(An extra update in thanks for .JJFLYYYYYy.'s donation, 1/5)
On the bridge of the Fortune, Li Qinwu watched the giant beasts rampaging through the Hive City on the screen, unable to make sense of what was happening.
What the hell were these things that looked like they'd crawled out of the Classic of Mountains and Seas?
His entire staff had assembled on the bridge. Watching the monstrous beasts wreak havoc on the screen, Rudosen asked Li Qinwu:
"These monsters are about to kill everyone on the surface. What should we do? Send troops down to help?"
Li Qinwu said:
"No rush. There's something strange about this planet. I get the feeling the local Imperial Cult is hiding something from us."
He looked at the captain.
"Contact the planetary bishop again. I want to speak to him."
The captain worked the central console, then reported:
"My lord, the planetary bishop declined the call, but the PDF marshal has connected."
Li Qinwu told him to put the call through. The holographic projector flickered, and an anxious middle-aged man appeared before them.
"Lord Inquisitor, Cultists! It's the Cultists!
"They performed an evil sacrifice and summoned these giant monsters. They're about to kill us all!
"Our planet lacks heavy weapons. Our infantry only have autoguns and can't possibly resist these giant beasts. Please, Lord Inquisitor, lend us your aid."
As he spoke, the holographic projection changed into a map marked with coordinates.
"Lord Inquisitor, please order your warship to bombard these coordinates inside the city. My soldiers report that more than eighty giant monsters have gathered there and are wreaking destruction!
"One volley from your macro cannons will kill them all!"
Li Qinwu narrowed his eyes without speaking. Little Knife glanced at him, then stepped forward of his own accord and snapped:
"Do you