Chapter 35
The southernmost edge of Wall Sina, Elumiha District — the headquarters of the Survey Corps.
"Finally… I've made it."
Lock let out a long breath as the gates of the compound came into view, the familiar green-cloaked insignia carved above the arch. Dismounting quickly, he tightened the straps of his satchel and walked forward, excitement flickering behind his steady gaze.
He had already graduated from the Training Corps. Not in the usual way — his early advancement had been a rare exception. But before he could be accepted officially into the Survey Corps, he had to present his certificates and report here in person.
Five months. That was how long it had been since he had awoken in this world. Five months of bruises, drills, battles against wooden giants, and the whispers of recruits who didn't understand him. All of it leading to this moment.
And yet, standing before the garrison gates, Lock felt a pang of unease creep into his chest.
Do I really want this? He asked himself. To join the Survey Corps — the regiment that sends men and women to their deaths on every expedition?
The thought tightened his throat. But he quickly shook his head. No. The choice wasn't really his at all. The world outside the walls was changing; the storm was coming, and a boy without money or name would never survive idling safely behind stone.
The Survey Corps was dangerous, yes. But it was also the only path forward.
Drawing in a sharp breath, Lock exhaled slowly, forcing his heartbeat to steady. His steps regained their rhythm, firm as he approached the gate.
"Stop right there!"
Two garrison soldiers raised their halberds, eyeing him with suspicion.
"This isn't a place for children. Move along."
Lock had expected this. Despite being nearly one meter sixty-five in height, his youthful face betrayed his true age — fourteen. His expression didn't falter as he reached calmly into his pocket, producing a folded document sealed with the stamp of the Training Corps.
"I'm Lock Miles, a graduate of the 104th Training Corps. I've chosen the Survey Corps as my regiment. These are my papers."
The guards exchanged uncertain glances.
"…A recruit? Already?" one muttered. "But training just started in February. It's only April…"
"I graduated early," Lock explained evenly. "Vice Commander Erwin is aware of me."
"Graduated… early?" the soldier echoed, incredulous. "Since when has that ever been a thing?"
Their doubt was plain, but Lock didn't bother arguing further. He retrieved the documents, sliding them back into his coat with a flick of irritation. "This is the Survey Corps," he said, voice edged with steel. "You're telling me a fourteen-year-old can cause chaos here? You're wasting both our time."
And with that, he stepped forward without waiting for permission.
The two guards stiffened, but in the end, neither moved to stop him. His confidence — and his youth — left them more rattled than angered.
"Fourteen," one whispered, shaking his head. "He's taller than half the veterans already."
"Don't say it too loudly," the other muttered. "If Captain Levi hears you comparing anyone's height to his, you'll regret it."
"Ha… fair enough. But still — that kid's either brave, or stupid."
Inside the Survey Corps compound, the difference was immediate.
Discipline pulsed in every step of the soldiers rushing past, their movements purposeful, their faces sharp. Buildings gleamed as though freshly scrubbed, equipment racks lined with polished steel. The air was heavy, but not with weariness — with resolve.
Compared to the lethargic garrisons Lock had seen in Shiganshina, the Survey Corps felt alive.
His chest tightened with something that might have been pride. This is where I belong.
After a few turns through unfamiliar corridors, he stopped a passing soldier to ask for directions. The man's eyes widened slightly at the sight of Lock's youthful face, but still pointed him toward the commander's office.
Sure enough, a guard at the door blocked his path.
Lock handed over his documents again without protest. The guard disappeared inside for only a moment before returning, surprise etched into his features.
"…The captain will see you now."
Lock inclined his head in thanks and stepped toward the heavy door. His hand lingered a second on the handle. Beyond this threshold lay the life he had chosen — the life that would carry him outside the safety of stone walls, into the jaws of the Titans themselves.
His pulse hammered in his ears.
There's no going back.
With one last breath, he pushed the door open and stepped inside. His heart was heavy with nerves, but his stride was steady. Whatever awaited him, there was no other choice.
He was here to fight for his life — and for humanity's future.
---
A/N: Advanced Chapters Have Been Uploaded On My Patreon
Support: patreon.com/Narrator_San