As he spoke, Elland pulled two metal cigarette cases from his pocket and snapped them open, showing Cyril the contents.
Inside each case was a transparent, gem-like object, one round and glowing with ripples of azure light.
The other was a dark, nearly black "stone." Its surface seemed to flow like liquid, and it gave off a foul stench.
Cyril's gaze lingered briefly on the two objects, both of which gave off a distinct spiritual glow. His Spirituality gave him a fairly clear impression.
"Sailor" and "Provoker." No wonder they ran into each other...
Elland, who had heard him mutter, asked in surprise, "Was there another reason they would show up in these waters?"
Seeing that Cyril had no intention of answering, he didn't press the matter. Instead, he handed over the metal cigarette cases, now closed again.
"There's still quite a lot on deck. It'll probably take until tonight to finish sorting through everything. I'll bring you the inventory then."
Cyril took the two cigarette cases containing Beyonder Characteristics and shook his head. "No need. Give them to your crew. Those things would be a hassle for me to deal with anyway."
"You can also take a fifth of what's here. You salvaged far more than I expected, so you've earned it."
"Or you can skip sharing the salvage and take the heads of those two pirates instead."
"With your status and connections, you should be able to claim the full bounty—and maybe even collect it more than once."
"Works for me." Elland chose the second option after only a moment's thought.
The pirates' heads would be far easier to deal with than the salvaged valuables and jewelry.
He wasn't just the captain of the White Agate. He was also a member of MI9. Sharing the spoils could easily