That is, if I survive…

"Why didn't you say anything, Lea?"

"I'm sorry, Lady Adeline. It all happened so quickly, and I didn't know how to tell you."

Rast stepped forward, his posture firm and resolute. "Lea and I have decided to be together. I intend to protect her with my life."

"What?! Last night—,"

"Also… don't worry, Lady Adeline, I haven't touched Lea! I promise I'll marry her after I return from the mission. That is, if I survive," Rast said casually.

Lea froze instantly.

Ragnar did too.

Everyone fell silent.

Rast laughed, attempting to break the tension. "I'm just joking!"

But everyone knew there was truth in Rast's jest.

They all understood the grave reality that this could very well be Rast's last mission. Ragnar had predicted only a 50 percent chance of Rast returning alive.