Talent Reborn
Episode 35: Forced to Step Down
The Verdict Looms
Haruto sat in his apartment, the malpractice report still on his desk. No matter how many times he read it, the accusation didn't make sense.
The surgery in question had gone perfectly. The patient, a middle-aged man with a ruptured aorta, had been in critical condition when he arrived. Haruto had personally led the operation, using his copied techniques to perform a near-impossible repair.
And yet—
The complaint alleged that Haruto had made a miscalculation that nearly killed the patient.
But there was no proof. No record of an error.
Then how had this complaint been filed?
A knock at the door interrupted his thoughts.
Ayaka and Renji walked in. Neither of them looked hopeful.
"The board meeting is tomorrow," Ayaka said. "They're moving fast."
"They want you out before you can prove anything," Renji added.
Haruto rubbed his temples. "Then I need to fight back just as fast."
But how?
If the organization behind this had infiltrated the hospital, they could easily alter records.
He wasn't just dealing with rivals anymore.
This was something far more dangerous.
A Choice With No Options
The next day, Haruto stood before the hospital board once more.
Dr. Kuroda's expression was unreadable as he gestured to the gathered officials. "Dr. Aizawa, we have completed our preliminary review of the malpractice claim against you."
Haruto's jaw tightened. "And?"
The ethics officer spoke up. "While we lack direct proof of negligence, the accusations—combined with the concerns about your rapid skill advancement—have put the hospital's reputation at risk."
Haruto's fists clenched at his sides. "So what are you saying?"
Dr. Kuroda folded his hands. "Effective immediately, you are suspended from all surgical duties until the investigation is complete."
Haruto's heart pounded.
Suspended?
That meant no surgeries. No patients. No chance to prove himself.
And if the investigation dragged on—
He might never be allowed to operate again.
"Is there any way to fight this?" he asked, his voice sharp.
Dr. Kuroda gave him a look that sent a chill down his spine. "You could fight it, Dr. Aizawa. But the hospital would suffer. Your patients would suffer. Is that a risk you're willing to take?"
Haruto felt like he had been punched in the gut.
This wasn't just about him. They were making sure he had no choice.
Either he stepped back quietly—
Or he dragged everyone down with him.
Walking Away… For Now
As Haruto left the meeting, Ayaka and Renji were waiting outside.
"They suspended you?" Ayaka asked, her voice filled with anger.
Haruto exhaled slowly. "For now."
Renji crossed his arms. "You're not actually going to accept this, are you?"
Haruto's eyes darkened.
"No," he said. "I won't."
They wanted him out of the hospital?
Fine.
But Haruto Aizawa wasn't done yet.
And if the people behind this thought they had won—
They were about to realize just how wrong they were.
End of Episode 35.