Carls's expression shifted slightly as he looked at The Mandarin, his gaze instantly growing grave. He treated this notorious demon from the East with due seriousness.
Still, he did not address him by the honorific title of lord, continuing to call him The Mandarin instead.
It was not merely a matter of pride, but also preparation for the negotiations to come.
Negotiations were all about projecting strength. Addressing him as lord now would put Carls a step beneath him from the outset, and he naturally refused to do that.
"So, it's Mr. Mandarin. What exactly did you invite me here for today?"
At that, The Mandarin raised an eyebrow slightly. He did not quibble over the form of address and went straight to the point. "I hear Mr. Orleans has been enforcing his counterterrorism policy quite vigorously lately?"
"There was a little mishap last time, so I intend to invite him over as a guest again. I hope you can provide us with sufficient intelligence, Mr. Karls."
Carls's expression changed at those words, anger instantly rising in his face.
"I already helped you last time. You were the ones who botched it, and now you want my help again? Absolutely not!"
Watching the agitated Carls, The Mandarin smiled unconcernedly.
"Mr. Karls, I didn't invite you here to negotiate. I'm merely informing you."
"You should understand that once you've done certain things, there will always be a second time. You have no choice."
"While I'm still in a good mood, you may ask for one small concession. Otherwise, I can't guarantee that what you saw today won't appear at the White House tomorrow."
"You're threatening me!"
Carls rose to his feet in fury.
"No, it's not a threat. I'm merely reminding you of an established fact."
The Mandarin's tone remained calm.