[This Chapter Is Sponsored by Emilio Gonzalez! Everyone, please thank him in the comment!]
In addition to Hanji and Erwin, there was another figure seated in the office's corner.
His expression remained stern, draped in a dark green cloak, seemingly untouched by the ongoing conversation between the two, lost in thought.
The only flaw was his diminutive stature.
He was known as Levi Ackerman, the squad leader of the Special Operations Squad within the Survey Corps.
Despite his modest rank, his reputation allowed him to sit on par with Erwin and the others.
His formidable combat skills and numerous giant kills had earned him the affectionate title of "Captain" among the soldiers of the Survey Corps.
It was a belief shared by many within the Survey Corps.
"Bang, bang~"
Just then, a knock echoed on the door.
A soldier entered and bowed respectfully to Erwin and the others.
"Commander, Mr. Lin Yi has arrived in the guest room."
"I am aware, you may go." Erwin waved his hand, sighing as he said, "Since he's here, let's find out the intentions of this prominent businessman."
With that, Erwin turned his gaze toward Levi.
"Would you like to come and see?"
Knowing that Levi likely held little interest in interacting with merchants, Erwin still extended the invitation.
"Yeah."
To Erwin's surprise, Levi agreed and stood up willingly.
This caught Erwin off guard, but he recovered quickly. The three of them headed towards the guest room, which wasn't far away. Upon opening the door, they found the currently most prosperous businessman waiting.
Except for Erwin, who had previously met Lin Yi, Hanji's eyes lit up. Indeed, just as the rumors had it, Lin Yi was youthful and handsome.
"Wow, you must be Mr. Lin. You're incredibly handsome! I'm Hanji, captain of the Fourth Division in the Survey Corps, 24 years old this year, 170 cm tall, and weighing 100 jin..."
Hanji introduced himself with fervor, as if he were on a matchmaking date.
Embarrassed, Erwin covered his forehead and offered a sheepish smile.
"I apologize for that, Mr. Lin. Hanji can sometimes be a bit too enthusiastic."
"It's quite alright. I rather appreciate Captain Han's spirited demeanor," Lin Yi responded with an air of elegance.
"Do you like me? That's good to know. How old are you this year? What's your height? Any interests or hobbies?"
"Hanji!"
Erwin's tone turned more serious, interrupting Hanji's chatter.
Hanji abruptly halted his exuberance, giving a nonchalant shrug and saying, "Don't be so formal, Commander."
Lin Yi narrowed his eyes. This woman was far from simple. While she appeared carefree, there was an intent behind her casual approach to the conversation.
In fact, this woman, along with the members of the Survey Corps, were anything but ordinary.
When compared to the other decaying military factions behind the walls, the Survey Corps was the sole unit that persevered at the forefront of the battle against giants. Their dedication set them apart.
As everyone settled into their seats, Levi had remained silent from the beginning till now. He simply observed Lin Yi with his hawk-like eyes.
"Mr. Lin, what brings you to the Survey Corps?" Erwin inquired.
"Commander Erwin, there's no need for such formality. I've had a connection with the Survey Corps for quite some time. Three years ago, I provided funding for one of the external explorations."
Lin Yi smiled.
Erwin was taken aback by his statement, suddenly recalling that during a period when the Survey Corps was short on funding for their explorations, a wealthy merchant in the Shiganshina District had stepped in with substantial financial aid and resources. It was surprising to realize that this benefactor was Lin Yi.
"I see. Thank you, Mr. Lin, for your contribution to our fight against the Titans. I believe that future generations will remember you."
Erwin's words carried an air of righteousness.
Lin Yi responded with a smile.
"I'm here for the same reason this time. I understand that the Survey Corps has been facing challenging times lately. The repeated failed expeditions have led some high-ranking officials to suggest disbanding the Survey Corps and redistributing its members among other military factions."
"However, like all of you, I believe that if humanity remains confined within the walls, we will eventually fall prey to the Titans. The only way forward is to venture outside and seek answers."
Erwin found himself momentarily taken aback. He hadn't expected a merchant to speak with such conviction.
"Mr. Lin, could you elaborate?"
"I'm prepared to support the Survey Corps in all future expeditions. This includes covering the costs and losses incurred during each exploration, along with compensation for casualties and related expenses."
Erwin found himself momentarily at a loss for words, uncertain of how to respond.
Hanji suddenly interjected, casually draping his arm around Lin Yi's shoulder, adopting a sibling-like familiarity. "Mr. Lin, you're truly an outstanding individual. It's no wonder there are so many flattering rumors about you outside."
"With your backing, we in the Survey Corps will eventually unveil the truth behind the Titans."
"I have faith that such a day will come."
Lin Yi nodded in agreement.
"Any conditions?" Levi, who had maintained his silence, suddenly spoke up. Given his inherent interest in profits, he was skeptical of such good fortune falling into their laps.
"Just a minor stipulation."
Lin Yi and Levi exchanged a meaningful look—Lin Yi, exuding gentleness and composure, and Levi, sharp and straightforward.
Undeterred by Levi's scrutiny, Lin Yi met his gaze without hesitation.
The consensus among the group was clear.
As the commander, it fell upon Erwin to make a decision.
"// What is Mr. Lin's request?"
"I hope to accompany the Survey Corps on every expedition in the future."
"Mr. Lin, I won't betray... Wait, what?" Erwin believed he had grasped Lin Yi's intention and was halfway through his sentence when he abruptly halted.
Over the years, almost every military faction with real authority had received some form of bribery from Lin Yi.
He had assumed that Lin Yi had come to offer a bribe to the Survey Corps as well.
He hadn't anticipated this condition.
"Mr. Lin, considering your support, you must be aware of the dangers associated with our expeditions beyond the walls. We venture out in search of truth, with little surplus manpower to ensure your safety."
"Let alone guarantee your well-being."
Erwin felt compelled to remind him.
"I understand. If danger arises, the Survey Corps soldiers can choose to abandon me." Lin Yi nonchalantly shrugged.
"Mr. Lin, are you not afraid of death?"
"It's still better than a lifetime spent within the walls, surrounded by the same scenery and circumstances."
Erwin and Hanji found themselves moved by his words.
"Very well then, Commander Erwin, I believe my request is fair."
Lin Yi continued.
"Mr. Lin, I ask for some time to consider this matter. I will inform you as soon as a decision has been reached."
Recognizing Erwin's intention, Lin Yi bid his farewell and departed. Given the internal meeting that needed to be convened, his presence would only be an imposition.
"How about we get back to business?"
Once Lin Yi had left, Erwin suggested, glancing about.
Within the Survey Corps, the two of them were considered his most capable aides.
"A person of his stature, if he were to meet an untimely end during an expedition, it would undoubtedly create substantial problems. It's quite the predicament."
Hanji reflected with a sigh.