Page 347 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Neither is Riku."

"That is not equivalent."

Despite the pain, Haruki smiled faintly.

"There it is again."

"Do not."

"We are not doing this now."

"You are correct. We are keeping you alive."

"We are keeping everyone alive."

"I can do that without placing you in danger."

Haruki looked towards Ken. Ken's expression said what neither man wanted to say. No, he could not. Not alone. Renji could feel bodies through walls. Stop hearts. Preserve allies. He could not know which corridor Haruki's people would sacrifice, which door should remain open, which frightened fighter would break if left unsupported. Power was not command. Haruki had learned that before inheriting the Family.

"You need me," Haruki said.

The words were quiet. Renji did not answer.

"Not as someone to protect."

Still nothing.

"As your partner."

Static moved between them. Then Renji exhaled.

"Open the gaming floor," he said.

Ken pushed away from the wall.

"Finally."

Haruki continued.

"Renji."

"Yes?"

"No unnecessary deaths."

The answer came immediately.

"I know."

"I needed to say it."

"I know."

Haruki looked towards the closed door.

"Bring me to the security room."

Akiko said, "Absolutely not."