Semi-Coercive Imperialist

After finishing the meal, on the way back to the Robrus hotel.

The air inside the car had settled even heavier than it had been in the restaurant.

"Did you mean it when you spoke of cooperation?"

Suddenly, Yelena withdrew her gaze from the window and asked.

I answered briefly.

"Yes. I did."

She struggled to suppress a hollow laugh threatening to spread across her lips.

"So you've come to conduct diplomacy."

I smiled without a word.