Chapter 49: Money Talks
As the guard duty ended, Ryan piloted his Bluebird to the unloading area of the base's logistics department. He brought back a meteorite he had discovered during the mission, claiming it contained precious Crystal Boundary Stones, weighing up to three tons.
Unfortunately, it was Flock, the logistics team leader, who was on duty again. Flock had long heard of Ryan's illustrious deeds in the security team—he had not only taken down Torres and his cronies but also been promoted to team leader. So, when he saw Ryan driving what used to be Iron Bear's Bluebird, Flock immediately put on a fawning smile and approached him.
"Captain Ryan, your presence truly graces our logistics department," Flock said, while opening a dedicated conveyor belt for the grade inspection of Ryan's Crystal Boundary Stones.
"Captain Ryan, you are indeed blessed. H7-grade Crystal Boundary Stones are highly sought after in the market," Flock praised, his tone full of envy and flattery.
Ryan had little regard for Flock's sycophancy, but he knew that sometimes patience with certain people was necessary in this world. He suppressed his annoyance and maintained a polite smile.
After the inspection, the value of the Crystal Boundary Stones, totaling twenty-seven million, was accurately credited to Ryan's account. At this moment, Ryan finally showed a genuine smile.
"Thank you for your help, Flock," Ryan responded succinctly, then piloted his Bluebird away from the logistics department.
Flock escorted Ryan out of the logistics department, only returning to his post after Ryan's figure disappeared from sight. His sharp gaze swept across the logistics department, causing the staff to lower their heads, avoiding eye contact.
…
As soon as Ryan's Bluebird landed on the security department's tarmac, he immediately reported his findings to Carlos and unhesitatingly transferred ten million dollars to Carlos's account. Ryan knew that respect and reciprocation were necessary for his benefactor, Carlos. He didn't want any minor issues to affect their relationship.
Carlos looked at the sudden addition of ten million in his account, momentarily puzzled. After hearing Ryan's adventure story about the Crystal Boundary Stones, his expression shifted from surprise to amusement.
"You truly are my lucky star, Ryan," Carlos remarked. "I was just worrying about the funds to upgrade my chip to G1, and here you are with ten million. Now, my G1 chip upgrade is finally secured."
"What big plans?" Ryan asked deliberately, though he already had an idea.
He knew Carlos's ambitions. For Carlos, being the head of the base's security team was just a stepping stone. Carlos's sights were set on higher positions.
Although TerraNova3 was a subsidiary of TerraCore Group, it operated four other bases and planned to develop two new resource planets within two years. These projects, though peripheral to TerraCore Group, were full of possibilities for Carlos.
Carlos looked at Ryan, his eyes gleaming with visions of the future: "I plan to apply for a transfer to TerraNova3's headquarters. There are more opportunities and challenges there, and greater room for growth."
Ryan nodded, supporting Carlos's plan: "I believe you can do it, Carlos. You have the ability and ambition. I will support you fully."
Carlos smiled and patted Ryan's shoulder: "Thank you, Ryan. With a partner like you, I believe there's nothing we can't achieve."
The surface of the resource planet was covered with mining marks, with over seventy percent of the resources already developed. Even so, the remaining thirty percent was still abundant, enough to support the prosperity of a nation. Carlos's ambition quietly brewed in this land of wealth—he aspired to become the highest authority of the base, wielding significant power.
However, TerraNova had strict standards for this position: at least a G-level chip, G-level physical fitness, and at least three years of work experience on a resource planet. Carlos was impeccable in loyalty and reliability, but his chip and physical fitness had yet to meet the requirements.
More crucially, he was just over ten million short of crossing the threshold to qualify for the highest position at the new base. Ryan's timely appearance was like a refreshing rain, nourishing his desire for success.
Carlos's lips curled into a mysterious smile: "I can't reveal too much now, but soon you'll understand. Your ten million is undoubtedly a timely help for me."
Ryan smiled slightly, with a hint of sincerity: "Without your support, I might still be sweating in the mines. These resources, if not for you, I wouldn't have access to them. I still have seventeen million here. If your grand plan needs more funds, just let me know."
Carlos laughed heartily, patting Ryan's shoulder: "You, my boy, are truly generous. I, Carlos, did not misjudge you!"
The atmosphere was light and pleasant, but Carlos soon collected himself, speaking seriously: "I'll let you know if I need it. Now, let me share three pieces of good news with you…" He paused deliberately, creating suspense.
Ryan's eyes gleamed with anticipation: "Has the company's reward come through? How much is the bonus?" Although he had an idea, he still showed eagerness for the company's recognition.
Carlos smiled slightly, seemingly satisfied with Ryan's curiosity: "Can you still care about that little bonus?" His words carried a hint of teasing, also revealing his confidence in Ryan's future potential.
Carlos's laughter echoed in the office, and he couldn't help but smile as he spoke to Ryan: "The company's reward has indeed come through. Not only did you uncover the traitor, but you also remained calm in a crisis, successfully taking down two modified Bluebirds, saving the base from significant losses. The company has decided to promote you to deputy chief of the security team, replacing Torres."
"What?!" Ryan felt a surge of joy. He had never imagined becoming the deputy chief of the security team so quickly. But then, his emotions became complex, finding it hard to believe.
Although he had undeniable merits, Torres had deep connections at the company's headquarters, which shouldn't have allowed him to easily get this position. After all, in this world, the recognition of military achievements often depended on a superior's word.
"Is this real?" Ryan stared at Carlos, trying to find the answer in his eyes.
Carlos nodded, smiling as he explained: "Initially, there were indeed some objections within the company. They were concerned you were too young, only 24, and might struggle to command respect. But TerraNova3's captain, Vicente Rojo Lluch, strongly recommended you. After careful consideration, the company sought my opinion, and I expressed my support."
What Carlos didn't say was that it was Ryan's generous ten million that changed his mind. Originally, he hoped Maughan would rise, but Ryan's grand gesture made him see new possibilities. He suddenly realized that nurturing Ryan might be a good choice, and they could become strong allies in the future.
"Thank you, boss!" Ryan said excitedly, feeling immensely grateful for Carlos's support.
Carlos waved his hand, indicating Ryan didn't need to be so formal: "This is what you deserve, Ryan. Your ability and courage have proven yourself. I believe you will become a pillar of the security team."
Ryan understood that the deputy chief position brought far more authority than a team leader. This position not only allowed him to participate in more important decisions but also meant he would shoulder more responsibilities and opportunities.
Every month, when Carlos personally escorted TerraNova3, the deputy chief would either accompany the team to Starport City for missions or stay at the base, becoming the temporary head of the security department. The deputy chief not only had the authority to dispatch team leaders but also held the keys to base management and could even communicate directly with headquarters.
More importantly, as a member of TerraNova's management, the deputy chief position was a stepping stone, accumulating valuable experience for future career development.
"Calm down, Ryan," Carlos's voice pulled Ryan back to reality, "I have a second piece of good news for you."
Carlos's face held a mysterious smile as he revealed the second piece of good news: "We obtained crucial information from the biochips of the two interstellar pirates—the materials and techniques for modifying Bluebirds. To prevent the base from being threatened by interstellar pirates again, the company decided to use existing resources to modify two Bluebirds."
Hearing this, Ryan's eyes lit up instantly. The modification and upgrade of two Bluebirds would undoubtedly be a significant boost to the security department's strength. One of them would undoubtedly be Carlos's No. 001, and the other…
Sure enough.
Carlos stood at the front of the briefing room, his voice firm and powerful, announcing an exciting decision. "These two Bluebirds, No. 01 and Torres's No. 02, will be the first to undergo deep modifications." His words echoed in the meeting room, each word clearly reaching everyone's ears. "This is just the beginning; the rest of the Bluebirds will be upgraded in the near future."
It was indeed good news. The modified Bluebirds would not only have a new appearance but also possess more powerful firepower and ammunition capacity. The fire control weapon system would be enhanced like never before. Most notably, the new stealth coating would significantly improve the Bluebirds' maneuverability and close-range penetration capabilities, making them ghost-like on the battlefield.
Ryan's heartbeat quickened as he sensed the qualitative leap these modifications would bring to the base's defense capabilities. "What's the last piece of good news?" he asked eagerly, his eyes sparkling with anticipation.
Carlos gently touched his nose, a habit when he was deep in thought. "The investigation team from headquarters," he said slowly, "besides taking Torres and Iron Bear, they also plan to conduct a comprehensive sweep of the nearby interstellar pirate strongholds. For this operation, our base needs to select an elite team, and I have recommended you to lead it."
Ryan was stunned by this sudden news, feeling both honored and apprehensive. Leading such an important mission was not only a significant recognition of his personal abilities but also a severe test.
"Me?… lead the team?" Ryan's voice carried a hint of disbelief, but he quickly steadied himself and responded firmly, "I will do my best to ensure the mission's success."
Carlos was pleased with Ryan's response, his eyes reflecting trust and expectation. "I know you can handle it, Ryan. Do well, and this will be a great opportunity to showcase your leadership skills."
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