Bab 12: Then, what use is all this strength?

Everyone claiming I'm the strongest man in the world, but why I failed. I failed to protect the woman I love; I failed to protect my son. Then, what use is all this strength?

— Ragnar Clementine

=======

In the main chambers of the royal palace, the air hung heavy with a mix of worry and tenderness. King Ragnar visited Sophia almost every day, his footsteps echoing in the hushed atmosphere.

His eyes reflected the exhaustion and concern etched on his face as he approached the elaborate bed where Queen Sophia lay in a seemingly eternal slumber.

Adeline, the chief healer, was engrossed in her examination of Sophia, surrounded by vials of mysterious potions and ancient scrolls.

She looked up as Ragnar entered the room, her keen eyes catching the gravity in his presence. Rising from her chair, Adeline gestured for him to come closer, creating a space for him beside the queen's bedside.