The moment this creature submerged, Ye Fan discerned its identity.
Giant squid!
In the Red Alert game, the giant squid is an awe-inspiring entity. Ye Fan recalled a pirate movie featuring a summoned giant squid capable of capsizing ships. However, the Red Alert version is even more formidable, capable of dragging modern warships underwater. Ye Fan marveled at its presence in a military war game.
Despite his astonishment, Ye Fan recognized the significance of obtaining such an advanced unit. In the game, producing a giant squid requires a shipyard and combat laboratory, making it a rare and valuable asset.
As the giant squid resurfaced, Ye Fan admired its immense size and striking features—its head resembling a house with enormous black eyes and eight tentacles flapping in the water. Despite its imposing appearance, the shallow waters of the Qixing River posed a challenge for the creature.
Upon sighting Ye Fan, the giant squid extended one of its tentacles in a peculiar gesture—a salute. Ye Fan reciprocated, acknowledging its status as his own Red Alert unit.
"Nana! Why has a giant squid appeared?"
"Congratulations, sir. The contents of the supply box are randomized. You've been incredibly fortunate to unlock a giant squid with such slim odds."
Ye Fan pondered the stroke of luck. Could this be a manifestation of the system's favor?
"This is a freshwater river. Can squid survive here?"
"Yes, sir. Squid in Red Alert can navigate rivers."
Examining the creature, Ye Fan doubted its ability to capsize a warship.
"Can it capsize a warship?"
"Sir, this is merely a one-star giant squid. Currently, it can easily submerge transport ships. However, overturning battleships, destroyers, or nuclear submarines requires advancing its star level, which is a slow process due to its high cost."
Ye Fan nodded, realizing the challenges of upgrading the creature. Its current struggle in the river affirmed his assessment.
"Is it possible for it to overpower an aircraft carrier once it reaches three stars?"
"Three-star units pose a challenge, but they aren't the pinnacle of Red Alert units."
"Is there a higher level?"
"Yes, beyond three stars are the hero units of the Red Alert system. The commander will gain access to them upon producing hero units."
Ye Fan refrained from further inquiries, already familiar with heroic units like Tanya from the game. However, he resolved to explore these advancements at his own pace.
Observing the creature's attentive gaze, Ye Fan decided to christen it.
"I should give you a name… How about 'Stir-fried'?"
The giant squid's reaction hinted at its intelligence, prompting Ye Fan to opt for a simpler moniker—Xiaoba.
"From now on, you'll be called Xiaoba and reside near my official residence."
With a flurry of bubbles, Xiaoba darted away, leaving Ye Fan contemplating its potential to become a formidable ally.
As evening approached, Ye Fan returned to base, greeted by reports from various teams. He acknowledged their efforts before retiring for the night.
The following morning, Ye Fan tended to Xiaoba's needs, tossing corn into the pool for its consumption.
Suddenly, a tremor in the water alerted Ye Fan to a disturbance. Hastening to a nearby sentry tower, he spotted a convoy on the horizon—a massive Transformer-like vehicle leading the way.
The base vehicle had arrived!