Delia's POV The moment Albert's words left his lips, I felt a sudden tightness in my chest, and it was as if my very breath had been snatched away. I couldn't believe Albert had made such a heartless demand. If Prince Kral followed his words, it meant that either he or I would have to meet our demise. I yearned to rescue Prince Kral, to save Alen and the valiant soldiers, but did I truly have the courage to make that choice if it meant my own life would be the price to pay? Numbly, my gaze shifted towards Kral, and I observed that he too was locked in our shared, silent exchange. His eyes held a mixture of astonishment and a trace of deep sorrow. Clearly, Albert's ultimatum was undeniably harsh on both of us. "Why hesitate? Can't you bear to do it?" Albert's voice broke the silen