Forget our promise to Ragnar.

Uzana turned to Helvis. "We need to be very careful with this poison. It's more powerful than I imagined."

"We will, Your Majesty," Helvis assured him. "We will also ensure that it is used with the utmost caution."

Uzana took a deep breath, trying to shake off the lingering effects of the poison. "Thank you, Helvis. We need to document everything and prepare a report for Ragnar. He needs to know exactly what we're dealing with."

Helvis nodded. "Of course, Your Majesty. We'll start immediately."

"Why are you doing this, Uzana?" Adeline spoke in disbelief.

Uzana took a moment to gather his strength, then looked up at Adeline. "I had to know what it felt like," he said, his voice steadier now. "The fear… the despair… it's overwhelming."

Adeline hugged him tightly, relief flooding her. "Don't ever scare me like that again."