Chapter 391: Danger Approaching!
The biting cold wind relentlessly lashed his face, sending shivers down his body. His once-charming visage now appeared gaunt, drained by exhaustion, sapping his every ounce of energy. His lips quivered, suppressing the waves of pain welling up inside him.
Kiev trudged wearily, his feet heavy with each step as he pressed on. Anna’s limp form cradled in his arms, wrapped in a tattered blanket, her eyes sealed shut, and her face ashen.
The Mederian Prince’s gaze drifted to her, a cloak of worry enveloping him. Anna had not stirred since fainting the day before.
"We’ll reach the mansion soon, Princess Anna. You’ll be all right," Kiev murmured softly.
The protective barrier conjured by the Mederian Prince enveloped them as they moved, the blood on his hands nearly dried.
That morning, following the abatement of the heavy rain, Kiev resolved to make their way back to the mansion. But nature seemed to have its plan, as the wildlife emerged to hunt after enduring the deluge. Along the path, Kiev faced an assault by a wild bear.
Exhausted from the extensive use of mana, the Mederian Prince had to rely on his physical strength to confront the beast. It would have posed a little challenge in his prime, but the previous night’s magical exertions had drained him.
After defeating the creature, Kiev drew on his dwindling mana reserves and erected a barrier to ward off any predatory animals.
Despite the sun’s high position in the sky, its warmth struggled to pierce the chill in the air. The cold breeze persisted as weariness stubbornly clung to it. The protective shield gradually waned until it dissipated entirely.
Kiev’s knees shook, and he nearly lost his grip on Anna’s body. He knelt on the ground, holding her securely to prevent the princess from falling as well.
"Just a little bit more! You can do this, Kiev! You made a promise!" he urged himself, drawing in deep breaths.