Prologue
"The Attack Titan? Sure, I've heard of it. It's not common knowledge, though." The man raised an eyebrow, studying the stranger across from him in the quiet mid-afternoon tavern. Laughter and teasing floated from distant corners, but nothing hinted at anything unusual. "Why do you ask?"
The stranger, shrouded in the shadows of his hood, kept his eyes hidden. Brown, relatively short hair combed over to one side, framed his face, and his posture seemed to carry a weight of hidden knowledge. Despite his average height and weight, the stranger exuded an unexpected strength, his sculpted muscles visible even through the cloak that draped over his shoulders.
"Tell me what the people think of it," he calmly requested.
The man, with greying and balding hair, was rather lanky, his skin shriveled from years of life. But today, as he glanced at the stranger, his usual curiosity prevailed. "Well, it's not widely known among Eldians. Its name is whispered occasionally, often to explain conspiracies or to scare one another. Those who know the legend, like myself, keep it hushed."
Lifting his head slightly, the stranger queried, "Tell me this legend."
The man hesitated, a touch more guarded. "Why do you want to know? Word gets around once it's out. I don't want to start something."
A trace of irritation crept into the stranger's voice. "I think your newfound gold should cover the inconvenience of ignorance."
Stiffening, the man leaned in, trying to read the mysterious figure. "Alright, here it is. There's a ninth titan, the Attack Titan. Supposedly 15 meters tall, with strength and utility, though not on par with the Colossal or Founding Titan. More importantly, it's the only titan not under the king's control, free to rebel. Legend says it did so too. It fought against the king in the distant past, losing every time, of course. Some say it went into hiding, others claim it was exiled by the king to prevent violence. But that was hundreds of years ago."
A tense silence hung, broken by the stranger's inquiry, "What do you think really happened?"
The man, scrutinizing the hooded figure, sighed. His initial curiosity now mingled with an unsettling feeling. "I think it died off. The Founding Titan found a way to bind or eliminate it. Or it continues to be randomly inherited by newborns, creating a cycle of ignorance. Either way, I don't think it exists anymore."
With his tale concluded, the man took a long, heavy drink. "It still exists," declared the stranger.
Choking on his beer, the man sprayed liquid on his shirt and the table. The stranger's green eyes finally met his. Those eyes, an intense shade of green, bore into the man's soul. "The Founder help me, but it exists," the stranger whispered.
The room's air shifted, beads of sweat forming on the man's forehead. His unease deepened. "I-I'm not sure I understand."
"You will," the stranger asserted, maintaining an unwavering gaze. The man stuttered, "C-can I help you with anything else?"
The stranger stood, a faint smile on his lips. His piercing green eyes remained fixed on the old man, who now felt a shiver down his spine. "Yes, there is one more thing." Pointing to a paper hanging from the man's pocket, he said, "I'd like to know where I can get a schedule for the upcoming event."
The man hesitated, then offered his own schedule, avoiding direct eye contact. "Take mine."
The stranger's smile broadened, but the intensity in his eyes did not waver. "Why, thank you. You're too kind." He took the paper, prompting the man to ask, "What do you want that for?"
The stranger's smile vanished, and the man gulped. The air grew heavy with anticipation as the stranger's gaze intensified. For a moment, the tavern seemed to hold its breath.
"What do I want?" The stranger's voice cut through the stillness, firm and resolute. His eyes bore into the man, a glint of unwavering determination shining within them. "I want more than whispered legends and hidden truths. I seek a future for our people, an Eldia that denies the indifference of its ruler, and achieves… freedom."
With that, he stood, his cloak swirling around him. The old man remained seated, transfixed by the stranger's words. A subtle foreshadowing lingered in the air, a sense that the stranger harbored a deeper purpose. As he exited the tavern, the stranger's declaration echoed, leaving the old man with a cryptic sense of foreboding, a premonition of events yet to unfold.
Chapter 1 - An Empire at Peace
In the heart of the Eldian Empire, where centuries of ceaseless wars had sculpted its colossal might, an uneasy peace began to cast its shadow. Feared and despised by neighboring realms, this ever-expanding colossus, though now moving towards tranquility, held a dark secret—the titans.
These colossal humanoid beings, towering over ordinary mortals, were both a source of terror and power for Eldia. Titans, with their misshapen forms and insatiable hunger for humans, were a force of destruction guided by an unknown impulse. Yet, despite their monstrous nature, Eldia maintained absolute control over them. Bound not by nationality but by blood, the Subjects of Ymir, descendants of the progenitor titan Ymir Fritz, held a unique connection to these behemoths.
For most Subjects of Ymir, the transformation into a titan marked a tragic loss. Humanity, dignity, and freedom were sacrificed to an existence as a soul trapped in an immense, twisted form. Almost every Eldian turned titan would never again experience life as a sentient being—except for a select few, the titan shifters.
These titan shifters, a mere handful among the millions, possessed unique abilities bestowed upon them by the current monarch, chosen based on merit and worthiness. However, their extraordinary power came with a price. Titan shifters could only retain their abilities for a limited time, a mere thirteen years. After that, they would age rapidly and face death unless another Eldian was transformed into a pure titan and consumed them, inheriting their power as the new titan shifter. This impending mortality added an urgency to their actions, shaping their decisions in the limited time they had.
At the helm of this formidable generation of titans stood Thea Fritz, queen and absolute ruler of Eldia. The Founding Titan, held by Thea herself, bestowed dominion over all titans, making her the most powerful person and titan in the world. With the weight of history on her shoulders, Thea Fritz navigated the delicate balance between peace and the legacy of Eldia's fearsome past.
And yet, in this era of unprecedented global peace, the demand for titans as weapons and soldiers was dwindling. Surprisingly, it was a relief for Queen Fritz despite her renowned global reputation. The royal bloodline had been filled with ruthless conquerors, but Thea, known among her people as one of the few kind and compassionate rulers of Eldia, played a crucial role in maintaining the current peaceful climate. Her desire to bring contentment to her empire without the burden of war stemmed from a genuine love for her people and a vision of happiness for them. While the world viewed them as monsters, she acknowledged the darkness within each of them that set them apart.
Firm in her belief that her people deserved joy and prosperity like any other, Thea avoided war not only for the well-being of her citizens but also to challenge the world's perception of Eldians. She abhorred bloodshed and saw no need for further territorial expansion. Her possession of the Founding Titan, held since the death of her older brother Leon three years ago, had hardly been utilized for conquest.
Despite her limited experience, Thea was esteemed by her people as a good leader, fostering trust, economic stability, and comfort for her citizens during peacetime. Occasional protests calling for the continuation of war were mostly led by soldiers from longstanding military families, a sentiment deeply ingrained in their heritage. Discontent also festered among other titan shifters, warriors with incredible power eager for battle. Thea, however, had a plan to address these concerns.
She and her advisors devised a national event in the empire's capital, Toln—a friendly competition among the shifters involving physical duels in titan form. The tournament, known as the Titan Duels, proved successful in its first two iterations, exceeding expectations. Designed as a series of duels leading to a final ranking, the event offered no tangible prize beyond the title of titan champion for the year. Last year's winner had requested a vacation, which Thea gladly granted, but the true rewards lay in the glory and strong fandom that came with victory. The Titan Duels had become a celebrated occasion within Eldia.
The organized event served several purposes in Thea's eyes. It not only encouraged training among the shifters without the natural motivation of battle but also united the citizens, fostering a strong sense of patriotism throughout the empire; almost everyone took pride in being an Eldian with such an event. Most importantly, it inspired camaraderie among the shifters. While Thea could exert complete control over them if necessary, she detested the idea. She aimed for a team that fought and thought together out of choice, not obligation.
These purposes, particularly the last, had been fulfilled well beyond Thea's satisfaction. Regular conversations with each of the titan shifters revealed a friendly relationship among them, holding each other in high regard. Having dedicated their entire lives to the pursuit of obtaining a shifter's ability, each shifter was well-versed in the combat techniques associated with their desired power. Furthermore, their continuous training and exploration of new fighting strategies provided valuable insights and advice, each perspective reflecting the unique ability they possessed. Thea felt honored and grateful to be a part of this generation of shifters.
Anticipation for this year's Titan Duels surpassed that of previous years. With the first matches scheduled for tomorrow, the streets of Toln were already teeming with citizens from all over Eldia. Under the high sun, a constant hum of conversations and bustling activity had persisted for hours.
In the heart of Toln, where the ceaseless hum of activity blended seamlessly with the cityscape, Queen Thea found solace in the panoramic view from the lofty balcony of the royal inn. White stone buildings sprawled across the landscape, seemingly boundless. Each structure, adorned with rows of open or shuttered windows, soared into the sky, their facades trimmed with painted bricks of yellow and gold. The architectural tapestry varied, from perfect circular domes to towering pyramid structures, and some with flat rooftops where picnic tables and gardens overlooked the bustling city.
The streets, paved with a similar stone but in a darker gray hue, stretched out like a labyrinth, occasionally intersected by statues paying homage to Eldian heroes or circular fountains portraying transformed titan shifters, water cascading from their mouths in a mesmerizing display.
Vibrant food stands punctuated the thoroughfares, their bright colors demanding attention even from the corner of one's eye. Atop each stand, signs proudly displayed their wares, and vendors enthusiastically touted their confections and meals, each claiming superiority over its competitors. Long queues of people snaked down the streets, eagerly awaiting a taste of handmade ice cream, refreshing lemonade, succulent cuts of steak, or the juiciest fresh fruits. Laughter of children filled the air as they darted between the crowds, vying for the attention of clowns, jugglers, and other entertainers meandering through the lively scene. Flags and banners in hues of green, red, and white fluttered overhead, proudly representing the colors of the Eldian flag.
The flag, a ubiquitous presence soaring above the city, unfurled its deep forest green canvas with an unwavering pride. A white square adorned the heart of the flag, meticulously divided into four equal quadrants, forming a distinctive shield shape with a pointed tip at the bottom. Perched atop this emblem were two striking red roses, each positioned in opposing quadrants— one nestled in the bottom left, the other in the upper right. Thorny white vines artfully connected the roses, weaving through the remaining empty quadrants.
During these festivities, more of these iconic flags fluttered in the breeze, their vibrant green and bold design capturing the spirit of the Eldian people. The sight of this emblem, whether atop homes or establishments, filled every Eldian with a deep sense of pride and unity. Queen Thea wished for this show of patriotism to be a constant, not just when she was observing the city, but a lasting symbol of Eldia's strength and identity.
Thea's smile remained steady as she observed the joy and excitement among her people. She took pride in orchestrating an event that brought them together in such a positive way, but she quickly dismissed any notion of self-credit. Families and couples strolled hand in hand down the roads, indulging in snacks. The tempting aroma wafted toward Thea, but she resisted, knowing she had already consumed her share for the day.
Peering back into the room, she spotted her family members, adorned in white suits and dresses, exactly where they had been the last time she checked. Lucas, her only remaining sibling, lay sprawled on the couch engrossed in a book. Despite being next in line for the throne, he preferred to defer the responsibility to another relative, focusing on his family instead. Like Thea, he possessed a compassionate and kind nature, refined through his role as a husband and father to Karl, Mia, and Freya.
The three children played on the floor with an assortment of toys, ranging from wooden blocks to woolen dolls and ivory boats. Thea cherished the moments she could play with them, though she wished for more interaction. On the opposite couch, her uncle and aunt chatted and grinned, adopting the role of parents since the passing of Thea's parents many years ago.
Sixteen years had passed since her mother, after completing her term, handed over the Founding Titan to Leon, Thea's elder brother. Their father had perished in battle a few years before that, a true patriot who insisted on fighting in person on the battlefield despite pleas for him to stay safe in Toln. Thea aspired to possess half the courage he displayed.
Taking a moment to relish the sunshine and gentle breeze, Thea reflected on the upcoming shifter meeting. Soon, she would be engrossed in discussions, leaving little time for idle moments. Her eyes wandered to the crystal chandelier suspended above the dark oak wood table, adorned with remnants from the Fritz family lunch. Though she enjoyed the comforts of luxury, Thea remained mindful not to indulge excessively. A crucial lesson from her upbringing emphasized the importance of humility, caution, and conservatism, especially with the immense power wielded by the Founding Titan.
The notion of holding such overwhelming power made Thea shudder. The Founding Titan, capable of destroying nations, demanded the utmost responsibility. A leader growing too assured of themselves could sow death and destruction, both within and beyond their borders. Thea understood that wielding such power to its fullest extent was a line never to be crossed.
Thea's anticipation for the upcoming schedule brought a sigh from her lips as she mentally organized the events. Her duties required overseeing each match and attending numerous side attractions promised to the citizens. Unlike the other shifters, she and one other would not participate in the matches. The two of them were just too powerful. It wasn't an assertion of arrogance but a simple fact acknowledged by all.
While she appreciated being busy, true moments of relaxation and thoughtlessness eluded her. Seated in the room's quiet, she attempted to embrace the serenity.
The tranquility was abruptly shattered as Malcolm Ackerman, her loyal warder and commander of the queen's guard, swung open the double doors across from Thea. The doors banged against the wall, causing Thea and some of her family members to startle. Malcolm's announcement broke the silence, "My queen, they've gathered in the dining room downstairs."
Known for his stoicism and unwavering loyalty, Malcolm was a stalwart figure in Thea's life. While some in her family desired more formality, Thea valued his straightforwardness and lack of pretense. He wasn't one to exchange buttery words and bows. Tall and broad-shouldered with black hair akin to Thea's, Malcolm often wore a blank expression that seemed impervious to surprise. Despite his stern demeanor, he carried an unspoken allure, acknowledged even by the female servants, though Malcolm himself remained indifferent to such whispers.
His attire was a familiar sight—a dark brown leather ensemble, rising to his knees with intricate straps, paired with white cotton trousers secured by a matching dark leather belt. A light tan button-up shirt under a plain brown jacket completed his ensemble, adorned with the emblem of the queen's guard over his left chest pocket. The emblem, a faceless head of a unicorn in dark green, replaced the roses on Eldia's flag. Two scabbarded steel straight swords hung on either side of his belt, his ever-present companions for battle or leisure. Malcolm, true to his role, was never without them.
His dark brown eyes remained fixed on Thea's. "I'll escort you down."
Thea sighed once more. "Thank you, Malcolm," she responded politely. It wasn't that she dreaded the upcoming meeting; in fact, she was looking forward to reuniting with her companions after a brief hiatus. It was simply the attachment to the fleeting tranquility of the moment that made it difficult to depart. Although she knew it couldn't be true, the notion lingered that she might not have another such quiet moment for a long time. Why, she couldn't be sure.
The two of them traversed the corridors and descended staircases side by side. While Malcolm maintained a stoic gaze ahead, Thea made a conscious effort to take in the details of the decorations and rooms surrounding her. She exchanged nods, smiles, and even a few words of encouragement with passing servants. After a while, she turned her attention to her warder.
"Why so silent, Malcolm?" Thea knew it was a rhetorical question; Malcolm's silence was second nature. Yet, she hoped that the camaraderie between them would grow since he was often at her side. On most escorts, she tried to engage him in conversation, and while he responded, it was always with reserved brevity. Over time, she sensed a gradual thawing, a slow journey toward comfort in his presence, or perhaps comfort in hers.
He glanced at her, his expression unyielding, before returning his focus ahead. "I'm doing my job," he stated flatly.
Thea's lip quirked upward. "Malcolm, have you had a chance to relax or take some time off since we arrived?"
His eyebrows furrowed slightly. "If there's a time when I seldom get... rest," he uttered the last word as if grappling with its meaning, "it's when we are outside the palace. I still don't know why we couldn't have stayed there for the duration of the competition."
Thea understood the logistical simplicity it would have offered him and the entire queen's guard, but she had longed for a change of scenery. Even if their current residence matched the opulence of the palace, she felt a rare sense of freedom and proximity to her subjects. "Yes, I know. We've been over this. Doesn't it feel good to get out just a little bit?"
"It makes me feel on edge."
This revelation surprised Thea. In a time of war, no enemy had come close to laying eyes on the monarch of Eldia, let alone posed any danger. Could there be a domestic concern? "What do you suspect?"
He furrowed his brows again, this time with a glimmer of surprise in his eyes. "Nothing, my queen. I just try to expect anything."
She rewarded his response with a wider smile, revealing her teeth. It was a clever remark, even if it might not be considered as such by most people. "Well, promise me you'll take a day off when all this is said and done. And call me Thea! I've told you more than enough times now."
He struggled slightly with his response. "A-as you wish, my que-Thea." Thea suspected he'd likely forget within the hour.
They continued their journey in silence until they reached the foyer. Grand wooden doors, reminiscent of those in the family's common room, stood on their right. Malcolm walked ahead, placing his hands flat on both doors, seeking Thea's approval. A single nod from her was met with a matching one from Malcolm. In one smooth motion, he pushed the doors open, just as he had seamlessly entered her room.
"Her Majesty, Queen Thea, has arrived!" he announced, and she strode in to find three men and three women seated around a rectangular dining table adorned with a vase of vibrant flowers. Chairs scraped back as they all rose out of respect, straightening suits and smoothing dresses. With smiles on their faces, they watched her approach her chair at the head of the table.
"Thank you," she said with a grin of her own. "It's good to see you all." Counting the individuals, examining each face, she frowned. "Where's Volkan?"
"He is running late, it seems," Malcolm explained. "I've been informed that he's encountered some difficulties on the road. Since he is not competing, I thought it best to gather nonetheless. I estimate he'll be here in a few hours."
Thea nodded in understanding, took her seat, and the group followed suit. Malcolm excused himself, letting himself out and closing the doors behind him—no doubt assuming his post as a vigilant guard.
"How were your travels?" Thea inquired, glancing at the assembled group.
Edith chimed in first, her tone brimming with mischief, "Quick!" She glanced around, anticipating laughter at her jest. Edith, a slender woman in her mid-twenties, possessed silky brown hair tinged with a hint of red, cascading over her shoulders. She exuded sprightliness and mischief in equal measure.
Confusion marked the faces of everyone until the man seated directly across from her, Remus, widened his eyes in disbelief. "You didn't... did you... run? As a titan?" The entire group, Thea included, stared at Edith, awaiting an explanation.
"Only part of the way," she replied, a satisfied grin playing on her lips. A mixture of half-wheezed laughs and continued jaw-dropping gazes ensued from the group. "Jaw," that was the name of Edith's titan.
"How are you not passed out from exhaustion?" Remus asked, a hint of amusement playing on his features. The toll of transformation, coupled with the exertion of battle and long-distance travel, usually left a shifter drained.
"I told you it was only part of the way. Then I had to wander out of the woods and hire a carriage. I'm surprised you didn't do the same, Remus!"
Remus shook his head, still partly amused, before adjusting his glasses. Slightly older than Edith, Remus exuded a maturity beyond his years. His black bowl cut gave him the appearance of a nerdy professor, yet his demeanor was approachable and down-to-earth. As the Cart Titan, he possessed the capability to traverse the empire effortlessly, relying on strategy rather than mischievous exploits. Cautious and calculated, Remus employed tactics over brute strength in his battles against the enemy.
"Well, I look forward to an easy victory over you, Edith, and I'm sure the rest of us do as well!" Egon quipped, prompting another round of chuckles. Egon, the Warhammer Titan, wielded various weapons in combat, the two-handed warhammer being the most favored. Although the newest among the shifters, inheriting the ability just a year ago, Egon had swiftly become a formidable force. Despite his prowess, there were moments when he seemed to hold a higher opinion of himself than others did. His devilish handsomeness and charm made him a favorite among women, and his light brown hair, slicked back, carried a more greasy look than Thea or any of the other shifters cared to see.
"Don't be too sure of yourself," Edith retorted with a smug expression. "Give me one good night's rest, and I can take you all at the same time!"
"Who wants to help me make an alarm that goes off every five minutes?" Egon joked, glancing around the group.
"I volunteer!" Gerda enthusiastically raised her hand. At 22, Gerda possessed both sweetness and steadfast determination, the latter being an essential quality for someone wielding the Armored Titan ability. This 15-meter class Titan specialized in hardening most of its skin into formidable crystal armor plates, earning the moniker "Eldia's Shield." The additional armor came at the cost of some speed, but its defensive capabilities were unmatched.
Thea had known Gerda since their childhood in Toln, and their friendship had only deepened since they both gained their Titan abilities. Despite her tender nature, Gerda's striking beauty and captivating smile made her popular among men. Her smooth, straight blonde hair swayed gracefully as she walked, turning heads wherever she went. But beneath the assumed grace was a woman who didn't take no for an answer and refused to be pushed around.
"I've got this," Gerda declared with determination. "I'll seal the door shut, so she can't leave her room!" Her confidence radiated, and a playful glint sparkled in her eyes.
The last two shifters exchanged eye rolls, a silent communication between Dillon and Bathilda. Married and the eldest, they were regarded as the parental figures of the group. Both in their mid-40s, Dillon had served as the Beast Titan for 12 years, longer than any of the current shifters, while Bathilda held the Female Titan for 11. Dillon, with a striking blend of pretty blonde hair and a short, boxed beard peppered with white, possessed a tall, muscular frame that exuded a commanding presence. His arms were almost always folded, a stance he maintained while intently observing the room. His titan, slightly larger than the common 15-meter class, often took on the characteristics of a distinct animal, making him a potent attacker.
Bathilda, on the other hand, was the only person in the world who could soften Dillon. Yet, this didn't diminish her strength. A stern and formidable woman, Bathilda boasted long pure white hair cascading down to her upper back, draping over the left side of her face and covering her eye. Not a result of age, her unique hair had been that way since birth, a feature she took pride in, and rightfully so, Thea thought. Despite her middle years, Bathilda radiated youth and vitality, her beauty enough to prompt unsuspecting men to try their luck, only to be humbled and sent trotting away with their heads bowed. The Female Titan, as the name implied, was an ability that only a female could inherit, known for its versatility and nimbleness.
"I don't think we'll be doing any such thing," Bathilda asserted flatly.
"We were only joking," Gerda assured. "I'm sure we'll all be tired enough to pass out for the whole night after our travels."
It was true, at least for everyone except Thea. The shifters had traveled from far across the empire, gathering for the event, and some had come from hundreds of miles away.
Thea asked, "Is everyone ready for tomorrow? Any concerns or questions? You all have the schedule, right?" There was silence, but a couple nodded.
"With any luck, Gerda will sleep in tomorrow and miss our match," Remus sulked. They were set to battle in the first match, and Gerda had several advantages. A quick flash of a smirk showed that Gerda knew it too.
"I'm sure someone will wake you all early, at least several hours before the first match," Thea assured them.
Remus pushed out his bottom lip, disappointed.
"Before we delve into the heart of our gathering, let me refresh your memories on the rules. Victory goes to the last shifter standing. The match concludes when the loser can't move in titan form, can't transform anymore, or concedes. I have the final say. All attacks are fair game, except for those directed at the nape of the neck or anything threatening that area. We're all comrades here, so let's ensure nothing untoward happens. Otherwise, feel free to unleash your full might." Soft chuckles echoed in response. Thea, eager to postpone the main agenda, wished she could indulge in more laughter and banter, but there would be time for that between matches.
Gathered only once or twice a year, the eight, each a guardian of a different territory, had to discuss news and issues across the empire. They didn't rule their respective divisions directly; that responsibility lay with the communities. Still, their influence was strong. Thea initiated the process of collecting reports on each territory. They delved into topics ranging from trade status, the current mood of the people, new infrastructures, and towns or cities to any underlying tensions. Occasionally, veterans from past wars stirred trouble, but the titan shifters' abilities were often unnecessary; the military and local police sufficed. Egon's revelation caught Thea's attention.
"There have been skirmishes between Neplan and Ermich." Thea turned to Gerda, who nodded in agreement. Neplan belonged to Egon, and Ermich to Gerda.
Gerda added, "It's true. Egon and I discussed it over the last couple of days, but we don't know the root cause. Tensions have risen between the two territories, leading Egon and me to quell some battles ourselves."
Thea, contemplative, asked, "Have you questioned the participants?"
"Of course," Egon replied, "but they claim it's over petty issues—farm border disputes, animals eating from gardens on other properties, and the like. There's no single cause. It's been easy to end the conflicts when they arise. Gerda and I are more than capable of handling it."
This was unusual, especially between these territories that had always coexisted peacefully. Disputes were common, but physical confrontations were unheard of. "Are you sure you don't need additional soldiers?" Thea asked with intensity.
Egon and Gerda vigorously shook their heads. "...Very well. But I want regular updates. I'll reach out to you when I can to gather your intel. I don't want our citizens fighting each other. Reconciliation is challenging without understanding their motives. Investigate this and keep me informed." Thea shifted in her seat, taking a breath. "Now, if there's nothing more from you two, are there any abnormalities in the rest of your districts?" All eyes turned to each other, and then Bathilda drew breath to speak. She and Dillon exchanged worried glances.
"We have something as well," Bathilda said with a hint of regret. She and Dillon jointly ruled over the neighboring territory named Shiganshina. In a realm where two titan shifters shared the same space, turmoil was understandably unlikely. Thea observed Bathilda, who seemed to seek her permission. Surprisingly, this pleased Thea more than she anticipated.
Despite her youth—merely 26—Thea harbored a profound understanding. She would've comprehended if her fellow shifters felt uneasy obeying someone they deemed naive. Their trepidation about sitting at the same table as the Founding Titan might have been more justified. Nevertheless, they afforded her the same respect they gave her brother Leon. Thea approached her role with gravity, cognizant of the perils and weighty responsibilities tied to the Founding Titan. She never entertained the notion that they might have to obey her even in betrayal. Although the Founding Titan wielded such authority, Thea aspired to earn their loyalty and respect through wisdom and camaraderie.
Feeling she had succeeded, she motioned for Bathilda to continue.
Bathilda explained, "We've heard rumors of a secret organization emerging—calling themselves the Patriots. We don't know their intentions, but they oppose you, Thea. They're set against the queen."
Thea was taken aback. She had just commended herself on having the support of all the shifters, and now news of citizens in rebellion against her emerged. Bathilda keenly observed Thea's surprise. "I only mentioned we've heard rumors. However, every attempt to apprehend one of their supposed members ends in failure; they slip through our grasp and disappear. Consequently, we can't definitively ascertain their activities, but there's an air of secrecy among them. We're uncertain of their numbers or the fervor driving their cause. Our intent was merely to apprise you."
Furrowing her eyebrows, Thea grappled with several unanswered questions. Why raise such an issue if it posed a minimal threat? What motivated a group to organize against her? She struggled to identify any significant deviations from her predecessor's actions, and the common knowledge of the Founding Titan's power had historically deterred domestic unrest. Why rebel now? While they might not be full-fledged rebels, the extent of the threat remained unknown. As her mind raced with uncertainties, she allowed herself a moment of pause. Nevertheless, her curiosity persisted. She began with the crucial questions, "Do you at least have an estimate of their numbers? Are they prone to violence?"
Dillon's deep gruff voice sounded and it almost felt like the room was vibrating. "We don't know Thea. There could be hundreds, thousands, even tens of thousands. And for all we know they could be scattered across the empire." He darted looks at the other shifters. "No one else has heard tell of these Patriots?" Everyone shook their heads but some made their lips curl downwards as if interested. Dillon scratched his beard. "Well, in any case, they concern me." Thea had never heard him say that before. "We keep hearing about them more and more every day, but their elusiveness grows at the same time. We send spies and even investigate ourselves, but with no luck. If it grows anymore, we think you should take action, Thea."
That was something Thea didn't want to hear. She knew what they were implying, but she refused to even consider it. "I want you to do the same as Egon and Gerda. Report to me when I reach out to you, and I'll do what I can. I'll even have Remus help if need be." Remus was absurdly quick in delivering supplies, messages, and even people with his ability. "I'll send more soldiers, spies, resources, whatever you need. Give me a written report of what you require by the time you return to Shiganshina and I'll organize its shipment immediately. Is that understood?"
Reluctantly, the two of them agreed. Thea straightened in her chair, glad to have it all settled. "Alright, well I'm glad that we could discuss these things. I'm as concerned as you are about these different issues and I promise I'll help in any way I can." She meant it. "Is there anything else that anyone would like to speak of? Important, I mean?" She shot Edith a sharp look as she opened her mouth, then closed it. There was silence. "Alright, well, I wish Volkan was here to meet with us, but I'll have to speak to him another time. I'll let you know of anything important that he tells me. Is there anything that you'd like me to convey to him for you?"
"We miss him!" Bathilda said, sounding like the mother she was to all of them.
Thea nodded. "What about you, Edith?" It was Thea's turn to be mischievous.
Edith's cheeks colored and her eyes widened. "I'm sure I don't know what you're talking about!" She sounded violated. Of course, the rest of them knew what she was talking about. Egon even winked his eyebrows at her a couple of times. She didn't notice since she was steadily staring at the table in front of her, as if she were concentrating hard to not look anywhere else.
"I'm sorry Edith, I couldn't resist." Thea quickly tried to change the subject. "Well, we all know that the first match tomorrow is between Remus and Gerda. I look forward to seeing it!" There were some modest cheers and a "Woo hoo!" from one or two. With that, Thea stood, and everyone else followed. They walked out together, still chuckling and exchanging kind words.
Thea settled into the evening, occupying the same couch where her brother Lucas had earlier immersed himself in a book. She gently brushed her long, straight, black hair that cascaded down to her upper back, dressed in a soft, light blue silk gown that, despite being slightly baggy, offered a heightened sense of comfort. While the rest of her family had succumbed to the embrace of sleep, Thea opted to linger a bit longer. Occasionally, she glanced out of the windows, observing the city's hustle and bustle beneath the darkened sky.
Despite the darkness outside, cables adorned with lit lights crisscrossed between buildings, creating an almost daylight-like illumination. The rhythmic clop of horses' hooves echoed on the stone streets as carriages ferried people to and fro. The captivating sounds of the city made Thea beam.
As she contemplated retiring to her bedroom, Malcolm swung open both doors to the room with his characteristic smooth motion. "Your majesty," he said gently. "Volkan has arrived. Shall I summon him here?"
Thea, who had requested Malcolm to inform her if Volkan arrived that evening, had resigned herself to the idea that the meeting would likely occur tomorrow. However, now that he was here, she realized that waiting would only complicate matters with the demanding schedule that would follow.
"Thank you, Malcolm. Send him up here. We'll talk in this room," she replied, eschewing formality given the late hour and the expected brevity of their conversation.
Malcolm bowed his head and promptly exited. As Thea mentally prepared for their discussion, considering topics ranging from territorial tensions to trade and infrastructure, the doors swung open abruptly, and Volkan strode in. Though he was a young man, he towered over the other shifters with a muscular physique. His fiery red crew-cut hair and short beard framed a face with bright, almost amber-brown eyes. Locking eyes with Thea's bright blue gaze, he smiled and bowed. "Good to see you, Thea."
Thea rose from her seat and approached him, arms outstretched. "Likewise, Volkan." After a brief embrace, she gestured for him to join her on the couch.
Though Volkan remained a close friend, Thea mentally steeled herself for his imposing presence, which rivaled even Dillon's. In addition to his robust physique, he possessed the most potent titan ability among the eight—second only to Thea—the Colossal Titan. The sheer force and energy released during the transformation had no equal to anything Thea had ever seen, capable of decimating an entire town. Standing at an impressive 60 meters, the resulting titan could crush hills and potentially reduce buildings to rubble with each step. It was evident to all that he abstained from Titan Duels, not just due to the lack of competition but the immense danger associated with transforming. The thought of Volkan transforming in the stadium made Thea shudder, not out of mistrust, but due to the potential consequences. Despite his intimidating aura, Volkan was, in reality, a gentle and reserved man—a fact that influenced Thea's decision to entrust him with such a formidable power two years prior.
Thea initiated, "Thank you for meeting with me. You seem tired, so I'll keep this brief."
Volkan closed his eyes, then widened them, as if struggling against encroaching fatigue. "Yeah, I'm a bit worn out. The journey was quite long, and I'm sorry for being late. But it feels good to be back in the city. I'm sure we're all in for a good time. Have you had a chance to catch up with the others?"
"Yes, earlier in the day. We were all sorry you weren't there. Barthilda wanted to convey that we missed you, and… Edith says hi." That was all she could muster. "You'll get a chance to see them all tomorrow."
Volkan's mood brightened slightly at the mention of Edith. "I look forward to that. I'm sorry I couldn't be there, but the carriages I took were somewhat slow. I'd like to stay for a week or two after the duels to delay traveling back."
Thea nodded enthusiastically. He deserved that and more. But he continued, "But I can't. I have news that I think you should hear." He looked to her for permission, much like Barthilda earlier in the day, and once again Thea had to suppress her pride. She gave a simple nod, and Volkan continued, "There are… titans on Paradis Island." Thea gripped her gown, leaning forward, her face tightening. But before she could unleash a barrage of questions, Volkan raised a hand to assure her. "I'll tell you everything I know, Thea. Just give me a chance."
Thea sat back, but her tension lingered. Titans? How had she not known? Paradis Island, off the coast of Mitras, Volkan's territory to the North East, was large and remote. Currently used for mining an ore with few known uses, it rarely factored into the empire's business, let alone Thea's responsibilities. It was the last place she expected to hear such news.
"They were discovered by miners setting up a new camp about a month ago," Volkan began. "Six in total so far; there aren't any more in the area to our knowledge, but they're half buried in the earth, and half embedded in titan crystal, so we can't know for sure." Titan crystal, the material some shifters used. For instance, it formed Gerda's armor plates and Egon's weapons, but a mindless titan using it? Unheard of! "And they're not moving, even when exposed to sunlight."
Thea sighed in relief. That meant they posed no immediate danger. Of course, she should've known. If they were normal titans, half-buried, they would emerge fully in the sunlight and rampage. But these remained motionless. Most likely too deformed to function correctly, if at all.
"Most interestingly, or perhaps most worryingly, they're big. Very big. They may stand just under my titan's height, and they look very similar. No skin, just muscle and bone. The only big difference I can tell is that they're mindless. At least I'm pretty certain they are. We've done some work to clean up debris, but for the most part, they lay untouched. I thought it best to ask you for the best course of action before doing too much with them."
Thea put a finger to her lips in contemplation. "I need to think." Some tension released, but it was still a lot to process. Nearly 60-meter high mindless titans, half-buried, half encased in titan crystal. What could this mean? She knew she had to visit the site personally. The Founding Titan was the only thing that could safely handle these titans and verify Volkan's claims. She didn't doubt him, but there were too many factors that made no sense. She had to see for herself and feel the titans with her power.
She also pondered who these titans were. A titan could only materialize from an individual of the founder Ymir's blood, which included all Eldian citizens. When transformed, the resulting titan could only be a quarter as tall as what Volkan claimed.
Thea realized she felt frustrated. So much news and a mountain of questions. Almost none could be answered now. She wanted to understand everything her friends had told her. Perhaps to gain more control over the situation. She vaguely recalled feeling a slight irritation in previous meetings with the shifters, but never this much. Today's news was a lot to swallow, meaning a lot of work and responsibility for Thea. She had to keep her people safe, which meant dealing with these issues as soon as possible. However, she couldn't do it now. The Titan Duels were a fun event meant to unite her people and the shifters, a chance for her citizens to gather for something enjoyable. Just as important to her, and she hoped all of Eldia. Was she being selfish? No, the absence of protest or argument from the other shifters suggested agreement. At the end of the week, she could be on Paradis within days, and her work would begin then.
She updated Volkan on what the others had told her and her plans to address each issue after the duels. He nodded intently, asked occasional questions, but his reaction mirrored the others until she mentioned the Patriots. His eyebrows furrowed. "I've heard of them. I heard reports that a couple had caused trouble in Liberio just as I was getting a boat to go to Paradis. I didn't think they were anything more than a common small-time group of criminals, though."
Thea considered. If this group was in two different districts on opposite sides of the empire, they could've easily spread. Unlikely, as Dillon and Bathilda had only known of the Patriots for a little over a month. Volkan even less. However, even if it was just a few in the city of Liberio, they were still there. Thea conveyed the same instructions given to Bathilda and Dillon, additionally telling him to capture and interrogate a member if possible. They might be easier to spot in the city of Liberio. He would have whatever resources he needed, like the others, and she encouraged him to prioritize this. He agreed without hesitation.
A few more words exchanged, and they were both updated on each other's news. No more unexpected or unpleasant revelations, a relief for Thea. She had enough on her plate. For now, she looked forward to the gathering of all the shifters and many Eldians for an extravagant competition.
With that, she and Volkan stood, he giving a nod of the head and a crook of a smile before turning to go. They exchanged farewells, and as the door closed, tiredness hit Thea. The stress, no doubt. She immediately went to her bedchambers, putting the slew of new problems out of her mind, focusing only on the fun and excitement in the days ahead. A happy time, she believed, making her empire a better place after this year's Titan Duels.