Page 85 of Mercy Written in Blood

"That is not evidence of recovery."

"No. It is evidence that the hospital doors open from both sides."

Reina folded her arms.

"He signed himself out."

"I discharged myself against advice."

"That is what I said."

Kael looked at her. Reina met his gaze without flinching. Most people found it difficult to hold the attention of vampires. Reina found most things more irritating than frightening.

Haruki gestured towards the empty chairs.

"You asked for a meeting."

Kael remained standing.

"This is not a negotiation."

"Then you asked for an audience."

"I informed your Family that the Accord has assumedjurisdiction over the tunnel incident."

"Which sounds very much like the beginning of a negotiation."

The woman behind Kael moved slightly. Not impatience. Readiness. Haruki noticed. So did Ken — his posture changed almost imperceptibly, shoulders settling, weight shifting towards his feet. Kael noticed that too. The room became quiet.

Ayako poured tea. The ordinary sound broke the tension more effectively than any threat.

"Sit," she said.

Kael looked at her. Ayako did not repeat herself. After a moment, he took the chair opposite Haruki. The other two remained standing behind him. Ayako poured a second cup and placed it in front of him. He did not touch it.

"Now," she said, "you may attempt that again without insulting my son in his own house."

Kael's expression did not change.

"He should not be here."

"He was attacked beneath our property," Ayako replied. "Several of our people are dead. Where else should he be?"

"In intensive care."

Haruki leaned back.

"I'm beginning to feel unwelcome."

"You nearly died."

"So I've been told."

"You are still at risk."

"From the wounds or the people who caused them?"

Kael's silence answered. Haruki had expected as much. The Accord had not come merely to collect evidence. They believed the attack was unfinished.