Chapter Three (B): Eric & Alice

[Akirapryde]

Major Tetsuhara leaned back once more in his chair and listened carefully. While there was some bit of ease in his demeanor, there was still a clear hint of distrust. He changed his tone slightly, "Do you know why Kimiko is so important to me?" He said choosing his words carefully. "She is my granddaughter."

"You dismiss family ties and from your way of looking at it I can understand." He paused a moment before continuing, "let me tell you about family bonds and how they are important to me. You my friend are linked to me in ways I don't think you understand. My brothers Minubo and Yoshi both died giving their lives to the Combine. My wife died giving birth to my last daughter."

He folded his arms and rested them on his torso, "you met her, Sho Sho Tatsuhara." He looked in to Erik's eyes, "I only have two daughters who paid for my mistakes long ago. Out of this my children rose from the ashes to become honorable and noble women. You must already know about my youngest daughter, the Sho Sho."

"My oldest daughter is one of the most successful women in Lyran space. She, Kimiko's mother, married a great noble warrior and hero. Their success is what attracted the attention of your family. Your family had my son-in- law murdered like a dog. Your family had Kimiko's brothers murdered while they fought to protect the entire Inner Shpere. Kimiko, her mother and the Sho Sho is all the family I have left."

His tone turned very serious, "so you are correct. I do have much to focus my attentions on. If your family, rather by birth or deed, want to run around and kill each other fine. But make no mistake I will protect the remainder of MY family till my last breath."

He leaned forward and rested his hands on the table. "I will ask you this one time" he said holding a single finger. "And I advise you to not lie to me. Are here on a serect mission for Lyran Intelligence?" He watched Erik very closely for any sign of dishonesty.