An audience at the Office of Elder Buonocore

[Madvillain]

Buonocore slapped his palm flat on the coffee table, rattling the silver tray with a sharp clink. “Ambición, resourcefulness,… y huevos!” he declared, eyes alight with amusement. “Two hombres with fire in their bellies, yet the flames burn in different hues. Bravo!”

His gaze locked onto Estebano first.

“Muchacho, you have a history of building things.... ships, ideas, even dreams of green fields where none should grow. There is value in that. The Brotherhood needs men who can create just as well as they destroy, visionaries!” He leaned forward, expression keen. “I hereby promote you to Decurion del Escudo. You will report to Centurion Julio Perez, he will keep you busy. You will oversee nuestro trade, imports, exports, shipyard work… maybe even a little agriculture, sí? Of course, all of it managerial work. You will lead a team of muchachos who make sure our Imperio does not collapse under its own weight.”

His eyes flicked to Pedro, and a knowing smirk tugged at his lips.

“You, hombre, have the tongue of a gambler and the instincts of a shark. That deal at Halifax was impressive. And you did more than just trade; you turned credits into information. This, muchacho, is more valuable than mere riches. You, señor, are dastardly and shameless in the best way.” He spread his hands wide. “I hereby promote you to Decurion del Bastión. Report to Centurion Fidel Ruiz, he will make good use of you. You will infiltrate, influence, bend ears in the halls of power, and....” he chuckled, “if that fails, remind them why Corsair knives are the sharpest in Sirius. You too will have a small team under your command. Ruiz will explain the details soon enough.”

He leaned back, lifting his espresso cup in a casual salute. “And caballeros, when you tire of your new responsibilities? Bueno, the arena, patrols, and combat missions will always be there to keep you entertained. Remember, you are Brotherhood operatives first and foremost, warriors above all else.” His grin widened. “And of course, with rank comes privilegios. But I’m sure you already know that, no?”