The Rainbow Bridge, a crucial link between Odaiba and School Island, stood before them. If the bus continued at its current pace, it would leave the bridge and enter the bustling Odaiba district in less than five minutes – a scenario too dire to contemplate.
With time pressing and no external support, Zhang Fan steeled himself, maintaining speed alongside the bus. He gradually tilted his motorcycle closer to the vehicle's rear.
"What are you doing, Zhang Fan?" Aria cried out, seeing him aim his gun at the bus's undercarriage. Was he planning to disarm the bomb with a bullet? It seemed impossible, especially with his Magnum revolver known for power, not precision shooting.
"There's no time. Trust me, Aria," Zhang Fan responded, his entire focus on the task at hand, relying on his trusty Flaming Magnum.
Aiming at the bomb's mounting bracket from fifteen meters, Zhang Fan didn't hesitate to pull the trigger. The bullet pierced through, causing the unstable device to slide off the bus's underside. To his surprise, the bomb bounced towards him.
In a split second, Zhang Fan leapt off his motorcycle, striking the bomb with a swift roundhouse kick before it got too close, sending it into the nearby ocean. As the bomb hit the water, it detonated, sending a colossal plume skyward – a testament to its power.
However, the force of his kick had thrown Zhang Fan off his speeding bike. He tumbled skillfully across the ground, swiftly regaining his feet – an impressive display of agility.
"Zhang Fan!" His classmates on the bus cheered, especially Aria, whose excitement was palpable. This seemed a bit over the top.
"You nailed it, man!" Soon, the bus pulled over, and the students crowded around him. Muto playfully slapped Zhang Fan's shoulder, unaware that the gesture caused him pain.
Zhang Fan barely restrained his irritation. While his heroic jump had been cool, landing at such speed was painful. He planned to get back at Muto later.
"Are you alright, Zhang Fan? Is there anyone from the medical team here?" Aria's concerned gaze touched Zhang Fan, reminding him of her dependable nature.
"I'm fine," Zhang Fan reassured, giving a thumbs-up. His resilient physique meant he'd recover quickly with just a little rest.
"Really?" Aria asked, still worried.
"Really." Aria finally relaxed, pleased with the mission's smooth conclusion. She had witnessed Zhang Fan's strength but also felt a sense of urgency to keep up with him.
"You saved us all, Zhang Fan," said Shira, approaching with genuine gratitude.
"The first rule of the Military Detective Charter: trust and help your comrades," Zhang Fan replied simply.
"Exactly," Shira laughed, appreciating his friend's wit.
"Well, I need a shower. I'm soaked," Zhang Fan stretched, relieved there were no casualties. The only loss was his scratched RR, which he expected to be reimbursed for by the school.
As he prepared to return to school, the sound of a helicopter rotor filled the air – the Vehicle Science Department's late arrival was typical of their inefficient rescue operations.
"Lei Ji, you too?" Lei Ji, called in by Aria, had arrived too late to participate in the action.
"Yes, I'm late," Lei Ji nodded, her expression unchanged, holding her SVD sniper rifle – her typical stoic self.
"Let's go back with the helicopter. Your RR will be returned to you in two days, good as new," Muto assured, admiring Zhang Fan's motorcycle.
"Alright," Zhang Fan agreed, boarding the helicopter. Aria stayed behind to complete the necessary reports at the scene.
"So Lei Ji, you accepted Aria's commission?" Zhang Fan asked on the flight back.
Lei Ji nodded silently...
"Interesting. I didn't know you and Aria were acquainted," Zhang Fan mused, accustomed to Lei Ji's laconic communication style.