Gate Hunters

Days passed following the events at the Blue Gate. I found myself primarily spending time with family on several occasions.

For the others, I would go within a Gate and train Zero.

Today was the thirteen of February. Two more days before the event.

I spent my day with Zero at a brown Gate. He proved to be a decent hunter, yet the only issue is his lack of skill in harnessing both his negative and positive gifts to their fullest potential.

(Ten minutes later)

"Let's take a break of here." I spoke.

Our environment was a giant desert, and our inhabitants are sand goblins.

As we lay on the sandy ground, he posed an intriguing question, "Between the GEA and Hunting Guilds, which one would you choose to work with if you were beginning your hunting journey?"

"The GEA functions similarly to a private army, taking on assignments globally. They hone your skills and ensure that you are financial stable. In essence, joining them turns you into a corporate hunter, focused on ascending the ranks. On the other hand, Guilds offer government-licensed jobs to all, regardless of level or rank. The pay is depending on the job, and expert training isn't guaranteed. However, it frees you from the stringent rules of corporate life. Given the choice between the two, I would go for the corporate route," I explained.

Zero lifted himself up and asked, "Why? Don't you want to take down the GEA? Why would you want to work for them?"

I also raised myself up and continued to gaze toward the horizon. "The reason is that corporate hunters have more control and offer far more opportunities. Moreover, Guild Hunters don't closely monitor those who enter the Gates, nor do they conduct background checks. For instance, a group could form a party to raid a dark Gate. One of your party members is an ex-prisoner with sexual charges on their name. After everyone is tired, wounded or not paying attention. That party member then assaults everyone before killing them. After they are done, they leave and go on like nothing happened with enough money to feed an entire orphanage. And the victims disappear along with the Gates... never to be seen again." I mentioned.

He gazed toward the horizon beside me. "Has that ever happened to someone close to you?" I inquired.

"Not to me and but a friend of mine. Her husband was doing a raid but simply picked the wrong people. There's no proof since the evidence disappeared. Anyways let's continue with the raid-" before I could move past this conversation.

I heard her voice, "Hello everyone, I have some information about the White Gate. A large number of GEA hunters are currently traveling by boat to an offshore island near Africa. And another thing, the GEA office located here has closed their office until the sixteenth of February. This means we all must be ready to dispatch tomorrow." Molly's voice sounded a bit too excited for this operation.

Zero tugged at my jacket sleeve and ask, "Is something wrong?" It was clear he hadn't received the transmission from Molly.

"We are starting a raid on the fifteen and Oracle inform us of its location. This one is going to be a big one so I will share-" without even wasting a second. He planted his head on the ground and assumed begging position.

"PLEASE SIR, LET ME JOIN! I NOT GOING TO GET INVOLVED OR EVEN IF IT MEANS I HAVE TO STAND AND WATCH FROM THE DISTANCE THEN IM FINE WITH THAT! JUST PLEASE LET ME JOIN YOU GUYS!" It's weird but I kind of expected this outcome.

He will be a hindrance to us if he gets capture, but it will be great to expose him to what we are doing.

"I talk with the others first and if we all agree then sure." I spoke.

Leaping up with excitement sparkling in his eyes, he exclaimed, "Okay, let's go clear this Gate already." Clutching his sword tightly, he dashed off in a random direction, hoping to lure out the enemies.

I just laughed at his antics before taking flight and watch him from the skies.

(3 hours later)

After today's training session with Zero, I visited a jewellery store to update my ring collection. Collecting various types of rings is a hobby of mine, and Neo City advertised that they had an impressive selection.

"Looking for anything?" Ask the store clerk.

The rings all appeared attractive, yet the reputation of the brands raises concerns for me.

Vergil Diamonds, Dante Deluxe and Morrisons are the brands I'm unfamiliar with.

"If you're interested, we have a special offer on Virginia ice couple combos," the store clerk said, drawing my attention to the Virginia ice couple rings.

They look stunning, and I'm sure Ruby would love the other one. "Give me a second," I said as I pulled out my phone and quickly messaged Ruby to ask about her ring size.

After she saw my message, she responded but took her sweet time typing.

I informed the clerk that I am purchasing two Virginia Ice couples' rings in both my size and Ruby's.

"Thank you and I hope the miss will enjoy her present." Said the friendly store clerk.

(30 minutes later)

Upon my return home, Amber greeted me with curiosity, "Papa, what's that in your hand?" Her eyes had caught the glimpse of the small black box resting in my right palm. I swiftly tucked it into my pants pocket.

"It's a surprise gift for your mother. Can you tell me where she is?" I asked.

Amber glanced at me slyly before pointing upstairs. "That's why mommy is suddenly not feeling well. I think I'll watch TV for a while," she said, and scampered off to the living room.

As for me, I confidently walked my way to our bedroom and entered inside. She was sleeping underneath her blanket in the dark.

Slowly closing the door and slowly making my way to her.

I sat beside her and asked, "Are you awake?"...no response.

I observed that her right arm was not fully covered. "The fifteen will arrive soon, and I imagine you're probably stressed after hearing Molly's transmission," I said, as I gently grasped her palm.

Her palm was slightly sweaty, but she seemed to accept my gasp, "And I bet you believe that something might happen to me." I cupped her hand firmly yet gently, lifting it just enough to avoid 'waking' her.

Lowering my head, I pressed my forehead to her hand. "Just know this—I won't die even if I'm facing my end. I will defy fate itself and return to your arms." Then, lifting my head, I reached for the box with my free hand.

After slipping the ring onto her finger, I lifted my head and softly kissed her hand, saying, "You are my wife, and I am your husband. It is my duty to ensure your happiness." Then, gently placing her hand back on the bed, I slowly rose to my feet.

"I'll leave you alone for now. I'm going to watch TV with Amber, so if you need me, you'll know where to find me." I continued to hold the remaining ring in my hand.

Putting on my version of the ring on my right ring finger before heading to the door.

Before I left, I saw her arm move underneath the blanket. Looks like somebody is going to have trouble sleeping.