"Yes, Honjowara -sama ." Machiko swallows. Breathes. Nearly puts the Tachi Monarch into the trees standing just beyond the exit lane of the SDF checkpoint. "I am prepared." Again, the Chairman watches her. This, the man who rose to control of the Honjowara-gumi by the age of eighteen, who founded Nagato Corporation and extended its holdings throughout North America, into Asia, Europe, the Middle East, who alone condemned anti-metahuman sentiment and brought his New Way to the clans. This man pauses to watch her, evaluating her reaction, perhaps seeing so deeply that he scrutinizes her spirit. Then he says, "Machiko-san. I know that Sukayo-san would give the Guard willingly into your hands. Do not doubt your ability. You are ready."