And there it was, their unwavering bone of contention, slipping into negotiations again.

Xander looked at Ryoma for a long moment, his blood-red gaze firm. He knew that Ryoma knew his answer; it was the same as it had been the last time and the time before.

Furthermore, if he chose to push Ryoma on the same subject, he'd simply receive the answer he knew well enough that he didn't bother asking.

"Another time," Ryoma finally said.

Yes, another time.

There were other documents this time, and other words and concessions and agreements.

They continued to agree to firmly disagree.