Chapter 104: The Yad Athletics Tournament

Seven days had passed since moving into the new house with the four girls, witnessing a dramatic shift in their relationships. Bai Xue and Li Zi, for reasons unknown, had formed a defensive alliance, breathing in unison, while Aria's rapport with Yang Cai had significantly improved. The girls had subtly divided into two factions, leaving Zhang Fan amusingly stuck in the middle, amidst a bittersweet harmony.

"The Yad Athletics Tournament?" That morning, after the theory class, Zhang Fan was unexpectedly recruited by Lan Bao, a teacher he hadn't seen in a while. He was informed that he had been enrolled in the tournament, a decision that puzzled him.

"As a key member of the second-year assault class, your participation in the tournament is mandatory, as decreed from above!" Lan Bao insisted, refusing to entertain Zhang Fan's objections. Recently, she had solved a major case in America, causing quite a stir—a teacher of Tokyo Martial Detective High who never seemed to stay put.

The Yad Athletics Tournament was an annual international event for martial detectives, akin to the Olympics but with more exhilarating events.

This year's tournament was hosted by Tokyo Martial Detective High, and the school placed immense importance on it, aiming for first place as per the directive.

"Boring. I don't have time for this." Zhang Fan was disinclined to waste his precious time on what he considered a juvenile competition.

"You must participate and win first place in both individual combat and shooting!" Lan Bao, unusually animated, insisted, grabbing Zhang Fan's collar. Her excitement seemed a bit excessive.

"I don't do thankless tasks unless you give me a good reason." Zhang Fan shrugged off Lan Bao's grip. Over the past year, their relationship had evolved beyond the typical teacher-student dynamic, allowing Zhang Fan to speak more freely.

"My request. Is that reason enough?" For the first time, a blush appeared on Lan Bao's usually stoic face, a rare sight that added to Zhang Fan's surprise. He wondered if there was more to her request than met the eye.

"Your request? Alright, I accept." Seeing her almost threatening demeanor, Zhang Fan sighed and agreed, planning to treat the events as casual diversions.

"That's more like it! But remember, you must win first place!" Lan Bao finally seemed satisfied, patting Zhang Fan's shoulder approvingly.

Zhang Fan was perplexed by Lan Bao's enigmatic behavior but decided to focus on the task at hand.

His sudden agreement was also influenced by a new side quest he had received. Otherwise, he might not have been so compliant.

Side Quest 5: Participate in the Yad Athletics Tournament in individual combat and shooting, and win first place. Reward: 2000 game points.

Though it was only 2000 game points, Zhang Fan, adhering to the principle of accumulation, was not one to pass up an opportunity.

"You're participating in the Yad Athletics Tournament? That's enviable." His classmates showed great interest upon learning of his enlistment. While Zhang Fan was indifferent to the tournament, others saw it as a golden opportunity for their future careers in martial detection.

"If you like, I can give you my spot." One of Zhang Fan's male classmates, Jia, expressed his envy, to which Zhang Fan rolled his eyes and playfully challenged him to take his place.

"Forget it. Without your skills, I'd only embarrass myself." Jia's expression fell, acknowledging his limitations as a B-grade martial detective.

"I'm sure you'll win first place," Li Zi admired Zhang Fan, though she herself could easily dominate several events with her diverse skills.

Zhang Fan modestly responded, aware of the multitude of stronger competitors in the world.

Li Zi, with her affectionate demeanor, latched onto Zhang Fan's arm, her soft touch indicating her well-rounded abilities.

Envious glances from male classmates, like Wutong, betrayed their longing for Zhang Fan's fortune with the ladies.

Aria, blushing, scolded Li Zi for her boldness in public, while Li Zi playfully retorted, enjoying her freedom to express her affection.

Zhang Fan, seizing the opportunity to escape the escalating dispute between Aria and Li Zi, stealthily made his exit, leaving the commotion behind.