Emperor's Down

Leo gulped and gasped for air as he saw his father's blade come dangerously close to the village chief's nose. However, the latter did not seem worried at all. He bravely faced the tip of the blade, unafraid of the possible consequences, and with wide-open arms, he exclaimed, "Your Majesty! Wake up! There is nothing left for me to embezzle! Wake up!"

The old emperor was startled.

The chief rose from the ground, saluted the emperor, and then led him forward. "Come, Your Majesty, I will show you what this village is currently facing."

The emperor followed, and soon they reached the centre of the village, where a gigantic pillar stood. It was a monument, blackened with age but still kept clean and free of weeds. Everything on the monument was well-maintained.