As Armin helps Pixis' subordinates coordinate a plan, morale among the troops begin to fade as some of them want to desert and be with their families. Pixis calms everyone by reminding them that if they abandon this chance to finally win against the Titans, they will be subjecting their families to their terror, which convinces the troops to stay. Claiming that Eren is the result of a secret project to turn humans into Titans, Pixis plans to have most of the troops gather at a far corner of Trost to lure most of the Titans away while Eren in Titan form carries the giant boulder to seal the hole. Along with Mikasa, Eren will be guarded during this mission by three of the best elites of the Garrison, Ian Dietrich, Rico Brzenska, and Mitabi Jarnach. As they head toward the giant boulder, Rico reminds Eren that many lives are at stake for the sake of this mission. Finally reaching the boulder, Eren transforms himself into a Titan, but suddenly attacks Mikasa.