Page 251 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Mr Ishida."

His gaze moved to Renji.

"Doctor Takahara."

Then Ken.

"Mr Hattori."

Ken's posture tightened. Sota noticed.

"I make a point of knowing who may be asked to kill me."

His tone remained pleasant. Ken did not smile. Haruki stepped onto the pavilion platform.

"You asked for a meeting."

"I did."

"You know our names."

"I know a great deal more than that."

"That is usually where men like you expect us to be impressed."

Sota's smile deepened slightly.

"Men like me?"

"People who mistake surveillance for intimacy."

Renji looked towards Haruki. Not disapproval. Interest. Sota gave a quiet laugh.

"That is good."

"What is?"

"I expected you to be more formal."

"You expected me to be afraid."

"No."

The answer came immediately. Sota turned towards the pavilion.

"I expected you to perform authority. I am pleased you do not need to."

Inside, a low table had been set with tea. Four cushions rested around it. No guards. No visible weapons. The rear wall opened towards the garden, leaving the pond in full view.

Sota removed his shoes before stepping inside. Haruki did the same. Renji followed. Ken remained at the edge of the platform. Sota looked towards him.

"You may sit."

"I'm fine."

"You will see the exits more clearly from inside."

Ken's jaw tightened. Haruki took the cushion facing Sota. Renji sat beside him. Ken chose the place nearest the door.