Chapter 12: The Gatekeepers and the Seven Pillars**

The tension in the air was palpable as Efe and Osahon stood before the Rift Gatekeepers, their path blocked by armored figures radiating an unmistakable aura of authority. The Rift crackled behind them, its swirling energy a taunting reminder of the battle they weren't allowed to join.

"You two don't have clearance," the lead Gatekeeper stated, his voice like iron.

Efe clenched his fists. "We've fought Rifts before. We can handle ourselves."

The Gatekeeper's gaze was unreadable beneath his helmet. "That may be true, but this Rift has been classified. Only designated operatives are permitted."

Osahon stepped forward, his mark glowing faintly. "And who decides that?"

The Gatekeeper sighed, as if weary of such confrontations. "The Seven Pillars."

At that name, both Efe and Osahon froze. The Seven Pillars were more than just an organization—they were the foundation of Nigeria's Rift defense. Unlike other countries that relied on independent guilds, Nigeria had structured its elite fighters into seven factions, each one ruling over a specific region while maintaining a stronghold in the capital. If one wanted to succeed in Rift combat, joining one of the Pillars was the only real path.

Another Gatekeeper, an older man with deep scars running across his arms, chuckled. "From the look on your faces, I take it you know of them."

Efe nodded slowly. "Who doesn't? But we've never seen them in action up close."

"Few do," the older Gatekeeper admitted. "But you'll get your chance soon enough."

One by one, figures clad in distinct battle gear strode past the blockade and entered the Rift. Even in the brief moments they were visible, their presence exuded power. The names of the Seven Pillars were legendary, each one tied to a specific region and its Rift history.

The Seven Pillars of Nigeria

The Obsidian Vanguards – Originating from the South-South, they are known for their indomitable resilience. Their leader is rumored to have ties to ancient forces of the sea and storm, wielding devastating elemental abilities.

The Zephyr Sentinels – Masters of agility and precision, they hail from the North-East. Their leader is said to possess a connection to a wind deity, making them nearly untouchable in battle.

The Crimson Fangs– Born from the North-West, they specialize in brutal close combat, their techniques derived from an ancient warrior lineage. Their leader's ties to an unknown war deity make them feared across the land.

The Iron Lords – Dominant in the Central region, they are renowned for their near-unbreakable defenses. Their leader is whispered to have a bloodline that grants them an unshakable fortress-like presence in battle.

The Ember Scales – Hailing from the South-East, they are masters of fire-based combat and destruction. It is believed their leader carries the will of a forgotten flame deity, making them a force of pure devastation.

The Phantom Wraiths– The shadow operatives of the South-West, known for espionage and assassinations. Their leader is believed to be connected to a spectral entity, allowing them to move unseen even in the fiercest battles.

The Seventh Pillar – The Nameless One – Unlike the others, this Pillar has no known origin, no official leader, and no confirmed abilities. It exists in rumors, its presence felt but never seen. Some say it is a single individual, others believe it is an entire hidden faction. Regardless, its influence is undeniable, and it operates beyond conventional Rift laws.

A Step Toward the Future

As the last of the Pillar members vanished into the Rift, Efe and Osahon exchanged a look. Their path was clear—if they wanted to stand at the peak, they needed to carve a way into one of the Seven Pillars.

Osahon smirked. "Looks like we've got our work cut out for us."

Efe grinned. "Then let's get started."

The world of the Rifts had just gotten bigger, and their journey was far from over.

To be continue.....