The figure moved closer, impossibly fast. Trees snapped as it passed. The shadows seemed to bow in reverence or terror.
Raya's Mark flared uncontrollably. Her body shook violently.
"Focus!" Eren shouted, pulling her behind him.
The Sovereign's voice slithered through the forest like smoke, deep and smooth:
Little flame… why do you resist?
Raya's eyes widened.
"He's… inside my mind," she whispered.
Eren's expression went pale.
"I told you… he's everywhere."
The Sovereign stopped. His form shimmered, flickering between shadow and solid, his eyes burning silver.
You've awakened beautifully, he murmured.
But you are still weak.
Raya's anger snapped.
"I'M NOT YOURS!" she screamed.
Energy exploded from her, blasting a wave of silver light outward. Trees bent, the ground cracked, and the shadows screamed.
Eren shielded himself, mouth agape.
"You… she's—"
Powerful, the Sovereign finished for him, smiling faintly.
Far more than I expected.
Raya fell to her knees, trembling.
Eren knelt beside her.
"You've done it… you've truly awakened," he whispered.
And now, the Sovereign's voice echoed in
side her skull,
you are mine to claim.