Batteries worth several million eri were hardly a significant sum to Xi Yan, who controlled the empire's finances, but for private mercenaries like the Community Security Fleet, they were a fortune.
Gorpious was clearly delighted to have received such a windfall. His feelers had not stopped waving.
The fleet took several days to return to the Stellar Base, where he generously prepared a lavish banquet.
Naturally, the banquet was intended to welcome the new members and celebrate their enormous windfall.
It seemed the insectoid leader had at least some conscience. After appropriating the funds Krauk and the others had brought, he had not discarded them once they had served their purpose, but sincerely regarded them as members of the security company.
Moreover, he ordered everyone else in the security fleet to respect these humans and, in recognition of their enormous contribution, provided Krauk and the others with the finest living conditions.
After careful consideration, Krauk decided this was an excellent outcome.
With those funds, they had successfully infiltrated the M'tok Union's territory and found a legitimate backer. Their next step was to proceed steadily, gathering intelligence while trying to climb the ranks.
The agents were well trained. One could say they had come well pre-beared.
Several standard hours later, the agents arrived at the Stellar Base as arranged to attend the banquet Gorpious had organized.
"Welcome, everyone! Welcome to every member of our Community Security Fleet!"
Gorpious's enormous figure stood in the center of the banquet hall, greeting every guest.
"Oh, Greger! Your gemstones are more dazzling than ever today. Take a seat!"
"I know you're only being polite, but I'm still pleased." The towering Stone Person spoke in a rumbling voice, then took the deputy's seat. The gemstones growing from his body refracted the banquet lights into a multitude