Chapter 16: "Jeremiah's Decision"

8 days before the infiltration of 'Oak Bay Town' :

Jeremiah Kenyetta, the patriarch of the Kenyatta family, sat in his opulent office as the Lithium Ero Times interviewer set up his equipment. He knew the interview would be tough, but he was determined to set the record straight.

"Mr. Kenyetta, thank you for agreeing to this interview," the interviewer said as he began recording.

"It's my pleasure," Jeremiah said, forcing a smile.

"First off, we have to talk about the recent events involving Steven. How do you respond to the allegations against him?"

Jeremiah's smile faded as he leaned forward in his seat. "Let me be clear, Steven's actions do not reflect the values of our family. We are a proud and honorable family, and we will not tolerate any behavior that tarnishes our reputation."

The interviewer nodded, scribbling notes as he listened.

"We have cut all ties with Steven, and we are fully cooperating with the authorities to bring him to justice. Our family will not stand for anything less than complete integrity and respect."

The interviewer takes a pause, looking through his notes before continuing.

Interviewer: "Speaking of the recent events, there have been reports of Steven Kenyetta being kidnapped by a rebel force. What is your family's response to this?"

Jeremiah's expression turns stern, and he clears his throat before responding.

Jeremiah: "Let me be clear. Steven's actions are his own, and as I said before he is no longer a part of this family. We do not condone or support any illegal activities, whether they be committed by our own blood or by rebels. However, as his father, I do hope for his safe return, and we are working closely with the authorities to ensure that happens."

Interviewer: "And what do you say to the rumors that Steven's actions have tarnished the Kenyetta name?"

Jeremiah's jaw tightens, and he leans forward in his seat.

Jeremiah: "The Kenyetta name is built on more than just one person's actions. Our legacy stretches back generations, and we will not let one individual's mistakes define us. We will continue to uphold our values of integrity, responsibility, and respect, and we will not let anyone tarnish the Kenyetta name."

Interviewer: "What about the allegations that your family has been involved in illegal activities, such as bribery and extortion?"

Jeremiah's eyes narrow, and he straightens in his seat.

Jeremiah: "Those allegations are unfounded and baseless. We have always conducted ourselves with the utmost professionalism and honesty, and we will not let anyone smear our reputation. We welcome any investigation into these claims, and we are confident that the truth will come out."

The interviewer nods, scribbling down notes.

The interviewer nodded but didn't seem entirely satisfied. "But, sir, with all due respect coming back to the topic of Steven, rumors are circulating that your family may have been involved in his arrest in the first place. How would you respond to those allegations?"

"I shall call him Mr.Steven as he is no longer associated with the family but answering your claims :

Jeremiah's face darkened while answering. "Those rumors are unfounded and ridiculous," he spat. "Our family has nothing to gain from harming Mr. Steven or damaging his reputation. In fact, we have only ever tried to help him."

The interviewer shifted in his seat, sensing the tension in the air. "But, sir, it's no secret that Mr. Steven's relationship with your family ended poorly. Could it be possible that your family has some sort of vendetta against him?"

Jeremiah's eyes flashed. "I will not tolerate such baseless accusations," he said firmly. "Our family has no ill will towards Mr. Steven. If anything, we have been hurt by his actions and the damage he has caused to our family's reputation."

The interviewer shifts gears, "Moving on to the topic of the UPKF, what is the nature of your partnership with them? Some critics say that the Kenyetta family is using the UPKF to exert more control over the Lithium Ero Zone."

Jeremiah leans forward, his expression growing more serious. "Our partnership with the UPKF is one of mutual benefit. We work together to promote economic growth and stability in the Lithium Ero Zone. As for accusations of control, I can assure you that the Kenyetta family has no interest in dominating the region. Our goal is to foster a prosperous future for all Lithium Ero citizens."

The interviewer nods solemnly, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Thank you for your time, Mr. Kenyetta. Is there anything else you would like to say to our readers?"

Jeremiah straightens up, his expression becoming resolute. "Only this - the Kenyetta family is committed to the future of the Lithium Ero Zone. We will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that our region prospers and thrives, no matter what challenges may come our way."

Jeremiah leaned back in his chair as the interviewer gathered his belongings and thanked him for his time.

"Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today, Mr. Kenyetta. Is there anything more you would like to add before we finish?" the interviewer pressed clearly wanting more juicy content.

Jeremiah took a deep breath and spoke slowly, "I would like to reiterate that we will not be intimidated by these rebel groups. We stand strong with our partners in the UPKF and will continue to work towards a peaceful resolution for all parties involved."

The interviewer nodded in agreement before turning to leave the room. As he walked out, Jeremiah leaned forward in his chair, lost in thought.

Jeremiah leaned back in his chair and sighed deeply, his mind racing with all the events that had transpired recently. He knew he needed to make a decision, and it wasn't going to be an easy one.

After a few moments of contemplation, he finally picked up his phone and dialed the number for the headquarters of the UPKF. The phone rang for a few seconds before a voice answered.

"UPKF Headquarters, how may I assist you?"

"This is Jeremiah Kenyetta, head of the Kenyetta family. I need to speak with your top representative immediately," Jeremiah said with a tone of authority in his voice.

"I'm sorry, sir, but all of our representatives are currently busy. May I take a message and have someone call you back?" the voice on the other end responded.

Jeremiah let out an exasperated sigh. "This is urgent. It concerns the safety of the Lithium Ero Zone. I demand to speak with someone in charge."

There was a pause on the other end of the line, and then the voice finally spoke again. "One moment, sir."

Jeremiah waited patiently, tapping his fingers on his desk, as he was transferred to a different line. Finally, a new voice answered.

"This is Niemen Coles, Head of the UPKF's War Department. What can I do for you, Mr. Kenyetta?"

"I need to discuss a potential partnership between the Kenyetta family and the UPKF," Jeremiah said, cutting straight to the point.

"Interesting. We've been hoping to establish a stronger presence in the Lithium Ero Zone. What do you have in mind?" Niemen Coles asked.

Jeremiah cleared his throat. "Well, as you know, the recent events in the zone have left us vulnerable. I believe a partnership between our family and the UPKF could provide increased security for both parties."

Niemen Coles was silent for a moment before responding. "I see. And what would you want in return for this partnership?"

Jeremiah hesitated for a moment before responding. "We need your assistance in finding and retrieving one of our own who has been kidnapped by a rebel group."

There was a pause on the other end of the line before Nieman Coles spoke again. "I see. We will do what we can to assist you, Mr. Kenyetta. But you must understand that we cannot guarantee success in such a situation."

"I understand. Thank you for your cooperation, General," Jeremiah said, feeling a weight lifted off his shoulders.

But little did he know that everything was gonna come crashing down on his shoulders once again.