Roger stays behind to tend to Jamie. In his delirium, Jamie speaks to Roger—not as a son-in-law, but as a fellow man. He gives Roger instructions on what to do if he dies, essentially passing the torch of leadership. Roger, however, refuses to accept Jamie’s death. He constructs a makeshift litter to drag Jamie down the mountain, an act of immense physical exertion that proves his determination.
While Claire fights for Jamie’s life medically, Roger fights a psychological battle. Faced with the prospect of being the sole protector of the family, Roger has a "breakdown" of sorts—not of weakness, but of realization. He prays, not for a miracle, but for the strength to be the man his family needs him to be. outlander s05e09 tv
Jamie’s condition deteriorates rapidly. His hand swells, and he begins to experience fever and hallucinations. He is unable to walk. Roger realizes he cannot carry Jamie alone. He sends Jamie’s horse, Gideon, back to the Big House with a bloodied cloth as a signal for Claire. Roger stays behind to tend to Jamie