Build Gundams Ch 31

Ryuuichi observed the three men. The introductions were made formally.

"I am Jacob, a council member of the Mercenary Guild, and president of the O'lai District branch," the middle-aged man stated, his tone measured. "These are Taiga and Guder, executives dispatched from headquarters to assist in this matter."

Ryuuichi acknowledged the introductions with a nod. "Ryuuichi Kaneshiro, Antares Mercenary Group."

Jacob addressed Ryuuichi directly. "Mr. Kaneshiro, on behalf of the Mercenary Guild, I extend a sincere invitation for your organization to join our ranks."

Ryuuichi maintained a composed demeanor. "If we were to consider joining the Mercenary Guild, what specific treatments and benefits could we expect to receive?"

Jacob detailed the advantages. "As a member, you would gain access to our extensive commission network. Numerous corporations utilize our network to post tasks, and member groups can accept missions based on their assigned rank."

"Are there any additional benefits?" Ryuuichi inquired.

"Certainly," Jacob replied. "In the event a mission is completed, but full payment is not received, the Mercenary Guild provides complimentary legal assistance to recover any outstanding balance."

Ryuuichi smiled faintly. "Such comprehensive benefits would naturally entail a corresponding obligation, correct? I find it difficult to believe such generosity exists without a price."

Jacob acknowledged Ryuuichi's observation. "As you surmised, Mr. Kaneshiro, there is a membership fee. The amount varies based on rank; higher ranks entail larger fees but also unlock more significant benefits. For example, high-ranking members receive priority notification of valuable asset auctions, with the Mercenary Guild covering the entry fees."

"I see," Ryuuichi responded. "However, I suspect there are other stipulations that require clarification."

Jacob confirmed his suspicion. "For any mission facilitated by the Mercenary Guild, a percentage of the remuneration—specifically ten percent—must be remitted to the Guild upon completion. Private contracts, provided they are legal, are exempt from this requirement."

Ryuuichi absorbed the information, his understanding solidified. The Mercenary Guild's presence and proposition were not without strategic calculation. Their interest likely stemmed from the advanced military technology his company was developing.

Skywing Armaments and the Antares Mercenary Group had rapidly gained prominence, attracting the attention of numerous clients who sought their services. Some corporations had even established long-term contracts with Antares, ensuring a dedicated escort fleet for a designated day each week throughout the year.

This recognition and trust from the business community had generated envy among other mercenary groups and, more significantly, impacted the Mercenary Guild's business within the O'lai District, which encompassed numerous nations within the Kingdom of Iron Ridge.

Jacob, as a council member and president of the O'lai District branch, viewed the rise of Antares as a potential threat. If powerful mercenary groups could operate successfully outside the Guild's structure, the Mercenary Guild's overall influence would diminish.

Therefore, Jacob's strategy was to integrate Antares into the Mercenary Guild before its continued growth undermined their existing structure, then seek to manage or curtail their development from within.

Ryuuichi understood Jacob's intentions. He adhered to a personal philosophy of self-reliance.

"I appreciate your thorough explanation, Mr. Jacob, and thank you for your consideration," Ryuuichi said, his tone polite but firm. "However, I am more accustomed to operating independently. Therefore, I must decline your kind invitation at this time. Should I reconsider in the future, I will be sure to contact you directly to discuss membership."

Taiga and Guder exchanged glances, their expressions revealing irritation rather than surprise. They recognized Ryuuichi's response as a polite but firm rejection.

The Mercenary Guild's power rested on the influence of several colonial families. Groups that defied the Guild's authority often faced consequences.

Taiga and Guder, accustomed to deference due to their privileged backgrounds, found Ryuuichi's refusal unacceptable. They began to contemplate strategies to undermine Antares and seize its technological assets.

Jacob, more seasoned in diplomacy, masked any displeasure he might have felt. He rose, extending a hand. "Our visit was indeed premature, Mr. Kaneshiro. I apologize if it caused any inconvenience. Should you change your mind, the Mercenary Guild remains open to your membership."

Ryuuichi stood and shook hands with Jacob, then briefly with Taiga and Guder. He then instructed Colonel Omni to escort the Mercenary Guild representatives from the base.

As the Mercenary Guild representatives departed, Commander Kenji Takeshi approached Ryuuichi. "Boss, we have just declined their invitation. Are you concerned about potential repercussions?"

Ryuuichi remained composed. "If we were to join them now, they would undoubtedly seek to hinder our progress. It is preferable to allow them to take some initial action, which will then provide an opportunity to demonstrate our capabilities and establish that we are not to be underestimated. Following that, even if we were to join the Guild, they would be less inclined to interfere."

"When do you anticipate their first move?" Kenji asked.

"Jacob is difficult to predict," Ryuuichi admitted. "However, Taiga and Guder, despite their attempts at composure, betrayed their displeasure. Accustomed to positions of authority, they likely resent being rebuffed by someone they consider insignificant. I anticipate they will initiate some form of surveillance or interference within the next few days."

"Will you be returning to the Albion today, Boss?" Kenji inquired.

"No. Today marks the official opening of this sub-base, and a banquet is scheduled for this evening. I intend to remain here for the night. I will take a few days to relax before returning to my research."

...

Jacob, Taiga, and Guder departed the Antares Mercenary Group's sub-base in separate vehicles.

Taiga and Guder, in their respective cars, initiated a video conference.

"Guder, that individual requires a lesson in humility," Taiga stated, his tone sharp. "He needs to understand his place."

"I agree," Guder responded. "What approach do you suggest we take?"

Before Guder could elaborate, both received notifications on their devices.

They examined the messages, then exchanged glances.

"I have received an invitation," Taiga announced.

"From the Kaneshiro family?" Guder inquired.

"Precisely," Taiga confirmed. "And you?"

"The same," Guder replied. "I wonder why the Kaneshiro family is extending invitations to both of us simultaneously."

"What are your intentions?" Taiga asked.

"What about you? Will you accept the invitation?" Guder countered.

"I am curious as to the Kaneshiro family's motivations," Taiga stated. "I believe I will accept their invitation to ascertain their intentions."

"Very well," Guder agreed. "If you are attending, then so shall I."