Gate Hunters

(Krist Stainer point of view)

The team and I gathered in the café's backroom to watch the news.

For the first time in Neon City's history, an invasion is taking place. It has been reported that three days ago, both Sun Valley City and Oklahoma City experienced their own invasions.

This gate was a colossal structure of dark blue, so vast that it spanned the entire city, blanketing the sky in sheer blackness.

The news featured videos of monsters battling hunters, with the monsters gaining the upper hand due to the overwhelming number of creatures emerging from the Gate.

Upon examining the invaders' faces once again, I recognized them as the same creatures from the Gate where I discovered Evergreen.

Molly utilized her abilities to identify the primary source. It was, coincidentally, at the same hospital I had visited.

Ruby asked the question that was on everyone's mind, "So what now, are we going to help out or let the other hunters deal them?" She spoke.

Peter, our drunken leader, leapt from his seat and declared, "Of course we're going to fight them, for three reasons: First, although we don't have as many hunters as the other cities, we can still provide support to our fellow hunters, provided we all wear masks. We can't risk revealing our identities unless we're certain we can trust anyone. Second, one of our targets is in that very hospital. Since Krist couldn't speak with him, it would be in our advantage to assist him. And finally, why not? I've been eager to engage in a fight, and I'm sure you feel the same, right Krist and Ruby?"

We received our orders from our drunken inspiring leader, and I can't deny everything he said was true. Evergreen is still there and since I couldn't make contact with him. I could score some extra points by keeping him safe.

My phone rang three times before I answered. "Krist Stainer speaking. May I ask who's calling?" I inquired.

"H-Hello sir, it's me. Zero from the hospital. Please can you come and help me. They are in the hospital..." Zero's suddenly hang up.

This is actually quite bad, "The second guy I mentioned. Zero, is trapped in the hospital with them." I spoke.

"Why is he... it's not important at the moment. Right now, this is our first official team mission. Here's the plan: Peter and I will head to the hospital to carry out the rescue, Molly, you'll remain here to provide support, and honey, we need you to destroy the Gate. Is everyone clear with that?" Ruby asked of everyone present.

Already dressed in my raiding gear from a recent Gate venture that netted me a swift ten thousand, I was ready for battle. "Time to shut it down before the city's casualty rate increase." I said to everyone. Mask secured, I stepped out of the building, ready to confront what awaited.

Taking a deep breath and exhaling fully, I declared, "Let's go." With that, I soared into the sky and headed straight for the Gate.

(Ruby Strainer point of view)

He'll pull through; I'm confident in that. As one of the most formidable hunters, there's no need for concern.

Beside my leg was my suitcase with my raiding uniform, "While my husband deals with them. We should get changed." I spoke.

Peter waited outside while we changed. I donned my uniform followed by my mask.

Molly's outfit was far more innocent but darling. She wore a simple nun's uniform that reveal some of her skin. Her mask depicted a face split between joy and rage, with the word 'Guilt' scrawled in red from her forehead down to her lips.

Once we were done. We waited outside for Peter to get changed.

As we waited, I considered seeking Molly's perspective on a personal matter. "Hey Molly, can I ask you a quick question?" After all, young people often have fresh insights into adult situations.

Molly replied cheerfully, "Sure, it's surprising to see you seeking my advice."

"Well, let's just say I'm concerned about Ken's inability to accept Krist. I was going to ask what someone your age would do in that situation?" I inquired.

She moved closer to me and leaned against the wall. "Oh, I forgot you have two children... If you want my honest opinion, if you're happy, then your children will be happy too. Ken doesn't want you to be with someone who makes you cry; he wants you to be with someone who makes you happy. That's what I would want if I were in that situation." Her advice was exactly what I needed to hear.

I don't want to force him into liking Krist but at same time I believe it's time he accepts the reality that Johnathan is gone, and we need to move on.

...

I am truly a hypocrite sometimes, but I believe after I learn the truth. I will finally get the closure I need to not use his death as an excuse to not to better myself.

Besides, Krist is a good person, and it feels unfair that he is willing to make an effort to make this feel real while I'm just stuck with...

"Thanks, Molly, I needed to hear that. Once this is over, I'll discuss the matter with Ken," I said while giving Molly a gentle pat on her head.

I hope those two are doing okay. They both should be at school in the underground bunkers being protected by top grade hunters.

Their protection should be guaranteed but even then, I still worry for them.

Arriving out of the back room of the café. Was my boss Peter in his raiding uniform.

Dressed in a gladiator-like uniform, he carried a metal cane. "Alright, let's debate," he declared, slipping on his green mask adorned with an angry expression, starry eyes, and the word 'REGRETS' spanning from the left to the right cheek.