Several months ago, the Leader had intended to hire Bai Fu to "deal with" the Honorable Force, but at the related meeting, his proposal was opposed by most officials.
The opposers felt that although hiring Bai Fu could significantly cut costs, reduce casualties, and increase the efficiency of striking the Honorable Force, there was a very big downside.
"What are we going to do if Bai Fu takes care of everything, serve her tea and give her massages? Doesn't that make us look incompetent?"
"The military won't agree to it, either. If they don't cooperate, things will get very messy."
So, no, we can't hire Bai Fu!
Facing the opposition from these officials, the Leader just shrugged his shoulders calmly.
Although he had intentions of using Bai Fu, now was not the time.
The Tem Civilization wasn't in enough chaos yet. Inviting Bai Fu now would be meaningless, as he couldn't really let Bai Fu take down the Honorable Force.
Bai Fu's outcry in front of the media received no response from the Tem Civilization Leader Mansion for over half a year, which made the Leader's already not-so-great approval rating sink even lower.
"Cowardly, foolish, envious of talent!"
All sorts of derogatory terms were pinned on the Leader.
As the struggle between the factions of the Tem Civilization became more apparent, and the situation in each Governor District and state became more tense, the abuse grew even more intense.
While browsing the relevant news on the spaceship, Bai Fu couldn't help but criticize in her heart.
Others rise from the entertainment industry's collapse and amaze the world; this Old Man is playing that game in politics, impressive!
"Nellis invited me over to prepare for the forthcoming civil war; what does the Leader want me to do by inviting me?"
Bai Fu thought of many different possibilities and discussed the issue earnestly with Julia, An Ya, Cecilia, and Vic.
No one could give a definite answer. It seemed that the only option was to meet the Leader in person.
Bai Fu's first stop in the Tem Civilization was a planet in the Costari Governor District, where Nellis had organized a special banquet.
As she entered the venue, all the people who were conversing stopped.
Dozens of eyes turned towards her all at once.
Bai Fu, dressed in a tight black combat suit, attracted as much attention as a young lady in a grand ball gown.
"Is that the recently famous Queen Bai Fu, the mercenary from Initial Gate?"
"Yes, that's her, her power is likely already number one in Initial Gate. Those following her are Night Mother Cecilia, Demon An Ya, and Julia."
The crowd murmured among themselves until Nellis, who had been greeting people, walked over.
"You've had a long journey."
Bai Fu smiled and shook her head, "Not at all."
Nellis suddenly smiled mysteriously, "A special guest has come to this banquet. Half the reason he is here is for you."
"I'll take you to see him."
Nellis didn't answer directly but headed towards the second floor.
Making it so mysterious, could it be someone from Titan Industry?
Along the way, An Ya, who was following behind her, kept grumbling.
"Ai, I really can't stand it. Who came up with that terrible nickname Demon for me? It sounds awful."
Julia said, "Stop complaining, having a nickname is good. I don't even have one. Right, Vic wasn't even mentioned."
Vic felt like he had taken an arrow to the knee and didn't feel like talking.
Before long, led by Nellis, they arrived at a room in a more secluded location on the second floor.
The moment the door was opened, Bai Fu never dreamed that she would see the Leader!
"Saintess Bai Fu, long time no see."
The Leader bowed deeply, offering Bai Fu a greeting filled with utmost respect.
Nellis, Nellis's Affairs Officer Mani, and others all smiled from the side.
Did not expect that, huh?
Their eyes seemed to convey that message.
Alright, most impressive!
Bai Fu also started smiling, "Long time no see, Your Excellency the Leader."
Only then did Nellis step forward to explain.
In short, the assassination of Ranie had affected the Leader, who always prided himself as a fair Defender, and he could no longer bear it. He decided to change his previously neutral strategy and collaborate with Nellis to save the Tem Civilization, which was heading in a wrong direction.
"I don't know who sent the Assassin. I only know that now, a group of people are trampling on the Tem Civilization's prospering systems and principles for their own gain. This is unforgivable!"
Both Nellis and the Leader showed expressions of disgust on their faces.
The more she listened to Nellis and the Leader, the more she understood the Leader's true plans.
The Honorable Force was a part of the Leader's plan, and so was Nellis.
The former was his sharp knife to eliminate rivals and a stepping-stone to enhance his reputation. The latter was his screen to hide his true intentions, and when necessary, he probably planned to sacrifice Nellis and inherit everything from him.
Now the only question was whether Nellis was being kept in the dark by the Leader or if, like the Honorable Force, he was just another pawn of the Leader.
Understanding this was important.
Of course, it wouldn't have much impact if it wasn't clear at this stage.
If the Leader wanted to make a big move, he would have to wait until the Tem Civilization was utterly in chaos. If he showed himself too early, exposing his true power and intentions, it would be hard to say whose hands the spoils would fall into.