"Congratulations."
When Lake, Hill, and Steve Rogers, who wanted to experience the teleportation technology, appeared at the Malick Estate, they congratulated Hermione like this.
Hermione smiled and asked, "Why?"
Lake's gaze fell on Ebony the Black Panther, who was lying beside Hermione so docilely that no one could tell she was the same black panther who had nearly crushed the G.I. Joe forces. He smiled and said, "What else could it be? This pet of yours."
Hermione lowered her head and glanced at Ebony the Black Panther, then shook her head and looked at Lake. "She's only thanking me. I was the one who let her know who had killed her master. To thank me, she chose to submit to me."
Lake smiled. "It makes no difference."
That was why fools were fools.
If it had been Lake, this would never have happened to him. Either he would not kill, or he would kill. And if he chose to kill, Lake would never leave behind any weeds that might have the chance to grow again when the spring breeze returned.
So...
This kind of mistake would never happen again.
Lake reflected inwardly on his negligence this time. It had still been because of that momentary softness he had shown back then. Although it had not caused any serious consequences or brought him any trouble this time, it was still a warning.
Without a doubt.
As a person, one could not afford to be softhearted—not even for a moment.
Being softhearted toward one's enemies was the greatest cruelty toward oneself.
Lake shook his head. Then his gaze fell on Gideon Malick and his daughter, Stephanie Malick, who were being escorted out of the house by the G.I. Joe soldiers.
"Minister Edwin, kill me, but don't..."
"Bang!"
"Dad—"
"Bang!"
Lake walked over.