"Iron-spiked attack dogs? Armed canines?" The revelation left not just Zhang Fan but also Little Tear gasping in shock. Such a measure was a death sentence.
These so-called armed dogs were specially trained large breeds, ferocious and relentless in their pursuit. Once they locked onto an enemy's scent, they would attack relentlessly until death.
Devising a strategy to counter these formidable adversaries, combining strength, speed, and ferocity, was undoubtedly a daunting task. It was clear that a meticulously crafted battle plan was necessary.
After Goda's departure, a heavy silence fell over the group. Even Zhang Fan remained contemplative, aware that they faced only two options: a perilous stealth entry or a brazen, disruptive approach. Both methods were fraught with danger, given the deadly canine foes they faced.
"I'll take this one on," Zhang Fan finally broke the silence. Clearly, Seto's employment of the armed dogs was a response to Little Tong and Little Ai's previous blunder, which left a piece of Little Ai's clothing behind. Therefore, it was best if both Little Tong and Little Ai abstained from participating in the upcoming mission.
As for Little Tear, her role as the tactical commander was crucial, and it wouldn't do to risk her in the field. Little Tear, a Level 1 Wind Manipulator, lacked the combat prowess necessary for such a perilous mission. It was time for Zhang Fan, the man of action, to step in.
"No, I should go," Little Tong stood up, objecting. Zhang Fan's reluctance to put her in danger was matched by her concern for his safety.
"Let's not argue. I'll accompany Zhang Fan. Two is better than one for backup. Little Tong and Little Ai, you two handle the external support," Little Tear interjected, having thought through her decision carefully and already formulating a plan in her mind.
"But..." Little Tong hesitated, but after a few starts and stops, she resignedly nodded, her demeanor tinged with sadness.
"Don't overthink things, you silly girl," Little Tear, understanding her sister's concerns, gently embraced Little Tong, speaking softly and reassuringly.
"Big sister..." Little Tong, though feeling aggrieved, knew Little Tear's intentions all too well. Having lived together for years, the sisters could hardly keep secrets from each other.
Meanwhile, Zhang Fan was focused solely on the art gallery's blueprint, considering possible points of entry and devising a tactical approach. The only viable entry point seemed to be scaling the gallery's two-meter-high walls, avoiding the patrolling guards.
However, the real challenge would be the armed dogs patrolling the open space inside. Resolving to confront the dogs head-on, Zhang Fan saw no other option but to neutralize them with gunfire. Equipped with his 4A1 rifle, complete with a silencer and thermal scope, he started planning the ambush point.
"Big brother? What are you thinking about?" Little Tear's voice pulled Zhang Fan from his deep concentration, bringing his attention back to the present.
"Just thinking about our next move, Little Tear. Is something the matter?" Zhang Fan replied with a smile.
"Dinner's ready, let's eat. You've been so focused on planning how to deal with those armed dogs," Little Tear observed, her eyes shining with admiration for his dedication.
"Is anyone troubling you, Little Tear?" Noticing her reddened eyes, Zhang Fan became concerned, ready to confront anyone who dared upset her.
"Am I a burden, big brother?" Little Tear shook her head, fighting back tears. She felt utterly useless, unable to contribute despite having earned some game points under Zhang Fan's guidance.
After the mission, she feared their paths would diverge, as their partnership was merely for this game world. Without Zhang Fan, what would become of her?
"Of course not. If it weren't for you, the last mission would have been much harder. Remember, we agreed to work towards surpassing Level 5. Let's strive for that goal," Zhang Fan reassured her, knowing her potential as a game player. Although the initial stages were tough, he wouldn't stand idly by.
"Is it really so hard to level up? Despite my best efforts, I feel no progress in my abilities. Is it because of my lack of talent?" Little Tear's spirits lifted briefly before dipping again. Stuck at Level 1 for so long, she questioned her aptitude for improvement.
"Let me propose something, Little Tear. One of my talents is the Infinite Contract, allowing me to bond with my own deities. After this mission, if you trust me, why don't we tackle future tasks together under this contract?" Zhang Fan offered, seeing a bright future for them both in the game.