Page 297 of Mercy Written in Blood

"I know."

Renji had expected defence. Instead, the Commander accepted the resemblance. It did not make it easier to forgive.

"What happened to Aiko?" Haruki asked.

Mori's gaze moved towards him.

"She continued searching."

"Did you stop her?"

"Yes."

"How?"

"We removed her access."

"That isn't what I asked."

"No."

Mori took a breath.

"She attempted to release documents through a journalist. We intercepted them."

"And?"

"We discredited the journalist."

Haruki laughed once. No humour.

"Of course."

"Aiko was detained for questioning."

"How long?"

"Six days."

"Was she harmed?"

"No."

"You expect me to believe that?"

"I expect Doctor Takahara to know whether I am lying."

Haruki looked at Renji. Renji listened. Mori's heartbeat remained controlled — not enough to prove truth, he had spent decades learning to manage it. Still, Renji believed him.

"No physical harm," Renji said.

Haruki's expression sharpened.

"That leaves a great deal."

"Yes."

Mori continued.