But before he could speak, Liu Zhipeng's hologram answered loudly, without hesitation, with absolute conviction and an almost fanatical devotion:
"We will follow the commander's orders!"
His voice was strong and resolute, filled with boundless trust in Suisxing. "For the ultimate victory of the 'greater good,' we are willing to become the strongest anvil! Even if we are smashed to pieces, we will never retreat a single step! Rest assured, Commander, we will create the perfect opening for your hammer to strike!"
That declaration made Qingliu swallow all the arguments he had prepared. Looking at Liu Zhipeng's face, so full of "loyalty" and "dedication," he was moved beyond words.
Suisxing was taken aback as well. He had expected them to bargain, set all sorts of conditions, or even shrink back in fear. But he had never imagined they would accept this virtually suicidal assignment so readily.
An unfamiliar feeling rose in his heart. Had I been too suspicious? Perhaps they really were just simple, courageous souls inspired by the "greater good"?
"Very good." Suisxing suppressed his doubts and nodded. "Prepare to move out. The glory of victory will belong to us all."
The transmission ended.
Liu Zhipeng's image vanished. On the bridge, Qingliu let out a long breath, his face glowing with the joy of victory.
"See, Suisxing? That is the power of mutual trust. That is the appeal of the 'greater good.'"
Suisxing said nothing. He simply turned his gaze back to the tactical display. For some reason, he kept feeling that the vast, docile green area representing the Gretchin forces resembled a dozing behemoth with a smile at the corners of its mouth. And they were gleefully preparing to stick their heads into that behemoth's jaws.
The Lighthouse, flagship of the Gretchin fleet.
The instant communications with the