Page 366 of Mercy Written in Blood

"The Accord will never decide the world is ready," Haruki continued. "Readiness threatens the reason it exists."

Mori's expression closed. Sota studied Haruki.

"Then you agree with me."

"No."

"Why?"

"Because you decided their refusal gave you the right to choose for everyone else."

Sota looked towards the crowd.

"They chose to come."

"They chose to witness. You have not told them what they are witnessing."

"I was going to."

"When?"

"Tonight."

"Here?"

"Yes."

"In the middle of a battlefield."

"I did not create the battle."

Haruki looked towards Isao.

"No. You created the movement that entered it believing violence would prove commitment."

Sota's jaw tightened.

"Then stop me."

The words were quiet. Not challenge. Invitation. Haruki stared at him.

Sota stepped towards the centre of the floor. The cameras above followed automatically. So did the phones beyond the glass.

"Stop me," he repeated. "Arrest me. Kill me if that is what the Accord requires. But do it where they can see."

Mori moved. Haruki raised one hand. The movement pulled at the wound beneath his collarbone. He ignored it. Sota saw. His gaze dropped to the blood spreading beneath Haruki's coat.

"You should not be standing."

"Neither should you."

A faint, tired smile appeared. Perhaps the first expression Haruki had seen from Sota that was not selected for effect.

"You still think I am dangerous."

"Yes."

"You still admire me."