Devil at a Crossroads

[Soban]

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“That might be true for a base closer to their homeworld, but we’re too deep in the Omicrons—and too far from their strongholds—for them to risk another Freeport 9 scenario. This is more likely an attempt at intimidation.”

Jonathan was unsurprised by One’s suggestion; the group had already achieved results through violence in open space. Yet on a Freeport, violence is the easiest way to lose the trust of other Zoners—especially if any link to Phoenix were discovered. Turning his attention to the holographic projector, he switched it to display the latest security briefing. According to the reports, the guards had only found standard equipment and nothing indicating hidden explosives.

“Killing them on board would only serve their cause—it goes against everything our Freeport stands for. However…”

He smoothed down his mustache, as though the gesture could help untangle the ethical conflict in his mind. Once again, his morals were being put to the test.

“However, there are more subtle ways to handle this. They’ve used this base to launch attacks against Zoners, and some people here are already rethinking whether to let them dock at Freeport 11.”

Refocusing the display, Jonathan revealed data illustrating local sentiment among the station’s residents.

“All we need is a slight push to expel them. Our main obstacle is Mr. Fairchild, the local commodity trader. He lets greed guide his decisions.”

A flicker of a smile twitched under his mustache before he masked it with a thoughtful frown. Jonathan had already tried to buy Fairchild’s favor, but the man—renowned for his avarice—had stubbornly resisted Phoenix’s attempts at bribery. Perhaps he feared Corsair reprisals or the loss of profits if they stopped buying his inferior liquor.

“You could try persuading him—or bribing him. We’ll cover the cost if it comes to that. As freelancers, though, you might find it more effective to hit him in the wallet. Show him just how damaging the Corsairs are to his business interests. Relate to him the accounts of those traders who now bypass this station entirely, unwilling to cross Corsairs.”