Alistair declared, "In my life, I've only kneeled before my parents, but today, I kneel before you, sir. Please, I beg you to save Yara's life."

The dozens of men present suddenly dropped to their knees as well. They all owed their lives to Alistair many times over, so this gesture came naturally to them.

Alistair continued, "We broke into your home and attacked without knowing the truth. I'll cut off my own arm if that's what it takes for you to forgive us and save my sister.'

11

He raised his right hand, his expression unchanging as he prepared to strike his left arm.

"If you actually do that, I won't help Yara," Felix warned quickly.noveldrama

Alistair was caught off guard, and his eyes lit up with hope. "You'll help her?"

Felix sighed. In truth, he was genuinely moved by Alistair's character. He had met many military men before, but never one like Alistair someone who combined fierce loyalty with such devotion to family. "Everyone, please stand up. This is making me uncomfortable," Felix stated. After they rose, he looked at Yara and said, "I've only temporarily saved her life. She has about two months at most-that's my limit."

Alistair felt his emotions churn, shifting from gratitude to disappointment. He thought he had finally found a hidden master healer who could cure Yara, but two more months were all they could buy her. He mumbled, "It is what it is. I understand." Felix shot him an annoyed look. "Would you let me finish?"

Alistair looked embarrassed, unsure how to respond.

Meanwhile, Felix explained, "Yara's condition isn't an illness, but it's her constitution. The only cure is practicing a specific type of martial art, not just any kind-it has to be exceptional." Hope returned to Alistair's eyes. "Please tell me more."

Felix felt a headache coming on. When he caught Yara, he recognized that her constitution matched Leslie's exactly. To survive, she would need to become Leslie's apprentice.

Gerald had already set rules that only Felix's future students required his personal approval. However, his nine other senior disciples could accept any pupil at will.

Felix said, "I know someone whose martial arts could save Yara..I'm certain she would accept Yara as a student, but the challenge is finding her-it might take some time." Alistair was glad to hear that. "Thank you so much, sir. If you'd like, I can help search for her."

Felix shook his head. "Better not-she doesn't react well to strangers."

He realized he would need to contact Averill again since she was the only one who regularly used a phone; the others found it pointless.

Just then, someone rushed in. "Captain Hill! Someone noticed you mobilizing us from the Wolfie troops. We just got word that Lady Summers is almost here. What should we do?" "We're leaving!" Alistair commanded, not wanting anyone else involved in Yara's

treatment.

However, a familiar voice rang out. "Am I really that unwelcome, Alistair?"