Half an hour later, inside a conference room at the Imperial Grand Hotel.
Looking at Meyer, who had been gazing around in amazement ever since entering the hotel, as though she were visiting ancient ruins that should have been destroyed by the war, John slowly suppressed his doubts. He casually poured himself a cup of coffee, then got straight to the point.
"Let's talk, Madam Prophet. I'm very interested in the chance encounter you deliberately arranged along my route, as well as this so-called deal you mentioned."
It wasn't a scheme. It really had been a chance encounter.
Honestly, I hadn't expected to run into you while retreating.
Meyer grumbled inwardly, but on the surface, she put on an unhurried expression.
Then, imitating John across from her, she poured herself a cup of coffee and took a sip.
She had wanted to put on the airs of an elite as well, but the instant that bitter coffee entered her mouth, she felt as if it had bitten her tongue. She nearly spat it out with her face twisted in agony.
Yet, feeling John's calm yet faintly teasing gaze across from her, she forcefully suppressed the urge to vomit.
After silently complaining about the Empire's perverse eating habits, she spoke with feigned composure.
"It's simple. We possess intelligence of great importance to the Empire, while Lieutenant General John, you happen to hold several hostages I need. Therefore, I intend to exchange this intelligence for them. Are you interested?"
After saying that, she added before John could reply.
"The hostages I want to exchange aren't important figures to you, merely people of no importance to the Empire. The only reason I wish to ransom them is because I have reached an agreement with the organization behind them. Please do not overthink it."