"Why did you take so long, little kitten?"
Eliza asked playfully, a hint of amusement in her voice, as she and Eren faced each other.
She could see that Eren had undergone a profound transformation since their last encounter. He retained the same determination and purpose, but his experiences had left their mark, changing his perspective on life.
She sensed that he regarded her with caution, but not fear, not anymore.
"Just had to tie up some loose ends," Eren replied casually, meeting Eliza's gaze steadily.
"But I'm ready now. I assume you've completed your preparations as well?" he added, glancing at Layla, who stood behind Eliza. Reen, too, was by Layla's side, her gaze fixed on Eren, her movements constrained by runic bindings that Eliza had imposed.
"Indeed. But… You… you seem oddly confident about this whole thing. Is there anything you want to declare beforehand?"
