Chapter 60: A Father, the Emperor

As he aged, the Emperor craved freshness. The renovation of his bedchamber was a testament to this yearning. One wall had been replaced with glass, allowing him to gaze upon the eternally verdant garden throughout the year. Sometimes, he lay so still that one might wonder if he had passed away in his sleep, and Marive felt that way now.

"Father?"

The Emperor smiled faintly at the sound of his son's voice and turned his head. Benevolence was etched deep within the lines of his aged face.

"Did you call for me?"

"Indeed, Marive. You seem to have been quite busy lately."

"It's always like this, especially during the summer."

Marive answered, taking a seat across from his father with practiced ease. It was a private space, and a private summons. He studied his father's complexion, then asked, "Is something troubling you?"

"...No. It's just... it feels like it's been so long since I last saw your face."

"This is unusual."

"Marive."