>>5852078You know the rules, and so does Ienaga. Only Marlin-1, Albatross-1, and maybe Albatross-3 would go to him, not even one of the freighters. His calm front betrays his deep worries when the topic of salvage rights comes up. You quickly defuse the tense atmosphere, “Captain Ienaga, since the Yushi and Shishi have screened us from that final attack run by Ox-3's drones, you have the rightful claim to the whole hull's salvage. Is that alright?” His eyes beam at the suggestion, still he has to make sure, “But the ship was disabled by your guns.” You repeat the offer, “Yes, and? I have not taken out the drones.” Ienaga sighs, “I see. Thank you, Captain Thornton. I will not forget this.”
He considers his words carefully before continuing. “In return, you can take everything from the listening post if you want.” Ah, fair and square, then. Whatever the reason, Ienaga does not want to take half of the convoy without offering anything in return. You silently thank Silas for his insistence on splitting the station with Jean-Pierre ahead of time. Roquefort glares with insubordination when you dismiss him. Maybe the agent can be persuaded to share the frigate Richardson's patrol plans. For reference, of course.
Over on M-131, shuttles bus back and forth between the Armitage and the station. On their way out, they would carry high-value [redacted]. When going back in, they are packed with shot-out Qyngur sensor consoles. Repair drones are also hard at work littering the exterior with broken antennas and half-burned satellite dishes. When they are done, even Qyngur intelligence could be convinced the station here was never meant for research.
