Ken Mata: Is he just a successful CEO, or is there more to him than meets the eye? In First Flyght, he’s a complex figure with a past that shapes his every move. He’s not just a powerful business leader; he’s a man with a history, a man with a complicated relationship, and a man with choices to make. Let’s unpack the layers of Ken Mata.
Humble Beginnings and the Drive for Success
Ken wasn't always the CEO of a successful corporation. He came from humble beginnings, a Japanese-Brazilian family that valued hard work and education. He wasn't born into wealth or privilege, and he had to fight for everything he achieved. In fact, “My parents, though, were not so in love. He came from a poor family with no real prospects for an alliance, and I was ‘too good for him.’” This is the way Vivian remembers her family's opinion of him, showing how he wasn't always seen as someone worthy. His ambition and his drive to succeed came from a desire to prove himself and to create a better future for himself.
The Complicated Relationship with Vivian
Central to Ken's character is his past relationship with Vivian. Their connection was deep and intense, but ultimately, they were torn apart by external pressures. Vivian's family disapproved of Ken, seeing him as unsuitable for their daughter, the heiress to a vast landholding. He remembers a time when they were much closer, though, saying to her, “You’ve always been good at deflecting.” Their past is always going to haunt them.
The pain of their breakup is still evident in Ken's words and actions. He says to Vivian, “It’s completely inappropriate for you to be here right now. How did you even get on my calendar?” showing the difficulty he has in dealing with her, even years later. But despite the pain, there's also a clear sense of longing and a desire to reconnect with her. He admits, after all, that he’s missed her.
CEO of Flyght: Power and Responsibility
As the CEO of Flyght, Ken wields considerable power and influence. He’s a visionary leader, committed to innovation and dedicated to his employees. He's created a company that's not only successful but also strives to do things differently, to connect smaller businesses with smaller ships, and to create a more equitable system. This is all in pursuit of “a fine life,” as Vivian puts it.
The Moral Grayness: Shady Business Deals
However, Ken's success hasn't come without a price. There are hints of morally ambiguous business practices, of deals made in the shadows, and of compromises he's had to make to stay on top. Though, what are those practices? What does he have to do to remain at the top? You’ll have to read the whole series to find out!
Re-entering Vivian's Life: A Second Chance?
When Vivian re-enters his life, seeking a Flyght permit, Ken is faced with a difficult choice. Does he let the past influence his decision, or does he act in the best interest of his company? Does he help her, or does he turn his back on her? He ultimately chooses to help, but it's not without a struggle. He knows this could mean more problems for him, but he doesn't care. He’s willing to risk his reputation and his position for her.
He admits to Vivian that it’s his “inability to realize I’m being watched at all times that got us slapped all over the gossip news.” It’s his weakness, his care for Vivian, that makes him take the fall.
Ken Mata is more than just a CEO….
He’s a man shaped by his past, driven by ambition, and haunted by a love he thought he’d lost. He's a complex character with both light and shadow, and his journey in First Flyght is just beginning.
Will he be able to reconcile his past with his present? Will he find happiness with Vivian? Only time will tell.
Pick up First Flyght and start your adventure with Vivian and the crew of the Amagi today!
