Page 139 of Mercy Written in Blood

"Yes. You did."

The sincerity in his voice became dangerous. Renji moved towards the window. Distance gave him something to arrange between them. Rain streamed down the glass, reflections from the room hovering over the city beyond: books, warm lamps, Haruki standing near the door. Renji watched both versions of him.

"You should be afraid," he said.

"Are you going to hurt me?"

"No."

"Then what would fear accomplish?"

"It might keep you alive."

"From you?"

"From what knowledge of me places you near."

Haruki's expression became serious.

"The Accord."

"Among others."

"The Unveiled?"

Renji looked at him.

"This conversation is not about the investigation."

"You don't get to decide that alone."

"Yes, I do."

Haruki walked further into the room, his shoes sounding softly against the wooden floor.

"You told me what you are."

"Because you asked for honesty."

"But you won't explain what it means."

"It means you should forget this conversation."

"No."

Renji turned. Haruki stood several steps away.

"No?" Renji repeated.

"I'm not forgetting it."

"You do not understand the risk."

"Then explain it."

"I cannot."

"Can't or won't?"