Chapter 8 Seiji's Plan 1

Ilse's hands trembled as she clutched her notebook

Her vision darkened. The last thing she heard was the blond, middle-aged man calling out for a horse. Why?

Why was she so sleepy all of a sudden? Those were her last thoughts before she fell to rest.

'… I … I have to get ….'.

Instantly, she fell into a slumber.

Meanwhile, Seiji watched from a distance, standing on the Wall's edge, his crimson Sharingan fading into his natural black irises.

He wasn't surprised at Ilse's current state. Why would he when he was the cause of it?

In his thoughts, the young Uchiha watched as Hannes rode away with Ilse while another horse rode in another direction. In that direction, Seiji chose to follow.

Without hesitation, he jumped off the wall.

"Transformation Jutsu 変化の術­ (Henge no Jutsu)

Instantly, his fingers moved to form a seal. A puff of smoke clouded his figure before dissipating. Following which, a leaf appeared in Seiji's place.

The Transformation Jutsu, one of the Three basic Techniques taught in the Ninja academy, allowing its user to change shape and form.

In this case, Seiji was using it to disguise himself to avoid being noticed as he fell from the wall.

The leaf dropped from the air at a fast speed. Not at all like the weight a normal leaf should have.

Upon reaching ten meters above the ground, Seiji dispelled the Transformation and ran Chakra through the soles of his feet, attaching to the wall before leaping off.

He landed on the roof of a nearby building, eyes locked on the direction where the departing soldier left before disappearing with the body flicker.

-----

In the Ninja world, there were three main classes of Techniques.

Ninjutsu, Taijutsu and Genjutsu.

Ninjutsu, the use of seals to release physical manifestations. Like Primarily Elemental Jutsu, shadow clone and Three body technique.

Taijutsu, mainly focusing on hand-to-hand combat and physical Techniques with no seals.

And last but not least, Genjutsu. Also known as Illusionary Techniques.

Created when influencing the chakra in an opponents body and manipulating their five senses in diverse ways.

Unlike the first and second, Genjutsu had no actual effect on the physical world, and hence ranked lowered in preference to most Shinobi.

Coupled with the Chakra control requirements, already known countermeasures, need to make the illusion quite realistic to actually deceive an enemy and hard mastery prerequisites, it was a major factor that made most Chunin remain chunin for the greater deal of their lives, if not forever.

Unless, of course, one originated from a clan whose forte was Illusions.

E. G, The Uchiha.

The Uchiha clan were natural-born Illusion specialists. With their Sharingan, they were immune to most Genjutsu and could cast theirs with a glance.

It differed greatly from regular Genjutsu too in its uses.

By establishing eye contact with a target, the Sharingan user traps them within a genjutsu which can be exploited for one of various purposes, such as causing instantaneous — but temporary — loss of consciousness or paralysis in the target, forceful extraction of information, relaying memories, erasing memories, removing genjutsu placed on the target by others, and controlling a target's actions.

Making it so that in the Ninja world, it was an acknowledged law to never look into an Uchiha's eyes during battle.

However, even Uchiha Genjutsu, while fundamentally better in usage still followed the same principles.

Meaning, all Genjutsu worked by manipulating the chakra in another individual to manipulate their senses.

In simpler terms, Genjutsu didn't work on those without chakra.

Of course, there was a way around it. The primary definition of Genjutsu was to stir the chakra in the opponent's body to manipulate their five senses.

"It never said that the chakra being manipulated had to be theirs".

Seiji pondered his actions as he leapt from roof to roof, keeping up with the Garrison horseman.

Back in the forest, Seiji realized that Genjutsu might not work in this world, and subsequently tried it on Ilse when she wasn't paying attention.

Result? No effect. The hypnosis function of his three tomoe Sharingan was rendered useless. Meaning he had lost half of his visual prowess in an instant.

In that case, Seiji had to improvise.

During the time he carried her, he had subtly infused traces of his chakra into her body. Then, using his Sharingan, he manipulated that chakra and implanted a mental suggestion in her mind.

Its effects were simple. The moment she tried to divulge anything she knew, the Genjutsu would take effect, putting her into a coma like state.

It wouldn't last long, and would break in two hours at most.

'.. Just enough time to gather intel ..'. But that time was enough to do a lot of things.

Initially, Seiji had been reluctant to use his Interdimensional Gateway while still in Konoha. One, because he couldn't take people with him. If not, he would have found a way to transport the entire Uchiha clan to another world.

Two, because he didn't know all its functions. And Three, Fear.

As a Transmigrator, Seiji knew the dangers of world travelling all too well. It would be fine if he ended up in low level worlds like Avatar, Merlin, The Walking Dead, The Vampire Diaries, High school DxD and urban harem novels.

If he was teleported to Warhammer 40k, Demonbane, The DC Dark Multiverse, Zombie verse, an Immortal Cultivation world or The Marvel Cancerverse, it would be instant game over.

Its vague explanation of functions didn't help either.

If he was unlucky, he might appear high in the stratosphere, outer space, the bottom of the ocean or even inside a volcano. With this in mind, Seiji decided not to use this ability unless absolutely necessary.

It was different now. He wasn't in one of those Grimdark death worlds but in Shingeki No Kyojin.

Technically still a death world, but it was one he could handle. As long as he didn't do something absolutely stupid, he had nothing to fear here and could devote his time and energy to getting stronger.

There was no reason to hide in a secluded cave and (as the novels described it) Develop Wretchedly.

Why? Because after a day and night, his anger and vengeful feelings had been quenched. Quenched enough to realize that this world was worth more than a place to bide time.

No, its value far surpassed that.

Paradis Island was secluded and surrounded by Titans from all sides. Due to the past history of Eldians fueled by Marleyan propaganda, everyone outside basically believed them to be living devils.

The people inside didn't know it yet, but the whole world was practically against them. It was so intense that Eren, the main protagonist, planned to wipe out everyone else on the planet using the power of the Titans.

Once he got himself together, Seiji realized this. More importantly, he realized that this could be used to his advantage.

Hence, he began planning. A whole new world was before him, and he would make the best of it.

He, Seiji Uchiha, had no plans to hide his identity and keep a low profile.

However, he didn't want it to be revealed so early.

From the moment he had arrived on Paradis Island, he had been pondering his course of action.

What to do and what not to do, with many details changing with the discovery of something new.

It had changed upon discovering Ilse. The same when he realized direct Genjutsu was ineffective.

Now, he was inside Wall Rose, with a plan forming in his mind.

Ilse's Two hour nap time would be just enough to implement it.

It was less than two minutes.

Seiji's flickering body soon materializing on a rooftop, his gaze fixed on the riding garrison soldier heading towards a large building structure up ahead.

The place looked a small castle like structure, with a multiple tower areas. The tallest one being at the center of the structure.

If he remembered right, this was the gathering base for the Eren and his group, alongside all the other soldiers in Trost during the second attack of the Colossal Titan.

The fifth episode in the series, [Struggle For Trost Arc]

It was the point were The Garrison Members refueled their ODM Tanks upon running out.

However …

"... This …. Can't be The Survey Corps HQ. Can it?"

Ilse was a member of the Scout Regiment. Her reappearance should be reported to Erwin directly, hence Seiji expected the soldier to ride to the Survey Corps HQ.

Which was why he followed.

In the anime and Manga, the location was never really given. But if he had to guess, then this place should be for the Garrison, not the survey corps.

Right?

'... Well, let's find out'.

The internal debate lasted barely a second as he continued following.

----

Wall Rose …

Garrison Branch HQ,

"... So that's the situation …".

"I see".

In the open square of the Garrison Branch HQ building, a small group of individuals could be seen taking a walk.

Two men led the group at the forefront, discussing with each other while the others trailed slightly behind them. Their Total numbers not exceeding Five.

In the forefront, an elderly man scratched his bald head wearily.

"Now what would you have me do, Erwin?"

He carried a structured build hidden underneath his uniform, gold eyes and a distinguished mustache.

The Highest-Ranking Officer In the Garrison Regiment, Territory Commander of the South, Dot Pixis.

"I know the difficulties this might pose for you. I just ask you consider my request to transfer soldiers from the Garrison for our next Expedition".

Walking alongside him was a man of equal status. With a younger look and body build, blond hair and a stern looking face.

He was Erwin Smith, Commander of The Survey Corps. The man who had single-handedly cut down his regiment's mortality rate by 30%.

Behind them was Hange Zoe, Erwin's left-hand man … Or woman, and Two Garrison members who served as Pixis's assistants.

As for Levi, Humanity's Strongest Soldier? He was nowhere to be seen.

".... I would love to help. I would. But this is not as easy as it sounds." Dot Pixis said to the man, while reaching into his Jacket to take out a small metal flask.

"Indeed. If my forces could carry the Expedition myself, I wouldn't ask …".

Erwin uttered, frowning heavily.

The survey corps was the least populated among the Three Military Departments.

Upon graduating, most graduates from the Cadet Corps would choose either the Garrison or the Military Police. The former more than the latter, only because the spots to get into the Military Police were too limited.

Rarely were The Survey Corps ever chosen by the Top Ten who had the right to Join the MP's in Wall Sheena.

The high mortality rate that accompanied the survey corps didn't help either. With their mandate being to investigate beyond the walls, they had the most contact with Titans and consequently, the highest death rate.

The last expedition being particularly harsh.

More than a hundred soldiers departed yesterday. The number that returned was Fifty two.

The death count was as high as Sixty-six.

Less than half the total number. It was no wonder that the recruits were scared off by the mortality rates.

Since the Survey Corps founding, Its highest membership tally hadn't exceeded Three hundred people.

Now, there were less than a hundred. More people would be needed if another expedition would be carried out anytime soon.

Hence, instead of returning to HQ, he had stayed in Trost for one more day upon receiving word that Southern Commander Dot Pixis would be heading to the District.

His purpose, to ask for more men to make up the missing numbers.

Pixis smiled slightly, while raising his flask to his lips.

".... I know that. For a proud man like you, being here alone shows that you are stretched thin. I can see it, but the bureaucrats can't".

"Neither can the rest of the Military. The fallout that will occur if I start transferring personnel from other branches, They certainly won't let off an easy chance".

Erwin was silent, unable to respond.

The Survey Corps had a well-earned reputation for toughness and cool-headed courage in the face of extreme hardship. Were physically and mentally tough, highly adaptable, and could be counted on not to panic even when the Garrison and Military Police personnel around them have broken ranks.

As the Branch with the most involvement in Titan combat, each veteran within its ranks were far better in skill and experience than the soldiers of other branches.

They were Humanity's elite warriors. The finest.

Unfortunately, this branch was also in the most uncomfortable position, politically and financially, despite being the best out of the three military branches in terms of the overall quality of its officers and enlisted men. The bureaucrats, rich conservatives, and many Military Police members disliked the Survey Corps and viewed it as a waste of money and resources, due to the Survey Corps' lack of definite, decisive successes and high losses of lives. Only from the support of the King did the Survey Corps remain intact and protected from the greedy bureaucrats and hostile conservatives.

The reason Erwin was in such a rush to stage another expedition was not because the corps had finally gained results, but to avoid the consequences that came with failure.

If they could successfully set up an outpost out in the wastelands of Wall Maria, he would have the leverage needed to stand his ground.

But just barely. Even if he succeeded, the Garrison members would definitely protest in fear.

After all, it happened once. If they did nothing, it would certainly happen again. Unless he gained definite results, the overall outcome wouldn't be affected much.

Time elapsed as the walk was spent in silence.

Eventually, Pixis finished his alcohol in the container and smacked his lips, satisfied.

"Ah … Well, rest assured that I have heard your request, Erwin. I will do my best, but you know that I only have full authority in matters of defense. And with all due respect, my first duty is to the walls …".

".... I can see what you're planning. It's a gamble, really, but I'm willing to bet my chips. I just hope you ….".

"Commander Erwin! Urgent Message".

It happened then, a loud shout interrupted them as a soldier ran over hurriedly, standing at attention.

It was a Garrison soldier.

Pixis paused. "One of yours, Erwin".

"Oh? What's the issue".

The survey corps commander asked with a straight face.

"A surviving scout from the last expedition has returned from beyond the walls".

"Huh?"

"Huh?"

Both commanders exclaimed simultaneously.

"What?" Hange Zoe was equally shocked.

Erwin's hardened expression carried disbelief.

"Repeat what you just said".

"… Sir, a survivor from the 34th Expedition has returned to the walls, unharmed".

Clank!

The metallic thud resounded in the silent square.

Pixis, who has dropped his flask, turned to look around.

"Well .... It seems it isn't my hearing then. I felt my ears had Issues".

The reporting soldier had shouted at the top of his lungs.

As a result?

The nearby Garrison members, all going about their own business, seemed to be hit with a freeze button. For no other reason. Just the Information was too outrageous.

Pixis raised an eyebrow, then chuckled. "My My, what a development".

Erwin processed the information quickly. A missing scout, alone? Outside the walls? Something wasn't right. "Where is he now?"

"... Well, she's a she Commander. We brought her into Trost after narrowly escaping the Titans chasing her. She said she had vital information to share but passed out before she could say anything else. Currently, she should be in the hospital as we speak".

"Lead the ...".

"Then What Are You Waiting For?" Before Erwin could speak, a figure was already one step ahead of him. With lightning steps, she appeared before the soldier, grabbed his shoulders and began shaking him.

"Take us to her, Immediately!"

"I … Yes sir".

With this, Erwin turned to Dot Pixis. "Forgive me Commander. I have to see this".

"I understand. Something like his has never happened before. In fact, I'll go with you".

Erwin nodded.

With that, the group quickly left the Garrison Branch.

Meanwhile,

'... So that's Erwin, huh?'

On an empty tower, Seiji who had tracked the reporting soldier, watched the group leave.

'I see. In that case, the old man must be Dot Pixis. And the female with glasses and dark brown hair must be Hange .... Truly as enthusiastic as in the anime ...'.

He had watched the Interaction from a distance. He couldn't hear them though.

However, he had the Sharingan. As a competent Shinobi, he was well versed in the art of Lip reading.

Not to mention, their features were particularly lifelike if you knew who you were looking for.

The Overall Commander of The Survey Corps, and The Section Commander In charge of The Fourth Squad, Erwin Smith and Hange Zoe.

As for The Captain of The Special Operations Squad, Levi Ackerman ... He was nowhere to be seen.

Odd, but Seiji didn't dwell on it.

If anything, he should be in the Survey Corps Headquarters.

And one look around was all Seiji needed to know that this definitively wasn't the place.

Mainly because, all the soldiers he saw basically had Rose symbols as the decorative figure on their emblems.

Instead of Wings of Freedom.

This was the Garrison HQ.

A pity. However,

'.... Not the Scout Regiment. But, I guess it'll have to do'.

Seiji thought while forming a seal.

"Transformation Jutsu 変化の術­ (Henge no Jutsu)"

The boy was engulfed in smoke. And when it faded, a soldier in Garrison Regiment clothing was standing in his place.

'Perfect'.

He thought while disappearing. His goal? Well ... To cause a ruckus.