"Thank you. I'm looking forward to our cooperation." Maya politely nodded to the president while signing the contract.
There were five big points in the contract.
Firstly, Theo had to help the government to develop the area, turning it into a fortress that could assist them in developing the surrounding area.
It wasn't that big of a deal since Theo had planned to do it. Maya had just to make sure that the government didn't stop Theo's plan like the union did.
The second point stated that a big military base would be placed in that area within three months after Theo and his group had cleared a portion of the area for it to be possible.
In exchange for this point, Theo and Maya were granted several lands.
The third condition was Theo would cooperate with the army to help in the area near Kentucky.
Maya had made sure that Theo wasn't under the military, and if they wanted Theo's help, they had to ask him, not order him, as Theo didn't plan to become the government's dog.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtThe fourth condition was Theo would stay in that land to settle down and wouldn't be involved in the government unless they tried to harm him in any way.
Maya knew their concern that the power balance would be tipped off due to Theo's existence.
In the union, Flora had absolute control due to her strength. On the other hand, United Asia had the Sword Saint, Heavenly Sovereign, and the Daemon. They were keeping each other in check, so the balance remained.
On the other hand, there was only Theo and the Time God in this place. The Time God assisted the government, but Theo didn't.
The Time God might be strong right now, but Theo progressed by leaps and bounds. Together with his clone, the power balance might be tilted to Theo's side sooner or later.
So, they wanted Theo to promise not to take any part in the government since kicking him out here was the same as asking for trouble.
Of course, she had made sure Theo had some clauses that he could use to defend himself from the government that tried to take advantage of him. Though, it might be unnecessary due to Theo's strength.
Last but not least, the government would heavily invest in the area for the next development. Missouri, the location of the Star Group's current headquarter, would also be assisting with the development in this new area, which could create a migration to liven up the place.
There were several more clauses that acted for the development of the area, but Maya believed those five were the more important.
As soon as she finished signing the contract, she returned to Theo to give him the contract so that he could sign there too.
Meanwhile, the president was clenching both fists as if he had just undergone a lot of stress with the negotiation.
"What's wrong? You are scared?" The Time God suddenly appeared behind the president.
"That Maya might have surpassed her grandfather. She is truly a business genius, and with Theo behind her, I'm afraid no one can stop her anymore."
"That's true." The Time God nodded. "Still, Theo is the best hope you can ever have if you plan to reclaim the lands. And he might be the one leading you to the future…"
"Not you?" The president frowned since the Time God's tone felt like he had been defeated.
The Time God looked at the door as he was reminded of Theo's ferocity. He shook his head, looked at his book, and said, "I don't have much time left."
…
While the government was depressed, Theo readily signed the agreement. Maya would be the one finishing the administration business while Theo handled the rest.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmIt only took a whole day before they heard from the army and the mobilization of the troops.
As soon as Theo was ready to go, Theo immediately gathered the team again and stated, "Alright. I know that this is going to be stressful, but I'm planning to find some places for us to rebuild our places. If you don't want to participate in this process, please raise your hand."
No one was raising their hands. Even Jeff, who hadn't been in a fight for so long, said, "What's wrong with you, Theo? You have been asking too much about our opinion recently. Although it's good to know that you're respecting our choice, it's kinda annoying to me. Why do you keep asking when you usually lead us like a leader before? Are you traumatized that we'll leave you like Phyrill? Don't underestimate us."
"Beautifully said." Chris gave a thumbs up, not losing this opportunity to berate Theo. "I guess you're still a kid who is easily traumatized by separation."
Theo couldn't deny it completely. Somewhere in his heart, he felt a bit empty after so many separations recently. Agata might be one of the biggest holes right now, but she was still communicating with him.
However, Phyrill and Ellen had left the group for good. Although the reason was justified, he never thought that the apocalypse caused the separation.
There was also the Wind Emperor, who had passed away not long before that. The closer Theo to them, the more painful it was to know they were leaving.
Theo closed his eyes for a moment before smiling. "No, I just want to ask you whether you're prepared or not. After all, You're going to work tirelessly from now on."
The people smirked, not because they liked overworking but because Theo finally returned to his usual self.
Theo pointed at the center of Kentucky and said, "We'll set up the military base in this area. They're going to take care of the route to here while I'll split our team into three. The leader will be me, Felix, and Ruth.
"Akbar, Eleanor, and Millie will be in charge of our network, while Isaac will take care of the rest in the temporary base. Do whatever you like there.
"I'll be working together with Rea. Chris and Jeff will be in Felix's group, while Coline and Walker will help Ruth. Got it?" Theo ended it with those words instead of 'Any objection?' to show his confidence in his plan.
All of them smiled, showing no objections.