Page 70 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Mr Ishida."

Haruki opened his eyes. The sedation still clouded them, but recognition came quickly. His gaze moved over Renji's face.

"You again."

Renji checked his pupils.

"Follow the light."

Haruki did.

"Can you tell me your name?"

"Haruki Ishida."

"Where are you?"

"Hospital."

"Which one?"

"The one where doctors destroy innocent jackets."

"Good. Your memory is intact."

Haruki looked down at himself. Hospital gown. Dressings. Chest drain.

"Did you undress me while I was unconscious?"

"The surgical team did."

"And I missed it."

Renji glanced at the monitor.

"Your heart rate is rising."

"You're standing very close."

Renji stepped back. The heart rate did not change. Haruki looked disappointed.

"You underwent surgery to repair damage to your liver and diaphragm. We also controlled bleeding from an artery between the ribs."

"Successful?"

"You are awake."

"That isn't always the same thing."

"No. It was successful."

Haruki closed his eyes briefly. Relief showed in the release of his jaw.

"The others?"

"Professor Takeda is stable. Professor Minamoto has a fractured wrist and several minor injuries. Jun remains in surgery for damage to his leg."

"Will he lose it?"