From Shi Xingan's narrative, Lin learned of the extensive scale of the abyss's assault. The attack wasn't confined to their location, Fortress No. 1 in the Shenxia Empire, but also targeted Fortresses No. 7 and No. 8 simultaneously.
All the seasoned professionals in the military were dispatched to Forts No. 7 and No. 8 for reinforcement, where the conflict was reportedly fiercer, drawing even third-level professionals into the fray.
But the Shenxia Empire wasn't the only target.
Nations such as Sakura Country, Bangzi Country, and Eagle Country faced similar onslaughts, each with significant severity. Shi Xingan mentioned, "Our Shenxia Empire fared relatively well, with no casualties. However, I've heard Sakura Country and Bangzi Country suffered greatly, losing many professionals."
Professionals can withstand injuries, even severe ones like lost limbs, as long as they survive, for injuries can be healed. Yet, death is irrevocable.
Wars, especially those between humans and the abyss, are merciless. They are battles to the death, with no middle ground—either you live, or you perish.
"Our Fortress No. 1, being the furthest from the abyss and shielded by nine other fortresses, is least affected," Shi Xingan explained. "Thanks to the empire's top powerhouses, the most powerful demons can't be teleported here. But, we're not entirely safe; some demons excel in stealth and can infiltrate to execute assassinations."
Given Lin's standout performance, he's now a marked man for the abyss, poised to eliminate him given the chance. Lin, despite being only level 24, effortlessly dispatched abyss monsters over level 30, posing a potential future threat to the abyss.
History shows that human geniuses often become targets for abyssal assassination before they can fully mature.
Lin, aware of the danger, pledged caution.
Ning Yiyi, brimming with enthusiasm, approached Lin, "Have you finished talking?"
Lin confirmed they had concluded their discussion and suggested resting in the city before embarking on dungeon adventures. Ning Yiyi's excitement was palpable, grateful for Lin's willingness to include her.
Suddenly, Ning Yiyi's communicator chimed. It was her grandfather, expressing relief upon learning of her location at Fortress No. 1 and immediately deciding to visit.
Ning Yiyi, surprised by her grandfather's sudden concern, awaited his arrival alongside Lin.
When Ning Tairan, a distinguished figure adorned in the emblem of Xia Jing Academy and bearing the rank of a five-star general, appeared, Lin recognized his importance. Ning Tairan, known as Ning Tairan, was a renowned figure, comparable to Bai Yiyuan.
Ning Tairan's immediate focus was on Lin, particularly noticing his granddaughter's close proximity to him. Despite his initial outburst demanding Lin to release Ning Yiyi, the situation quickly softened under Ning Yiyi's defense.
Ning Tairan's concern stemmed from the dangers of the Yuan battlefield, especially upon learning of Lin and Ning Yiyi's solo ventures into hell-level dungeons. Despite his disbelief, Ning Yiyi's display of her Hell Outpost Dagger and their success in such dangerous missions slowly changed Ning Tairan's perspective on Lin.
Lin's recent promotion to a second lieutenant further shocked Ning Tairan, leading to a mix of admiration and concern for his granddaughter's safety.
Eventually, Ning Tairan, calmed by his granddaughter's reassurance and Lin's promise of care, departed, leaving the young adventurers to their journey. The interaction, unnoticed by bystanders due to Ning Tairan's influence, highlighted the complexities of relationships within the Shenxia Empire's military and noble families.