The Civilization Devourer's expansion had become inevitable. Under such circumstances, relying on the wizards' strength alone was clearly not enough to stand against the Civilization Devourer.
Of course, even if it were enough, the wizards still had to bring other civilizations into the fold.
The Civilization Devourer threatened every civilization in the entire World Cluster. The wizards could not be the only civilization bearing the burden.
And if they were to establish an alliance, then how they handled the Swarm Lord would be immensely useful.
As a civilization defeated by the wizards, the way they dealt with it could directly influence how other civilizations viewed Wizard Civilization.
Moreover, if they formed an alliance, a council-like structure would inevitably emerge.
When that time came, if the Swarm Lord could participate in the voting, it would certainly be a good thing for the wizards—provided he truly cooperated.
The Swarm Lord was no fool. The moment Richard mentioned the banner, he had guessed Richard's intentions.
The Swarm Lord sighed. "As expected, you wizards really know how to scheme."
Richard corrected him. "This is called mutual benefit. Do you really want to be trapped inside a small world, slowly aging away bit by bit?"
The Swarm Lord did not answer.
Changing the contract truly offered him enormous benefits. Freedom alone was enough to delight him.
As a loser, what more could he possibly ask for?
But reason was one thing. As one of a civilization's leaders, having his own future calculated and used as a bargaining chip was still difficult for him to accept.
"So where am I going during this next stretch of time?" the Swarm Lord asked, changing the subject.
With a wave of Richard's hand, a Thirteen Ring Self-Transforming Rune Model infused with Dimensional Power appeared beside him.
"Until the contract