[ Maruki does both things commanded of him: He shuts up, and he moves. It is a long walk, and he keeps expecting Akechi to tire of it and dump him on the side of the road, tell him he's taken him far enough and to seek help on his own.
He doesn't. They stagger silent step by silent step all the way to the new Healer's Conclave, and Maruki feels–
Dead on his feet. Beyond. He's not fully conscious of how he's treated; the only thing he knows for certain is that Akechi remains at his side, and against all reason, Maruki trusts that that means he'll be looked after somehow.
It could be hours later by the time he starts to feel like himself again. There's still a needle in his hand for the transfusion, still blood caked beneath his fingernails even though his skin's been wiped superficially clean.
He stares at Akechi from where he sits, jaw set, eyebrows raised. ]
cw needles
He doesn't. They stagger silent step by silent step all the way to the new Healer's Conclave, and Maruki feels–
Dead on his feet. Beyond. He's not fully conscious of how he's treated; the only thing he knows for certain is that Akechi remains at his side, and against all reason, Maruki trusts that that means he'll be looked after somehow.
It could be hours later by the time he starts to feel like himself again. There's still a needle in his hand for the transfusion, still blood caked beneath his fingernails even though his skin's been wiped superficially clean.
He stares at Akechi from where he sits, jaw set, eyebrows raised. ]
Are you feeling calmer now?