WCMBI - Chapter 265: In Bad Shape

The knight's battalion moved swiftly as commanded by Ian. The battalion's leader felt a profound sense of desolation, having to undertake such an absurd task, yet he could not refuse his lord's absolute orders. Amidst any irrational circumstances, he remained the valiant commander of the knights, bound to heed his master's behest.

Thus, in accordance with the lord's instructions, they shot a flaming arrow into the carriage and, after measuring the time, pushed it over the cliff into the gorge below. There, the knights waiting below rescued the three individuals floating in the water.

Returning to the noble estate with the three survivors, the knight's battalion hastened to bring them to the court physician. However, the injuries were severe, making treatment far from easy. The court physician, who had been oblivious to the situation, could only inwardly cry out in dismay.

From burned and distorted skin to fractures, even at first glance, the injuries were grave. However, the internal injuries were beyond anyone's anticipation. Realizing that he alone could not handle all the wounds, the court physician urgently summoned a renowned doctor from the capital. Alas, the lord lost his life, and Monica was also in critical condition.

Alex, who received the news belatedly, hurried to the noble estate to check on his younger sibling's condition.

"What on earth has happened!"

The once lustrous locks were mostly consumed by fire, and the skin of the face, neck, and arms had been corroded by the flames. Despite the reassuring words from the physician that the worst was over, Alex could not contain his anger.

"I will not stand idly by! Ian Van Briant! I shall formally protest this accident to the Earl of Rosewood!"

Alex shouted, making a tumultuous uproar, but the battalion's leader restrained him.

"Both our lord and yours suffered from the accident. Let us refrain from hasty judgments."

"Don't mock me! When have they ever shown any care for people? Suddenly approaching my sibling was beyond suspicious."

"Isn't the most urgent matter at hand the treatment of Lady Monica, rather than assigning blame?"

In response to the battalion leader's words, Alex gritted his teeth and shrugged off the arm that held him. He ordered the Earl's employee who accompanied him to transfer Monica to the carriage.

"I do not consider this a mere accident. If Ian thinks I will back down quietly, he is sorely mistaken!"

With determination, Alex left the noble estate, and the battalion leader, who bid farewell to him, sighed deeply and went inside. He entered the room where Ian, who still had not awakened, resided and inquired of the court physician.

"How is His Highness's condition?"

"Comparatively better than the previous two individuals, but I cannot claim that he is alright."

"Will there be any lingering effects, such as aftereffects?"

"Sigh. I shall do my best, but I cannot guarantee anything."

The court physician heaved a sigh as he treated Ian's broken leg. The deformation was severe, making it uncertain whether it could ever return to its original state. The noble estate was engulfed in such silence that even the Duke could not dare to make a sound.

* * *

Having witnessed the pitiable state of his own son, the venerable Duke of the previous generation closed his eyes tightly. Wondering why he had been summoned to the capital, only to be shown this dismal sight, he felt his strength wane, and his spirits faltered.

"Oh, Duke of the previous generation."

Henry, who had felt remorseful for Ian and voluntarily stepped back from the position of steward, offered his support by the Duke's side.

"This is precisely why I advised against it, revealing the family crest."

Though aware that it was already too late, he couldn't help but express his lament. Henry inquired about the Duke's condition to the attending physician standing beside Ian.

"How severe is it, and where are the injuries?"

"While it would be more accurate once the Duke regains consciousness, he has suffered internal injuries to his lungs and throat, and his right leg is fractured. Additionally, he has sustained minor burns."

"But why has he not awakened yet.?"

At the Duke's query, the physician bowed his head, expressing his helplessness.

"I beg your pardon. I could not ascertain the reason either."

"Henry."

"Yes, Duke.."

"Look into healing magicians."

"Understood."

As the Duke of the previous generation spoke, the physician hesitated before responding.

"I've been informed that you already conveyed to the Knights' Commander that you won't seek examination by healing magicians."

"What kind of nonsense is this!"

The Duke of the previous generation raised his voice sharply in response to the physician's words. He could no longer tolerate his son's bizarre behavior.

"If you care about Dia, you shouldn't be doing this."

He wanted to say it was an act that drove a nail into his father's heart, but he held his tongue. Eventually, it seemed that everything stemmed from him.

Had Ian not rejected Nicola and accepted her as she was, wouldn't he have engraved his crest? No, even if he had done so, perhaps he would have been living happily with his dearest mother, DS.

Though uncertain from where or whom the blame originated, there was no room to evade it any further.

"Your Grace!"

The Duke of the previous generation straightened his weary back at the voice of his grandson seeking him outside. Now was the time to attend DS first. It was undoubtedly what his son desired.

"Never let Dia find out about this."

"Yes, Duke of the previous generation."

"Indeed, I shall remember."

"Henry, you shall oversee this place for the time being. And ensure the servants don't spread news of Ian's condition."

"Understood."

Only after issuing a stern warning did the Duke of the previous generation leave the room. Embracing DS, who had a bright smile on her face, he distanced himself from where his son was. Concealing the heavy heart that seemed to tear apart.