The system had clearly finished matching them as well.
[Existing facility meeting resettlement requirements found: Penglai Artificial Island.] [Area 11's Imperial Lineage and Government-in-Exile can provide a guarantee of cultural and legal continuity.] [Additional civilization credit discount applied.]
On the other side of the screen, Tabane rested her chin in her hand, apparently looking over Penglai Island's information too.
"Not bad. An ocean, an airport, underground laboratories, far enough from the city that ordinary people won't complain when something blows up, and a lovely name. Big Sister Tabane is very pleased."
"Then explain the contract terms first."
"It's simple. Penglai Island goes to IS Academy and the Joint Enterprise for long-term use, research funding remains stable, IS cores cannot be forcibly dismantled, and we decide the academy's internal teaching and technical affairs ourselves. Everyone willing to evacuate gets legal status, and corporate patents and individual intellectual property rights remain valid."
"I won't accept absolute extralegal jurisdiction."
Tabane blinked.
"IS Academy was an extralegal institution in our original world, you know."
"That was your original world. Penglai Island can have special academic and technical autonomy. The academy can decide its teaching, research, internal assessments, and rules for IS use, but criminal justice, foreign relations, military operations outside the island, and public safety must still comply with Commonwealth law."
A very soft snort came from off-screen.
Then a tall, black-haired woman stepped into view. Her expression was cold. As she stood behind Tabane, she did not even need to speak for Tabane's smile to fade a little.
Chifuyu Orimura.
"Put this clause in the contract. Students may undergo training and wartime mobilization, but no government, company, or Tabane herself may force them to undergo irreversible experiments."
"Hey, why single me out?"
"Because the others don't have your track record."
Tabane