Chapter 357: Reunion at the Front

Dr. Alice Monroe snapped to attention when she saw Elena Ward begin administering acupuncture. Though just a junior nurse, she knew this wasn't the time for idle observation. Several other injured patients still required treatment.

"Let me help!" She immediately knelt to examine the remaining casualties.

Fortunately, most injuries were minor—simple disinfecting and bandaging would suffice. Alice worked efficiently, the sharp scent of antiseptic permeating the air. As she finished dressing the last wound, Elena completed her needle treatment.

The two women exchanged smiles of quiet accomplishment.

The patients murmured grateful thanks while the transport team prepared stretchers. Elena and Alice helped secure the critically wounded. Navigating the treacherous mountain path with two stretchers among twelve people required painstaking care with every step.

"Drink some water." Elena crouched to help a patient sip from her canteen. With dusk approaching, they had four hours to reach camp.

"Fall in! Prepare to move out!" Hank Miller, the transport leader, barked the order.

Just then, Adrian Stone arrived with his deputy. Having just repaired a rock-buried trench, they'd come to see off the evacuation upon hearing about the critical cases.

"Everything ready?" Adrian's voice carried exhaustion.

"Report, Captain! All set!" Hank stood at attention.

Elena's head jerked up at the familiar voice. Moonlight silhouetted the tall figure, sending a tremor through her chest.

Adrian spotted her simultaneously. Their eyes locked—his pupils constricted abruptly, his entire body freezing mid-step.

"Elena?" The whisper held disbelief.

Then, before the stunned assembly, Adrian strode forward and swept Elena into a crushing embrace.

Hank nearly bit his tongue. The other soldiers gaped, some rubbing their eyes in disbelief.

Elena clung to him fiercely. Adrian's warmth dispelled her chill, drawing her deeper into his arms.

"How did you get here?" He suddenly pushed her to arm's length, hands gripping her shoulders, his voice thick with shock and concern.

Moonlight revealed his furrowed brow and stormy eyes. This unforeseen reunion had shattered his composure completely.