The young traveler lay beneath the thin shade of a tree, his face pale and his breathing uneven.
His friend knelt beside him, anxiously supporting his shoulders while the Empress examined him. Princess Zhi held a water bottle, and Lady Chen stood nearby, watching with concern.
General Guo Han had moved the cart slightly to provide more shade.
Meanwhile, the Emperor stood facing the instructor.
"Because one of the travelers has collapsed," he repeated. "That is why the procession has stopped."
The instructor's expression darkened.
"He should have managed his strength better. We all have to walk under the same sun."
"Then perhaps everyone should be allowed to drink water when they need it," Prince Liang retorted.
Several refugees exchanged glances.
Nobody had dared to speak so openly to the instructor before.
The official pointed at him.
"You! You have been questioning my orders since morning. Do you want to be punished?"
Prince Liang raised his eyebrows.
