The MK.1 identified itself to the flagship, then docked.
Apophis and his five crew members were greeted by Admiral Azerof with great fanfare, and Apophis alone was ushered into the admiral's chambers.
Once inside, Apophis spoke. "As agreed, Admiral, peace has returned to Era. In addition, some of my men are at an appropriate level to join the ranks of the Federation. I expect you to honor our agreement!"
Admiral Azerof, a clever person, answered, "I did my best to negotiate with the Chancellor for the right to place a regent on the planet. This was refused. However, as an Admiral of the Federation, I 'can' appoint one of my subordinates as military governor of an occupied planet. You understand that this requires you to remain incorporated into the Federation military."
Apophis was annoyed by this breach of their agreement. "Tell me clearly what you want, Admiral!"
Admiral Azerof gave a slight smile. "I suggest that you stay under my command for the time being. When the time comes, of course, you and your kind will fight alongside me to overthrow the Federation."
Apophis knew that, unlike during his last meeting with Azerof, he was in a weak position to negotiate with the admiral.
"Very well!" said Apophis at last. "I accept your conditions. Nevertheless, I desire two additional things! First, I'll be granted the status and rank of Major in the forces of the Federation, as well as the resources and privileges that are normally assigned to that rank. Second, I need a bonus of 500,000 GC to be paid immediately!"
Admiral Azerof was hesitant, but finally responded. "Very well. The promotion ceremony will take place in one hour! Of course, I will give you the title of Military Governor of Era and the requested bonus. That seems very reasonable, considering that the Chancellor was unwilling to cooperate with our prior agreement. However, to guarantee your full cooperation, I will assign you one of my men. Colonel Ralfot, whom you have already met, will accompany you on your travels."
Apophis immediately saw the truth. Colonel Ralfot would be there as a spy, with the task of reporting everything he saw to Admiral Azerof.
Of course, this wasn't an ideal situation, but Apophis realized he had no choice. Either he accepted, or his investment in the Federation would be irretrievably lost!
"Very well," he said at last. "I accept these terms."
***
The ceremony took place in the flagship's hangar, in the presence of some officers. Admiral Azerof decorated Apophis with the Medal of Bravery and gave him the badge of Major.
Notification: Congratulations on joining the "United Federation of Planets" faction. You gained the rank of "Major"and have been appointed Military Governor of Planet Era. All Federation forces on Era are now under your command. You can levy taxes on goods and services on Era up to a rate of 20%.
*******Local Server Announcement*******
"The player "Apophis" of the guild "Eclipse" has become the military governor of Planet Era. Respect his authority, or pay the price!"
Apophis took his bonus of 500,000 GC, which grew his treasury to 1,013,000 GC. This would be particularly useful during the galactic auction!
After the ceremony, Apophis and his crew—now increased by one person—rejoined the MK.1, then set off towards Isirus.
Before leaving, Apophis took a moment to implement the maximum 20% tax rate on everything he could. The sales of equipment weapons, as well as Dungeon entry fees and access to space transportation, were all now heavily taxed and earning him a huge profit!
On the forums, the announcement of Apophis's appointment and taxation was met with shock.
"So this was his reward for betraying his people!"
"Why the **** did the price of ammunition rise by 20%???"
"DIE APOPHIS!"
"Shame on you, Apophis."
An old acquaintance of Apophis, "Scorpion", decided this was too much, and launched a campaign to fund a mission to neutralize Apophis. In a few days, the campaign had raised over 5,000,000 GC!
But back on Era, just after the server notifications announced Apophis's new rank, Ceasar laughed. He quickly sent Apophis a message.
"Congratulations! Our next fight will take place on another world!"
Within the hour, thousands of transport ships rose from the four corners of the planet and entered hyperspace.
Between the potential of their new freedom and the absurd taxes levied on everything in Planet Era, the elite players knew better than to stay.
In the blink of an eye, the only ones remaining on Era were those lower than lvl 10.
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