Her Graceful War Song by Summer's Blaze

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.

he looked at Rafael with a desperate expression. "I can't do anything else. All the medicines

even dare lift the carriage curtain to look at Lawrence. Seeing him so thin and covered in injuries pained them deeply. Rafael

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

significantly increase our speed to cover twenty miles in an hour.

fell silent.

been more forgiving if it were smoother However, the Southern Frontier

carriage itself was a concern,

with potholes

were to overturn, it would be nearly impossible for Lawrence to survive. Riding a horse with him wasn't an option

After some thought, Everett

don't we

protect his heart, have two men lie down

elet

need to use their inner force to absorb the jolts from the ride as much as

Everyone stepped forward.

"I'll lie underneath him."

them, noting their injuries and