---

"Ah, so they were exploiting the villagers for protection money..." Hamel nodded, now understanding.

Their ship, partially loaded with a scant amount of supplies taken from the Doom Pirates, was already prepping to head out once again, though it hadn't been docked for more than a few hours.

However, a crowd began to form around the ship, though it kept a safe distance. Finally, a man who'd approached Sancho earlier stepped forward, before placing a briefcase down. Cracking it open, he revealed the contents: it was filled with money. One stack of full bills, the rest coins and smaller bills, crumpled and stuffed inside.

Bowing his head, he said, "Please...I am the mayor of this small town. This is all I have to offer. We didn't know our protectors were the same pirates harassing us, but...they have allies! The rest of their crew, and those on Lefacti! Please, don't leave!" Digging his forehead into the dirt, he said, "Please!" Behind him, the townsfolk rippled like a wave as they too sank to their knees.

Hamel blinked, before his face cracked into a knowing smile as he leaned back against the railing of their small boat.