Taste your own medicine, Sophia Mary!

Adeline glanced at Sophia, who was resting calmly despite the anticipation etched on her face. "You're doing well, My Queen. Soon you'll hold your precious child," she said reassuringly, placing a comforting hand on Sophia's shoulder.

Sophia managed a faint smile. "I can feel it, Adeline. He's almost here, my husband," she replied softly, her voice filled with a mixture of excitement and nervousness.

Outside, the palace servants moved with purpose, ensuring every corner was immaculate for the impending arrival of King Ragnar. Voices echoed down the corridors as they discussed last-minute preparations.

"I heard the king is due to arrive any moment now," whispered one servant to another, peeking out of a window overlooking the courtyard.

"Yes, he timed his return perfectly with the baby's due date. It's such a momentous occasion," replied the other, adjusting a vase of fresh flowers.