Chapter 21

"Ah, Ray! I'm glad you reached out," Amelia's voice echoed warmly through the phone. "I remember you from our encounter with the Wendigos. How have you been?"

Ray took a moment to collect his thoughts, the weight of his decision settling upon him. "I've been well, thank you. I've recently become a D-rank hunter, and I've made up my mind. I want to join the Silver Fangs and learn from your team."

Amelia's voice held a hint of excitement. "That's excellent news, Ray. We would be honoured to have someone like you on board. You've already proven your mettle in battle, and I believe you have the potential to become a formidable hunter."

Ray's heart swelled with a mix of pride and determination. "Thank you, Amelia. I'm eager to learn from your team and contribute to the fight against supernatural threats."

Amelia's voice grew more serious. "Becoming a Silver Fang is no easy task, Ray. Our team operates at a high level of skill and precision. But if you're willing to put in the effort and dedication, we will support you every step of the way."

Ray's resolve remained unwavering. "I understand the challenges that lie ahead, and I'm ready to give it my all. I want to protect others and make a difference."

Amelia's tone softened with reassurance. "I believe you have what it takes, usually you would have to gain a thorough evaluation personally overwatched by us, but I pulled some strings within the Hunter's association and viewed your Hunter exam. I can guarantee your place on the Silver Fangs after your performance which I must say is impressive for someone of your age and hunter age."

Ray's determination burned brighter. "Thank you for the praise, Amelia. I won't let you or the team down. I'm eager to prove myself and contribute to the Silver Fangs."

Amelia's voice held a note of pride. "I look forward to meeting you, Ray. Your journey as a Silver Fang begins now. Prepare yourself, and we will contact you with further details soon."

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before Amelia continued, her voice filled with satisfaction. "I had a feeling you'd choose us. Your tenacity in the face of danger speaks volumes. Meet me at our headquarters tomorrow, and we'll finalize everything."

Ray's excitement grew exponentially. Joining the Silver Fang team meant joining a family of exceptional hunters, renowned for their expertise and accomplishments. "Tomorrow? I'll be there."

Amelia's tone turned serious as she continued, "Tomorrow won't just be a formality, Ray. We have a D-rank raid scheduled, and it will be your first mission with us. It's a chance for you to prove your worth and demonstrate your capabilities in the field."

A surge of adrenaline coursed through Ray's veins at the mention of the raid. This was the moment he had been preparing for—the opportunity to face real dangers and make a difference. "I'm ready for the challenge, Amelia. I'll give it my all."

Amelia's voice exuded confidence and assurance. "I believe in you, Ray. Remember, the Silver Fang team is more than just a group of hunters. We're a family, and we watch out for one another. Welcome aboard."

As the call ended, Ray couldn't help but feel a mixture of excitement and nervousness. Tomorrow would mark the beginning of a new chapter in his life, stepping into the world of professional hunters and joining the esteemed Silver Fang team. With a renewed sense of purpose, he spent the rest of the evening preparing himself physically and mentally for the upcoming raid.

The following morning, Ray arrived at the Silver Fang headquarters, his heart pounding with anticipation. The sprawling compound hummed with activity as hunters moved about, preparing their gear and discussing strategy. Amelia greeted him with a warm smile, guiding him to a private office where the necessary paperwork awaited.

"How comes there are so many hunters? I thought there were only 4 people in Silver Fang?" Ray asked.

"For the main team you would be correct but it has just expanded to 5, you." Amelia smiled. "Beyond that we have many affiliated hunters who are less talented and too low ranked to join us but still wanted to bear our emblem so we have them split into other teams to raid the lower levelled dungeons and we use them as extra firepower for C rank dungeons as long as they're D rank with enough experience"

"If that's the case, shouldn't I be extra firepower considering I'm D ranked?" Ray asked gloomily.

"Of course not!" Amelia chuckled. "Your rank may be D rank, but it's higher than most of the people you see around here. And these people definitely could not say they were D rank at the budding age of 18 either!"

Ray nodded, pride filling his heart, but it was extinguished just as quickly as it came at the thought of Jessica, the 19 year old B rank.

As Ray signed the documents, he couldn't help but feel a sense of belonging. The Silver Fang team was his new home, a place where his skills and dedication would be honed and celebrated. Amelia assured him that his training would continue, and he would be mentored by experienced members of the team.

Just as Ray finished signing, Amelia's voice echoed through the office. "Ray, I'm glad to have you on board. But remember, today is not just about paperwork. We have a D-rank raid to attend. It's a minor threat, but every mission is an opportunity to prove yourself."

Ray's eyes sparkled with determination as he met Amelia's gaze. "I'm ready, Amelia. I'll give it everything I've got."