26

Zion stood before the shimmering portal, his heart pounding with a mixture of determination and apprehension. His tattoo pulsed with a warm glow, its intricate design marking him as a key to unlocking the portal's power. Asahi, his assigned teammate, stood beside him, his eyes reflecting a mix of anticipation and resolve.

"We have to be quick," Zion said, his voice steady despite the adrenaline coursing through his veins. "Once we step through, we won't have much time before the portal closes."

Asahi nodded, his expression serious. "Understood. We need to make every second count."

With a shared nod, they stepped into the portal, feeling the familiar sensation of being pulled into the rift between worlds. As they emerged on the other side, they found themselves in the midst of chaos. Men in dark cloaks surrounded them, their weapons drawn and menacing.

Zion wasted no time. Drawing his sword, he leaped into action, his movements fluid and precise. Asahi followed suit, his movements