A Death in the Family

Chapter iii

The pair sat on the meditation rug in the center of the dojo, sharing a traditional Japanese Tea. The ceremony dated back to feudal Japan, and involved specific actions and rituals before the tea is ever consumed. As it traditionally performed in silence, Michelle waited for Suri to speak first.

"Thank you my friend; for sharing in this tradition with me. I am honored by your presence," Suri said, smiling.

"The honor is mine. Ma'am, may I ask a question?"

"Certainly; what is on your mind?"

"The case ma'am; what are your thoughts?"

Suri stared at an arbitrary point in space just beyond Michelle. "I have a theory, but I am still wrestling with it. Only a high-ranking government employee would be able to have the proper people look the other way to get a gun on-planet."

Michelle frowned. "Do you know where to start?"

"I am afraid I do. Please arrange transport to the Royal Military Satellite Alpha in the morning."

"Yes ma'am; I'll arrange a meeting..."

"No. This needs to be unannounced."

"Yes ma'am. It is getting late; I need to change out of your kimono and head home."

Suri smiled. "Keep it; it becomes you."

"Thank you ma'am. I'll see you in the morning."

***

Suri sat in the center of her dojo as she did most mornings, enjoying the serenity and the silence; sipping her chi tea. As always, she heard Michelle's footsteps outside, but this morning they seemed to be less intrusive. Her eyes were still closed when Michelle entered.

"Ma'am; have you seen any news this morning?"

Suri nodded her head slightly, still sitting cross-legged on the ornate rug. "Yes, it would seem the news of the Prince's murder has broken. It was inevitable."

"The public knows that the famous Knight Inspector Kymata is on the case. I fear it will hinder your investigation."

"Indeed. Michelle, dear, can you secure us an unmarked government car? It will make moving about the city much easier."

"Yes ma'am, I will see to it right away. Also, our transport to the satellite is secured."

"Splendid. I shall join you momentarily." Suri finished the final sip of her tea and took several deep breaths; exhaling slowly after each. She then stood and allowed her kimono to fall to the floor as she walked to her closet; choosing a calf-length blue pleated skirt and matching shirt with puffy sleeves and V-neck. After dressing, she turned to the door to see Michelle standing in the hall, looking away and blushing.

"Ma'am, besides your social skills, you might want to brush up on your modesty."

Suri looked at her blankly. "I changed in my private dojo. We both attended private schools and had to shower with other girls; I see no difference."

"Ma'am, although I see your point; perhaps a little warning next time?"

Suri retrieved her prized sword from its place of honor on the large weapon rack. "I will make note of your discomfort of the bare human body. I will also note that I was able to make my assistant blush." She smiled slightly. "That was a joke, Michelle."