If he was the earlier Ning Zhan, he would definitely be thrilled.
However, he too knew that this jump in rank was possible because of Hacker R's occasional guidance.
Ning Zhan tried to build up his courage.
He wrote the message to Hacker R.
"See I have completed the mission."
He waited silently.
Soon enough he got a reply from Hacker R.
"Yes, you have. But the time frame was exceeded."
Ning Zhan held back his tears and tried to fight for the chance.
"But I still completed the challenge."
Seeing no reply, Ning Zhan felt as if all his effort was in vain.
He buried his head in his hand and started crying.
Sometimes what hurt us the most is not the result, but the efforts which were disregarded.
However true is the saying, your efforts can never go in vain.
He heard a 'Ding'
Ning Zhan lifted his head to read the message, but because of the tears, the message was not clear to him.