I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to "Daoist_Culture" for their generous gift of an "Inspiration Capsule." Your kind gesture is deeply appreciated, and I am truly thankful for the inspiration that this capsule holds.
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As Yuan and his wives, dressed in their finest attire, made their way towards the hunter association, the bustling streets of the city became their path.
The city itself was a fusion of old and new, with ancient European-style buildings lining the streets, captivating Xi Meili's curious gaze.
Her excitement was evident, and a charming, bright smile adorned her face as she walked alongside the group, her long deer-like black horns standing out.
As they passed through the streets, the bystanders couldn't help but turn their heads, captivated by the presence of this extraordinary family.
Whispers filled the air, spreading among the crowd like a gentle breeze. Many recognized Yuan and his wives, remembering how they had saved the town from impending destruction.
"It's him, the town's hero," one whispered, awe evident in their voice. "And his wives, standing by his side."
Others nodded in agreement, their gazes filled with respect and astonishment. "To think we have such formidable protectors," another muttered. "They truly are extraordinary."
The whispers grew, spreading like wildfire, as more and more people took notice of the group's presence. Some even began to worship Yuan and his wives, their eyes filled with reverence.
"Blessed are we to have them among us," someone murmured, their voice filled with gratitude.
Yuan and his wives, aware of the attention they commanded, responded graciously to the greetings and well-wishes that came their way.
They understood the importance of maintaining a humble demeanor, not allowing their accomplishments to make them arrogant.
"Thank you," Yuan would say, his voice carrying genuine gratitude. "We are merely protected our own home."
Anna, with a warm smile, would add, "Your support means the world to us. We are honored to be a part of this community."
Grace, always composed, would nod gracefully and reply, "We are humbled by your kind words. It is our duty to ensure the safety and prosperity of all."
Lily, with a hint of playfulness, would chime in, "Let us continue working together for a better future. We are in this together."
Emma, her voice filled with sincerity, would express her gratitude, "Your faith in us is truly inspiring. We will not let you down."
And Xi Meili, the newest addition to their family, would offer her innocent smile and wave at the onlookers, her presence captivating the hearts of those who witnessed her.
It was a reminder that hope and happiness could be found even in the most extraordinary circumstances.
After a few minutes of walking, the group caught sight of the old building that housed the hunter association. Xi Meili, her eyes wide with curiosity, pointed towards the weathered structure with a large signboard bearing the words 'Hunter Association' and numerous cracks adorning the building's facade. She turned to Yuan and her sisters, seeking confirmation.
"Is this the old-looking building the hunter association you guys were talking about earlier?" Xi Meili asked, her voice filled with wonder.
Lily, wearing a warm smile, responded, "Yes, Meili, this is the place."
Yuan, taking the lead, said, "Let's enter then."
The others nodded in agreement, following closely behind him as they stepped through the entrance of the association.
As they stepped into the association, they were met with an unexpected sight—the hall was devoid of any hunters. It stood empty, the silence filling the air. Anna, Grace, Lily, Emma, and Xi Meili exchanged puzzled glances, voicing their surprise at the absence of hunters.
"It's empty... Where did all the hunters go?" Anna voiced the question that echoed in all their minds.
Grace, her brow furrowed slightly, added, "This is unexpected. The hunter association is usually bustling with activity."
Lily, with a touch of concern, said, "I hope nothing untoward has happened."
Emma, scanning the deserted hall, chimed in, "This is strange. I wonder where everyone could be."
Xi Meili, her eyes wide with curiosity, looked around and asked, "Why is it empty? Did something happen?"
Just as confusion settled upon them, their voices caught the attention of Mireya, who had been engrossed in paperwork at her reception desk.
She raised her head, noticing Yuan and his wives wearing expressions of bewilderment. In an instant, she recognized them and exclaimed their names in a high tone.
"Yuan! Anna! Grace! Lily! Emma!" Mireya stood up from her seat and hurriedly approached them. Her face was filled with both surprise and genuine concern.
"Oh, it's good to see you! How have you been? Did you manage to get plenty of rest after your battle with the Orc Hoard and the Orc Lord?"
Yuan and his wives, except for Xi Meili, responded to her concern with gratitude and assurance. They assured Mireya that they had taken plenty of rest and were in good health.
"We appreciate your concern, Mireya," Anna replied, her voice filled with gratitude. "We made sure to rest well and recuperate after the battle."
Grace nodded in agreement, her composed demeanor intact. "Rest assured, we are all feeling refreshed and ready for whatever challenges lie ahead."
Lily chimed in, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "We are tough fighters, Mireya. A little rest won't slow us down."
Emma, her voice carrying a hint of excitement, added, "We've never felt more invigorated. The battle only strengthened our resolve."
As their conversation continued, Mireya's gaze fell upon the enchanting figure of Xi Meili, who clung to Yuan's arm, her presence captivating.
The sight of Xi Meili's magnificent deer-like black horns and her otherworldly beauty, adorned with delicate scales on her forehead, left Mireya mesmerized.
She couldn't help but wonder about Xi Meili's origins and race, as if she had witnessed a goddess descending from the heavens.
Lost in her thoughts, Mireya finally mustered the courage to ask Yuan about Xi Meili's identity. Her voice filled with curiosity, she inquired, "Yuan, who might this beautiful young lady be? Is she perhaps a demon from the Southern continent?"
Before Yuan could respond, Xi Meili, who had been listening attentively, suddenly became furious at the mention of the word 'demon.' Her anger surged, and a powerful pressure radiated from her as she released her pent-up emotions. With a voice filled with both anger and authority, she confronted Mireya.
"How dare you, mere mortal, compare my noble self to blood-sucking fiends!" Xi Meili's voice boomed, her anger palpable. "Do you seek death by your impertinence?"
Mireya, taken aback by Xi Meili's sudden outburst, quickly realized her mistake. She had unintentionally touched a sensitive topic and offended the young lady before her. Regret washed over Mireya as she realized the gravity of her words.
"I-I apologize," Mireya stammered, her voice laced with remorse. "I didn't mean to offend you. I was simply curious about your extraordinary beauty and those magnificent horns. Please forgive my ignorance."
Yuan, always composed and understanding, stepped in to defuse the tension. He placed a reassuring hand on Xi Meili's shoulder, silently calming her anger. He then turned to Mireya with a gentle smile.
"Mireya, I appreciate your curiosity, but Xi Meili is not a demon," Yuan explained calmly. "She is a unique being with her own race and heritage. Let's leave it at that for now."
Mireya nodded, her remorse evident in her eyes. "I'm truly sorry, Xi Meili. I didn't mean any harm."
Xi Meili, gradually regaining her composure, looked at Mireya with a discerning gaze. After a moment of silence, she finally relented, her anger subsiding.
"Apology accepted," Xi Meili responded, her voice softer now. "But remember, I am not to be underestimated."
Yuan, recognizing the need for proper introductions, took the initiative to clarify the situation.
He turned to Mireya and gestured towards Xi Meili, saying, "Mireya, now that the misunderstandings have been cleared, allow me to introduce one of my wives, Xi Meili. And Xi Meili, this is Mireya, the receptionist for the hunter association."
Mireya nodded respectfully and replied, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Xi Meili, and I apologize once again for my earlier mistake."
Xi Meili, her initial anger subsided, responded with a gentle smile. "Likewise, Mireya. Let's put the misunderstanding behind us."
Yuan then informed Mireya that Xi Meili would also be registering as a hunter, just like himself and his other wives. Mireya nodded understandingly and retrieved a form, handing it to Yuan.
"Please fill up this form, and I will take care of the rest," Mireya said, her gaze shifting between Yuan and Xi Meili. "Since she is your wife, I presume she is not any weaker than you all, so she won't need to take any exams."
Yuan accepted the form and began filling it out on behalf of Xi Meili. Once he completed the necessary details, he returned the form to Mireya, who accepted it with a nod of gratitude.
Curiosity sparked within Lily as she surveyed the nearly empty hunter association. She couldn't help but inquire, "Mireya, why is there not a single hunter present?"
Mireya explained, "All the hunters are currently engaged in repairing the town's walls and damaged houses caused by the monster invasion yesterday. They are also providing protection to the workers from any wild animals or remaining monsters."
Understanding the gravity of the situation, Lily nodded in acknowledgment. The hunters were fulfilling their duty to restore the town's safety and infrastructure.
Mireya then invited Yuan and his wives to the association office, where Robert, the association's administrator, awaited them. She informed them that Robert had requested to be notified upon their arrival so that he could personally present them with their reward.
Mireya nodded in response and guided them through the halls of the hunter association. As they walked, Yuan and his wives observed the signs of recent turmoil—cracked walls, remnants of battle, and worn-out equipment. The determination and resilience of the hunters were evident, even in their absence.
Finally, they reached the association office, where Robert awaited them. He greeted them warmly and expressed his gratitude for their heroic efforts in defending the town.
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