Chapter 393: Change of Plan

Theo's expression turned cold. "I may be a nobody here, but I'm certainly not someone who plays with other people's lives. If you think you can shoulder the fact that you just let the danger come because you think I'm green, then feel free to do it. I have done everything I can. All I want to say is… The moment our group is at a disadvantage, I will be the first to escape. Coward? No, it's on you.

"I don't have any proof other than this one picture. I don't have their locations or even videos." Theo closed his eyes and raised his hands. "I have told you my point. That's all."

Seeing such an argument, Agata turned serious. Although she didn't know Theo that much, she knew Theo wasn't someone who often played with such a joke. Hence, she made a mental note that no matter how ridiculous the topic he mentioned, it was better to be addressed properly.

This would certainly solve the dissatisfaction in Theo's heart if he came to Italy. She really needed to tell it to the higher-ups, considering this was one of the reasons she came here. Everything was to assess Theo from his improvement to his judgment.

And she thought that even if Theo didn't have much experience, they shouldn't diminish Theo's talent, especially as the MVP of the Grand Gaia Competition.

Alea shared the same sentiment as she looked at Xavier. "If this is true, it's worth mentioning even to the military. I'm sure the military can gather the information too. Also, it's not that big of a deal to change our route."

"If it's really an anomaly, you can indeed report it to the military, so they can take over." Xavier nodded before stating, "However, changing our route is easier said than done. First, it's hard to predict why the anomaly could happen and where it's going. For example, can you say certainly that changing our route will avoid them?

"Supposed we changed our route, what will happen if the Mutated Chimera Wolf who loves to move in a pack also stays there? We need at least a few days to let this anomaly pass or let the military take action. I can't afford to waste that amount of time.

"If you think I'm harsh, I'm just stating my point. This is the reality. There is a time you can't cancel an expedition because the preparation alone can be worth tens of millions if not hundreds of millions. You also need to consider the other members and a few other things. I don't have time to list everything for you right now." Xavier shrugged and looked at Theo with cold eyes.

This was the first time Theo had an expedition like this and he certainly understood that everything wouldn't be as smooth as moving alone or in a small group.

He glanced at the vehicle parked at the side of the road. It was a car where one could sleep or store equipment. Each cost tens of millions of Zils, so he could understand that it wasn't that easy to change their plans.

However, Theo also had another plan for this and suggested it with a poker face. "We can use our Scouts, no, increase the number. Fighters and knights can do the job as well, helping the two scouts."

"We can also eliminate the potential route by looking at the characteristic, especially where they live," Alea added, supporting Theo's argument.

Agata also wanted to say something, but she decided to remain silent as if it wasn't something that important.

"He is someone who won't do something meaningless. That's why I will be responsible for this decision. Rearrange our group to match our situation and we will also delay our departure for an hour," commanded Alea while turning to Theo. "You are also going to participate in the scouting, so prepare yourself."

"Well, the Mutated Chimera Wolves aren't that fond of a mountain. There is one in the route, but it depends on where he found the monsters…" Xavier glanced at Theo coldly.

"Ainsi Forest," Theo answered without hesitation.

"It's close to the mountain. We can increase the surveillance around that area, but this will increase the cost, time, and jobs for everyone." Xavier closed his eyes. "There will be a need to raise the pay for the entire group."

Alea nodded, agreeing to the request.

"Alright." Theo nodded and turned around, leaving. "We will wait for the decision."

Moana smiled and waved her hand to Alea before following Theo.

Although Alea wanted to stay together with him, she couldn't afford to do that due to the current order and situation.

Xavier also did the same and left while saying, "I will take care of the route."

Unbeknownst to them, when Xavier's face couldn't be seen by them anymore, his lips curved mysteriously.

However, there was also certainly another person who reacted to it. He stood on the side of the road while furrowing his eyebrows. After confirming what just happened, the man left while waving his long red hair.

After returning to their position, Agata asked, "Theo. Are you disappointed that you can't change the entire plan?"

"Hmm?" Theo tilted his head in confusion. "Not really. I don't have experience in a big expedition like this. I understand that this expedition requires a lot of money, so I can see why it's impossible to stop it. The only thing we can do is to change the route, but…"

"But…" She stared at Theo for a moment.

Theo shook his head helplessly and said, "It's nothing. I am just afraid that you are getting dragged into this. That's why I need to warn you one more time…"

"A scheme?" Agata's expression turned serious as she looked down, falling into deep thought. "Anyway, I will be following every single one of your orders."

"Your trust is expensive, you know." Theo rolled his eyes. "What will happen if the world knows the most beautiful woman is entrusting her life to me…"

"Haha, jobs like this will always be between life and death. It's not that big of a deal." She chuckled. "Besides, you said you will retreat as soon as we fall into a disadvantage."

"Fair enough." Theo shrugged. "Though, you still need to prepare to do anything later."

"I'm ready." She answered with a smile.