The heavy doors to the Emperor's hall creaked open, and the trio stepped inside. Joshua took the lead, clearly proud to be the one introducing them.
The hall was as grand as the rest of the palace—massive pillars lined the room, and golden chandeliers hung from the ceiling. At the end of the hall sat a large golden throne, placed on an elevated platform.
A man sat on it, wearing a black crown. His thin brown hair and full beard made him look older, but Raphael guessed he was in his thirties.
As soon as the Emperor laid eyes on Joshua, his expression darkened into a deep frown.
He doesn't seem too happy to see him.
"Father!" Joshua beamed. "I'm back, and I've brought guests!"
The Emperor let out a tired sigh, rubbing his temple as if the sight of his son exhausted him.
"It's only been a few weeks, and you've already returned," he said, voice heavy with disappointment.