(Scott POV)
"This individual possesses a keen business acumen, making him suitable for your negotiation and logistical requirements. While he may not stand out in terms of looks compared to others, he can serve various purposes, including companionship if desired. His loyalty may be uncertain, but his skills are commendable." The owner introduced him to the man, who scrutinized him for several moments, a chill coursing down his spine.
The mercenary faced the owner, his voice steady as he inquired, "What's the price?"
The owner chuckled softly. "Ah, patience, my esteemed customer. We also have a modified human available for your daily tasks and protection. He's robust and can handle errands or serve as a shield in dangerous situations. We can offer you a generous 50% discount off the original price," he said, gesturing for an employee to unlock Ivan's cage and bring him forth.
As Ivan was presented, the mercenary's gaze intensified, emanating a palpable menace. Scott knew Ivan, a modified human with an acute sixth sense, felt much more tremor of fear than him. 'Damn, that man is furious,' he thought, instinctively bracing himself for what might come next.
"No," the man said while making the owner tremble.
The owner quickly realized the futility of attempting to deceive the mercenary. He gestured for his employee to secure Ivan back in his cage, then cleared his throat. "The price is 22720 credits," he announced. Without hesitation, the man produced a platinum credit pad, ready to complete the transaction. Just as he was about to hand it over, Scott stepped forward and stopped the credit pad in the man's hand. "Wait!! " he exclaimed, causing the entire room to fall silent and stop, all eyes turning to him.
The mercenary shifted his attention to him, poised for his response.
"I have a proposition," he declared, expecting a nod from the man to show he was willing to listen, but the man remained unresponsive, compelling Scott to press on.
"If you purchase Ivan and administer the antidote to cure his poison, you will acquire a modified human who will be absolutely loyal to you. I am confident you can obtain the antidote, and given the nature of your work, where betrayal and backstabbing are common, having a modified human's unwavering loyalty would be highly advantageous," he presented, when suddenly the man gripped his neck.
"What assurance do you have that his loyalty will be unwavering? I've seen this kind of scheme before, and I despise it," the mercenary said, raising Scott off the floor.
'What do I do now? What do I do?' he thought, pushing his mind to its limits, desperately searching for a way to avoid death as he summoned the courage to voice the words he dreaded.
"I will do anything for you. Regardless of Ivan's loyalty, I will give my all. I pledge my loyalty to you; I will follow you to the ends of the earth," he declared earnestly, managing to sway the mercenary. The mercenary gazed at him, suspended in his grip, then suddenly released him and produced a unique collar made of cloth, inscribed with strange symbols. "I hope you meant that," he said, shattering Scott's shock collar and freeing him. Just as Scott felt a surge of relief, the mercenary placed the cloth collar around his neck. A searing pain enveloped him, akin to burning, as smoke billowed around him. He collapsed to the ground, time stretching into an unknown void until the agony subsided and vanished. As Scott regained his footing, everyone stared in shock at him and the mercenary.
"It seems you spoke with sincerity; I accepted your offer," he replied, turning to the owner, who instantly understood the situation. He commanded his men to halt and fetch Ivan. With a smile, he accepted the man's credit pad, confirming, "That will do. 62,334 credits." The transaction was completed successfully, and he handed the credit pad and controller to the man.
As the mercenary led them outside, they silently followed their new master closely. However, due to Ivan's weakened state, he had to support his giant friend as they made their way to one of the space station's port, where a gleaming, brand-new corvette awaited them.
He knew what this place was the headquarters and home of the mercenary. He knew about this as he had spoken with both high-ranking and low-ranking members of the mercenary guild, and they all shared one common trait: they lived on their ship. Although he didn't know the exact reason, he understood that it was beneficial for them to do so, which is why it had become a common practice among mercenaries.
The ship's sleek design shimmered under the artificial lights, a beacon of hope amidst the chaos they had endured. Its hull was painted a deep navy blue, accented with silver trim that glinted like stars in the night sky. The mercenary gestured for them to board, his expression unreadable but his posture exuding confidence.
Once inside, the interior was just as impressive. The cockpit was filled with advanced technology, screens flickering with data and navigation systems. scott took a moment to catch his breath, leaning against the cool metal of the wall, while his friend examined the controls with a mix of awe and trepidation.
"Are you ready for this?" the mercenary asked, his voice steady.
Scott nodded, determination igniting within him. They had come too far to turn back now. With a final glance at the space station, they prepared for departure, the engines humming to life, ready to propel them into the unknown.
"Well, at least we found a way out and survived that dump. Let's just hope it's not much worse here."
(END OF CHAPTER)
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