The hunt that changed everything (part 2)

Observing the tense atmosphere around him, the Archduke of Lanark lifted his chin defiantly.

"I am all right; a couple of scratches won't kill me."

Kaiser released his grip on Gustav and gathered his wife and daughters into a warm embrace. "Have the physicians tend to my knight inside the carriage promptly," he instructed Arkin, who nodded in acknowledgment.

Three physicians stepped forward, resolute in their duty, and made their way inside the carriage to tend to the injured knight, while their senior colleagues waited with composed concern for an opportunity to examine Kaiser de Lanark.

"Adelaide," Kaiser winced, gently pulling himself away from his wife's and daughters' embrace. He looked down at two frightened olive-green eyes, his tone stern but caring, "You would do well to enter the carriage behind."