Erwin Smith and Levi Ackerman are the two strongest fighters in the Scout Regiment in the anime series Attack on Titan. They complement each other and admire each other like close friends, even like siblings. Whether it’s fighting on the field against Titans or strategizing, Erwin always involves Levi. For Erwin, Levi Ackerman is one of his most respected and trusted soldiers. From beginning to end, even until Erwin’s death, they are portrayed as loving each other deeply. Although they sometimes fight, their conflicts usually happen in private and for one another’s good.
When Erwin insists on commanding the mission to retake Wall Maria, Levi is the one who resists Erwin’s wishes the most. Levi knows that Erwin is not in good condition and forbids him from joining. However, Erwin is just as stubborn as Levi and refuses to comply. Erwin even said that if this mission is his last, then he would accept it because it’s his last gamble. Because of Erwin’s strong will, Levi can no longer stop him. Erwin simply asks that if he cannot hold on this time, then the mission to retake Wall Maria, which involves reaching the basement of Eren’s house, must be carried out.
In the moments before Erwin’s death, Levi actually has a chance to save Erwin by injecting him with the Titan serum. Levi argued with Mikasa and Eren, who wanted Levi to save Armin, but Levi insisted on saving his commander. However, when the syringe was about to be inserted into Erwin’s body, Levi changes his mind and chooses to save Armin due to several considerations.
Their relationship in the anime is very interesting to explore, as they first meet in a situation full of intrigue. Levi Ackerman initially was a resident of the underground city who often caused chaos, but he also knew how to fight, including using ODM equipment belonging to the military police, which he had stolen. One day, Levi and his friends were asked to kill Erwin Smith, even though Erwin was actually trying to recruit Levi to join the Scout Regiment. In the end, Levi joined Erwin because he himself acknowledged Erwin’s greatness. After that, their relationship only grew stronger as they admired each other more and became closer over time.
