Shi Dong's head lolled to the side, mouth slightly open, a faint trail of dried saliva still visible at the corner of his lips.
His robes, once pristine and imposing, were now wrinkled… and noticeably stained.
The two guards exchanged a brief, uneasy glance but said nothing.
They began walking toward a nearby carriage prepared for transport.
Each step was careful at first. Measured.Respectful.
After all, regardless of his current state, Shi Dong had been a powerful figure.
But as they moved…
Things began to go wrong.
"Slowly… slowly…" the guard holding the shoulders muttered, adjusting his grip as Shi Dong's upper body shifted awkwardly.
"Don't rush it."
"I'm not rushing!" the other snapped back quietly. "You're the one tilting him!"
"I'm not tilting… hey, watch it!"
Shi Dong's body suddenly sagged more heavily to one side.
"Oh no… it's slipping!"
"Hold him steady!"
"I've got it… wait! no, I don't!"
