Let the Bullets Fly for a While!

The leader of the Kill Team, Nelgas, brought him some good news.

In the industrial area of Hyperia Sector Nest City, near the Underhive Mid-hive, they successfully obtained information about the Children of Vardan.

"Has it been noticed?" Alvin was more concerned about this question.

Those who believe in Tzeentch sects are often very cautious, and he was a little worried about alerting them.

"Don't worry, young master," Nelgas patted his chest, his face full of confidence, "Don't forget, we were all trained by Instructor 'Tucker,' so we definitely haven't been discovered."

Alvin had some trust in Tucker's abilities, but due to the special nature of this mission, he didn't let Tucker come along.

"Alright, whatever you do, don't expose yourself. Once you've identified the cult leader and he's planning a speech, report to me immediately." After giving Nelgas his instructions and outlining the next steps, Alvin finished his breakfast. Today, he was going to visit an important figure who could influence the future.

Stopping the Imperium of Man and the Ark Eldar won't be something that can be done with just words.

He had two plans in mind: if he could persuade that important figure, all the better; but if not, he would have to consider using force.

Elsa sent the invitation a day in advance.

Riding in the hovercraft, Alvin took only Elsa with him, and the two headed to the mansion they were to visit that day.

Hyperia Sector, Commander-in-Chief of the Astra Militarum, Vennidar!

Unlike the cold attitude of the Agamemnon Family, Vennidar was clearly very welcoming to this heir to the great Merchant Dynasty.

As soon as he got off the car, Alvin spotted his target: Vennidar.

He wore a rather worn-out hat, and his military uniform looked quite old. His square face revealed a hint of determination, but one could still see the undisguised fatigue in his eyes.

"Welcome, esteemed Mr. Alvin."

Vennidar's attitude was extremely respectful, with a hint of admiration in his eyes. "I have heard of your heroic deeds at Los Nest City. Praise be to Your Majesty!"

This heir of the Valshius Dynasty has almost been hailed as a walking "miracle man"!

Single-handedly, he defeated Khorne's Chosen of the Gods, halted the advance of Chaos, and saved the Imperium from imminent collapse. What could this not be a miracle?

"I am merely fortunate to have received your contributions," Alvin said humbly, extending his hand to shake Vennidar's.

His rough, calloused hands showed that this Vennidar was not the kind of parasite he was, but a soldier who truly gave everything for the Imperium.

Vennidar's humility immediately increased his goodwill towards Alvin, and seeing the badge of honor on his chest, a hint of respect welled up in his eyes. "Thank you for everything you have done for the Imperium!"

For today's meeting, Alvin even wore the "honorary badge" awarded to him by the Imperium.

Yes, after saving Losel Nest City, through the efforts of Horn, the Cardinal of the Imperium and even the Ecclesiarchy awarded him a badge!

Every badge of honor has hidden benefits.

See? This clearly demonstrates it.

Even the Astra Militarum on the Alert Star couldn't help but show expressions of longing and admiration when they saw the badge on his chest.

That's the benefit of fame; we have Elsa to thank for it.

Since Elsa came into his life, he has discovered that he doesn't need to worry about many things at all; she's incredibly considerate.

After exchanging a few words with Vennidar, Alvin and the Astra Militarum commander walked hand in hand into the mansion's banquet hall, where the guests and hosts enjoyed themselves immensely.

But after the banquet ended, Vennidar dismissed his guards and then carefully examined the heir to the Merchant Dynasty before him. "Mr. Alvin, if I may be so bold, you've come to see me for something, haven't you?"

In such a chaotic situation on Alert Star, the fact that he managed to rise to the position of Commander-in-Chief of the Astra Militarum in the Hyperia Sector is enough to prove that he is not stupid, and at least politically astute.

Otherwise, how could he have become the Commander-in-Chief of the Astra Militarum right under Agamemnon's nose?

Before Alvin could speak, Vennidar stroked his hand, which was covered in the web of his thumb and forefinger, and said slowly and meaningfully, "With your status, it would actually be more appropriate for you to go see Governor Asienne." In fact, this was a subtle reminder to Alvin that, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Astra Militarum, his actual power was not as great as he had imagined.

Looking at Vennidar, Alvin calmly put down his teacup. "You misunderstand me. I'm not here to ask you for a favor, but to present you with a great gift, Commander."

"A grand gift?" This time, it was Vennidar's turn to be somewhat shocked. He suddenly found himself unsure of the other party's tactics.

Is it really necessary to start by talking about "bribery" so blatantly?

Vennidar hesitated. Although he was nominally part of the Emperor's army, on Alert Star he would ultimately have to submit to Agamemnon.

"Rest assured, Commander." Alvin understood his concerns, so he dipped his index finger in the tea and drew a line of numbers on the table. "I know very well that the most scarce resource on Alert Star is 'water,' so I would like to ask you to convey to the Governor that I am willing to provide you with cleaner water resources."

On the Alert Star, what is the most expensive thing?

It is water, especially clean water. Even Agamemnon, only enjoyed water from the polar ice caps.

However, the glacial water transported from afar by the merchant caravans would inevitably contain some pollution.

What is the essence of a businessman?

Alvin's answer was to provide goods and services to those in need through trade and exchange!

Water resources?

Coincidentally, this thing is completely worthless to him.

But by simply changing the location, he can turn pure water resources into something as valuable as "gold"!

Monopoly is the only way to maximize profits and value in a transaction.

"Of course, besides water resources," Alvin continued, throwing out a second bait as he looked at Vennidar, who was speechless with shock at the news. "I participated in the war. I was assigned to the Stormtroopers and fought against cults every day, so I understand you and the hard-working soldiers of the Astra Militarum very well."

"Therefore, I have decided to donate your Astra Militarum troops, a batch of basic living supplies, and weapons and ammunition free of charge."

This completely stunned Vennidar, leaving him utterly dumbfounded by the unexpected happiness.

"Are you serious?!"

"I swear by Valshius, everything I have said is true."

Alvin's oath in the name of the family forced Vennidar to seriously consider whether to "side" with the other side.

Following Agamemnon meant going hungry nine times in three days, but following Valshius meant starting with a huge bonus – who could stand that?

However, out of caution, Vennidar remained very conservative. "Regarding your proposal, I will report it truthfully to Governor Lucien. Please wait patiently for two days, Mr. Alvin."

"Very well, I look forward to your reply, Commander Vennidar."

Alvin wasn't in a hurry; he believed that soon, Agamemnon would be the one who couldn't sit still.

Water resources, the most precious resource on Alert Star. He didn't believe those greedy parasites could resist such a huge "profit."

As for Vennidar, that's even simpler.

How can one "bribe" a Supreme Commander of the Astra Militarum?

It's very simple. Just offer him the benefits you want him to have in a way that he can't refuse.

Vennidar was a competent soldier who was willing to give his life for the Emperor. This is evident in his later realization that he could salvage the Imperium's fortunes by sacrificing his life. He readily handed over his remaining duties and calmly accepted death.

To move such a staunch and unyielding soldier, one need only start with his army and his sense of righteousness.

Alvin wasn't afraid of being rejected, because Vennidar simply wouldn't refuse. From the very beginning, he had offered Vennidar and Lucien an irresistible temptation!

Back in the hovercar, Elsa, puzzled, asked, "Young Master, your sincerity clearly moved him, so why did he still reject you?"

Looking out the window at the spire-lined rooftops of the complex and the magnificent, gilded mansions, Alvin smiled meaningfully, "No rush, let the bullets fly for a while."

I want monthly passes. That thing is just so beautiful!