After the evening of drinking, Zhang Fan gained a deeper understanding of Ranhyou. Brushing aside his thoughts, he focused on choosing his next job assignment. He discovered that the missions issued by Butei High synchronized with the rewards of the Divine Game, offering game points upon completion. The higher the mission rank, like S or A, the greater the potential rewards of weapons or equipment. However, these higher-ranked missions presented substantial difficulty.
Upon completing basic training at Butei High, freshmen could choose to attend specialized courses or undertake external job assignments in the afternoons. These choices were reflected in academic credits. Butei High operated on a strict credit system, granting students autonomy as long as they accumulated enough credits.
External missions offered the highest credits, as theoretical knowledge was considered less valuable compared to the practical skills required to complete real-world missions.
What mission to choose? Zhang Fan contemplated in front of the Detective Department's mission board. Dismissing the E and D rank missions as too mundane and unrewarding, he focused on the solitary B-rank mission listed, requiring a two-person team and offering a reward of 100 million yen. This intrigued Zhang Fan, though he wondered where he could find a partner, especially an S-rank Butei like himself. Would Ranhyou be an option?
Just then, a familiar voice called out, "Found you, Xiao Ya! Are you looking for a mission?" It was Riko, curious if Zhang Fan was about to accept a mission.
In the past month, Zhang Fan and Riko had developed a close bond, often mistaken for a couple by their classmates, much to Zhang Fan's chagrin. However, Riko seemed quite pleased with this, always sticking close to him. Zhang Fan felt a pang of sympathy for her, knowing her background and seeing her constant happiness.
"Yes, I've finished my basic training and need to earn some living expenses," Zhang Fan replied with a smile, his funds dwindling and the mission's monetary reward becoming increasingly appealing.
Riko offered to help with information, knowing Zhang Fan's status as an orphan adopted by the Yuan Shan family. She had heard of him from Yuan Shan Jiayi and had approached him at the start of the school year.
Pointing to the B-rank mission, Zhang Fan felt a bit helpless, yet intrigued.
"B-rank? Impressive for an S-rank Butei," Riko noted, her eyes sparkling with playfulness. "Need a team? I might have some information for you."
"Really?" Zhang Fan was surprised at the prospect of quick help.
"Just give me ten minutes!" Riko dashed off, returning shortly with information about Lei Ji, a mysterious S-rank newcomer in the Sniper Department. Zhang Fan was impressed by Riko's resourcefulness.
"Thanks, Riko. If this works out, I'll treat you to a big meal," Zhang Fan promised, now determined to find Lei Ji and propose the mission to her.
Riko requested a day at the amusement park instead, to which Zhang Fan agreed, amused yet accepting of her childlike enthusiasm.
After bidding Riko goodbye, Zhang Fan headed to the Sniper Department, a stark contrast to the noisy Assault Department he was accustomed to. He found Lei Ji in the middle of training. Her response was quick and emotionless, agreeing to the mission and leaving the details to Zhang Fan.
Together, they planned the mission, marking the beginning of a new and challenging partnership for Zhang Fan in Butei High.