Her Graceful War Song (Carissa Sinclair)

Throughout the journey, everyone was genuinely on edge.

Lawrence's high fever refused to subside. The military physician, who carried a portable stove and medicine packs, prepared and administered fever-reducing and decontaminating potions to little effect.

Sebastian's pills had minimal impact, though they were somewhat more effective than the decoctions.

Lawrence would occasionally regain consciousness. Each time, he would ask, "Is this our territory?"

Upon receiving confirmation, he would force a weak smile before slipping back into unconsciousness.

The military physician explained that persistent high fever could impair brain function, and memory loss was a normal consequence.

Eventually, Rafael decided to have Dylan lead his horse alongside the carriage, and he joined Lawrence inside.

Even when Lawrence was semi-conscious, Rafael would gently hold his hand and talk to him. He would describe the beauty of the Southern Frontier, update him on his family's situation, and reassure him that his wife was on her way and that they would soon be reunited. Every time Rafael spoke of these things, Lawrence's breathing would become more even. He would open his eyes slightly, his gaze gaining a hint of life, no longer as vacant and hollow.

He was truly clinging to life, fighting with every ounce of his strength.

When they were about twenty miles from Westglade's inn, they had no choice but to halt. Lawrence's breaths had become faint, with more exhalations than inhalations.

The military physician had exhausted all options, and he looked at Rafael with a desperate expression. "I can't do anything else. All the medicines we have are used up, and I've administered acupuncture treatment multiple times. I've done it twice today and can't do it again."

The Septimus Tetra reconnaissance team members stood together in heavy sorrow, their faces etched with grief. They didn't even dare lift the carriage curtain to look at Lawrence. Seeing him so thin and covered in injuries pained them deeply. Rafael glanced at Everett, seeking advice.

Everett sighed. "This is the last resort. But you also know that if you use your inner force to protect his heart, we have to reach Westglade's relay station within an hour. Lawrence will be beyond saving if we don't, or if Sebastian isn't there when we arrive." Rafael nodded, his eyes filled with sorrow. "I understand. Even if we make it to the relay station and Sebastian is there, the outcome will be the same if we don't try to extend Lawrence's life here."

"Also, we'll have to significantly increase our speed to cover twenty miles in an hour. Can he endure that? The risk is very high."

Everyone fell silent. The road might

have been more forgiving if it were smoother However, the Southern Frontier had endured war. The paths were

uneven terrain. The carriage itself was a concern, as it might overturn at any moment.

ddled with potholes a Paths

Increasing speed posed even greater dangers. If the carriage were to overturn, it would be nearly impossible for Lawrence to survive. Riding a horse with him wasn't an option either-they would likely be thrown off within a few steps.

After some thought, Everett

suggested, "Why don't we do

this-After using your inner force to protect his heart, have two men lie down in the carriage first, then lay down some soft cushions.

elet

Lawrence will rest on top of them. The two underneath will need to use their inner force to absorb the jolts from the ride as much as possible. Make him as comfortable as you can."

Everyone stepped forward.

"I'll lie underneath him."

Jacob glanced at them, noting their injuries and fatigue, and then called Dylan over.

"We'll do it."

"No, we..."

Jacob raised a hand to silence the debate. "No need to argue. Dylan and I will handle it. If any danger arises, our Lightfoot skills are superior. We can ensure his safety."

With Jacob's assurance, no one contested further. Indeed, Jacob and Dylan had impressive Lightfoot skills.

Rafael sat cross-legged, channeling his inner force slowly into Lawrence's body. Lawrence's condition was so frail that the energy had to be infused as gently as a thread of silk.

Rafael directed his inner force to

wrap around Lawrence's heart to enhance its function. As blood flowed from Lawrence's heart, the energy spread slowly through his limbs and body, like a delicate thread holding his broken form together.

Once the energy was transferred, Rafael addressed everyone. "Now, it's a gamble. We must reach the relay station in Westglade within an hour. But even if we get there, we can't be sure Sebastian will make it in time." "That's true. Sebastian will also be coming along with Lawrence's wife, so it might take him longer," Felix said sadly.NôvelDrama.Org (C) content.

Rafael shook his head. "No, they should have departed in separate groups. Carissa will have made proper arrangements."