"Here." Netero poured Gelman a cup of matcha, a thin layer of tiny bubbles floating on its surface. "Have some."
Gelman took a small sip. He wasn't used to the taste, so he set the cup down.
Netero didn't press him.
"I've heard everything about what happened on your trip," Netero said. "Beyond being buried in the soil of the Dark Continent might have fulfilled one of his wishes."
His tone was calm, without sadness or anger, as though it were only natural.
In truth, Netero had anticipated Beyond's fate when Gelman set out.
Gelman looked around Netero's office. On the wall, he spotted Netero's signature oversized portrait and a piece of calligraphy bearing the character for "heart."
Typical Netero. He was still as showy as ever, as if he wanted everyone who entered his office to feel his presence and never forget him.
At the same time, it was necessary. This was how he conveyed his confidence to the outside world.
People noticed that confidence. Those who wanted to preserve stability could feel reassured, while those seeking power would think twice.
"Chairman, did you call me here just to ask me about what happened again?"
"No, not at all." Netero inhaled the tea's fragrance and took another sip before replying without hurry. "I was hoping we could be frank with each other."
"Be frank with each other?"
"Exactly." Netero explained, "You and we have been working along two separate tracks, one in the open and one in the shadows. Now that those tracks have crossed, we need to decide where they go from here."
Gelman understood. He asked seriously, "What are you planning to do next?"
"There are several things to handle. The first is to maintain a balance among the various forces on the New Continent and ensure