The soldiers rushed forward to help the survivors, medical personnel appearing with supplies and support.
The media cameras zoomed in, broadcasting images of bloodied, exhausted men being supported by military personnel, their faces showing trauma and relief in equal measure.
Ryan looked up at Eric as medics began treating him, his grey hair matted with old blood, his eyes haunted.
"Sir, you need to know... we faced the Giants. Over a thousand of them... All Elite warriors. We should have all been dead."
His voice shook with emotion.
"But one person... one person killed them all and saved all of us. He did things I can't even begin to explain."
Eric's eyes narrowed.
"Who? Which survivor managed–"
Suddenly, the portal pulsed again.
Every soldier's attention snapped back to the entrance.
The oppressive pressure that had been retracted suddenly returned, but not from the military garrison.
This pressure came from inside the portal. From something that was emerging now!
