Chapter 436: Unwavering Loyalty

Chapter 436: Unwavering Loyalty

Rosalind's gaze hardened as she studied the wretched figure before her. The source of this content nov(el)bi((n))

The young soldier, a mere shadow of his former self, lay motionless on the bed inside the infirmary. His labored breaths filled the air, a haunting reminder of the dire situation they found themselves in.

She had seen the effects of the affliction spreading through their ranks, twisting healthy men and women into tormented beings. The sickness seemed to defy all logic, its origins shrouded in darkness. Rosalind's heart clenched with a mixture of compassion and determination. She knew what was coming next.

These people would soon transform into demon-like creatures and lose their humanity. It would be catastrophic!

She sighed and looked at the other figure on the other bed.

Her gaze then landed on the General behind her. General Lytton stood ready to execute her commands without question. His loyalty and unwavering dedication were comforting amidst the chaos that surrounded them. They had fought side by side, forged in the crucible of countless battles against the beasts in the north. Now, they faced an enemy they couldn't see, an enemy that struck fear into the hearts of even the bravest warriors.

"Duchess, everything has been taken care of," the General reported. "Sir Bohan stands guard outside, ensuring that no one enters or leaves. The doors and windows have been secured. What would you have me do next?"

Rosalind turned to face him, her eyes searching his face for any hint of doubt. She found none. She knew she could trust him, and his willingness to follow her orders without question bolstered her resolve.

"General," she spoke with a steely determination, "I need you to trust me implicitly. Do not ask questions, no matter what you witness or hear. Carry out my instructions diligently, and we shall discuss everything once this nightmare is over."

The General's expression hardened in response, his features etched with a solemn understanding. "You have my unwavering loyalty, your grace," he affirmed, a testament to his unwavering commitment to the Duchy. "I swear upon the graves of my ancestors, who valiantly fought against the very beasts that threaten us now. I will not question your motives or actions. My duty is to protect you and the people of the estate."

A surge of gratitude washed over Rosalind as she nodded in acknowledgment. The weight of her responsibility pressed heavily upon her shoulders, but she knew she could rely on the General's unwavering support.

However, the General's words were pretty clear. His duty was to protect the people. If she does something that could harm them, then it would be his responsibility to become her adversary.

Satisfied with his words, Rosalind took a deep breath, steadying herself for what lay ahead. She faced the soldiers. Closing her eyes, she focused on the Duke's words, his teachings resonating within her.

Amidst the skeptical whispers that echoed through the noble families of the North, the General and the other pillars of strength remained silent, accepting the new Duchess without question. Many deemed them foolish for their unwavering acceptance, oblivious to the true reasons that lay hidden beneath the surface.

The General kept quiet, not wanting to divulge the information that distinguished them from those who could only bark like dogs, unable to understand the intricacies of their loyalty.

As the General's thoughts swirled with unspoken secrets, his attention was abruptly diverted by a dark mist-like substance that enshrouded the young man's body before them. The man, once healthy and vibrant, had succumbed to a wretched illness within a mere few hoursan unforeseen progression that left the General uneasy.

The implications were dire. If the disease could spread and claim lives in such a swift manner, what fate awaited the entire camp if it were to infect them all? The weight of this possibility hung heavily upon his shoulders.

Yet, despite the mounting uncertainties, the General remained composed. The black mist that cocooned the man's form hinted at darkness or sorcery, an unfamiliar method to the General's trained eye. Though this realization could have sparked alarm, the General's calm demeanor prevailed.

In his eyes, those who possessed the power to aid his soldiers were allies, regardless of their nature or background. Conversely, those who posed a threat to his men were adversaries deserving of his unwavering vigilance.

It was a simple, yet steadfast, belief that guided his actions. Whether sorcerer or not, the Duchess had proven her ability to aid them in the past, solidifying her status as an ally. And within the estate, this line of thinking permeated the thoughts of all who resided there, fostering a united front.

..

The once tranquil surroundings of the infirmary had descended into chaos, mirroring the desperate situation that unfolded within its walls. Medical personnel, overwhelmed by the sudden influx of soldiers suffering the same tragic fate, worked tirelessly to tend to their weakened bodies.

Unconscious forms littered the snow, while others fought for each labored breath. The soldiers, hardened by the harsh conditions of the North and resilient to illness, now appeared feeble and vulnerable, succumbing to an enigmatic malady, unlike anything they had encountered before.

Outside the infirmary, a tense atmosphere hung heavy in the air. Sir Bohan, his countenance darkened with concern, surveyed the scene before him. These soldiers had been retrieved from the prison, their deteriorating condition leaving no choice but to bring them here for urgent medical attention. The gravity of the situation weighed heavily upon him, stirring a mixture of frustration and determination within his heart.

"Sir Bohan, we implore you to let us enter," Lady Dorothy beseeched, her voice filled with urgency. "These people require immediate care. We cannot leave them lying in the snow, as it may exacerbate their already dire circumstances."

"Sir, Lady Dorothy is right this time. We needed to get our supplies inside to at least give them the care that they needed. We cannot afford to wait any longer." One of the medical personnel spoke. "Please let us in."