60. Concessions Today, Profits in the Future

In the tense aftermath of Jake’s execution of two torturer-hexers, Miranda asserts Haven’s right to punish as it sees fit. Jake reflects on his disdain for gratuitous cruelty and why Sultan’s sadism disgusts him, contrasting necessary violence with predation on the weak.

Cutting to Sultan’s perspective, he’s thrilled by Lord Thayne’s dominance and views Haven’s autocracy as preferable to Sanctdomo’s politics. He decides that sacrificing slaves and short-term freedom is a worthwhile gamble to secure early, exclusive ties to Haven and, indirectly, the Malefic Viper’s Order.

Negotiations begin. Neil proposes binding Sultan by contract to Haven, but Sultan refuses any loyalty or freedom-limiting clauses, which Jake deems reasonable. Discussion turns to the remaining slaves: Gabi begs to leave Sultan for Haven, while the serial killer clings to Sultan. Miranda seeks clarity but withholds immediate drastic actions.

They strike terms: Sultan joins on a trial basis, gains System Store access, and is recognized for official events. In return, he accepts an elevated tax until paying 100 million Credits, Haven’s right of first purchase on rare-or-better goods with a markup cap, and conduct rules forbidding new enslavement and torture except by consent, plus periodic reviews with Silas. Only trade specifics make it into the formal contract.

After hours of debate, Miranda and Lillian formalize and sign the trade contract with Sultan; Jake declines to sign. With tensions cooled, Miranda welcomes Sultan to Haven. Jake closes the meeting by pivoting to business: “Show me your wares.”