Chapter 562
Jacob and Dylan lay in the carriage, with a soft cushion spread over them. Everyone then placed Lawrence on top, and Dylan and Jacob each extended a hand to hold him steady.
The gamble had begun–they were on their way.
With three people now in the carriage, the military physician had to dismount and ride on his own horse to increase speed. If any issues arose, Jacob would immediately call for the military physician to come back
- up.
The carriage was stifling. Dylan and Jacob were covered with a soft cushion and laid next to Lawrence, and sweat quickly soaked their clothes. Before long, their hair was drenched in sweat, making it cling and itch unbearably.
Occasionally, the driver would lift the curtain slightly to let in a bit of fresh air. However, he couldn’t keep it open for too long, as someone with a fever shouldn’t be exposed to the wind.
The whip cracked, and the horses sped up. On the uneven, bumpy road, the carriage swayed and jolted. However, thanks to their efforts in stabilizing Lawrence, the impact on him was somewhat mitigated.
Jacob would periodically check Lawrence’s pulse, finding some solace as long as it still beat.
Meanwhile, Travis led Sebastian and the others toward Westglade. With thirty miles still to go, they were caught in a heavy rainstorm.
Mira was worried about Sebastian’s health, and she suggested taking a break to avoid the rain.
“We’ve pushed hard all the way; we’re likely to reach the Westglade’s relay station ahead of them. It’s better to rest and wait out this rain before continuing.”
However, Sebastian’s gaze darkened. “We must continue immediately. It’s better for us to wait than to make them wait for us.”
Julian wiped away his tears. “Thank you, Sebastian. Our family will remember your kindness.”
Sebastian donned a raincoat, even though his clothes were already soaked through. “No need for thanks. Let’s go. We keep moving without stopping as long as the horses can run.”
Lightning split the sky, followed by a deafening clap of thunder. Dark clouds loomed overhead as heavy rain poured down over the land. A few horses raced down the road, cutting through the fierce wind and driving rain.
But ten miles away, the weather was different. Perhaps by some stroke of mercy, Rafael’s side remained dry and untouched by the storm.
They finally arrived at the relay station as night fell. Rafael dismounted, and hurried inside. As the station’s staff emerged, he brandished his emblem and urgently inquired, “Has any physician arrived here before us?”
The station master immediately knelt and replied, “No, Your Highness. None have arrived.”
+25 BONUS
Chapter 562
Rafael felt as if he had been doused in a bucket of Ice water, his entire body freezing as if all the blood had congealed.
Their worst fear had come to pass.
Lawrence had held on until now, but Sebastian had not arrived.
Everyone who entered the room froze in place. Even though they had anticipated this possible outcome, the hope that came with racing against time had now shattered.
“Let’s get him settled first. Move him inside,” Rafael sald, taking a deep breath and immediately giving orders.
Everyone hurried to help, carrying Lawrence into a room at the Inn. After settling him in, the military physician checked his pulse with a grave expression and forced a piece of rare herb into his mouth.
Yet, Lawrence’s condition was dire
With darkness already settling in, it was unlikely that Sebastian and his group would travel through the night. The flashes of lightning and the rumble of thunder hinted at an impending downpour.
With the night closing in and rain on the way, the chances of anyone arriving were extremely slim.
In other words, the soonest they could expect help would be tomorrow at the earliest.
As they spoke, a torrential downpour began, extinguishing the last flicker of hope in their hearts. They had exhausted every effort, and the thought of such an outcome was unbearable.
They all stood around Lawrence’s bed, watching as his breathing grew weaker. The inner force meant to protect his vital organs was no longer effective.
Lawrence could barely open his eyes, but his vision was blurred and unfocused. He could not clearly see any of them.
Yet, he knew his battle comrades were there with him. He tried to muster a smile, but every movement required immense effort. He couldn’t even manage to pull up the corners of his mouth.
Not due to pain–he had been numb to it since earlier.
No one spoke. Any attempt to do so was choked with grief. They crouched beside Lawrence, gently holding his hand and arm.
Thomas struggled to control his emotions, and he finally managed to whisper in his ear, “Law, we’re all here. Hold on, okay? Your wife will be here soon.
Lawrence had tried his best. Mentioning his wife now had no effect. His eyes slowly closed, and his breathing grew fainter.
The atmosphere was heavy with sorrow.
Suddenly, Rafael and Everett ran outside together.
They had heard the sound of horses‘ hooves.
