"So, how does our failed voyage benefit Malcolm?" asked the redhead.
"Not everyone on this island supports the establishment of the black-market alliance, especially the smaller, less powerful pirate gangs. But because of their size, no one would pay attention to what they have to say. We are the only ones on the island left who are strong enough but have not joined the alliance–many are watching our every move, which was why we had such a hard time negotiating the price. The black-market alliance doesn't mind increasing the buying price for a single pirate group. Still, if they were to do that, they'd be violating their own rules, and it would also set a precedent for others to ask for higher prices. So if our first voyage turned out badly, I'm sure that there would be no such trouble."
