Given that even Xū Cǎi of the Ascension System recommended it, Zhang Fan didn't hesitate to choose Huashan Sect's "Po Yu Fist". Xū Cǎi revealed a secret to him: by spending a certain amount of game points, he could unlock more skills from the Huashan Sect in the skill shop.
However, with limited game points, Zhang Fan decided to master Po Yu Fist first. The technique's power was satisfactory, enhancing his prowess in close combat and allowing him to adopt more flexible tactics against adversaries.
Later, Xū Cǎi disclosed another secret about Zhang Fan's exclusive space. Previously, upon awakening, Zhang Fan found himself inside a small box, which was, in fact, his exclusive space. As he progressed and leveled up, this space would expand, becoming larger and more versatile.
But that wasn't the main point. Zhang Fan could summon this space at will, meaning he could retrieve or store any item (except living beings) in it, essentially carrying a spatial bag with him at all times.
Guided by Xū Cǎi, Zhang Fan successfully accessed his exclusive space, which had transformed remarkably into a 27m x 27m x 27m square. He was taken aback by the extent of the changes. In his space, he could decorate or remodel as he pleased, even creating a separate area where time flowed differently. These capabilities seemed almost too good to be true.
With such a useful tool, Zhang Fan regretted the effort spent on past thievery missions. If only he had this space sooner, how much trouble could have been avoided!
"By the way, Cǎi Cǎi, when will you assign me a new mission?" Zhang Fan felt ready and thought it best to continue earning game points through missions.
"I've told you, I'm not omnipotent. There are no new missions available in this world for now," Xū Cǎi responded a bit grumpily, feeling somewhat inadequate as an all-knowing, all-powerful system.
"Is that so?" Zhang Fan was dumbfounded. No simple tasks were one thing, but no missions at all? Even though the Ascension Game was user-friendly, this seemed a bit too lax.
"Of course. But not everything is absolute. I do have a trial mission. It's somewhat challenging, but it offers substantial game points upon completion. Would you like to take it on?" Finally, under Zhang Fan's incredulous gaze, Xū Cǎi found a mission he could undertake. The mission's complexity made even Xū Cǎi hesitant.
"A trial mission? Is it very difficult?" Hearing Xū Cǎi's description, Zhang Fan hesitated. Should he accept this mission?
"It's challenging indeed, and the catch is, I don't know the specifics of the mission. But rest assured, it's something within your capabilities. It all depends on your courage and strength," Xū Cǎi said, her expression serious. The choice was Zhang Fan's to make.
"Alright! I'll take on this mission. But what about Xiao Tong and the others while I'm away? And Lei Zi, she hasn't fully developed her strength yet. Can I undertake this mission alone?" Zhang Fan's response was resolute, but he was concerned about Xiao Tong, Lei Zi, and the others.
"Don't worry. While you're on this mission, time in this world will progress at one-tenth the rate of the mission world. So, if you spend ten days on the mission, only one day will pass here. As for Lei Zi, as your divine servant, she has the right not to participate in the game's missions. It's your choice," Xū Cǎi reassured. She was surprised by Zhang Fan's decision but also quite proud of her partner's bravery.
"That's a relief," Zhang Fan was now completely reassured. After bidding farewell to Lei Zi and the others, he was ready to embark on this new quest.
"What? You're going on a mission, Zhang Fan? Is it dangerous?" That evening, Zhang Fan gathered the four girls and briefly explained his situation. Xiao Tong was the first to react after he finished speaking.
"Missions always carry risks, but don't worry, I'll be back soon. Didn't I just say that time moves slower in that world?" Zhang Fan reassured them with a smile.
"Still, if it's dangerous, you shouldn't do it," Xiao Ai chimed in. She didn't want Zhang Fan embarking on any risky Ascension Game missions.
"How can I not do missions? I can't just laze around at home forever. What if a compulsory mission comes up? Without strength, I'd be doomed anyway. It's better to build up my strength now," Zhang Fan shrugged, serious about improving his abilities.
"Since you've decided, I won't say much. Just be cautious and retreat if you encounter danger," Lei Zi finally spoke up. Surprisingly, she approached Zhang Fan, adjusted his collar like a wife seeing off her husband, and whispered, "Remember, we're all waiting for your return."
"Lei Zi?" Zhang Fan felt a bit awkward, especially with Xiao Tong, Xiao Ai, and Lei Zi all present.
"That's right. Remember, we're all waiting for you," Xiao Tong also embraced Zhang Fan, and even Lei Zi made room for her sister. The mood of a tearful farewell was lost in their embrace, leaving Zhang Fan sweating profusely.
"Don't worry, everyone. I'll take good care of Zhang Fan," Lei Zi suddenly declared loudly, surprising Lei Zi and Xiao Tong, who quickly disengaged from Zhang Fan.