Defense and Settlement The Receiver shall have the right, in its discretion, to (i) defend or settle any claim or suit against the Assuming Institution with respect to which the Receiver has indemnified the Assuming Institution in the same manner and to the same extent as provided in Article XII, and (ii) defend or settle any claim or suit against the Assuming Institution with respect to any Liability Assumed, which claim or suit may result in a loss to the Receiver arising out of or related to this Agreement, or which existed against the Failed Bank on or before the Bank Closing Date. The exercise by the Receiver of any rights under this Section 9.3(a) shall not release the Assuming Institution with respect to any of its obligations under this Agreement.