Reply (Chapter)

Finale is the 61st chapter of the Attack on Titan manga, written and illustrated by Hajime Isayama.

Overview
The chapter starts in the streets of the Capitol, with the people wondering what is going on, and what all the carriages and gallows are doing. Some speculate the Survey Corps is about to be disbanded and Erwin Smith executed.

The scene then cuts to the royal throne room where Erwin, hands tied behind his back and on his knees, is appealing to the monarchy officials that humanity needs the Survey Corps to continue existing because they are its most important weapon: a spear that eliminates threats before they can harm the people. He uses the example of a sudden breach of Wall Rose: if that were to happen, the people there would have no choice but to flee to Wall Sina, where because of meager food and supplies, civil war would break out. Being defensive all the time, Erwin argues, is only an invitation for trouble. He then confronts the monarchy leaders about whether they are hiding another, secret plan, to which there is no response.

The monarchy leaders instead bring up Levi's killing of several Central Military Police soldiers, stating that unlike his comrades, Erwin is constantly trying to hide his treasonous acts. One of the four officials asks Commander Dot Pixis, who is also present, whether he holds any fantasies of rebellion too because of the close knit connection between the Garrison and Survey Corps. Exchanging glances with Erwin, Pixis dismisses any such accusations, saying that humans fighting other humans would make it too easy for the titans to destroy what's left. The official, embarassed, takes back his accusation, saying that the monarchy is trying to prevent the same thing.

The scene jumps to a flashback between Erwin and Pixis, sitting and discussing revolution plans. Pixis states he does believe that turning against the crown would uncover secrets and save soldier's lives, but even if the revolution succeeds, they probably will not be able to inherit all the knowledge and inner workings that the crown currently holds: titans within the walls, the ability to alter memory, and any other forces at work. He is doubtful, saying it's safer for him to remain on the monarchy's side.

Back in the present, Erwin has run out of things to say and is being carried to the gallows as Pixis and Commander Nile Dok look on. Suddenly a report enters the throne room that the Armored and Colossal Titans have appeared at Stohess district, breaking through both the gate and Wall Rose.