Inside, everyone narrowed their eyes against the strong light. Through the gap in the drawn-back curtains, they saw a large machine hovering in the air, only about twenty meters from the building. Yet its diameter was probably twenty meters as well—barely a body's width away.
It was shaped like an irregular disc, with a raised back and bulges on either side of its rear that quickly tapered into long, pointed tail fins. Small semi-recessed cylinders lined its edges from front to back. Overall, it resembled a bloated mechanical beetle.
At that moment, the front of the giant "beetle" was emitting a blinding glare, while the roar of the engines keeping it aloft shook the entire building.
Major Tao's lips trembled twice. He wanted to curse, but no sound came out. Finally, he barely managed to spit out two words.
"Ladybug!"
It was not naval artillery. It was a Ladybug Platform.
A loudspeaker seemed to be blaring outside, but under the thunder of the engines, its words were extremely indistinct.
Tang Li apparently had not heard it clearly. He hastily pulled on his clothes and came out of the bedroom. "What are they saying?"
Major Tao did not answer immediately.
Lang Jin picked up the conversation. "Probably something about releasing the hostages and surrendering after disarming."
Tang Li shook his head. "The negotiators in East 824 District aren't very professional. They can't even speak clearly..."
"What negotiators does the military have? They never intended to negotiate!" Major Tao gritted out the words. Ever since seeing the Ladybug Platform, his face had been deathly pale.
Tang Li laughed. "I know. You had that lieutenant, the one overflowing with happiness, stay behind because you had the same suspicion. But you can't always judge a gentleman's heart by your own petty standards. Maybe they