Gate Hunters

"I'd like to know more about this team, now that we're beginning to build trust among ourselves. Why was it formed?" I said, leaning casually against the wall.

"It's quite straightforward. The Gates have been unleashing monsters incessantly, not just in Neon City but worldwide. Naturally, we hunters take them down to prevent human extinction. However, the GEA has been engaging in some shady activities behind the scenes. For instance, they've been eliminating certain hunters, irrespective of their rank, precisely at midnight in the middle of the month. There's a particular Gate that opens, which they seem to want off-limits for some reason, forbidding anyone from approaching or raiding it. These Gates have been materializing in various countries around the world," explained Peter.

I hastily inquired, "Could it have been a dark Gate? They probably—" but I was cut off before I could finish.

Ruby replied immediately, "These are the White Gates... My ex-husband, once a GEA hunter, died after entering one. I'll never forget the day he was thrown out, only his head remaining. He had been sent to handle this specific Gate by the GEA director—a White Gate with a sparkling coffin emanating from it, aptly named The Gate of Death." As she spoke, her tone shifted from the sorrow of recalling her ex-husband to the fury towards that particular Gate.

How fascinating, "From my understanding, the GEA has been dispatching hunters to this specific Gate for reasons that remain unclear. They might intend to deliberately eliminate them or perhaps it's a test to discover what lies within." Molly appeared eager to build on my theory.

"Miss Molly, don't be shy and share what you got to say." I spoke

"Right, um, I meant to say that Krist isn't mistaken. The issue is that they've been targeting individuals who either become too popular or whose Gifts are too powerful. Lately, hunters with rare abilities have been disappearing, only to be found dead days later. I suspect they're eliminating those with dangerous abilities to balance the scales between the common and uncommon. It's evident that on the fifteenth of every month, there's a significant number of top and mid-tier hunters vanishing compared to those of lower tiers," she explained. It's not just the GEA causing hunter fatalities; they're also diminishing the population of those with rare abilities.

The mood changed as all eyes focus onto me, "Krist, you are the key figure we need in order to unravel this story. I know you might not like this, but you are currently one of the strongest people on the planet. We believe that you can survive whatever is in there." Ruby's eyes conveyed a silent plea.

Reflecting on her words, 'you are currently one of the strongest.' a phase that I got stuck with me but with different meanings.

If you understood my life then yes, you would understand how much weight you are carry with the entire planet on your shoulders.

I have the power to save millions of people from ever experiencing Death. But I also have the power to be selfish and live my life the way I want it to be.

If I'm going to die protecting mankind... then at the very least I'm going form bonds with as much people as possible. Mainly you... Ruby.

"I understand why you want me on your team, and I'm not going to decline the position. However, I need to know how we will be able to enter the White Gate?" I asked, posing the most crucial question at that moment.

Peter begun smiling mischievously, "We go in gun blazing and beat up as many guards as possible. Destroy their communication and collect any important files. Once Krist is in there kicking ass and taking names. We will make sure he doesn't receive trouble afterwards. The GEA will think the Gates was responsible for it and we can leave like free birds." Said the extremely excited old man.

The others seemed to like this idea of his, "I will keep watch as the teams Navigator." Said Molly.

"As vice commander, I will perform to the best of my ability to ensure my husband's time inside is easier," stated Ruby as she walked over and leaned against my shoulder.

I chuckled softly and leaned my head against hers. "As the invader, I shall conquer whatever lies beyond that portal," I declared. Extending my hand towards Ruby, she gracefully accepted, entwining her fingers with mine in a gentle embrace.

Finally, Peter rose from his corner, bottle of wine in hand, and declared, "As the commander and founder of this team, I will guide us to success and happiness. Now, let's drink."

"Sorry sir but we need to get ready for work so maybe another time." Said Molly.

"Molly has a point. The other employees might become irritated if you keep giving us breaks all the time. Let's demonstrate our responsibility instead," she said.

I could see the disappointed in his eyes. He looked towards me hoping for some good news.

Then I looked at Ruby with the same pleading eyes. To which she said, "Go ahead."

"You heard that, Peter. I'm going to be your drinking buddy," I declared with such enthusiasm that Peter promptly went to fetch some glasses.

"Molly tell everyone that I left early for a business meeting." Said Peter going through the cupboards.

Now that I'm thinking about it. This is the first time I will be drinking alcohol. I wonder if it tastes good.