How did God Ranks make money?
The first way was to do what Huang Yao did: take on a bunch of Demigods as underlings. The Demigods plundered the wealth of various planets, and Huang Yao took the lion's share of the proceeds, practically earning money without lifting a finger.
But if trouble arose or a conflict broke out, Huang Yao had to step in and settle it. If he took their money without doing anything in return, he would lose their loyalty, and the Demigods would find a more capable boss.
The second way was to do what Zamos did: take jobs, stand guard, or work as hired muscle, earning money through hard work.
The third way was to do what Shi Su did: use a unique ability to start a business and make a fortune. But he had to spread that wealth around and make plenty of friends. Otherwise, people would grow jealous of his earnings, and things would end badly for him.
What did they need money for?
God Ranks weren't free of worldly desires. They enjoyed luxuries too, and money could buy things they needed, such as equipment, spaceships, and divine herbs.
God Ranks weren't all orphans, either. They had friends, relatives, and clans. Unless they were utterly selfish, they would spend resources to help those people grow stronger.
Why not just rob people?
Because they weren't strong enough.
Powerful God Ranks, such as those wielding eight Laws, didn't need to pay for anything. People would naturally deliver whatever they wanted to their door.
Violet wasn't strong, but she had plenty of simps. Even if you brought her gifts, whether she accepted them depended on her mood.
Malmö could just barely be said to make money the first way, likewise plundering the wealth of various planets.
But