At Ashford Academy.
Leila brewed tea for the three men seated there.
They had been discussing how far future international relations should extend when Schneizel suddenly turned the conversation to the Black Knights, whether deliberately or not.
"Speaking of which, won't the Black Knights resent you for discarding them once they've served their purpose? You did promise them Area 11, after all."
Li Xingke also gave him a puzzled look.
This question concerned Ask's credibility as well. If the answer failed to satisfy him, he might have to change his approach toward Britannia in the future.
Ask took an unhurried sip of tea.
He knew Schneizel was reminding him that too many stains on his reputation would also harm his future governance.
Even if he intended to "deal with" them, he had to do it cleanly, leaving nothing anyone could use against him.
But he had no concerns on that front.
Since he had made the promise, the final say on its interpretation rightly belonged to him.
"As I recall, I only promised that a Special XZ Zone would be established in the Island Nation. I never promised to make the Black Knights some sort of defense force. Wasn't that something you added on your own during the negotiations, Brother?"
Ask spread one hand and continued disdainfully:
"Besides, making terrorists into soldiers is rather ridiculous."
"I had no choice. Without that condition, I felt the negotiations would hardly go smoothly."
Schneizel rested his head on one hand, looking utterly innocent.
"That's why I'm not blaming you, Brother. It was a necessary concession. The Black Knights can certainly continue to exist. An organization symbolizing a defensive force would also be convenient to manage. However..."
The corners of Ask's mouth lifted slightly, a trace of viciousness lurking in his meaningful smile.
"The