Page 63 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Cruel."

"Professionally efficient."

The jacket came free. Renji dropped it into the belongings bag. Beyond the glass, Reina made a sound of protest on Haruki's behalf. He turned his head weakly.

"Reina."

"She is safe," Renji said.

"Others?"

"We are treating everyone who arrived."

"Takeda?"

"I don't know their names yet."

"Minamoto. Jun."

Renji placed the ultrasound probe against his side again.

"Your responsibility at present is remaining alive."

"That's usually your responsibility."

"It is shared."

Haruki looked up at him.

"That sounds intimate."

Renji frowned.

"Does confusion feel worse?"

Akiko coughed. Aoi turned away. Haruki's smile deepened despite the pain tightening his face.

"No, Doctor."

"Any nausea?"

"Only when ignored."

Renji looked towards Akiko.

"Prepare analgesia."

"He's flirting with you," she said quietly.

Renji glanced back at Haruki. The man appeared pale, bloodied and near shock.

"He has significant blood loss."

"That doesn't answer what I said."

"It explains altered behaviour."

Haruki's eyes closed.