Paradis Island, the port, aboard a Marley supply ship.
"Now then, report on your mission's progress, Reiner," Zeke said with a yawn.
Reiner fell silent for a long time, his eyes filled with conflict and despair.
Pieck glanced at Reiner, vaguely guessing what had happened, and brought over two cups of hot tea.
Zeke took his and drained it in one gulp. Reiner accepted his but did not touch it.
"Zeyechuan died. The Survey Corps executed him on the spot. The Jaw Titan was killed instantly by the Thunder Devil Within the Walls. Bertolt and Annie were captured by the Survey Corps. Before she was captured, Annie used hardening to encase her entire body. The operation failed..." Reiner forced out each word through clenched teeth, his voice heavy with weariness.
"Warrior Commander, I'm willing to accept punishment. Please pass the Armored Titan on to the next warrior," Reiner said, lowering his head, his eyes dim.
"Ah, what a headache. I'll report your situation to General Magath exactly as it happened. The higher-ups will decide who inherits the Armored Titan. But with so many people dead, you bear a great deal of responsibility, Reiner," Zeke said, adjusting his glasses.
Reiner's eyes flickered, and he bowed his head even lower.
"Reiner, tell us exactly what happened. How did you fail? What's the story with this Thunder Devil?" Pieck asked.
"Within the Walls, there's a soldier named Chen Si. He has lightning power that can destroy any Titan. There's also our captain, Levi. He's an incredibly powerful soldier. Even Bertolt, Annie, and I together couldn't beat those two. Marcel was killed outright by Chen Si even earlier." Reiner's eyes were filled with fear.
"That sounds terrifying. Someone can slaughter Titans? Lightning power? Never heard of it. Could there be another Titan? That shouldn't