Chapter 10: Descent into Madness

As the days passed, Hans struggled to cope with the trauma of his past. The memories of his father's abuse and neglect lingered, haunting him like a dark shadow. Iduna and her daughters did their best to provide a supportive and loving environment, but Hans's emotions were volatile, and his behavior became increasingly erratic. He would lash out at Elsa and Anna, his words cutting deep, and then retreat into a shell, refusing to speak or interact with anyone. Iduna tried to be patient and understanding, but it was clear that Hans needed professional help. She called for the royal physician, who diagnosed Hans with severe emotional distress and recommended that he be kept under close supervision. But despite the best efforts of Iduna and her daughters, Hans's condition continued to deteriorate. One day, while Iduna was attending to her royal duties, Hans was left alone in his chambers. The isolation seemed to trigger a downward spiral, and Hans's emotions became overwhelming. He began to pace back and forth, his mind racing with dark thoughts. The memories of his father's cruelty and manipulation flooded his mind, and Hans felt like he was drowning in a sea of despair. In a moment of crisis, Hans grabbed a sharp object and slit his wrists, trying to silence the voices in his head. He felt a rush of pain and a sense of desperation, as if he was trying to cut out the source of his suffering. But as he looked down at his wrists, he saw the blood flowing, and he knew he had to stop. Just as Hans was about to inflict further harm, he heard the sound of Iduna's voice, calling out to him from the doorway. She rushed into the room, her eyes wide with concern, and quickly assessed the situation. With a calm and firm tone, she instructed Hans to stay still and not move, and then she quickly called for the guards to fetch a sedative and a straight jacket. As the guards arrived, Hans's eyes filled with tears, and he felt a wave of shame and regret wash over him. He knew he had let Iduna down, and he felt like a burden to her and her daughters. Iduna's expression was a mix of sadness and determination as she watched Hans being restrained and given a sedative. The guards carefully placed Hans in a straight jacket, trying to minimize his discomfort. Iduna watched, her heart aching with compassion, as Hans struggled against the restraints. She knew that this was a necessary step, but it was hard to see Hans in such a state. As the sedative took effect, Hans's struggles ceased, and he became limp. Iduna gently stroked his hair, trying to comfort him, but Hans was beyond consolation. He felt like he had hit rock bottom, and he didn't know if he could climb back up. The straight jacket was a necessary measure, but Iduna knew that it was only a temporary solution. Hans needed help, and he needed it fast. She vowed to do everything in her power to help Hans heal, to find a way to overcome his trauma and find peace. As the night wore on, Iduna sat beside Hans, holding his hand and whispering words of encouragement. She knew that he would get through this, that with love, care, and support, Hans would find a way to heal and move forward. But for now, Hans was trapped in a dark place, and Iduna could only sit beside him, holding his hand, and hoping for a better tomorrow. The darkness closed in around Hans, and he felt like he was losing himself. But Iduna's presence was a beacon of hope, a reminder that he was not alone, and that there was a way out of the darkness. As he drifted off to sleep, Iduna's hand was still holding his, a symbol of her love and commitment to help him through the tough times ahead.