But Battleship 'Bedrock' had paid a price as well. Several Energy Beams struck its bridge at once, and the loyal battleship instantly lost control, slowly listing to one side. Yet its main guns still fired intermittently, buying precious time for the Star Shuttle.
"Battleship 'Bedrock'..."
Shi Yemin's voice caught. He knew every crew member aboard that warship had already prepared to sacrifice themselves.
The Star Shuttle plunged headlong into the Misty Nebula. Dense interstellar dust immediately enveloped the entire hull, and the sound of cannon fire outside became muffled and indistinct.
On the radar display inside the ship, the points of light representing the pursuers visibly scattered, losing their precise lock.
"We're safe for now."
Shi Yemin let out a breath and slumped into his seat, his back already soaked with cold sweat.
He watched the colorful nebulae streak past the porthole, but there was not the slightest hint of relaxation in his eyes.
"We can't let down our guard. The magnetic fields within the Misty Nebula are chaotic, and it's easy to lose our bearings. Besides, those mercenaries certainly won't let this go."
Madam Liu gently wiped the sweat from her husband's forehead and said softly, "My lord, we've already put some distance between us and them. Let everyone rest for a while first."
Shi Yemin nodded and gave an order through the communicator. "All units, inspect the damage. Repair the shields and engines. The cultivator squads are to remain on alert. We'll hide within the nebula for half a star-hour before heading out."
He turned to look at his daughter and saw Shi Qingqing peering through the porthole, curiously watching the ever-changing lights and shadows within the nebula.
"Qingqing, were you afraid just now?"
Shi Qingqing shook her head, a trace of determination appearing on her little face.