The hope that had kept him going all these years

"But you have a strength in you, Uzana. A strength you haven't even begun to understand. You must find it, for all our sakes," Valdemar said, his voice heavy with meaning.

"Strength," Uzana murmured, his eyes downcast. "I wonder if I have any left."

Valdemar sighed, the weight of his son's words settling heavily on his shoulders. "You will accompany me back to Metaena. Take him now," he commanded, his tone firm and authoritative.

The guards stepped forward without hesitation, seizing Uzana roughly by the arms. Already weak and helpless, Uzana offered no resistance as they dragged him away.

Their heavy footsteps echoed through the quiet corridor, each step amplifying the tension in the air. As they approached the exit, the cold night wind brushed against their faces, a sharp reminder of the long journey ahead.