Chapter 24. *Paths of a Predator*

Nix and Roni step deeper into the Hunter Base, taking in the sprawling scene around them. The structure is a chaotic hive of activity, hunters bickering over quest rewards, massive boards flashing the latest missions, and the never-ending buzz of conversations. It’s noisy and overwhelming, a far cry from the wilderness they’ve just come from. Despite the disarray, there’s an unspoken order within the chaos, hunters here know the rules of survival.

As they walk through the hall, they see different groups huddled together. Some seasoned hunters have an air of confidence about them, their movements sharp and deliberate. Others, like themselves, seem newer, hesitant, unsure, but eager. Several are armed to the teeth with weapons gleaming in the artificial lights of the base, while others wear more humble, well-worn gear.

Nix and Roni keep to the edges, not wanting to draw attention to themselves. They feel the eyes of other hunters trailing them, some appraising their worth, others just curious about the newcomers. Nix’s [Radar Sense] pulses in his mind, tracking the vibrations around them to sense any potential danger.

“Let’s get somewhere quieter,” Roni suggests in a hushed voice, pulling Nix closer. He nods, and they navigate toward a less crowded area, a small clearing by one of the base’s many quest boards.

As they take a moment to catch their breath, a loud commotion erupts nearby. A group of hunters surrounds the board, arguing intensely over who should take what mission. One man, a tall, rugged hunter with an unkempt beard and deep scars across his arms, throws a harsh glare at a smaller, younger hunter who dares to challenge him for a Level 3 hunt.

“Back off, brat,” the bearded man snarls. “That bounty’s mine. If you value your limbs, you’ll stay out of it.” The smaller hunter, visibly trembling but defiant, stands his ground, clutching his weapon tightly.

Roni tenses, instinctively reaching for her own gear, but Nix places a hand on her arm. “Not our fight,” he mutters. Roni nods reluctantly, but her eyes linger on the confrontation, clearly troubled by the hostility that permeates the base.

A young woman nearby catches their attention. She wears light, agile armor and watches the fight with a resigned look on her face, shaking her head. Her presence is striking, not because of her gear, which is rather plain, but because of the way she seems to read the room, as if she’s been through these fights countless times before. She notices Nix and Roni watching and offers a small, knowing smile.

“First time in a Hunter Base?” she asks, her voice calm amidst the chaos.

Nix hesitates but nods. “Yeah. We’re new.”

“Thought so.” She chuckles softly, a sound almost drowned out by the noise around them. “It’s a lot to take in, huh? Welcome to the world of hunters,the true world of hunters.”

Roni's curiosity gets the better of her. “Is it always like this?” she asks.

The woman gives a half-shrug. “More or less. Everyone’s out for themselves. It's not just about hunting monsters, it's about proving your worth to each other. And sometimes, that means stepping on anyone in your way.” Her tone carries a mix of weariness and acceptance, as if this reality is just the way things are and always will be.

Nix and Roni share a look. This world is ruthless, cutthroat, and it’s going to be a lot tougher than they imagined.

“Thanks for the heads up,” Nix replies, his voice steady but hiding an undercurrent of unease. He knows they have to adapt, quickly, or risk getting swallowed by the sheer competitiveness of the world they’ve now entered.

The woman nods, turning back to the quest board as if to say no more. And with that, Nix and Roni are left to find their way in a place where strength, cunning, and resolve are the only things keeping you from falling prey to the chaos around you.

After wandering through the Hunter Base, soaking in the sight of hunters shouting over quests, trading in beast parts, and haggling over missions, Nix and Roni finally approach a counter labeled: "New Recruits - Class 1 Hunters." The sign is old, slightly rusted, and its placement feels almost like an afterthought amidst the chaotic energy of the bustling base.

“Guess this is where we need to be,” Nix says, trying to sound confident even as nerves twist in his stomach. Roni nods, her eyes darting around, caught between curiosity and caution. They step up to the counter, where a middle-aged woman with sharp eyes and a disinterested expression glances up from her terminal. Her uniform is neat, face stern, and the insignia of a red-eyed panther, a sign of the Hunter Association, rests on her shoulder.

The officer looks at them, her gaze sharp, as a small scanner embedded in the counter activates and beams across Nix and Roni. Within seconds, their profiles are projected in front of her, showing names, stats, and official hunter status as Class 1 Hunters.

“New blood, huh?” she says, without looking up at them. Her tone is indifferent, as though this moment means nothing in the larger picture of her day. She pulls out two black satchels from under the counter and hands them over. “Here’s your starter pack. It’s not much, but it’s what you’ll need to get started as official hunters.”

Nix and Roni open the satchels. Inside, they find a map of Crimson Paradise, basic supplies like purified water capsules and food rations, and a compact handbook with regulations and rules for hunters. But what catches their eyes most is the small data chip marked with the insignia of a panther, the symbol of the Hunter’s Association.

The officer notices their attention on the chip. “Plug that into your Hunter’s Mark. It’s a guide for all new hunters, outlining the different professions you can choose and the opportunities available. Think of it as your orientation to the hunter world.”

Nix feels the weight of the chip in his hand, knowing this moment marks the real start of their journey as hunters. He and Roni exchange a glance, equal parts apprehensive and determined.

“Welcome to Crimson Paradise,” the officer says, already turning back to her terminal, dismissing them without another word.

Nix and Roni walk over to a quieter corner of the base, where they can settle in and activate the data chip. They both tap the chips against their wrists, where their Hunter's Mark is integrated, and immediately, their surroundings dim as a transparent holographic screen projects in front of them. The screen displays a variety of icons, each representing a different hunter profession. It feels like a world of opportunity opens up before them.

A calm, authoritative voice narrates as the screen flashes images and text for each profession. “Welcome, new hunters. As a Class 1 Hunter, you are now part of a diverse community, and your next step is to choose a profession, a specialization that will determine your missions, responsibilities, and growth within the Hunter Association. Explore your options wisely.”

The icons blink on the screen, each representing a unique path a hunter might take, and as they hover over each icon, the voice elaborates:

Mineral Hunters: "The geologists of the hunter world, seeking rare minerals, metals, and elements crucial for gear enhancements and advanced tech. Specializations include Miners who risk life to extract raw materials from treacherous environments, and Refiners, who process these materials into valuable resources."

Images flash of rugged hunters in deep caverns, mining glowing stones from dangerous cliff sides.

Medicine Hunters: "The healers and biologists. Biologists extract useful substances from creatures, while Herbalists specialize in gathering rare plants and herbs with healing properties. Together, they create antidotes, healing elixirs, and regenerative salves."

The screen shows hunters carefully extracting venom from creatures or delicately picking herbs from dangerous jungles.

image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54031719742_e2f14669c8_m.jpg]

Poison Hunters: "Experts in toxins and antidotes. As Toxicologists, they blend various poisons, coating weapons or creating traps to neutralize enemies. Mastering poisons requires not only an understanding of toxic properties but also a resistance to them, abilities these hunters often possess innately."

Images of hunters applying poison to arrows and concocting toxic mixtures are displayed.

Parasite Hunters: "Specialists in identifying and dealing with parasitic threats. Parasitologists focus on extracting parasites from hosts, while Virologists develop antidotes and cures for viral or fungal threats present in the fauna of Tha-La."

Scenes of hunters in protective suits handling infectious creatures flicker on the screen.

Data Hunters: "The intelligence gatherers. Information Gatherers scout for vital intel on creatures, resources, and territories. Information Distributors, on the other hand, analyze and sell data, ensuring successful missions and hunts for other hunters."

The screen flashes hunters perched on rooftops, observing wild creatures, and others exchanging information in dark alleyways.

Beast Tamers: "Hunters who control and understand the creature world. Beast Trainers capture and raise creatures to aid them, while Beast Whisperers create temporary bonds with wild creatures, turning potential threats into allies."

Hunters are shown taming beasts, raising massive creatures from hatchlings, and riding them into battle.

Tech Hunters: "Masters of technological integration. Engineers build and repair hunter gear, while Techsmiths blend creature parts and technology to create hybrid equipment, from evolving armor to adaptive weapons."

A scene plays of a hunter hammering a piece of equipment, sparks flying as creature scales are melded with machinery.

Food Hunters: "Specialists in gathering rare ingredients from both creatures and plants, crafting meals that offer unique abilities and enhancements. Culinary Hunters and Gourmet Foragers work hand-in-hand to prepare powerful dishes."

Images of hunters cooking over campfires and creating glowing, energy-filled meals flicker across the screen.

Bounty Hunters: "Trackers of dangerous targets. A Tracker identifies and pursues prey, whether beast, criminal, or rogue hunter. Enforcers capture or eliminate these threats, playing a vital role in maintaining balance and safety."

The screen displays hunters in chase, setting traps and capturing their targets.

image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54033042645_1c2011f2fc_m.jpg]

X Hunters: "The pinnacle of the hunter world, the most feared and respected hunters who possess deadly and unique abilities. X Hunters can be Poison X Hunters, Data X Hunters, or Shadow X Hunters, each branch specializing in combat, intelligence, and tactical stealth.”

The images fade, and a final message appears: “Choose your path wisely, hunters. Your profession will shape not only your survival but your legacy.”

Nix and Roni exchange glances, the weight of the choices ahead settling in. The world is larger and more dangerous than they ever imagined, and their path is still uncertain.

As the holographic screen fades, reality snaps back into focus, the loud, bustling world of the Hunter Base surrounding them. They watch as hunters of all ages and ranks move through the base, trading, arguing, and gathering in groups. The screens on the walls display urgent quest updates: Level 3 creature hunts, bounties on dangerous outlaws, and rare missions offering lucrative rewards. It’s chaotic, overwhelming, and it feels like a different universe from their relatively quiet life back home.

“This is it, huh?” Roni mutters, a mix of nerves and excitement in her voice. “We’re really here.”

Nix gives a small nod, his eyes darting from one hunter to the next. Every face seems hardened, every movement calculated and dangerous. They feel eyes on them, not necessarily friendly ones, veteran hunters sizing them up as fresh meat. But they know better than to appear weak. They straighten up, trying to match the confidence of those around them, knowing they must appear strong and unyielding.

Suddenly, a group of experienced hunters approach, a tall, scarred woman in the lead, flanked by two men who look equally rough. The woman’s grin is sharp, like a predator who’s found prey. “So, you’re the new recruits?” she says, her voice carrying a mocking tone. “You look a bit soft for hunters. Sure you’re ready for this place?”

Roni clenches her fists but bites her tongue, resisting the urge to retort. Nix, sensing her tension, stays calm and focused. “Just here to do our part, like everyone else,” he replies evenly.

The woman’s grin widens, and she circles them slowly, like a lioness stalking a kill. “Is that so?” she says, her voice dripping with amusement. “Well, let’s hope you survive long enough to make a name for yourselves. This place chews up newbies and spits them out... if they’re lucky.”

Her group laughs, and with a final, contemptuous look, they walk away, leaving Nix and Roni with the uncomfortable realization of how many eyes are on them, and how much they still don’t know about the world they’ve entered.

Nix exhales deeply, letting out the tension that’s built up in his chest. “Looks like we’ll need to watch our backs.”

Roni’s eyes narrow as she watches the group leave, her defiance simmering just beneath the surface. “Yeah. And make sure no one’s there to stab us in them.”

They look at each other, a silent promise passing between them: no matter how tough it gets, they’ll face it together, learn, and grow. Because if they don’t, Crimson Paradise will consume them whole..."

Nix and Roni stand in the corner of the bustling Hunter Base, the digital screen still fresh in their minds from their earlier orientation on the various hunter professions. Both are deep in thought as they contemplate their future roles in the dangerous world of hunters.

“We need to pick professions that align with what we’re good at,” Nix says, rubbing the back of his neck, eyes scanning the crowd of hunters going about their business. “Something that will make the most of our abilities.”

Roni nods, her fingers drumming nervously against her thigh. “Yeah, we can’t afford to make the wrong choice. This could decide everything for us, our missions, our growth, our survival.”

They take a moment, reviewing the paths again in their minds. It’s more than just picking what they find interesting, it’s a decision that will define who they are as hunters and how they can best thrive in this competitive world. After a moment of silence, they look at each other, and an unspoken agreement passes between them. It’s time.

“Let’s do it,” Roni says, determination in her voice.

They approach one of the nearby terminals marked "Profession Registration", a small podium with a sleek touchpad interface. The device seems plain compared to the rest of the tech in the base, but its significance looms large. As they draw near, their Hunter's Marks automatically connect with the terminal, recognizing them and pulling up their data.

Roni is the first to step up. She taps the screen to reveal the list of hunter professions, hovering over a few options. Mineral Hunter, Beast Tamer, Medicine Hunter... but her eyes keep drifting back to the role of the Medicine Hunter. Specifically, the path of a Biologist.

Her ability, Green Synthesis, allows her to consume and replicate plant-based matter into fruits, granting unique effects based on their properties. It’s a talent that would align perfectly with a Medicine Hunter who is tasked with gathering and utilizing flora and other natural resources.

“This is it,” Roni whispers to herself, though Nix stands close enough to hear. She taps the option and selects Medicine Hunter (Biologist), confirming her choice. The screen displays a prompt: “Profession Selection Confirmed: Medicine Hunter (Biologist). Test Assigned.”

Roni feels a rush of excitement as the screen blinks to confirm her registration. Her Hunter’s Mark vibrates slightly against her wrist, indicating the data update, and a small notification pops up, displaying her test details. She steps back, allowing Nix to take his turn.

Nix approaches, the options swirling in his mind. But he already knows. The path of a Poison Hunter (Toxicologist) is practically made for him. His abilities, Toxic Quills and Venom Ward, perfectly fit the profile of someone who collects, uses, and resists various toxins and venoms. There’s no hesitation as he selects Poison Hunter (Toxicologist).

“Profession Selection Confirmed: Poison Hunter (Toxicologist). Test Assigned.” The prompt appears on the screen, and Nix’s Hunter’s Mark reacts in the same way, vibrating as the new information syncs to his neural network.

They step back together, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves as their tests are scheduled to start shortly. Both professions come with challenges and expectations, and this test will determine if they’re truly fit for their chosen paths.

The Hunter Base has an area set aside for tests and trials, a separate wing with multiple chambers designed to test a hunter’s abilities based on their profession choice. Nix and Roni are led to different rooms by Hunter Association officers, each tasked with overseeing the trials. The atmosphere is serious, and the tension is palpable as they approach their respective chambers.

Roni’s test room is filled with plants, herbs, and various containers of natural samples. The air is thick with the scent of flora, both familiar and foreign. The officer overseeing her trial, a middle-aged woman with glasses perched on her nose, gives her a curt nod.

image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54032922074_98b9c9f9cb_m.jpg]

“Your goal is to identify three herbs within this room, consume their properties, and create three different fruits using your Green Synthesis ability. The fruits must each have a unique effect, healing, enhancement, or resistance. You will be judged based on your accuracy in identification, your synthesis skills, and the effects produced,” she explains, her voice clinical and detached.

Roni swallows her nerves and steps into the room, already scanning the area. She can feel the various plants calling out to her, their unique compositions resonating with her ability. She sets to work, focusing first on a deep red flower known for its restorative properties.

Meanwhile, Nix is led to a more dangerous trial area. The chamber is filled with various vials of poison, traps coated in venom, and targets set up for precision tests. His trial overseer is a stern-looking man with a rugged scar across his face, watching Nix with a discerning eye.

“Your task is to demonstrate your control over toxins and your immunity to them. First, you will coat your quills with one of these synthesized poisons,” the overseer says, gesturing to a row of vials. “Then, use your Toxic Quills to hit these targets accurately. After that, you will ingest a different toxin and showcase your resistance through Venom Ward. Your success will depend on your accuracy, control, and how well you resist the poison.”

image [https://live.staticflickr.com/65535/54032590286_a49714c0ca_m.jpg]

Nix takes a deep breath, steadying himself. It’s a daunting challenge, but it aligns perfectly with his strengths. He approaches the vials, picking up one filled with a purple liquid, something that looks potent but manageable. Carefully, he dips his quills into the vial, watching the tips soak up the venom, and then lines himself up with the targets.

“Let’s see what I can do,” he mutters to himself, feeling a surge of adrenaline.

Roni moves through her trial room with a mix of confidence and caution. She identifies the first herb, a bright red bloom known as Firepetal, known for its healing properties. She consumes a small portion of the petal, letting her Green Synthesis ability analyze its composition. Within moments, she feels the energy flowing through her, and her body works to replicate the plant’s properties into a fruit. With a concentrated effort, a small, smooth red fruit appears in her hand, shimmering slightly with a restorative aura.

“One down,” she whispers, and quickly moves on to the next plant.

In his trial, Nix lets loose a volley of toxic quills, aiming for the targets with deadly precision. Each quill hits its mark, embedding itself deep within the targets, the venom seeping into their surfaces. The overseer watches closely, nodding approvingly at Nix’s accuracy and control.

“Not bad,” the overseer mutters, but the real test is yet to come. “Now for the poison resistance.”

Nix is handed a small vial of bright green liquid, a concentrated venom known to cause paralysis in low doses. He’s felt its effects before, so he knows he can handle it. Without hesitation, he drinks it down, feeling the toxin spread through his veins. But as soon as it does, his Venom Ward activates, neutralizing the poison and allowing him to remain standing, fully functional.

The overseer watches in silence, then nods with approval. “You’ve got potential, kid.”

Roni, meanwhile, finishes her trial successfully, creating all three fruits with effects of healing, stamina enhancement, and toxin resistance. The overseer in her room seems impressed with her quick identification skills and the precision with which she created each fruit.

Both trials end with a sense of accomplishment and relief. Nix and Roni pass their profession trials, their new paths solidified and recognized by the Hunter Association.

Nix and Roni meet outside the trial chambers, exchanging looks of relief and determination. They’re no longer just hunters, they're now officially recognized as a Poison Hunter (Toxicologist) and a Medicine Hunter (Biologist). With their chosen paths, they’ve taken a pivotal step toward finding their place in this chaotic and dangerous world.

“We did it,” Roni says, her voice carrying a mix of exhaustion and excitement. The tension in her shoulders seems to melt away, replaced by a renewed sense of purpose.

Nix nods, his eyes gleaming with resolve. “Yeah, but this is just the start. Who knows what’s coming next.”

Their eyes meet, and for a brief moment, there’s nothing but quiet understanding between them, a shared promise to face whatever comes, side by side.

As they walk back into the heart of the Hunter Base, surrounded by the bustling energy of their fellow hunters, they can sense that the real test is only beginning, where the shadows of the unknown loom, and the path of the predator is far from clear.