"Fused at the Hip"

As Rhett and Link continued to drive to the hospital, the words "even if it kills us" echoed in Rhett's mind. He had meant them as a figure of speech, but now they took on a disturbingly literal meaning. Link's condition was rapidly deteriorating, and Rhett could see the fear growing in his eyes. At first, it was just a slight discoloration on Link's arm, a faint blueish hue that Rhett had noticed earlier. But now, the swelling was getting worse, and Link's skin was taking on a sickly pale color. Rhett's medical knowledge kicked in, and he knew they needed to get Link to the hospital ASAP. As they drove, Link's discomfort grew. He started to shiver and shake, his teeth chattering uncontrollably. Rhett wrapped his jacket around Link's shoulders, trying to keep him warm, but it was no use. Link's body was wracked with pain, and Rhett could feel his own heart racing with worry. The fibrous tissue binding their hands together was still constricting Link's wrist, causing him immense pain. The bulbous mass connecting their left shoulders was putting pressure on Link's shoulder joint, making it difficult for him to move. The thin membrane linking their stomachs was causing Link's digestive system to act up, and Rhett could see the bloating getting worse. "Rhett, I think I'm going to pass out," Link whispered, his voice weak and trembling. Rhett's grip on the steering wheel tightened. "No, no, no, you're not going to pass out. We're almost there. Just hang in, man." He glanced at Link's face, and his heart skipped a beat. Link's eyes were rolling back, and his skin was clammy to the touch. The membrane linking their stomachs was causing Link's digestive system to shut down. Rhett could see the warning signs of organ failure, and he knew they were running out of time. He floored it, pushing the car to its limits as he sped towards the hospital. As they approached the emergency entrance, Rhett could see the paramedics rushing towards them. He pulled over, and the medical team swarmed around Link, quickly assessing his condition. Rhett watched in horror as they worked to stabilize Link, their faces grim and concerned. "It's not just the physical connection," one of the paramedics said, as they wheeled Link into the hospital. "The emotional toll is taking a huge impact on his body. He's in shock." Rhett felt a wave of guilt wash over him. He had never meant for things to go this far. He had never meant to put Link in harm's way. As they rushed Link into the emergency room, Rhett couldn't shake the feeling that he was losing his friend, that the fusion was killing Link right before his eyes. He took a deep breath and steeled himself for what was to come. They were in this together, and he would do everything in his power to save Link. The doctor's voice was firm but reassuring as he spoke to Rhett. "We're going to do everything we can to stabilize Link's condition. But we need to act fast. The connection is causing multiple organ failures, and we're running out of time." Rhett nodded, his mind racing with fear and worry. He knew that the next few minutes would be crucial in determining Link's fate. He could only hope that they could find a way to save his friend before it was too late.