[ He had said, back then, that Armin could never replace Erwin, and he maintains that stance. However, after watching him for years, Levi can safely say that he embodies the soul of the Scouts excellently. He does have similarities to Erwin when he was younger, but also to all of them who had that look in their eyes, the desire to know the real world. How did Hange put it again?.. Desire for deeper understanding. ]

[ That's the brat right here, confirmed to him the moment they saw the sea. ]

There's always doubt when you hold other lives in your hands. There are no easy answers there. At least, I don't know them. [ As far as he's concerned, those doubts are a good thing. A reminder of their inherent humanity, even when the world would have them turn into devils. ] But I've seen people in that position focus too much on what they're not, rather than what they are.

[ Like he's said before - focus on your unique strengths, Armin. They're more powerful than your shortcomings. ]

[ A pause, a sigh. ]

...You didn't fail him. We did. All the old farts of the world.