The air outside the association was heavy with anticipation. Rahul’s fingers toyed with his Hunter ID as he stood amidst a crowd of newly registered hunters. A large board near the entrance displayed available missions, most of them in low-risk rifts suitable for E-rank hunters.

Rahul approached the board, scanning the list. Most of the missions involved scouting low-level rifts or clearing weak monsters. Just as he was about to select one, a voice interrupted him.

"First timer?" A tall man with a muscular build and a confident grin stood next to him. "Name’s Arjun. You new to the game?"

Rahul nodded, hesitant. "Yeah, just got my ID."

"Nice. I remember my first day," Arjun said, clapping Rahul on the shoulder. "Stick with me. I’ve got a group heading to a Class-E rift just outside the city. We’re always looking for fresh faces."

Rahul hesitated. Joining a group could be beneficial, but he wasn’t sure how much he wanted to reveal about his abilities. Still, the offer seemed genuine.

"Alright," Rahul said. "I’ll join you."

"Good choice," Arjun said with a grin. "Meet us at the city gates in an hour. Bring your gear."

As Rahul prepared for the mission, he couldn’t help but feel a mix of excitement and apprehension. This was his first step into the dangerous world of rift exploration. The Hyper Unique System remained silent, its interface pulsing faintly in the corner of his vision. Whatever lay ahead, he knew he wasn’t facing it alone.

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At the city gates, he met Arjun’s group—a diverse team of hunters, each equipped with weapons and gear that hinted at their respective abilities. Arjun introduced them quickly: Siya, a healer; Kabir, a ranged specialist; and Anika, a close-combat fighter.

"Stick close," Arjun instructed as the group entered the rift. "These low-level rifts aren’t too dangerous, but complacency gets you killed."

Rahul nodded, gripping his weapon tightly. The air inside the rift was thick and humid, the landscape twisted and alien. As they ventured deeper, faint growls echoed in the distance.

"Stay alert," Arjun said, his eyes scanning the shadows. "We’ve got company."

The first wave of monsters emerged—small, wolf-like creatures with glowing red eyes. The group sprang into action, each member displaying impressive coordination. Rahul hung back at first, observing their tactics. When one of the beasts lunged at him, his system activated:

"Target: Raksha Lupine. Weakness: Hind legs. Recommended Strategy: Cripple mobility before delivering a fatal blow."

Rahul followed the advice, striking the creature’s hind legs with precision. It collapsed, and he delivered a final blow to its neck. The system chimed:

"Raksha Lupine Defeated. No rewards available."

Disappointed but undeterred, Rahul pressed on. The group cleared the rift efficiently, gathering valuable monster parts along the way. As they exited, Arjun clapped him on the back.

"Not bad for your first run," he said. "You’ve got potential, Rahul. Stick with us, and you’ll go far."

Rahul smiled faintly, his thoughts already drifting to the next challenge. The Hyper Unique System pulsed softly, a reminder of the untapped power within him. His journey was just beginning.