Devil at a Crossroads

[Noth Squadron]

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One took a moment for himself to digest the benefits lying before him. Regardless of what would happen next, he'd still come out on top with a few perks. There was hardly any reason to push for something better at this point in time. His jaw clenched and his eyes focused on that slim, grey storage device.

"We have our ways, Johnathan of Phoenix. For as long as we had this agreement, no Zoners suffered unnecessarily. We can put a pin on this if you don't like the advantage we provide. After all: nobody knows about us, so it would be a shame to not take advantage of this opportunity."

The merc held a straight posture, scanning Johnathan from top to bottom. What he saw was a mix of uncertainty, suspicion and something not unlike tiredness. This conflict has been wearing down these Zoners. With them gone, perhaps The Order would be next to crumble. A very far, yet achievable concept no less.

"I will make sure my family sticks to a non-violent approach. Corsairs will be the only ones to receive a good beating. I must insist that my authority over my kin can last only so long. Should the situation worsen, then I find myself having to step aside and allow the many concerned voices behind me to become a whole lot more persuasive."

While he took a step back from pushing for a violent approach, One also promised a dam to hold back his family's vicious nature in the face of a threat that can become very real if left unchecked. A dam which could break should the waves push too hard. In one simple sentence, Phoenix's Representative was made aware that he wasn't dealing with pacifists or freelancers seeking a quick buck. This was a long-time investment they bled for. Losing was not an option.

"Let us assume that we're done talking of the Corsair menace for the time being. Maybe now we can flip this conversation towards the long overdue pay we're owed. I'm thinking several shipments of Black Market Light Arms and Pharmaceuticals -- things which come in great use during these harsh times. Ten thousand units of each seems appropriate for the missed weeks. I'm hoping that won't be a problem?"

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