370: The first target, Jiangcheng

“Comrade Xiao Ran, according to the detailed intelligence analysis brought back by the fighter squadron after this careful reconnaissance, the situation in the entire Area 11 is relatively complex. In this area, there are two Low-Grade Spirit Beasts and forty-eight High-Grade Ferocious Beasts. Additionally, four Zhen Condensation Realm Experts are hidden within Hong City, and two more Zhen Condensation Realm Experts are in Jiang City.”

Pal’s expression was serious as he spoke, skillfully operating the light screen to clearly display the relevant intelligence in text and images.

After successfully controlling the network system of this civilization, the fighter squadron, utilizing the abundant data recorded in the network and advanced detection equipment and data analysis technology, quickly and accurately investigated these key threats.

This undoubtedly provided them with crucial information for their upcoming actions.

“Low-Grade Spirit Beasts? These are spirit beasts that only Void-Shattering Realm Experts can barely contend with…”

Xiao Ran’s heart tightened upon hearing this, and a trace of panic instantly flashed across his face.

After all, in his previous understanding, Low-Grade Spirit Beasts were extremely terrifying existences, possessing world-destroying power that no ordinary cultivator could resist.

But soon, Xiao Ran took a deep breath, trying to calm himself down.

He mused to himself that he was no longer the same, no longer the “waste” Xiao Ran who was bullied by others.

Now, he had become a member of the vast empire, and an action commander with a heavy responsibility, backed by the powerful strength of the entire empire.

Thinking of this, Xiao Ran’s gaze gradually firmed, and a surge of confidence re-emerged in his heart.

It was just a mere Low-Grade Spirit Beast, what was there to fear?

Xiao Ran secretly encouraged himself in his heart, his gaze rapidly shifting from initial panic to determination, and his face once again radiated confidence.

Although past experiences made him deeply aware of the power of Low-Grade Spirit Beasts, the sense of responsibility and mission as an imperial action commander at this moment allowed him to quickly adjust his mindset.

Pal, who was beside him, took in Xiao Ran’s instantaneous change of mindset and couldn't help but nod secretly.

Not bad, this kid has strong adaptability. He adapted to his new identity as an imperial action commander so quickly, displaying the appropriate courage and composure.

In Pal’s opinion, facing a powerful threat and being able to quickly calm down and think is by no means easy. Xiao Ran’s performance earned his considerable praise.

“Comrade Xiao Ran, please issue the subsequent orders.”

Pal looked at Xiao Ran with focused eyes, his words conveying his expectation of him.

At this moment, the next step of the entire operation hinged on Xiao Ran’s decision.

Xiao Ran frowned slightly, falling into a brief contemplation.

His mind quickly weighed the pros and cons and risks of each target, analyzing the potential consequences of different attack sequences.

After a moment, Xiao Ran slowly spoke, his voice firm and steady.

“Hmm… then let’s start with Jiang City, which has the lowest threat.”

He knew that although Jiang City was his hometown, as an action commander, he had to consider the bigger picture and choose the strategy most conducive to completing the mission.

Upon hearing this, Pal was quite surprised.

He had originally thought that Xiao Ran might choose to avoid Jiang City out of affection for his hometown, but he didn't expect Comrade Xiao Ran to start with his own hometown. This courage and decisiveness made Pal increasingly feel that the young man in front of him was not simple.

Not bad, not bad, he’s a good prospect, Pal secretly evaluated in his heart, increasingly looking forward to Xiao Ran’s performance in the upcoming operation.

But to be honest, Xiao Ran didn't have much sense of belonging to Jiang City.

As an orphan since childhood, he had experienced the cold realities of human nature in this city. Although he grew up here, he never truly found a sense of home.

Especially after his talent disappeared, Jiang City, for him, was more a place that held memories of pain and hardship.

“Alas, I hope Hua Mulian doesn’t do anything foolish…”

Xiao Ran sighed softly, a trace of worry flashing in his eyes.

He naturally wouldn't forget the kindness of Hua Mulian gifting him that precious Body Tempering Fluid earlier.

Now that they were about to launch an operation against Jiang City, he sincerely hoped that Hua Mulian wouldn't get involved in this conflict and do anything impulsive or foolish.

“Alright, then it will be as you say.”

Pal nodded, expressing his approval of Xiao Ran’s decision.

With that, he turned and walked to the control panel, skillfully operating various instruments, systematically directing the starship to slowly head towards Jiang City.

Although Xiao Ran was the nominal commander of this operation, in reality, all matters on the starship, from personnel deployment to tactical arrangements, were still commanded and ordered by Pal himself.

This was a necessary measure, after all, Xiao Ran had only just joined the empire and was like a blank slate, having received no systematic military training whatsoever, nor had he experienced the cruel and realistic simulated tests in virtual worlds.

Under these circumstances, rashly entrusting all command authority to him would undoubtedly be a risky move, very likely leading to irreversible errors in the operation.

Therefore, Pal could only provide escort from the side for now, ensuring the smooth progress of the operation, while also secretly observing Xiao Ran, hoping that he could quickly grow in actual combat.

Before long, the massive starship, like a giant steel cloud suspended in the sky, silently appeared above Jiang City.

Its enormous hull blotted out the sky, reflecting the cold metallic luster, as if a mobile fortress had descended from the heavens.

The people of Jiang City were originally busy with their daily affairs when they inadvertently looked up and saw this inexplicably appearing behemoth in the sky. They were instantly stunned.

After a brief moment of daze, fear spread rapidly like a tide. They panicked, screaming and running towards their homes, the scene like startled birds and beasts.