Chapter 37: Commander Shadis

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People gathered for the announcement of Erwin as the new captain of the special squad, and the barracks buzzed with mixed emotions.

Many recruits were surprised by the sudden decision, while others harbored reservations, clinging to their faith in Roku Ackerman, the stalwart savior of the Survey Corps.

As Commander Shadis stood on the stage beside Erwin, after the announcement.

Roku emerged from the crowd, his presence commanding attention. Murmurs rippled through the ranks, some speculating that Roku might confront Erwin over the decision.

Roku ascended the stage, standing beside Erwin with a sense of solemnity.

"I know many of you may be surprised by the decision," he began, his voice carrying authority and conviction.

"But it was made with careful consideration by both Commander Shadis and myself. We place our trust in Erwin Smith to lead us forward."

He scanned the crowd, meeting the gaze of each recruit with unwavering resolve.

"If you trust in me, then trust in Erwin. I am confident he will guide us toward a brighter future," Roku declared, punctuating his words by placing a fist on Erwin's chest.

"We all trust you, Erwin," he affirmed, his voice ringing out with certainty.

"Don't we? you bunch of idiots!!" Roku shouted at the crowds,

They all launched in hailing Erwin and congratulating him, and they gathered around him, it seemed Erwin gained their trust because of Roku's words.

They gathered around their new captain, offering congratulations and expressions of support.

Meanwhile, Roku sought out Commander Shadis amidst the festivities. "Didn't you claim before that you were bad with words?" Shadis teased

"I still am. I merely sought to diffuse the tension," Roku replied.

Shadis's gaze softened, his expression tinged with nostalgia. "Since that day, your eyes have grown cold. I had hoped time might soften your resolve, but it seems you remain unchanged," he remarked, reminding Roku of his loss of his dear friends

"I am sorry if I disappointed your expectations," Roku replied.

Shadis chuckled, shaking his head. "I can't even tell when you're joking."

Roku's attention drifted back to the celebrations.

"I will be leaving tomorrow. I've selected the three recruits, and we'll head to the training site I've chosen," he informed Shadis.

"You're in quite in a hurry," Shadis remarked, his gaze thoughtful.

Shadis paused for a little and asked,

"Have you ever considered what it will be like when you're no longer here?"

Roku's expression grew pensive. "I trust Erwin and the others. I believe the Survey Corps will thrive in the years to come," he stated with a rare warmth in his voice.

Roku's gaze drifted to the jubilant crowd, his thoughts racing. Time seemed to slow, allowing him to absorb every detail of the scene unfolding before him.

"I trust in the future of the Survey Corps. But something compels me to embark on this mission," he mused, his heart pounding with uncertainty.

"You still don't want to change your mind about the mission?" Shadis questioned,

"I am sorry but I can't shake my head off it, maybe when I leave, things will become better, maybe I am the problem, to begin with, I deluded the people around with delusional dreams," Roku said with uncertainty

"I know how you feel, that's what I always felt since I became the Commander, but you are wrong, you made the people believe in us, without you the Survey Corps wouldn't even exist to begin with"

Shadis placed a reassuring hand on Roku's shoulder. "I understand your doubts, Roku. But remember, you are the foundation upon which the Survey Corps was built. Your dreams inspire hope in those around you. Without you, we wouldn't be here today," he said earnestly.

With a final nod, Shadis departed, leaving Roku to contemplate his decision amidst the revelry.

"I don't know what's right or wrong anymore," Roku thought to himself.

"But something drives me forward. I must see this mission through." he continued his thoughts as he watched the celebrations in front of him.

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End of the Chapter

Disclaimer!!

I made some big edits on both Chapters 3 and 4 in the novel, hope you can check them