Chapter 18

Ray complied leaving the test chamber to be greeted by a bunch of officials waiting outside along with the other hunters.

He stood before the officials, his heart filled with a mix of excitement and determination.

They began to get hunters to step forward outlining whether they passed or not and giving those who did their new hunter IDs.

"Ray Obsidian, step forward," an official declared. "Well done, we have seen your exploits and are happy to welcome you into our ranks"

He knows that becoming a hunter is not just a title; it's a responsibility—a commitment to safeguarding the innocent, upholding justice, and facing the unknown with unwavering courage.

"I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me. I will carry the badge of a hunter with pride and honour. I understand the weight of this responsibility and vow to fulfil it to the best of my abilities." Ray responds.

"We have no doubt that you will excel in your new role, Ray. Your exceptional performance throughout the trials has proven that you possess the qualities necessary to be a hunter—a combination of strength, intelligence, resilience, and compassion." The official says. "Your journey begins now. You will be assigned missions that will test your abilities and take you to different corners of the world. Remember to rely on your training, instincts, and the support of your fellow hunters to improve."

"I shall, I am grateful for the opportunity to serve and protect. I look forward to embarking on my first mission and proving myself as a worthy hunter." Ray responds.

"Ray, your journey through the Hunter's Trials has been nothing short of remarkable. Your strength, speed, endurance, and combat prowess are among the best. You've proven yourself worthy of the title of hunter." The official continues and hands Ray a hunter ID "With this identification, you are now recognized as a full-fledged hunter. Your skills will be put to the test in real missions, where you'll face dangers, protect the innocent, and unravel mysteries. We have no doubt that you'll become one of the greatest hunters.

"I won't let you down. I'll fulfil my duty as a hunter and protect all" Ray declares.

Ray stood alongside Jake, Jessica, and the other hunters, waiting for their results. It was a tense atmosphere, filled with anticipation and a sense of camaraderie among those who had faced the challenges together.

As the group dispersed, Jessica approached Ray, a newfound respect evident in her eyes. "You held your own, Ray. I must admit, you surprised me."

Ray smiled, a sense of accomplishment filling his being. "Thank you, Jessica. It means a lot coming from a B-rank hunter like you."

She nodded, a touch of camaraderie softening her gaze. "Keep pushing yourself, Ray. The world needs strong hunters like us. I'll be watching."

Ray's eyes met Jessica's, and he felt a surge of gratitude for her acknowledgment. They had fought side by side, tested their limits together, and now shared a bond forged in the heat of battle. As the other hunters dispersed, Ray couldn't help but reflect on the arduous journey that had led him to this pivotal moment.

Daniel reappeared, a stack of envelopes in his hands, each containing the official rank assignments. He distributed them to the hunters, his voice filled with pride. "Congratulations, everyone. Your hard work and dedication have paid off. These envelopes contain your official ranks and initial assignments. Open them and discover your destiny as hunters."

Ray's heart raced as he carefully tore open the envelope, his hands trembling with anticipation. Unfolding the paper inside, he read the words that would define his new path. His eyes widened in awe as he absorbed the letters before him: Rank D.

A mix of excitement and relief surged through Ray's veins. He had surpassed his own expectations, rising to an esteemed rank among the hunters. The weight of the responsibility settled upon his shoulders, but he welcomed it with open arms.

As the hunters congratulated one another on their assigned ranks, Daniel approached Ray, a warm smile on his face. "Do you know who that woman is?"

"No…?" Ray responds.

"That is Jessica Steele, the youngest B rank hunter in the country at only 19 years old. If you can get to know her better, she could be a good network to help you improve as a hunter faster."

Ray acknowledges this thinking about Jessica.

"Anyway Ray, you've come a long way since we first met. Your dedication and determination have led you to this moment. You have the potential to become one of the greatest hunters this world has ever known."

Ray nodded; his voice filled with gratitude. "Thank you, Daniel. I couldn't have done it without the guidance and support of everyone here."

Daniel's eyes twinkled with pride. "Remember, Ray, being a hunter is not just about the title or the ranks. It's about protecting those who cannot protect themselves, making a difference in the lives of others. Embrace this opportunity, and let your courage and compassion guide you."

Ray stood tall; his resolve unyielding. "I will, Daniel. I will do whatever it takes to fulfill my duty as a hunter and safeguard the innocent."

As the group prepared to depart, each hunter heading towards their respective assignments, Daniel's voice resonated in Ray's ears. "Never forget that you have a support system within the Hunter Association. Reach out if you need assistance, guidance, or even just a listening ear. We are here for you, always."

Ray nodded; his heart filled with determination. With his official rank assigned and a world of challenges awaiting him, he was ready to embark on his first mission as a hunter. The trials had molded him, shaped him into a warrior capable of facing the unknown. The path ahead was uncertain, but Ray knew he had the strength, skills, and unwavering spirit to confront whatever lay in his way.

As he joined the ranks of the hunters, Ray looked back at his journey so far with a sense of pride. The trials had tested him, but they had also revealed his true potential. The once-ordinary young man had evolved into a protector, a guardian of humanity, ready to face the supernatural and bring light to the darkest corners of the world.