24

As Zion ventured deeper into the unfamiliar surroundings, the oppressive stillness of the forest weighed heavy on his senses. Suddenly, a familiar figure materialized from the shadows ahead. It was Asta, the mage with whom Zion had recently shared a conversation.

However, something was clearly amiss. Asta's usually calm and collected demeanor was replaced by a vacant stare, his eyes devoid of recognition or warmth. His movements were rigid, almost mechanical, as if he were being controlled by an unseen force.

Before Zion could even react, Asta lunged at him with surprising speed and ferocity. Zion barely managed to deflect the initial blow, his mind racing to comprehend what was happening. "Asta, stop!" he called out, but his colleague continued to attack relentlessly, his expression devoid of emotion or recognition.

Zion defended himself, trying to reason with Asta between their clashes. "Asta, snap out of it! What's wrong?" he pleaded, but his words seemed to fall on deaf ears.

As