573 One Down

In an expansive courtyard-style estate in one of the most affluent residential villa area, teeming with greeneries and scenic garden scapes in the capital of Country J, a small feast was laid on the long low dining table. At the head of the table was a dignified man in his mid-sixties wearing a traditional men's kimono.

Shinichi bowed. 

"Greetings, father."

"Take a seat."

Shinichi sat down on the soft cushion on the tatami covered floor. He did not touch the food and waited for his father's chopsticks to touch the food.

"How is the trip to Country C?"

"It's quite fruitful."

"Who did you meet there?"

Shinichi found this question a bit strange. "I attended the Tang family's banquet and got to know them--"

"I am asking you if you have made any deal with a person?" his father interrupted. "Or if you had an argument with some people?"