"I've gone too far. It's time to make a change."
Captain Nais turned to look at the recordings of his former glory.
"Over the course of my career, I discovered a pattern: history fades, lessons are forgotten, and someone new always comes along to take your place. I just wanted to choose my successor."
He pointed at Xi Yan. "And that's you. You humans passed the test. What happens next is up to you."
He spread his arms, as though embracing the entire immense treasury, all its glory and wealth.
"My wealth, the boundless riches I plundered from countless worlds, even I myself-all of it belongs to you."
Captain Nais's treasure held incredible wealth. However, Xi Yan had to consider the consequences of claiming it in the Empire's name.
Every credit in his hoard had been obtained illegally. Taking these resources would mean that the Empire condoned Captain Nais's rampant crimes in exchange for material wealth.
That said, many of those Captain Nais had harmed were long dead. Claiming this wealth would create no new victims.
Besides, Xi Yan had already wiped out Black Needle, making the galaxy safer. After such a long and perilous journey, he certainly deserved a generous reward.
A decision had to be made about what to do with it all.
Xi Yan smiled calmly.
"Very well. I'll put this wealth to good use."
A smile appeared on Captain Nais's electronic face as well.
Xi Yan turned around. His piercing gaze swept over the glittering jewels, the precious data and equipment, and everything else of value around him.
"I'll keep half of this wealth for myself. As for the other half-anything whose rightful heirs can be traced will be returned to them."
"The empires you once plundered, the successors to their territories-these ill-gotten gains will be