Dividing the Spoils and Making a Run for It

Bai Zhu had barely started cursing when Milluki's terminal went off again.

[Church destroyed. Father Core transfer failed. Notify the Meteor City branch.]

The signal interference was severe, but the words "Meteor City" came through with exceptional clarity. Milluki reached out to tap it, but nothing happened even after two presses. In his panic, he nearly smashed the terminal on the floor.

Bai Zhu shot him a sidelong glance. "That's the extent of your hacking skills?"

"This communication's been locked down! If you're so capable, fix it yourself!"

"I only handle cutting people down, not repairing radios."

"Then shut your mouth!"

Another dull cracking sound came from the distance. Part of the support structure at the top of the underground passage collapsed, dust raining down in a steady shower. Someone among the pregnant women began crying, and the children's area started to stir as well. Several children who had only just awakened curled into frightened balls.

Illumi came over carrying two captives whose limbs had been crippled, his tone flat. "We can't stay here."

Bai Zhu looked at him. "That goes without saying."

Illumi's gaze fell on the signal map on Milluki's terminal. "The collapse of the underground facility, the paralysis of the cult's network, and the contamination core—they've caused too much of a disturbance. Kakin's local powers, V5, and the Hunter Association will all notice something unusual here."

Bai Zhu frowned. "They're coming to save people?"

Illumi paused. "Perhaps."

Milluki added, "Or maybe they're coming to clean up the trouble—people and objects alike."

As soon as he said that, a medical worker who had just awakened lost their grip and nearly tipped over a stretcher. Bai Zhu glanced at them, and they immediately lowered their head, not daring to make another sound.

Illumi put it bluntly. "If