It seemed as though everyone's verbal onslaught had worked, successfully breaking down Bertolt's psychological defenses.
He took a deep breath, then shouted in agitation.
"Do you think any of us would want to kill people?!" His words carried profound helplessness and a sense of having no choice.
Bertolt's sudden outburst also left everyone stunned.
"Who would really... really enjoy doing something this filthy, something that would naturally earn everyone's rejection and hatred? These are all things we can no longer undo. We can't accept the sins we've committed. Only when we were playing soldiers who devoted themselves to their country could we feel a little relief. I wasn't lying to you, Connie! Jean! Although I really did betray you in this, I truly considered all of you my comrades!"
As Bertolt spoke, tears began to fall.
Everyone listened to Bertolt's heartfelt confession in silence, privately grieving.
Eren also stopped struggling, his eyes filled with recognition of those warm, ordinary days of the past.
Reiner, Bertolt... sigh... Arthur, whose mouth was gagged, also thought somewhat helplessly.
"I know we have no right to apologize to anyone, but please, isn't there someone who can find us?" Bertolt cried helplessly.
"Bertolt, whatever your circumstances, let Arthur and Eren go right now!" Mikasa steadied herself and spoke in an icy voice again.
"No, I can't do that. Someone has to do this. Someone has to stain their own hands with blood..." Bertolt still refused to yield.
Mikasa had also reached the limits of her patience, her expression looking extremely grim.
"You lot, get away from there, now!!"
Just then, a warning interrupted Bertolt and snapped everyone back to their senses.
They turned to look and discovered that it was Hannes. He was riding alongside the Armored Titan, with Ymir following beside him.
"What exactly