Honjowara -sama sternly says, "I am defended by Machiko-san, senior member of the Guard. Do not argue." The senior of the detail bows. The eight withdraw. The door to the room slides closed. Honjowara -sama sips his tea. He extends a hand to the cushion located nearest his left and waits until Machiko has moved there, then says, "We have many enemies, Machiko. And there is much we do not know. The modern conflict is fought in small rooms by men and women with many questions and too few answers. We must seek to clarify the situation. Always, we must seek clarity." Machiko bows. "Yes, Chairman -sama ."