Natalie's POV
I woke in darkness. Not the absence of light but actual physical darkness that pressed against my skin like water. Heavy. Suffocating. I tried to move but my body would not respond. My arms hung limp at my sides. My legs would not bend. Panic flooded through me hot and fast. I could not breathe. Could not scream. Could not do anything except exist in this terrible pressing void.
Then a voice spoke. "Welcome, Winter Child."
It was female and ancient and coming from everywhere and nowhere at the same time. The sound vibrated through my bones. Made my teeth ache.
"You have chosen the Path of Ascension. You will face three trials: Blood, Will, and Power. Survive and you will rise as Sovereign. Fail and you will be consumed."
The darkness shifted around me. Started to peel aw
