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 if they abandon this one chance to finally stop the Titans, their families will be killed by the Titans 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 needed to seal the hole. Along with Mikasa, Eren is accompanied by three of the best elites of the Garrison, Ian Dietrich, Rico Brzenska and Mitabi Jarnach. They will protect him during this mission. 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.