"Keep the forward guns on that street."
The Imperial commander pointed at the vampires gathered behind the low buildings. The display shook as his ship corrected its position, then steadied enough for him to see men carrying wounded through the opening below.
The two figures who had been fighting above the street now stood near the service yard, both covered in blood.
"The bow batteries are ready," an officer said. "The lower port section isn't answering."
"Then use what still answers."
A warning flashed beside the firing display.
The officer checked it, then looked back at the commander.
"Our landing craft is crossing that angle."
The commander followed the marked route. A damaged transport rose slowly between his ship and the street he had selected. Its underside was open, with soldiers crowded along the broken edge because there was no room farther inside.
"Hold fire."
The weapon's charging light dimmed.
