Father's Words

Upon entering the room, Prince Leo was immediately struck by the critical condition of his father. The old emperor lay on the cushions, his entire body covered in bandages and bruises, his chest visibly rising and falling with labored breaths. His head was propped upright, and nearby, the physicians hurried to prepare medications to tend to his numerous wounds.

When the young prince entered, everyone in the room stood up quickly, including the courtiers who had already gathered there. They all understood the gravity of the situation—the emperor's condition left no doubt about who they would need to listen to as the next generation of leadership took shape.