, quite the opposite in fact! There is a treasure trove of canon information and analysis here that some newer fans may not be aware of.  I have an old Eruri Starter Pack post and also a Meta Rec post, some of the blogs recommended here are no longer active but it’s well worth browsing through their archives.  

My own meta is tagged Eruri Relationship,  Erwin Meta,  Levi Meta. Other people’s meta that I’ve reblogged is tagged Amazing Meta.   @tsuki-no-ura is the most active meta blogger on tumblr these days.  They are incredibly generous, patient and insightful with their translation skills. Diving into their blog is endlessly fascinating and educational. @momtaku’s blog is still one of the most comprehensive in the fandom and all her posts are tagged and organised.  @yusekni translated a lot of the supplementary material such as the Smartpass stories, guidebooks and fan Q&A’s.  Don’t miss the Smartpass Erwin and Levi Up Close interviews (part 1 / part 2). @ningen-suki also shared a lot of great information from the Japanese side of the fandom. @erbeansandravioli’s Eruri Receipts post is very old now, but it’s still a great source. 

If you haven’t already read the SnK and ACWNR mangas, read them now! Erwin and Levi’s relationship has so much more depth and nuance than in the anime.  I can also highly recommend reading the official Answers book and Character Encyclopaedia which include key information from Isayama himself about Erwin and Levi’s characters, motivations and relationship.

Hopefully that will keep you occupied for a while! If you're looking for anything in particular, or you've got any questions, please don't hesitate to ask ♡

[leviismybby]

However, I don't know how to feel about Levi because of the real source material (Isayama interviews, smartpass story and side material like that…) and the 'professional' Japanese translators on this blog. I think he really is, according to the correct Japanese translations and Isayama interviews, he is really dragging humanity through the mud for his personal feelings… and he is someone who is floating and aimless because of Erwin's death… So much so that Isayama even thought of killing him many times because he didn't know what to do about him and threw him aside… also I guess he has no interest in women… oh and Ackerbond is probably real… I know it's not a canon ship and I know he's not in love, but that doesn't mean it's not written too reductively to Erwin. And it disgusts me…

Because of the source material, side material, canon discourse and Japanese translator blogs, my opinion of him is changing more and more and I think I will throw my LevixOc project in the trash… Levi is really someone who (because of Isayama's writing) has been hypnotized by Erwin's own goals and has taken control of Levi's entire character and actions. I don't think I could take him (or s/o) out of this hypnosis.

I know you can say "Isayama's opinions can change" or "only what is in the manga is canon" and I used to hide behind that for consolation, but I realized that once Isayama said it, it was true and it stayed there. And I think the interviews are necessary to understand the content of the scenes etc. in the manga.

Even analysis is no longer a comfort for me… after all, why need complicated writing when interviews and manga are the source of what really happened there…

I guess he's not the character I thought I wanted… I wish he was his own man… I wish he wasn't a character to be discarded just because he died because of another character… or someone who is too picky and only accepts high standards… (this is just my own opinion based on the manga and the material/opinions I think Canon!Levi would be like that)

I'm deeply disappointed… As delulu as the Eruri fandom is, most of what they say is unfortunately true… after all, they take real sources and cite them as evidence… I don't think they are mistranslating because there are professional cold-blooded translators in this fandom and most of them quote what that blog says…

I wish I had never encountered this fandom and this character, so I wouldn't have to be so upset all these years…

Except that half of the interviews are either fake, completely twisted or don't exist. Especially that flaoting ballon bullshit, which a lot of Japanese fans say wasn't even said.

I will this again, please read the manga on your own and base your opinions on Levi on your own.

Since you already mention Eruri and i might ruin your day here but Eruri is as canon and Levihan is, it isn't. No Levi never prirotized Erwin over humanity and you'll understand that if you read the manga for yourself and analyse it for yourself without letting the fandom get to you.

Levi is his own man, he has his brain to think with and the only people who think he doesn't are shippers. Not once did Levi put his own selfish desires before humanity for anyone, he was as sad about Erwin's death as he was for the rest of his comrads. Not a single instance in the manga/anime or any actual official interviews given by Isayama was Levi reduced to Erwin, only a shipper would think that way. Oh and Ackerbond thing too, not only is that damaging to Levi's character, it is just creppy and definitely not a thing.

I am sorry anon but it seems like you don't understand Levi and his character at all. Isayama always said that Erwin and Levi were equal and sworn friends, he didn't say that because he hid some sort of hidden romance between the two, he said it because that's how it is, its a strong bond of trust and commandership and reducing it only to "Oh Levi is a love sick puppy who only cares about Erwin." is a mischaractertion at max.

My advice to you is to take a break from the fandom is they are making you not like your oc x Levi anymore, that's the best way to get them out of your head and please, base your own opinions, not what people online say.

[cosmicjoke]

Hello, cosmic. How are you? Have you ever read smartpass stories? And have you written analyses about these stories? I was recently reading a smartpass interview for Levi and for me, compared to other stories I've read, Levi's answers to the reporter were both close to canon and some of the Q&As he gave were a bit interesting and questioning.

The interview was conducted during the Uprising Arc and was related to it. To mention a few of the questions and answers given, the Reporter mentions that during the Uprising arc, because of some political changes, others saw many different sides of Levi. And Levi says that they want to know if someone who is on the same side as the monarchy, who 'behaves quite arrogantly', can be trusted. And then he says something about killing the military policemen who were pointing guns at him and that it was an act of self-defense.

Then the reporter tries to get him to talk about Kenny, a close relative, and Levi says, "I won't talk about that guy." He says. When the reporter tries to convince him to talk about it, Levi says "Do you no longer want this hand of yours to hold that pen? I’m fine with breaking it. Don’t worry, I’ll make sure it recovers some time after I leave for another battle." He threatens in a way.

I don't know why he so adamantly refuses to mention Kenny here. He said that someone had said that he didn't talk about Kenny because he debunked the 'slave/master' nonsense with one savage word. I don't get that either, but whatever. When the reporter apologizes for this, Levi says something about the way the reporter disturbs others and the philosophy of "If you aren't passionate about something, then you can't go on" and when the reporter says he doesn't understand, Levi says something about what 'you reporters' are passionate about and when the reporter again says he doesn't understand, Levi asks him to ignore what he said.

Actually in the same way as the reporter I don't know exactly what Levi is trying to say here.

The reporter says that Levi helped Historia set up the orphanage and is there a parallel with the fact that the ackermans once served the king and is there something to do with that and Levi says that he was just following the queen's orders and Historia used her relatives to make it happen.

Frankly, one of the things I have noticed is that in this and some smartpass interviews, whenever the reporter mentions Levi's actions, Levi just says "I just follow orders and what I am told". This makes me sometimes question whether Levi is not questioning the orders he is following and whether he himself wants to do that. I mean, somehow we don't see his own thoughts on the subject.

Now we come to one of the most interesting topics for me. It's about getting Wall Maria back and who to sacrifice and Levi's answers are very interesting. That's why I wanted to copy paste this instead of writing it in my head.

Interviewer: We’re getting closer to the mission to retake Wall Maria. With you at the helm, does the new elite squads have any unusual responsibilities?

Levi: I still need to figure out what I can and cannot say. All this is confidential - nothing for you to write articles about.

Interviewer: Then let’s switch topics. Even though the goal of retaking Wall Maria is to “Seal the Wall,” is it impossible to avoid a battle?

Levi: The bastards who created the wall and want Humanity’s extinction…if we don’t get rid of them, people will never gain freedom. That is my reason for any choices I make.

Interviewer: And by “choices” you mean…

Levi: Everything. Who should live…or who should die…

Interviewer: So you don’t necessarily mean anything concerning the enemy?

Levi: On the battlefield, you don’t think about sacrifice first and foremost. But in this rotten world, who knows what will happen the next second…whether you’re in the military or not, I’m sure this is obvious.

Interviewer: So what you’re saying is, if you have to exchange the life of a comrade or subordinate, you would still make that choice without hesitation?

Levi: You people…who do you think I am? Am I a monster who will do anything to reach a goal? Or am I a God who wanders among the masses?

Interviewer: Neither. The one we’re interviewing is Captain Levi - as a human being.

Levi: What a straightforward answer…forget it. No matter what, there is no such thing as an “impossible choice.” Just write that as of right now, I plan on choosing Humanity.

Interviewer: Many thanks.

Levi: Mmhmm……oy, don’t leave behind any papers that you already wrote on.

One of the things that is interesting and confusing for me is that Levi is generally not against making sacrifices both for humanity and for the 'value of some lives over others' and for the 'greater good'. Here he seems to be against it and says to the reporter, 'Am I a monster who will do anything to achieve a goal?

I hope what I have written is not wrong and meaningless. I only wrote it because I wanted to hear your views and analysis on this subject. I didn't actually touch on most of the questions and answers because I didn't want to prolong it and create complexity. In fact, I'm leaving the link here in case you want to read this smartpass interview and write an analysis if you want.

https://www.tumblr.com/fuku-shuu/156820300272/translation-levis-smartpass-au-inside

I've talked about this very topic fairly recently, and I think the posts I made on that can maybe give you a better answer than me simply trying to repeat myself in a more condensed form. So here's some of those posts. They touch specifically I think on the question you're trying to ask, about Levi's feelings regarding the goal of saving humanity vs. the worth of individual lives, and the seeming contradiction between what he says about putting the goal of humanity's victory first, and some of his actions putting individual lives above that goal. There's a conflict in Levi, I think, between his belief in the Survey Corps' goal, his dedication to that goal and whether he perceives it to be worth the lives of his comrades, and the fact he deeply values each, individual life and is primarily motivated by simply wanting to help people. It causes an at times obvious contradiction between his words and actions, because I don't think Levi, in fact, believes that the goal of the SC is worth those lives, but he supports it anyway, because it's what his comrades have chosen to die for. But it puts Levi in a position of often having to go against his very nature and instinct, which is always to save lives. He's part of a military unit in which a group of volunteer soldiers agree and willingly sacrifice their lives for the goal of humanity's freedom. It's what they choose, and Levi is going to support them in their ability to choose, he's going to support their free will and agency. I think it causes Levi a massive amount of grief and trauma to have to do this, because he values their lives so much and wants desperately to protect them, and it's part of what he sacrifices for others, to ignore his natural instinct and inclination to always save lives, in order to support their dream. He feels that, if he can't save their lives, he can at least make sure they don't die in vain, by making their sacrifices mean something:

Anyway, hopefully these posts answer some of your questions. Thanks for the ask!

[hanszoe]

Idk if you answered this already, but if not, any thoughts on Moblit or his dynamic with Hansi? I like ur analyses

sadly isayama wrote very little on moblit. he's treated unfairly in my opinion, we almost never see him without hansi and don't learn anything about him as an individual outside of that.

i think that the dynamic he was going for between them is actually fun though, i guess because it's an inversion of an existing trope which is kind of uncommon, where moblit is the one going through comical levels of stress worrying over hansi who is constantly in danger. isym is not afraid to depict the common misogynistic stereotype here so i get a lot of fun seeing an inversion of it.

if the acwnr ova is to be believed moblit appeared in the sc by 844 and was already hansi's adjutant by then, so hansi knew moblit much longer than they knew levi. we can assume that he was also one of the veterans held to a high level of trust by erwin.

but unfortunately when i say "moblit treated unfairly" i also mean by hansi, they just aren't paying attention to him which i think contributes to perceptions of hansi as being inconsiderate of others. hansi is moblit's superior and in secondary material has some mentions of being tired he never gives them a break, which if we consider as valid characterization could come from feeling like he doesn't trust them despite their higher rank. moblit also appears to be deeply uncomfortable with hansi's recklessness, which is in contrast with my view of loving them requiring an understanding of their nature, trusting them to know their own limits and taking it seriously when they don't.

it's non canon material but in hansi's smartpass character interview there's also the single mention across any IP related material of suicidal ideation in relation to them and it's directly to do with moblit, i'm so sad i don't have original language for this but a translation presents it as if moblit bringing this up was something that they didn't respond seriously to but became conscious of his doing so. more non manga canon material but we return to ilse's notebook ova and hansi being very aware that to be understood is to be vulnerable, and their holding onto this memory and trying to present it as something they don't understand why he asked i feel like comes from that

i would love so much to know the story of how moblit ended up in hansi's section and as their adjutant, was he hand picked by them and if so why. did he and hansi have such conversations about each other, just how strong was their working relationship

one of their short stories actually depicts how they internally rationalized his final choice, which i wrote once was technically insubordination. i started translating that one and will post it with an analysis later this week

moblit is one of the only two men i will drink with in the afterlife. i feel such a camaraderie with him. i want to ask him all the things the manga never depicted of him and for him to have a break for once. i want to thank him for all of the years he protected and took care of hansi the best he could. giving the ultimate sacrifice to protect them, what can i even say to that? he deserves everything. all of the kindness in the world wouldn't be enough to repay it.

[rinamars]

hehe just fyi the song is just a lighthearted song written solely for an SNL skit so it's not in any music streaming app, but yeah szas part is sooo catchy. And i keep going back to that smartpass interview when he was asked what he would do if he wasn't commander and how he said "retire somewhere quiet and maybe start a family" 😭😭😭😭😭😭😭 but that still he'd rather play his role in making a world where other people get to chase their own dreams instead 🥺🥺🥺 this man is so soft help 🥺🥺😭😭

ohhh alright thank you for the clarification 👀

and yes i know!!! i think about that quite often, and it gets me everytime sjdjdjd he deserved to have his little family and his quiet life!!

and to think that theres still people who insist he was selfish

[snk-smartpass-traduction]

CLOSE-UP INTERVIEW - Erwin et Livaï - Partie 2

[ Texte en anglais : ici ( @yusenki) ]

[ Traduction de @fallenrazziel. Merci beaucoup pour cette traduction déjà existante ! J'ai apporté quelques modifications personnelles, mais sinon la traduction était déjà très fidèle au texte de base ! ]

____________________________________________________________

Au cours du précédent entretien, nous avons pu en apprendre davantage sur les responsabilités du major et du caporal-chef du Bataillon d'exploration, ainsi que sur leurs vies privées.

Dans cette seconde partie, ils seront placés dans deux salles différentes et interviewés séparément. Nous essaierons d'obtenir des informations sur ce qu’ils pensent l’un de l’autre et de les faire parler de leurs sentiments profonds dans un cadre plus intime...

Journaliste (J): Alors, caporal-chef Livaï, je vous invite à faire cet entretien individuel en premier.

Livaï (L): ... Pensez-vous, en faisant cela, que je vais donner des informations sur les activités du Bataillon qui serviront à promouvoir notre image ?

J: En tant que "soldat le plus fort de l'humanité", vous donnez déjà par vous-même assez d'espoir à l'humanité .

L: Vous voulez donc savoir comment tuer un titan ? Beaucoup de gens disent qu'il ne sert à rien de savoir ça.

J: Quel type de formation avez-vous reçue pour devenir aussi fort ? Y a-t-il des choses à savoir quand on est sur le champ de bataille ? Ce type d'information pourrait être utile pour les futures recrues.

L: Même si les jeunes suivent le même entraînement que moi, cela ne signifie pas qu'ils pourront se déplacer de la même façon que moi. Les capacités physiques de chacun sont différentes. En outre, si vous êtes tenté de dire que je suis différent des autres... Peut-être que c'est juste en raison de la perception que j’ai du monde.

J: Comment voyez-vous le monde ?

L: J'ai connu trop de situations anormales... Non seulement les titans, mais aussi les conflits dans les bas-fonds. Pour cette raison, je suis déjà habitué aux faits aberrants. Par exemple, si la main d'un titan traversait soudainement le toit à cet instant-même, je serais en mesure de taillader sa nuque.

J: Donc, vous êtes constamment en état d’alerte.

L: Je suis toujours préparé mentalement. Si je ne l’étais pas, je pourrais mourir et tout perdre le jour suivant. En fait, je ne peux jamais être sûr que le type à côté de moi ne sera pas celui qui me tuera. Tous ces scénarios surgissent continuellement dans mon esprit, et peut-être qu’en réalité... ils me sont utiles sur le champ de bataille.

J: C’est un état d’esprit très intense que vous avez là.

L: C'est pourquoi les gens ordinaires n'ont pas besoin de penser de cette façon. Nous seuls, les individus singuliers qui devenons des soldats du Bataillon, devons avoir cette mentalité-là.

J: Peut-être, peut-être. Passons à la prochaine question. Pouvez-vous nous dire ce que vous pensez du major Erwin, qui participe à cette interview avec vous ?

L: Nous nous connaissons depuis longtemps... mais si vous me posez la question de but en banc, je ne sais pas trop quoi répondre. Qu'est-ce que les autres ont dit sur lui ?

J: En ce qui concerne le Major... Tout le monde, en particulier les nouvelles recrues, semblent le trouver "effrayant".

L: Erwin est effrayant ?... Alors ces nouvelles recrues voient clair elles aussi.

J: En tant que caporal-chef qui êtes proche de lui, que pensez-vous ?

L: Eh bien, ouais... Ses idées peuvent parfois faire penser qu’il est insensible, au point que même moi, ça me fout les jetons. Comme lorsqu'il sacrifie délibérément ses subordonnés. Cependant, il a des objectifs bien précis, et il fait ce qu'il faut pour les atteindre, avec succès.

J: En effet, malgré les sacrifices, le taux de survie du Bataillon a augmenté depuis que le major Erwin a été promu à sa tête. En outre, des missions spéciales comme la capture du titan féminin ont pu être possibles.

L: C'est vrai. Si Erwin était trop sensible pour garantir le succès des plans mis en place, je ne le suivrais pas.

J: A présent, nous aimerions demander au major Erwin de venir pour son entretien.

Erwin (E): Ha ha... Je suis sûr que Livaï se plaint de moi en ce moment-même.

J: Vous croyez ? Commençons maintenant, alors. Voulez-vous bien nous donner votre point de vue en tant que Major ? Que pensez-vous du caporal-chef Livaï et des autres membres du Bataillon ?

E: Vous ne voulez pas que je réponde en tant que leur supérieur, n'est-ce pas?

J: Si vous le pouvez, donnez votre avis personnel.

E: ... D'accord. Commençons par Livaï... Je pense qu'il est excellent en tant que second pour remplir des missions importantes. Grâce à son titre de "soldat le plus fort de l'humanité " se trouvant dans le Bataillon d'exploration, notre image s'est améliorée. Sur le champ de bataille, il accomplit également fidèlement les missions que je lui assigne. Malgré sa nature profondément humaine, je lui ai déjà demandé de mener à bien quelques missions cruelles...

J: Le caporal-chef Livaï est très... "humain" ?

E: Vous avez déjà interviewé ses subordonnés, n'est-ce pas ? Alors, vous devez avoir compris à quel point ils ont confiance en leur chef.

J: En effet. J'ai même entendu ces choses-là de la part des nouvelles recrues qui ne sont pas dans son escouade.

E: Il a juste une attitude grossière... mais il chérit la vie de ses camarades plus que quiconque. Sa réputation ne serait pas justifiée si elle se fondait uniquement sur sa force. Un être humain peut détecter inconsciemment à quel point un de ses semblables se soucie de lui... et quand il remarque cette gentillesse, cela donne du pouvoir à la personne qui en est à l’origine... C'est quelque chose que je ne peux pas connaître.

J: Cependant, je suis sûr, major Erwin, que vos subordonnés vous font confiance.

E: En tant que major du Bataillon... en tant que personne qui se tient en première ligne dans le combat pour l'humanité, je dois prendre d'innombrables décisions qui font courir des risques majeurs à mes soldats. Bien sûr, cela m'est possible parce qu'ils me font confiance... Cependant, je n'hésiterais pas à faire des sacrifices si nous nous retrouvions dans des circonstances désastreuses.

J: Tout ceci pour le bien de l'humanité ?

E: Oui. Cependant, si j'étais le seul à être dans cette position d’autorité, je ne serais pas en mesure de tenir le Bataillon. Parce que Livaï est à mes côtés, les soldats du Bataillon peuvent se battre héroïquement. Le rôle de Livaï et le mien ne peuvent pas être échangé.

J: Que pensez-vous des autres membres du Bataillon d’exploration ? Etant donné leur nombre, parlons seulement de votre opinion sur les chefs d'escouade Hange et Mike.

E: Hange est un soldat qui nous est très précieux. Elle est la plus à même de découvrir le mystère des titans. Mais ce n'est pas seulement une chercheuse ordinaire... Hange offre son cœur pour la liberté et elle est fière d'appartenir au Bataillon. Si Hange n'était qu'une scientifique enthousiaste, elle ne serait pas chef d'escouade.

J: Malgré cela, le capitaine Hange semble très appréciée par ses subordonnés.

E: Mike est très apprécié lui aussi. Bien qu'il ne parle pas beaucoup et que personne ne sache jamais ce qu'il pense, le jugement dont il fait preuve dans des situations d'urgence et sa volonté extrêmement forte sont des qualités de leadership très utiles. Sans chefs d'escouade qualifiés comme eux, je ne serais pas en mesure d'accomplir mon devoir en tant que major. Je leur suis très reconnaissant.

Nous demandons à Livaï de nous rejoindre.

J: Maintenant, nous vous invitons tous les deux à répondre ensemble. Pouvez-vous partager avec nous vos objectifs du moment ?

E: Je ne fais que ce que les circonstances présentes exigent de moi. À l'heure actuelle, nous nous concentrons sur le pouvoir d'Eren Yaeger et sur les informations que nous pouvons obtenir grâce à lui pour aider à libérer l'humanité. Nous serons tous confrontés à nos ennemis jusqu'à la fin, qu'ils s'agisse de titans ou autres.

L: Je ne fais que suivre ce mec. Même si Erwin est prêt à tout pour atteindre son but, il est capable d'accomplir quelque chose de concret. Avec son intelligence et notre force, peut-être qu'un jour nous pourrons goûter le vent de la liberté en dehors du mur.

J: Je vois. Si un jour l'humanité était complètement libérée de la terreur des titans, et qu'il n'y avait plus aucun combat à livrer, que feriez-vous alors ?

E: Ha... même après avoir exterminé les titans, il faudrait s’occuper de régler les affaires humaines, n'est-ce pas ?

L: Cela pourrait s’avérer encore plus pénible que de tuer les titans.

J: Alors ne parlons pas de cela pour l'instant. Racontez-nous plutôt quels sont vos rêves pour l’avenir.

L: Parler de nos rêves à notre âge... comme c'est intéressant. Qu'en penses-tu, Erwin ?

E: Pour moi... Très bien : me retirer dans un coin tranquille, ou peut-être avoir une famille.

J: Je suis surpris de voir le major répondre à cette question avec autant de légèreté.

E: Mon esprit est actuellement rempli de questionnements sur le monde, donc je ne suis pas en mesure de rêver. Mais, quoi qu’il en soit, vous pouvez dire que j'ai des rêves tout à fait communs.

L: Comme c'est intéressant. Tes enfants ne seront pas mignons, c'est sûr.

E: Et vous, Livaï ? Voulez-vous passer de héros à politicien ?

L: C'est impossible. Comment pouvez-vous me demander quelque chose d'aussi évident ?

J: Parlez-nous de vos rêves, caporal-chef.

L: Tout comme ce mec, mon esprit n'a pas de place pour les rêves en ce moment. Cependant, si vous voulez que je vous donne une réponse comme ça, pour parler, alors ... pourquoi ne pas ouvrir une boutique de thé noir ?

E: C'est très intéressant également ! Passer de héros qui voltige partout en abattant des titans en masse, à propriétaire d'un délicieux tea shop dans l’enceinte des murs...

J: Vos deux réponses sont tellement inattendues. Cela peut-il s’expliquer par le fait que vous êtes confrontés à de dures réalités en ce moment ?

E: Oui. La poursuite de nos propres rêves est moins importante que la construction d'un nouveau monde pour l’humanité, un endroit où les hommes pourraient accomplir leurs propres rêves.

L: Je ne me soucie pas beaucoup de ma propre personne, mais y penser est assez amusant.

J: Eh bien, c’est le moment de conclure cette interview. Veuillez, s’il vous plaît, adressez quelques mots de conclusion aux lecteurs.

L: ... Ce serait à Erwin de s’en charger, vous ne croyez pas ? Que ce soit dans le passé, dans le présent ou dans le futur, je ne m’occupe que du combat physique.

E: En effet, il te suffit de te laisser porter par l’interview. Tant que cela véhicule auprès de tout le monde l’idée que les soldats... que nous sommes tous des humains ordinaires, c'est plus que suffisant. J'aimerais solliciter de votre part un soutien inconditionnel quant aux décisions remplies de détermination que nous prenons. Continuez à croire en nous et à me confier l'avenir de l'humanité.

J: Merci beaucoup.

Bien qu'Erwin et Livaï se montrent prudents avec les mots qu’ils emploient, ils ont tous deux exprimé beaucoup de choses. A travers leurs réponses, nous pouvons sentir qu’ils sont totalement dévoués à leur devoir et qu’ils ont confiance en leurs subordonnés, ainsi que l'un envers l'autre.

A la fin, les deux héros du Bataillon d'exploration se lèvent en silence et saluent. C'est un geste qui montre non seulement qu’ils ont juré d’offrir leur cœur à l'humanité, mais qui reflète également leur forte détermination.

En tant que dirigeants du Bataillon d'exploration, ils pourraient nous apporter un jour les ailes de la liberté.

C’est remplis de confiance dans l'avenir que nous mettons un point final à cette interview.

[fallenrazziel]

He just has a rude attitude…but he cherishes his comrades’ life more than anyone else. His reputation cannot be established based on strength alone, humans can subconsciously detect how much concern others have for them… and when they notice this kindness, it inspires power…That is something that I can’t do. [...] However, if I stand alone in this authoritative position, I wouldn’t be able to maintain the SC. Because he’s at my side, the SC soldiers are able to fight heroically. Levi and I’s positions cannot be exchanged.

Erwin Smith about Levi

Without Levi's trust, Erwin could not do his job. He admires what Levi brings to him and thinks he does not have himself. These two men are a real couple inside SC.

[lostcauses-noregrets]

Why is the answer always "Levi said this Levi did this" whenever one asks about the signs of Eruri in canon? Levi's side is pretty clear, but every time I talk to an Eruri and I ask "but why do you think Erwin loved Levi" the answer is very long but it's mostly empty and just "I am sure he did" or "but Levi loved him so Eruri is canon". Sorry this isn't a "hehehe your ship is one sided it's not canon" type of question. It's more of a writing-wise question, since you are a writer yourself I thought you'd give the best answer to this.

I am wondering, is this because of lack of Erwin's pov in aot manga or anime? I know Erwin is important and plays an important role and story revolves around him in s3 p2 and all that but when you look at the bigger picture he's mostly just there. He's in the story but you don't see his pov. We don't get to see the inside of his head until the end. Is this why "does Erwin love Levi" question is a hot topic in aot fandom always? Or are there any side stories like smartpass aus that suggest Erwin had feelings for Levi? I'm sorry I don't know those very well I only know the manga and the anime.

Lastly, I am sure you answered this before but my question is very specific, do you actually believe it was mutual? After all it's fiction and you don't need their love to be mutual to ship them. People ship characters who barely interact. It's what fandom is and that's totally normal and valid. I guess I am wondering if you ever doubted, th ship or even yourself which I do a lot (in a "oh I love this so much and I read so much fics I made myself believe" way) Thanks I hope this doesn't sound rude or offensive, my English isn't very good so if I sound rude that must be it it's not my intention :)

Ooof there’s  a lot of different questions here but I think they boil down to the following: 

Are Erwin and Levi’s feelings for each other mutual? / Does Erwin reciprocate Levi’s feelings?

Why do people question Erwin’s relationship to Levi? 

Do I personally believe their relationship was mutual, and have ever “doubted the ship”?

I’ve answered the first question many, many times over the years. You can read all my various answers here.  In short I do think that Erwin reciprocated Levi’s feelings and I think the evidence is there in the manga, the official guidebooks, the Smartpass stories, and the side content for anyone who cares to see it. I’m not going to list all the side content here, but there’s a very old post by @erbeansandravioli that links to a lot of it: Eruri receipts.

As to why people question Erwin’s relationship to Levi, well that’s an interesting one.  Some people clearly just don’t get Erwin’s character (see the previous ask I just answered), they don’t understand his role in the plot or the significance of his relationship to Levi.  For example I’ve seen people arguing passionately that Levi’s vow had nothing to do with Erwin, which is just mind boggling to me. It’s certainly true that Erwin is a much harder character to read than Levi who very much wears his heart on his sleeve.  Erwin is more reserved, and holds his cards closer to his chest.  However the fact that Levi is the only one who he reveals his true self to is significant. Daisuke Ono put it beautifully when he said in an interview that the amplitude of Erwin’s feelings is so great that it can be hard to see.  

It could also be that some, perhaps younger, readers just don’t recognise their relationship for what it is. It’s certainly not a typical shounen romance, but it is a deeply believable adult relationship; one that is based on mutual trust, respect and understanding. This is from a previous ask I answered on the subject:

It frustrates me enormously when people deny their canon relationship, despite Yams being at paints to explain it repeatedly in the guidebooks. I want to shake them and ask what the hell they think a relationship looks like when you’re an exhausted 30 + year old war veteran who has spent their entire life fighting for survival.  It looks like this; finding someone who you can trust with your life. If you were to ask me what characterizes a successful adult relationship I would say it’s exactly this; mutual trust, respect and understanding, and when push comes to shove, the willingness to do everything in your power to help the person you hold most dear, even if that means letting them go. 

And as to whether I’ve ever doubted the ship, the answer to that would be no, never.  Sure we’ve never seen them swear undying love in canon (though some would argue with that and point to Erwin’s "Arigatō Levi".) I wrote this in response to an ask about Eruri canonicity: 

Do you mean that you don’t believe they’re canon because we never see them kiss? Because they never marry?  Because the main focus of the story isn’t romance?  All those things are true, but in my opinion, they’re also not the only things that make a relationship canon.  Particularly when that relationship is between two war-weary 30 year old men who have been fighting for survival almost their entire lives. The irony is that, in some ways, Erwin and Levi’s relationship is actually quite conventional. They really do behave a bit like an old married couple.  They have a long standing relationship that has matured over many years, they have their own weird sense of humour, they’re not afraid to challenge each other, but they care about one another deeply, and they also trust each other unconditionally.  That’s all the canon evidence I need tbh.

Having said that, you are absolutely right that you don’t need any canon evidence to ship a couple.  Hell, I’ve had great fun written Hanji and Petra as a side ship and I don’t think they ever even interacted in canon.  In Erwin and Levi’s case though there is more than enough evidence in canon to attest to the significance of their relationship. 

Hope this answers your questions.

[levihantrash]

I love how Hange's voice sounds in the interview.. like it just sounds like them? Kinda chill, finds good humour in everything, treats everyone around her fondly, ESP levi and moblit <3

Au Smartpass Interview: Hange Zoë

Note: Since the existing Tumblr link is no longer available, I searched from other platforms and found this. Some parts seem to be missing, but the whole text itself is long enough!

Translation from Anon 4Chan user

source: here

J: So, is this not like they’ve already given up on you?

Hange: Probably! Mike and Erwin say nothing about it. Ah, but Levi…

J: Did he say anything about it?

Hange: Uhh… from time to time I black out from getting hit, then when I become conscious again I would get splashed at and somehow… it’s like having a bath.

J: It is… done by force, isn’t it?

Hange: That, perhaps, is more like cleaning than having a bath! I think he planned it all out with my subordinates, but because I lost consciousness I can’t be sure.

J: Everybody’s names have been mentioned, so we would like to hear about your interpersonal relationships. We’ve got a question that asks, “What impression do you have” of firstly Commander Erwin, then Captain Levi, Squad Leader Mike and Deputy Leader Moblit.

Hange: Right… I’ve known Erwin and Levi for a long time. Erwin actively supports my research, so he’s helped me a lot. According to what he has said, I think he also holds some kind of doubt towards the structure of this world.

J: What about Captain Levi and Squad Leader Mike?

Hange: Levi you see, is bad at talking and a clean freak so everyone gets disillusioned, but he’s a good guy who thinks about his comrades. He has a rough attitude, but he listens to my research results and has the composure to only think about it.

J: Isn’t he a good superior officer?

Hange: (cut off) …Yeah, it’s a strange attitude to people he meets for the first time, but the position of Squad Leader is justified.

J: What impression do you have of Deputy Leader Moblit, who is also an adjutant?

Hange: Moblit? He’s an outstanding adjutant! His sketches used for research are good too. But, the fly in the ointment is that he always comes to stop me when I’m getting to the good part.

J: Doesn’t he do that because he is worried for you? Among the questions we got, some of them such as, “Aren’t you worrying him too much?” and “Please let him rest once in a while” showed concern for him.

Keep reading

[cosmicjoke]

Both Casca (and Guts)/Griffith as well as Levi/Erwin have this kind of connection that's more of a medieval Knight's loyalty to his liege-lord. A very strong connection that's easily interpreted as a romantic one by modern readers (Casca does see Griffith romantically, but I still think it's merely her delusions and hero-worship of him that made her see him that way). I think even Isayama meant it to be like that, as stated in his interviews. I don't think it's blind loyalty. Just that, and as I mentioned as in the example of the Late Night story, Levi did fail to see much of Erwin's truly personality, because he knew him when he was in power; as his liege-lord and the one who gave him hope. The infallible and strong leader. While the others saw him before that and in his vulnerabilities. It's interesting that Sasha herself managed to see much of Erwin and have a rather mundane conversation with him where he even opened up about his father? Not sure if you've read this Smartpass, but it's really interesting. So I do wonder if it's Levi's hero-worship that sort of prevents him from seeing much? As he says in the Late Night story, ""It's pointless to expect a human answer out of this guy. Don't you know that, Four-Eyes?" To which Hange responds, "Erwin's human, too. At least he looks that way to me. So he might just be forgetting!" The rest of the story does go to show the burden of being a commander, and the toll Erwin's dream took on him. He even reminisces on his Cadet days and smiles when he decides to do something normal with the rest. Idk, but it's interesting comparing the responses he gets to me. And again, I do wonder whether it has to do with the way Levi views him personally or his later addiction to the SC. After all, it's only 5 years, as far as I remember.

I don't know. I don't really see Levi's loyalty to Erwin in that way, as the liege/lord relationship. I think Levi believes in Erwin because of his commitment and his vision and his belief in achieving that vision, but I don't think Levi ever had an unhealthy view of or slavish mentality toward Erwin, the way Casca did Griffith. The Smart Pass stories are interesting, because they're supposedly approved by Isayama, but then, Isayama himself didn't write them, so how much we can take them as canon is questionable I suppose. I tend to just focus on what happened within actual canon to determine my view of these characters. I think Levi follows Erwin because he helped give him direction, helped show him a means by which he could use his immense strength, which he never really had before, and because he genuinely believed Erwin was humanities best hope for freedom. But as I said before, I still think Levi was able to question Erwin and judge him in a way which indicates he wasn't blind to Erwin's faults or shortcomings. You might say he was blindsided by Erwin's personal desires getting in the way of making the best choice, right before the battle to retake Wall Maria, because up to that point, Erwin had never displayed any such tendency. In fact, the opposite, putting aside any personal feelings in order to do the best job. But I wouldn't call that really a blindness to Erwin's "true personality". In the end, Erwin DID turn out to be the person Levi believed him to be. He gave up his own dream to do the right thing.

[hanszoe]

the smartpass interview with hansi is like "if you like me sorry i'm busy with research" meanwhile 90% of the aot game dialog is everyone else being like "you will be unable to escape from hansi"

[darth-eagle]

AU Smartpass: Hange Zöe Interview

Journalist: So, is this not like they’ve already given up on you?

Hanji: Probably! Mike and Erwin say nothing about it. Ah, but Levi…

J: Did he say anything about it?

Hanji: Uhh… from time to time I black out from getting hit, then when I become conscious again I would get splashed at and somehow… it’s like having a bath.

J: It is… done by force, isn’t it?

Hanji: That, perhaps, is more like cleaning than having a bath! I think he planned it all out with my subordinates, but because I lost consciousness I can’t be sure.

J: Everybody’s names have been mentioned, so we would like to hear about your interpersonal relationships. We’ve got a question that asks, "What impression do you have” of firstly Commander Erwin, then Captain Levi, Squad Leader Mike and Deputy Leader Moblit.

Hanji: Right… I’ve known Erwin and Levi for a long time. Erwin actively supports my research, so he’s helped me a lot. According to what he has said, I think he also holds some kind of doubt towards the structure of this world.

J: What about Captain Levi and Squad Leader Mike?

Hanji: Levi you see, is bad at talking and a clean freak so everyone gets disillusioned, but he’s a good guy who thinks about his comrades. He has a rough attitude, but he listens to my research results and has the composure to only think about it.

J: Isn’t he’s a good superior officer?

Hanji: (cut off) …Yeah, it’s a strange attitude to people he meets for the first time, but the position of Squad Leader is justified.

J: What impression do you have of Deputy Leader Moblit, who is also an adjutant?

Hanji: Moblit? He’s an outstanding adjutant! His sketches used for research are good too. But, the fly in the ointment is that he always comes to stop me when I’m getting to the good part.

J: Doesn’t he do that because he is worried for you? Among the questions we got, some of them such as, “Aren’t you worrying him too much?” and “Please let him rest once in a while” showed concern for him.

----------

J: We have received many questions about your interpersonal relationships, such as, “Do you have any friends and acquaintances?” and “Who do you get along with?”

Hanji: Friends and acquaintances huh… Like I’ve said before, I adjust my daily life cycle to the Corps’ movements.

J: Your schedule is filled with research and duties, I see. In between all that, is there anyone you often talk to?

Hanji: Ah, it depends on the plan or formation but… I’m often stationed close to Levi’s squad, so I think we do talk a lot.

J: You have mentioned that you’ve known each other for a long time.

Hanji: Levi’s rough with his words, so it sounds like he’s angry, right? But he doesn’t truly feel that way, so there are times I help to explain that to everyone in his squad. Interpretation, people have called it.

J: Other than Levi, who else do you get along with?

Hanji: When I see the veteran soldiers who enlisted around the same time as me… if they’re still alive, that is… I would talk to them a lot. Also my subordinates.

J: I see. There are also many questions like, “Can you see with goggles?” and “How good is your eyesight without glasses?” about your glasses or goggles.

Hanji: Without glasses I can still see the face of the person in front of me, but it’s inconvenient during battles or research, I guess. Glasses can easily fall off, so I don’t use them on missions. There are skillful soldiers who can operate 3DMG with glasses, you know, but I’m not very good at it.

J: We also have a question about your glasses and goggles that goes, “They seem expensive, how many spares do you have?”

Hanji: I keep one or two pairs on hand, if they’re both broken I claim them with the Survey Corps’ expenses.

J: You put them down to expenses!

Hanji: But they’re necessities, so it’s a required expense! I don’t do things like Levi who claims expenses for the black tea he favors, you know?

J: That black tea… is paid for with expenses.

Hanji: Yes, glasses and black tea, they’re all supplies for the whole Survey Corps. It’s because our lifestyle is guaranteed like this that there’s no shortage of youngsters who aspire to be soldiers.

J: You’re certainly right about that. Another question we have is, “Do you do housework?”

Hanji: Like cooking, or cleaning? Hmm, I’ve done it before, on duty.

J: Trainee soldiers cook their own meals, and on expeditions cooking for yourself is also a must.

Hanji: Well, for me right now, as a Squad Leader, I leave most of it to my subordinates I guess.

J: We also have the question “What’s your type?” Excluding titans, that is.

Hanji: Ahh… everyone sure likes that kind of topic. I don’t think about it much, but let’s see, someone who is fine even if I can’t pay attention to them, I guess.

J: You respect freedom.

Hanji: Mm-hmm, for me right now, I’m interested in… mainly titans, and also the structure of the world and so on… way too many things. So, even if I had someone like that, I probably can’t spend much time together with them.

J: So someone who can accept your behavior and let you be free is ideal, isn’t it.

Hanji: That’s how it turns out. I don’t think such a convenient person exists though.

J: Do you chat with people like Deputy Leader Moblit?

Hanji: Moblit says things a mother would say. Like, did you eat properly? Or, did you sleep well? And his every word is really funny.

J: For example?

Hanji: Once, during an experiment I think, he said to me, Do you really want to live!? Pretty much the only one who says such interesting things to me is Moblit!

J: I see. Then, I’m going to change the topic a bit and introduce an unconventional question. “Please tell us about the time you recently got angry.”

Hanji: Angry? Me? What a strange question.

J: I’ve been told you’re the scariest when you get angry.

Hanji: That’s not true! Erwin and Levi have way scarier faces! Well… now that I think about it…

J: Did something come to mind?

Hanji: It’s not recent, but. Long ago, I got into an argument with a Military Police officer who made fun of the Survey Corps… He said such terrible things, I couldn’t take it anymore, and grabbed the scruff of his neck and threw him on the floor… almost.

J: That’s scary!

Hanji: Haha… It’s the folly of youth. Since Erwin and the others quickly intervened, it didn’t become an issue. Other than that… when I get mad, I kick and wreck tables and chairs… but doesn’t everyone do that?

J: Uh, I wonder about that… You give a calm impression, but there is something on fire hidden inside you.

Hanji: I’m always on fire! It’s for the sake of unraveling the mysteries of this world!

J: If mankind were finally liberated from the titans, what would they do?

Hanji: Mankind would rule. But I would like to research vegetation outside the walls, or study about humanity’s past.

TRANSLATION: Anon 4Chan user

[ SOURCE | AU SMARTPASS SITE ]

[kleinezoe]

1. Levihan in SNK manga and ACNWR

https://tinyurl.com/mangalevihan

manga panels collage

2. Levihan in SNK merch

https://tinyurl.com/levihanmerch

(the link above contains levihan merch without any description. please use 'official', 'merch', 'collaboration', 'aotcollab' or 'aotmerch' tag in the filter bar above to see some descriptions or sources links)

3. Fanart, Doujinshi translations

(please use 'fanart' tag to see some reblogged fanarts in this blog)

Syrant

Abnormal-lovers

Cmdrhn

ms-freakenstein

akaritakutranslations

dhltranslations

4. Crumbs? random info? yeah

SNK manga, isayama, documented interviews

(this might be included fan interpretation. however the topic being discussed is snk original manga)

Levihan chapter 132 commentaries from Taki-san

SNK Hita museum commemorative art for 50k visitors

Bessatsu magazine Isym QnA (Levi & Hanji related)

About Levi's line in chapter 132 ; Masta video

Levihan in chapter 139 draft

Levi's expression w/o bandage in ch 132 + "the pain we feel"

Levihan sketches by isayama

Hanji's lines in ch 126 : IFKK

Chapter 126, 132, 138 parallels (fan theory)

Levihan in chapter 126 and 132 (a fan analysis)

Let's live together

Hange had a crush admired Shadis

Chapter 139 : "the pain that we feel"

Chapter 115 preview : about levi's scar

The person Hange get along best with

Smartpass, anime adaptation, Kodansha

Levihan in SNK final exhibition art

Mike and Hanji potentially supposed to be siblings

Chapter 132 & 126 ranked 1st and 2nd for most wanted chapters to be colored (poll)

Levihan first meeting from No Regret visual novel

About hair-grab scene in S01E09

Hair grab scene - "this was added to show their relationship" ; from artbook

Levihan on character guidebook

Levi and Hanji's omikuji

Hange Zoe the smart beauty ; 美形

CD drama of smartpass Levi&Hanji shelter from the rain (translation)

Levi & Moblit smartpass Shelter from the rain ; additional explanation ; fan commentaries

Hange Zoe closed-up report ; Levi's lines on Hanji's kindness ; additional explanation

Levi refers to Hanji and 104th kids as family

Hange's au interview + her lines on Levi's kindness

Hange's au interview + about bathing

Bessatsu caption on chapter 132 colorized ver : Don't go

Ep 84 End Card Illustration

--------------

Mappa, WIT and Anique merchs

Mappa 10th anniv (Levihan, Eremika, Aruani)

"Put your devoted feeling into heart-shaped ring"

Hanji on Levi's birthday in Braveorder and Anique collab/merch ; anique vid

Anique White Day merch

Spin Off Comic

SNK Junior High

Levihan moments in SNK Junior High manga (1) + add

Levihan moment in SNK Junior High manga (2)

Levihan moment in SNK Junior High manga (3)

Levihan moment in SNK Junior High manga (4)

Levihan moment in SNK Junior High manga (5)

Levihan sketch from Saki Nakagawa-san (mangaka aotjh)

Spoof Titan

Levihan in Spoof Titan Spin off

Collaborations and merches

Game

If Hanji is in the team, Levi's attack increase 3.7 times

S3 beach scene (game version)

"... with Levi it's different, somehow I know it's his presence"

"I don't mind making you some tea" Part 1 ; Part 2

Does that mean Hanji is in trouble? + If you go too deep, you can't get out

"... he was trying to cheer you up, in his own clumsy way"

Hangeki no tsubasa "relentless, matchless duos"

Levi made chocolate for Hans on Valentine day

Brave Order Captain Levi quiz

Brave Order 'Corps gathering'

3 most important men to Hanji, Levi is the closest

Others

(below I listed collaboration and merch which have 'Levihan' vibes, as for other 'Levi & Hanji' merchs I collect them in attached link in point 2 (refer to 2. Levihan in SNK merch))

Levi mentioned Hanji in his roomba collab ; (audio)

Levi ordered shampoo from Reeves company for Hanji

Hanji organized party for Levi's birthday

LINE Clova Levi plans to spend pastime with Hanji

LINE Clova Levi's audio for Hanji's birthday ; translation

Levihan & EMA Kocha Kaden collaboration ; Levi ; Hanji

Sagamiko collab - Levi gifted Hanji titans for their birthday

Kuroneko team behind story on cat merch design ; merch

Oita Hita Travel Sticker (IFKK bg and plane)

Levihan calendar illustration

More crumbles .....

Some levihan panel vibes in Call Your Name official mv

Levihan popularity in jp fandom by fanworks

SNK Ep 83 featured article 'are Levi and Hanji Hiyaku no Tori'? ; Hiyaku no Tori aka Jian Bird ; also ...

How do I name this,... crumbs? 🤔

"He doesn't shine if he's alone" art

Levihan illustration by SNK S4P1 Mushiyo-san

🤫 for fun : Ep 83 sus description synopsis

So, this is what happened when chapter 126 came out ...

Part 1 | Part 2 (collecting)

[lady-purpleblue]

Facts and Curiosities about RivaMika - Part 1

All credits go to Mundo RivaMika (Facebook) page. I just translated and am reposting with permission

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

1) It is called Rivamika due to confusion with Levi's name years ago (Rivaille).

It can also be called Levimika but Rivamika is the name that the fandom "baptized" first.

2) Although in this part of the world it is not very well regarded, in many parts of Asia the opposite is true. Countries such as China, Indonesia and Iraq have a large ship fan base.

3) The first doujinshi of Ship on pixiv (Japanese site where artists publish their art) was published in May 2011. It is just this one you see.

Link to doujinshi:

4) Her Wattpad tag has more than 1,000 stories.

5) Many people believe that the hatred between these two was/is mutual which is false. In this magazine published in 2013 it is clarified. Mikasa's arrow to Levi:

Resentment for hitting Eren (because of the trial thing) Levi's arrow to Mikasa: Appreciation for his abilities.

Levi never hated Mikasa, he has always been struck by his abilities.

6) Mikasa is one of his main concerns and it is Canon. This image is part of one of the Databooks made by Isayama himself.

7) This is the official translation of crunchyroll. In this one it says "I'm with you but back off for now". In the fan translation from years ago that most of us read it said "Friends, back off for now".

8) This dialogue was omitted in the anime.

9) While the scenes where Levi grabs Mikasa by the waist and saves her from the female titan were what largely originated the ship, it was in the insurrection arc (manga) where their fans grew.

Sadly, due to the confusion of whether they were family or not, many left the fandom.

10) In this tree made by isayama it is made clear that they are not related (or at least not close at all). Levi is from the main branch while Mikasa is from the secondary branch which forked before the birth of grandfather Ackerman. The only thing these two share is a common ancestor.

11) In a Smartpass where Mikasa is interviewed, the interviewer asks him about the captain and that they share blood, but always emphasizing the fact that they have no close ties.

12) Both have saved each other in the official videogames and even have more interactions in them.

13) Levi has never treated Mikasa badly. The most he's ever said to him was "You creepy little brat" for disobeying him and well.... The fandom likes that nickname.

14) They are the only ones to appear twice as a duo in the magazine where the monthly manga is published.

End ♡. I hope you enjoyed it. I will bring part 2

[snk-smartpass-traduction]

CLOSE-UP INTERVIEW - Erwin et Livaï - Partie 1

[ Texte en anglais : ici ( @yusenki ) ]

[ Traduction de @fallenrazziel . Merci beaucoup pour cette traduction déjà existante ! J'ai apporté quelques modifications personnelles, mais sinon la traduction était déjà très fidèle au texte de base ! ]

____________________________________________________________

Les deux héros du Bataillon d'exploration se sont finalement décidés à parler. Le major du Bataillon, Erwin Smith, détend son impressionnante carrure dans le canapé, ses habituels yeux bleus dans l'attente de l'entretien. La couleur de ses yeux est semblable à celle des vastes cieux, symbolisant le désir de liberté de l'humanité.

Le caporal-chef Livaï est assis, les deux jambes appuyées sur une autre chaise. À première vue, il semble nonchalant. Cependant, la lueur dans ses yeux acérés lui donne une aura d'inaccessibilité.

Le moment d'interroger les deux membres les plus importants du Bataillon est finalement arrivé.

Journaliste (J): Merci à vous deux d’avoir pris de votre temps pour cette interview, malgré votre emploi du temps chargé.

Livaï (L): Abrégez et posez-nous directement vos questions.

Erwin (E): C'est une façon d’améliorer notre image. Tant que cela est bénéfique pour le Bataillon, je répondrai à n’importe quelle question.

J: Merci beaucoup, Major.

L: Vous êtes au courant ? Cette interview ennuyeuse est l’idée Erwin à la base !

E: C'est vrai. Après tout, même les Brigades spéciales souhaiteraient une meilleure entente entre les civils et les soldats ordinaires. Je suis vraiment content que tout le monde ait mis du sien pour que cela arrive. Cela a augmenté le soutien aux militaires.

J: Belle réalisation, en effet ! Eh bien, passons à l'entretien. Vous êtes tous deux membres du Bataillon d'exploration, et vous avez choisi de le rejoindre même si l'humanité vit actuellement paisiblement au sein des murs. Puis-je savoir quelles sont vos raisons ?

E: Mes raisons... Je les ai déjà exposées à d’autres, alors je vais être honnête avec vous. Comment dire ... Je suis très intéressé par la vraie nature du monde en dehors des murs, et aussi par l'histoire de l'humanité avant son installation derrière les murs.

J: Depuis que vous êtes enfant ?

E: Exact... Je n'en dirai pas beaucoup plus ici. J'étais juste un enfant curieux et j'ai toujours posé beaucoup de questions, puis je suis devenu soldat dans le Bataillon d'exploration. C’était une évidence pour moi.

J: Et vous caporal-chef Livaï ? Selon les rapports, vous n'avez pas suivi la formation habituelle.

L: Hmph, même les ragots non fondés se répandent partout. Écrivez ce que vous voulez.

J: Toutefois, nous souhaiterions vérifier cette information.

E: L'enrôlement de Livaï ... s’est faite des circonstances très particulières. Elles comportent beaucoup d'informations confidentielles... alors nous ne pouvons pas trop en révéler.

L: En gros... je suis différent des autres recrues car je n'ai pas suivi de formation militaire. Cette information est correcte. En ce qui concerne l'équipement 3D et mes autres compétences en combat ... disons simplement que je suis autodidacte.

E: Je l'ai croisé par hasard dans les bas-fonds, j'ai parlé à des officiers haut placés et je l'ai enrôlé dans le Bataillon. C'est tout ce que je peux dire officiellement.

J: Caporal-chef, pourquoi n'avez-vous pas refusé ? Il est tout à fait possible pour quelqu'un ayant des capacités physiques comme les vôtres d'échapper aux soldats du Bataillon.

L: Eh bien ... Je ne veux pas être bouffé par les titans. Après être allé de l’autre-côté des murs une fois... mon point de vue a commencé à changer.

J: C'est-à-dire...

L: C'est l'air. L'air à l'extérieur des murs ... est beaucoup plus pur que tout l'air pourri que j'ai pu respirer avant. J'ai finalement compris qu'il y avait des endroits où l'air était pur.

J: Donc, cela signifie-t-il que vous êtes prêt à risquer jusqu'à votre propre vie afin de reprendre ces terres pour l'humanité ? Est-ce votre manière de penser ?

L: Comment je peux dire ça… Ces titans à l’extérieur des murs, ils m’emmerdent.

E: Je crois que c'est bien ce qu'il veut dire. Livaï n'est pas vraiment doué avec les mots.

L: Désolé ... Je suis pas comme toi, naturellement à l'aise avec les mots et capable d’emberlificoter les types importants.

J: Donc, en tant que membres les plus importants du Bataillon, quelles sont vos responsabilités quotidiennes ?

E: Avec les hauts responsables, je rends compte des expéditions extérieures et je fais en sorte que les plans stratégiques soient approuvés par le gouvernement. Avec mes subordonnés, je lis tous les rapports détaillés des chefs d’escouade et j'analyse le potentiel de chaque unité de combat du Bataillon. Je discute également avec des nobles et des marchands pour assurer un financement et un soutien au Bataillon... Et ce qu'ils demandent en retour... peut être disproportionné et vraiment excessif.

L: Puisque le grand Major a tellement à faire, d'excellents lieutenants lui sont nécessaires. Malgré ça, ce gars invente des stratégies qui ne sont connues que d’un petit nombre d’individus, donc personne ne sait vraiment ce que représente sa charge de travail.

J: Et vous, caporal-chef Livaï ?

L: Ce qui est sûr, c’est que j'ai moins de paperasse à faire par rapport à Erwin. Il est plus important pour moi d'entretenir ma condition physique.

J: Vous voulez dire que vous participez également aux entraînements de manœuvre 3D, d’équitation et de combat, comme les autres soldats ?

L: Bien sûr. Si un titan apparaissait ici demain et que j’ai été négligeant et manqué d'entraînement, je le payerais de ma vie.

J: Je vois. Et vous, Major ?

E: Même si je n'ai pas autant de temps que Livaï, je ne loupe pas les sessions d’entraînement. En raison de la nature du Bataillon, en tant que major, je ne peux pas rester inactif ou devenir un poids sur le champ de bataille. Si je laissais mes subordonnés aller seuls sur le terrain, je ne pourrais pas connaître les situations réelles auxquelles ils sont confrontés en dehors des murs, même avec un entraînement intensif. Nous ne pouvons pas prévoir quand un Déviant va surgir et attaquer.

J: Je vois. Donc, même si votre grade est élevé, cela ne change rien au fait que vous participiez encore aux expéditions. C'est une caractéristique propre au Bataillon.

L: Il n'y a vraiment aucune différence entre un major et une nouvelle recrue lorsque nous engageons le combat face aux titans.

E: Exactement.

J: De plus, la promotion en grade dans le Bataillon dépend bien du nombre de titans tués ?

E: Bien que les aptitudes au combat soient prises en compte à ce niveau-là, être promu implique également que le gradé aura la charge d’un nombre plus importants de vies humaines, celles de ses subordonnés. Cela a une grande influence dans la décision finale que nous prenons.

L: Je ne sais pas comment le major précédent fonctionnait, mais tout ce qu’on peut dire à propos d'Erwin qui "sacrifie ses subordonnés" s’explique par la prise décisions qui sont tout à fait légitimes et qui valent la peine d’être soutenues.

E: Ne me rabaisse pas comme ça, Livaï. C'est toujours un crève-cœur, tu sais.

L: Ha ! Qui sait…

J: Alors, qu'en est-il de vos vies privées ? À en juger par vos réponses précédentes, il semblerait que vous n'ayez pas beaucoup de temps libre pour vous.

E: Si mon état physique est mauvais même à l’intérieur des murs, alors il est évident que je ne pourrais rien faire de bien à l'extérieur. Je délègue le travail à des subordonnés afin d’avoir un peu de temps pour me reposer.

L: Je pense aussi que c'est notre droit. Nous devons nous reposer quand on en a le temps, en dehors de l’entraînement quotidien dont nous avons parlé plus tôt.

J: Alors, que faites-vous ?

L: Tout d'abord, un nettoyage général, qu’il n'est généralement pas possible de faire tous les jours. En temps normal, je peux enlever toute la poussière visible à l'œil nu. Mais lorsque les fenêtres et les bureaux doivent être briqués, et que les meubles doivent être déplacés pour atteindre tous les recoins... cela ne peut être fait que sur mes jours de congé.

J: Nous avons entendu les rumeurs selon lesquelles vous étiez un maniaque de la propreté.

L: ... N'est-ce pas évident ? Je demande à tous mes subordonnés de nettoyer à fond leur chambre.

E: Il existe de nombreuses perspectives différentes dans ce monde. Regarde Hange : c’est ton exact opposé.

J: Au cours de l'entretien avec le chef d'escouade Hange, elle a mentionné qu'elle avait été attaquée par le caporal-chef Livaï. Et après s'être réveillée, elle semblait avoir pris une douche.

L: Ah... cette Quatre-yeux répugnante. Nous n’abordons pas le sujet de la saleté au travail, mais vous ne voudriez certainement pas vous trouver près d'Hange durant vos jours de repos. J'ai donc rassemblé des subordonnés qui foutaient rien et j'ai fait un "nettoyage".

J: Et en ce qui vous concerne, major Erwin ? Avez-vous des hobbys ?

E: Mes hobbys ...? Je les ai oubliés depuis longtemps. Durant mon temps libre, je m’efforce de remettre en condition mon corps et mon esprit. En faisant cela, je peux optimiser mon efficacité au travail.

L: Il est inutile d'interroger Erwin à propos de quoi que ce soit en dehors du travail. Tout va revenir à son devoir en tant que major. C'est chiant comme la mort.

J: Il consacre son cœur à son devoir. Eh bien, avez-vous des centres d'intérêts, caporal-chef Livaï ?

L: ... Si vous considérez le fait de collectionner des trucs comme un centre d'intérêt, alors on peut dire que le mien, c’est le thé noir.

E: Soit dit en passant, Livaï, tu as récemment utilisé notre budget pour acheter du thé, n'est-ce pas ? Les comptables se sont plaints à moi.

L: Je l'ai acheté à un marchand qui parraine le Bataillon, donc ça ne devrait pas poser de problème. Ce mec a déclaré que c'était "le thé préféré du soldat le plus fort de l'humanité" et il s’est fait beaucoup d'argent. Il a également partagé les bénéfices avec le Bataillon.

J: Même s'il semble penser à lui en premier, le caporal-chef se préoccupe en réalité du Bataillon.

E: ... Très bien, alors.

[fallenrazziel]

If Erwin was someone soft-hearted enough to compromise battle strategy, I wouldn’t follow him.

Levi Ackerman, AU Smartpass - Erwin & Levi Close Up Interview Part 2

Erwin's ability to carry out his missions, even if it means sacrificing soldiers, is a quality to Levi, he admires him for that.