> "I did not want you involved in this," Su Lin said as he looked out the
window. "You have interupted the proceedings, Questioned the methods and
intentions of the tribunal because you no doubt believe that she is Julia
with all your heart. It pains me greatly to see this." he now turned and
looked the San Fransisco precept square in the eye. "It pains me because
you are doing the exact same thing I did."
>
> "Thirty years ago My wife, Ming, was killed in action, much like Julia
was. A Demon soon came in her form. I, like you believed in my heart that
my wife had returned. My mind saw the evidence to the contrary, but my
emotions would not allow me to believe it. I shut every impulse I had away,
refusing to believe anything bat what i wanted too," the old mand voice
faltered. "When she came before the tribunal, I even hid evidence that
would have proved her to be a fraud." This was the first Time he had ever
revealed this to anyone. "Because of my actions, three members of my house
died."
>
> "What I need to know, Derek Rayne, is are you putting your emotions above
your reason?"
>
Derek was floored to say the least. He had never imagined that this man
would have ever hidden evidence. He had a vague recollection of the story
about Ming's "return." "No," Derek replied firmly. "I am not." His face
softened slightly. "I am sorry about what happened to you and I understand
why you might have your doubts. However, I can assure you that I am not
deluding myself. She is Julia, the real Julia. I do not wish to sound
harsh, but I fear it might be you who is allowing your emotions to guide
you. There is NO evidence that Julia is not everything she claims to be,
but it seems you past experience makes it difficult for you to believe that.
I just hope you can overcome it." Derek shuddered slightly has as his
stomach lurched, however he kept his stance.
