"Who told you that? Who has a good relationship with that playboy?" Jill's expression was a mix of disbelief and irritation. When did such absurd rumors start circulating? It was utterly ridiculous!
"But everyone says..." Zhang Fan began to say more, but Jill, her face flushed with anger, cut him off abruptly.
"It's nothing. I despise those double-dealing womanizers the most! Don't mention such people in front of me!" Jill exclaimed with indignation. Zhang Fan, on the other hand, felt a bit guilty hearing this. Did his relationship with little Tear and little Tong count as double-dealing? But then again, nothing had been officially established between them, so perhaps it didn't count.
A tense silence ensued, lasting until they reached the front door of the Raccoon City Police Station.
"Well, I'll take Rebecca to see the captain now. See you later," Zhang Fan and Rebecca had to complete the paperwork for Bravo Team, followed by getting signatures from Captain Wesker and then the stamp of approval from Chief Brian Irons. It was a tedious and troublesome process.
"Alright, I'll seek your advice sometime soon," Tomoyo said, bowing politely to Zhang Fan. This gesture, however, only earned another eye roll from Jill. Zhang Fan wondered, what had he done to deserve this?
"The new member, huh? I didn't expect such a pretty young girl. Rebecca Chambers? For now, Zhang Fan, you can take care of her. You've just joined the team recently too, so you two can help each other," Zhang Fan was surprised when Captain Enrico handed Rebecca over to him upon their return to Bravo Team. Usually, this role was reserved for more seasoned team members.
"There have been many cases lately, and most of our members are out on assignments. For now, focus on training more. I expect you'll be sent on your first mission soon," Captain Enrico explained, noticing Zhang Fan's puzzled look.
Yes, recent newspaper reports spoke of multiple cases of tourists being attacked and disappearing in the Arklay Mountains - no small matter. Clearly, these incidents were Umbrella Corporation's doing, and those missing tourists were either turned into mindless zombies or used as subjects for biological experiments.
"Understood," Zhang Fan nodded, realizing the onset of the biohazard outbreak was imminent. Before it began, he needed to strengthen himself. His personal space was already stocked with food, water, and weapons. The most crucial task now was to enhance his abilities before the virus spread.
After completing the formalities with Wesker and Chief Irons, Zhang Fan finally escorted Rebecca to her dormitory.
"This is your room. If you need anything, just let me know. I'm right next door," he said, pointing to his room next door.
"Got it, Senior Zhang Fan. But, are you really only eighteen? You seem so mature and reliable," Rebecca chuckled lightly, finding herself quite fond of Zhang Fan.
"Indeed, I'll head back now. Rest well, see you tomorrow," Zhang Fan said, confidently dismissing any hint of immaturity, waving to Rebecca before returning to his room.
Rebecca was left with a deep impression of Zhang Fan, quietly murmuring his name before closing her dorm door.
Back in his room, Zhang Fan didn't rest but started to study his new skill - Poyu Fist. To his surprise, his body was now infused with Qi, though it didn't enhance his physique but only manifested its value when using skills. System Xuhui explained it was akin to a power value.
Although Poyu Fist had only one move, its power was not to be underestimated. If Zhang Fan struck with full force, shattering rocks and jade would be effortless. Considering this was just Version 1 of the skill, its potential for further advancement was promising.
The next morning, all members of Bravo Team assembled. The team comprised seven members, each with a distinct role. Captain Enrico was already introduced, so now let's look at Zhang Fan's teammates:
- Kenneth J. Sullivan, the oldest member at 45, was a black man tasked with reconnaissance, a perilous duty. Despite his risky job, he was incredibly mild-mannered.
- Forest Speyer, the ladies' man, was responsible for equipment preparation. All weaponry was under his care before any combat situation.
- Richard Aiken, the cheerful guy, handled radio communications. Short in stature, he was surprisingly adept at various combat techniques and had the best communication skills in the team.
- Edward Dewey, the helicopter pilot, didn't play a significant role in combat, effectively just a supporting character.
- Rebecca, the medical officer, and Zhang Fan, responsible for defense and backup as the new recruit.
"Guys, we've got a new assignment from the top. We need to search for missing tourists in the outskirts of Raccoon City. Forest, ensure everyone's gear is ready. We move out in twenty minutes," Captain Enrico announced the mission immediately upon their arrival.
A mission already? Zhang Fan was surprised, but given that no new tasks appeared in the game's mission list, it seemed like a straightforward search mission.
"Don't be nervous, kids. Remember to stay calm and collected, and there won't be any problems," Captain Enrico comforted Zhang Fan and Rebecca, both new to field missions.
"Nervous?" Zhang Fan wasn't feeling the least bit apprehensive. It was just a simple task, after all. However, Rebecca, on her first mission, seemed unusually tense.
"Don't worry, Captain. I'll take good care of Rebecca," Zhang Fan assured, giving a thumbs-up.
"That's good to hear. Honestly, you two remind me of my son and daughter - they're about your age," Captain Enrico commented, seemingly nostalgic at 41 years old.