In the inpatient building…

Inside a dimly lit office, flesh writhed across the walls. Faces twisting in despair emerged faintly from the pulsating mass, their ceaseless wails echoing through the room.

From a desk thick with dust, a voice crackled through a walkie-talkie. Amid the static and electrical interference, a vague voice said, “High Priest, I have something to report.”

The white-haired middle-aged man seated behind the desk frowned as he looked up. “What is it? Didn’t I tell you not to disturb me unless it’s important?”

“No, it’s just...” The speaker on the other end sounded increasingly nervous. “Among the newcomers, there seem to be a few who aren’t being very cooperative. Should we... issue a warning?”

The High Priest’s gaze darkened. Coldly, he said, “People who refuse to behave won’t become obedient just because you warn them. Deal with them as soon as possible. Don’t let them cause any trouble. Understood?”

“Yes. Understood,” the quivering voice said, carrying a hint of uneasiness. “But if we keep waiting, we might not hold out much longer.”

The High Priest smiled. “Rest assured, it will be over soon. Very soon, the bud of calamity will sprout. This filthy, corrupted world will face its final judgment under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. The people of Cliff City are blessed. Haizhou will be the first to receive salvation and grace!”

“The Holy Spirit be praised!” the voice from the walkie-talkie replied ...