Page 254 of Mercy Written in Blood

"No."

Sota accepted the criticism without resistance.

"It is only the truth."

Haruki watched him. Most men responded to accusation by hardening. Sota did the opposite. He left space for doubt. It made him more convincing.

"You arranged this meeting to deny involvement?" Haruki asked.

"No."

"Then why?"

"To correct your understanding of what is happening."

"We understand enough."

"I doubt that."

Sota took another drink.

"You believe the Unveiled are a violent faction attempting to expose the existence of vampires through instability and fear."

"That is what your actions suggest."

"Some actions."

"People have died."

"Yes."

"You say that easily."

"I say it accurately."

Sota placed the cup down.

"There are people using our name who believe violence is the only language power understands. There are people within the Unveiled who believe restraint merely extends injustice. There are also people who have spent decades collecting records, protecting witnesses and moving vulnerable families beyond the Accord's reach."

"You do not control them," Haruki said.

"I do not claim to."

"Then you are not a leader."

Sota smiled faintly.

"That sounds like something you have been told."

The words landed more sharply than their tone. Haruki felt his shoulders settle. Sota continued before he could answer.

"You lead the Ishida Family. Do you control every person who acts in its name?"

"I am responsible for them."

"That was not my question."

Haruki looked at him. Sota's expression remained open, reasonable. Haruki disliked him more with every passing minute.