#taleoftheempire

After visiting his friend, Emile could barely sleep, getting up with the first rays sunlight. The streets were still quiet when he dressed and collected what little belongings he had. You can never have many things when you're constantly traveling, or on the run. And Emile was both. He smiled to himself, remembering all the travels. Yet, now they gained a bitter aftertaste, after he saw what happened with Lanfor while he was away.

Lanfor said he'll wait in the morning. Emile looked out of the window again, noting the first people that went onto the streets. Most of them were shopkeepers, some servants rushing to their masters' homes and some guards switching patrols.

It's been a while since he last saw Uvlance City be so calm and peaceful. Usually the city was bustling with life. Even at nights people threw celebrations and festivals, filling the streets with music and voices.

After a while, Emile chose to move, picking up his bag, mostly filled with notes of his findings and only a few pieces of clothes he had. He looked back at the tavern's room for the last time, before leaving for good. It felt strange to realize that it will be a while before he ends up in a place like this again.

Road to the castle was a calm one, feeling almost as if he simply chose to take a stroll. Emile observed how streets started to slowly fill with people, going about their morning routine, it was getting busier. Shops were opening and their workers hurried to get to them. Lamplighters were finishing with turning the street lamps off before calling it a night. Guards walking towards the outer wall after finishing the patrol, talking about how uneventful the night was and wishing to go to sleep as fast as they get to the barracks.

He also noticed a few early bird Dragon Tower's workers, complaining about getting a degree in magic to now sit in office all day. Hearing that Emile couldn't help but laugh to himself. Afterall, that's what probably would've awaited him if he chose to stay in Uvlance, but instead he spent two years doing nothing but research and now was on his way to join the court. Although, he was also an international criminal and only managed to get in court thanks to his friendship with the Emperor.

He made a note to himself to also mention his criminal record to Lanfor. Having all the power of the Empire in his hands, he'd probably come up with something to let Emile travel freely again. But he quickly shaken off those thoughts, reminding himself of just the condition Lanfor was in, when he saw his friend yesterday. Mage's hand reached into the inner pocket, taking out the watch, before quickly putting it back and speeding up the pace.

The streets were already almost full by the time he reached the castle's wall, where he was stopped by the guards. Closing his path with their spears.

"The Castle is closed for civilians today." - One of them declared.

"It always is." - Emile sighed to himself.

It's been the first time he was taken for a regular civilian by the guards. Usually they asked him his name and why he chose to visit. But, looking at his clothes now, Emile did look a lot less dressed up than what he used to when he lived with his parents. Only distinguishing trait would be his state mage capelet.

"My name is Emi- ...le." - He almost used his pseudonym, which is associated with his crimes, before correcting himself. - "Emile Muong"

"Muong?" - The guard who spoke earlier said with surprise, before sharing a look with his partner. - "Do you have proof?"

Of course his last name would catch attention. Emile couldn't help but cuss internally, reaching into his inner pocket. He wondered if Lanfor would be able to change the name on his record so he wouldn't have to face those weird looks in the future.

"I have an invitation." - He handed the watch to one of the guards.

Guard closely inspected the watch, to make sure it was authentic, before nodding at the other man and handing it back. They removed their spears and signalled to open the gate. Emile simply waited, having put the watch to its usual place.

A wave of nostalgia overtook him, as he made his way through the gardens. He remembered the way him and Lanfor were running around those as kids, and also how they trained in swordsmanship.

But what caught his attention even more were the exotic trees and plants that now he knew looked almost nothing like they do in the wild. The ones in royal garden went through many rounds of selection to be able to survive in Uvlancian climate. He wondered if there is a way he could actually get the real deal to survive in the same environment by using magic. But, realizing he was slowing down again, brushed those thoughts aside, before hurrying yet again.

As he approached the palace's entrance, he noticed a figure standing in front of it. Closing in, Emile figured that this was Lanfor's butler - Altair. Emile smiled, coming closer to him, however, he didn't see the usual hospitality in man's eyes. Instead, Emile felt somewhat threatened by his presence. Mage stumbled.

"Altair… Did something happen?" - He immediately assumed the worst.

However, the man didn't answer, giving Emile a judging look. Only then did it click for him. And then he also noticed the looks other servants gave him. He sighed, feeling a sting to his ego.

"So you think i'm an imposter?" - Emile felt somewhat insulted. - "Do you really think that someone other than me would know all of castle's surveillance blind spots? Or that Lanfor would refuse to move into Monarch's bedroom? Or-"

"Enough." - Altair finally spoke, interrupting Emile. - "I was assuming that His Highness might've dreamt of your arrival, however, the doubt disappeared when i laid an eye on you, Sir Muong."

He started walking down the stairs, towards Emile. And while his face remained calm, there were clear notes of hostility in the usually gentle voice.

"But even if that is true and you did indeed come back…" - The butler finally leveled with Emile, now looming over, making mage realize just how short he actually is. - "You still have to explain yourself."

"… What?"

"Do you know what His Highness went through?" - The hostility was now apparent. - "And more importantly, do you have any idea of the sheer audacity you have to show here now and ask to be by his side? After years you've spent doing who knows what?!"

That was the first time Emile saw Altair enraged by something. He couldn't help but feel somewhat scared, but he had to admit that the butler's rage was justified. If anything, it's been a miracle that Lanfor chose to not simply forgive, but grant him a place in the court. Emile looked down, ashamed at his own actions.

"I do… I know. I've seen what had happened… I've seen what he suffered through with my own eyes yesterday." - But his voice was clear and hard as ever. - "And i have no excuses. I do not deserve to be forgiven. Nor do i expect to be." - He looked up, determined to get to the throne room where he was awaited no matter what. - "But i made a promise. And i cannot leave ever again."

Emile stepped forward, making Altair back up ever so slightly.

"Especially now that i have a solution."

"A… solution?"

Much to Emile's surprise, there were no more traces of previous rage left in the man's voice, so he continued, now a lot quieter than previously, making sure that no one else would hear him speak.

"I know what kind of an illness Lanfor suffers with. If i did everything right, he should've felt a lot better today." - Emile recounted the events of the past night and specifically the condition Lanfor's magic was in.

Altair's eyes narrowed, as he seemed to think of something, before sighing and turning back to the mage with a much more familiar soft smile.

"Very well then. But… Don't make me doubt your words." - He led the way towards the entrance to the palace - "I do not wish you to cause His Highness any more trouble."

"Well, i can't guarantee anything. You're way older than me, should already know how unpredictable life gets." - Emile joked, now feeling a lot more relaxed, before quietly adding. - "But i'll do my best…"

Lanfor couldn't help but pace back and forth next to the throne, wondering what takes Altair so long and if Emile came in the first place. As much as he wished for everything to be true, he couldn't help but to think of Altair's words about how it could've been just a simple dream. Still, it felt far too real. Besides, there is no way his weakness went away almost entirely overnight without any intrusion.

Magic Council Leader watched worriedly as Lanfor walked back and forth, consumed by his thoughts.

"Your Highness, are you sure you don't want to sit down? Or, perhaps, use your cane?" - Elderly mage asked carefully, still, disturbing Emperor's thoughts.

"Ah?" - Lanfor, now aware of the surroundings, stopped his pacing. - "Oh, no. I feel fine. Don't worry." - He waved at the mage.

"I with to believe your words, but you should understand that it is hard to believe that you recovered overnight."

"I guess that is true." - Lanfor smiled, before thinking for a moment. - "Azil, what are soul mages capable of, exactly?"

Such a sudden question from the Emperor surprised the Council Leader, who had to try and quickly recount the few soul mages he knew throughout his life and their abilities. Sadly, it was somewhat hard and he could only say a few things.

"Well, soul mages are not capable of much, i believe. They might posses an ability to sense magic on a much deeper level than anyone else, even looking into people's souls, but they don't seem to be able to interact with any type of elemental magic… Not even "life". They're only good for alchemy, i'm afraid." - He recounted, not without a hint of sadness. It seemed he considered soul mages to be quite unfortunate. But not even a moment later his expression changed, now being more wonderous. - "But, if i may ask, why such a sudden interest?"

"You'll see."

Lanfor nodded with a slight smile, looking at the door which opened almost as if on command, letting in Altair and Emile. Upon seeing them, Emperor's smile grew wider, as he exhaled in relief, while eyes of the Council Leader narrowed, looking at the mage who'd just entered.

"State mage Emile Muong." - Altair announced, letting Emile go forwards, staying behind himself.

"It's an honour to make your-" - Began mage, with a bow, before being interrupted.

"The honour is mine, Emile! You can stand up." - Lanfor stepped off the podium, barely containing his excitement, but still being forced to abide by the rules. - "Please, let me introduce…" - Lanfor gestured at the elderly mage, who followed the Emperor off the podium, before being stopped by a somewhat slow gesture.

"That wouldn't be necessary, Your Highness. I am… somewhat familiar with Sir Muong." - He smiled at the Emperor, stepping forward, before giving Emile a cold look. - "It's good to see you alive and well, Emile."

"It's good to see you too… professor." - Although his mouth spoke formally, Emile's face expressed nothing but shame, not daring to look at Azil and giving Lanfor only fast glances.

Lanfor was somewhat surprised and quite taken aback by such a sudden revelation, but couldn't bring himself to say anything, before being addressed directly.

"Your Highness, i am afraid he is not suited to be your court mage." - Azil said calmly. - "Emile barely graduated from the Academy. His final project didn't even utilize any magic. And on top of that, his license had long been revoked."

"My license…?" - Emile subconsciously grasped onto his cape. A symbol of his status as a mage.

It only made sense that he would lose it. He disappeared without a trace for over two years. He did not submit any reports of his findings or even let anyone know he's still alive, not to mention the fact that he completely ignored his duties. It was stupid of him to assume that he'd still be welcome as a country's mage after that.

His grasp tightened, as he looked at Lanfor, wishing only to apologize. Yet, the Emperor only looked at the Council Leader with a thoughtful expression.

"But you can overrule that decision, Sir Sanid, can you not?" - Lanfor asked, somewhat rhetorically. - "Doesn't Dragon's Tower, which controls the Academy, obey the Magic Council's decisions?"

"It does, Your Highness, and i could, but Emile barely graduated. He does not posses the magic skill required to serve you." - Azil pleaded. - "Besides, it is not as easy as you make it sound… "

"I do not see how restoring a single state license would be a problem."

"Are you absolutely certain that you would want him as your right hand?" - Council Leader kept talking. - "I've taught him. He's unreliable, and is only interested in breaking the rules and doing whatever comes to his mind. There's a variety of skilled and smart mages that serve the state that would serve you much better than he ever could."

Much to Emile's surprise, Lanfor did not seem phased by anything that old mage said. He kept standing his ground, disregarding all the words of the Council Leader. Emile was never on good terms with Azil when he was studying, and seeing old mage being pushed back like that made Emile even more confident in what he was about to do.

"Professor, if you're so worried about Lanfor…" - Emile unclasped his coat and threw it to Azil's feet. - "Why in the world didn't you treat him!? If you think you're better than me - prove it by action!"

"Emile!" - Lanfor hissed, surprised at his friend's actions, but it was already had been too late. Emile simply smiled at his friend, reassuring him that he got it covered.

"It's a duel. If i win - you obey Lanfor's orders, as you should, and let me do what i have to. And if not…" - Emile's smile disappeared, as he considered what he could offer in return. - "… And if you win - i'll do as you want. I'll leave… again."

Azil looked at the cape that laid by his feet, then on the young mage in front of him, before slowly picking up the cape and handing it to the Emperor that stood by his side.

"In that case, let His Highness be the judge. And, since i choose the rules, we will not use any weapons or artifacts. Just our own magic." - Council Leader spoke, a lot calmer than Emile anticipated, but still not without a trace of irritation at the blatant insult from his ex-student. - "Your Highness, would you be so kind as to lend us the Palace's garth"

Lanfor simply nodded, giving Emile's cape to Altair. Although Emperor's face was clearly letting everyone around know that he was not happy about his friend's idea, there wasn't anything that he could do about it if both sides agreed to the terms of the duel. But, just a moment later, he thought that maybe there is.

"But under two conditions." - He spoke, lifting two fingers. - "One, there is no destruction in the Palace's grounds or going outside of the garth. And two… The battle will be until the first blood. Try to make it as minor as possible."

"I was hoping for the first one to fall… But, oh well, whatever you want." - Emile said nonchalantly, earning a displeased look from his friend.

"First one to fall is too vague. I cannot allow for either of you to get injured beyond something that can be healed naturally in less than two weeks."

"Very well then. I will do my best, Your Highness." - Azil nodded.

Letting out a deep exhale, Lanfor looked at Altair, gesturing at him to lead the way for the two mages, while he himself chose to follow in the back, letting him think about everything that happened so far a little more.

Surely Emile wouldn't do something like this without a plan, right? But the Council Leader was no simple mage either. Lanfor couldn't help but feel worried about his friend and his future. If only Emile did not step in, he could've persuaded Azil to give up and follow an order. Emperor sighed quietly, not to draw any attention to himself. Of course, what's done is done and he couldn't have possibly changed anything about the duel at this point, beyond the two conditions.

Dueling over such a matter… He once again thought of just how different mages' way of thinking is compared to everyone else. And that is why he needed a mage he could trust by his side, and not someone suggested to him. Lanfor decided that no matter the outcome, he will do everything that is in his power to keep Emile by his side.

When they reached the garth, the sun was almost in its peak, casting a bright light on everything and everyone, as two mages took their positions.

Emile knew exactly why Azil would choose this place, glancing at the fountain that stood in the middle of the garth, only being surrounded by a few bushes and benches, making it look more like a middle of a park. Of course, an elemental mage cannot conjure an element out of nothing. Only air mages who mastered fire could. And, much to Aizil's own dissatisfaction, he was gifted with water magic, having to always struggle to find water sources.

Emile couldn't help by feel good about himself. It felt good not to have to struggle with looking for something. Afterall, magic is everywhere. He scoffed.

"If both parties are ready…" - Altair raised his hand, making sure both mages gave a signal that they're ready, before making a chopping motion, that indicated the beginning of the duel. - "Begin!"

Azil immediately took a stand, making a flowing motion to gather water from a fountain, not even giving Emile time to react, before a stream headed his way. It seemed as though he did not wish for this duel to last any longer than in absolutely had.

However, much to his surprise, the stream of water didn't even touch the target, splashing around as if it hit a wall and not a human being, only slightly wetting Emile's clothes with a few drops.

"Not even a talk before the fight?" - Young mage sighed with exaggerated disappointment, before his face changed.

Emile's eyes seemed to sparkle for a moment, when suddenly, Azil felt as if his whole body turned to stone, being unable to move, speak, or blink, it felt as if even his heart had stopped beating for a split second, before it kept going as usual, only then did his opponent's relaxed expression changed.

Lanfor's eyes widened, when he realized that the Council Leader was completely immobilized, he wanted to call off the duel immediately, however, was stopped by Altair, who managed to somehow keep his composure after Emile's showcase of power.

"Professor, you never trusted that we - soul mages - can do anything, regardless of how hard i tried to prove otherwise." - Young mage began, seemingly enjoying the fact that Azil could not answer. - "I was not a bad student. It was you who refused to be a good teacher. But i have made my decision. I learned, unlike you. I learned about just how much me and other soul mages can really do."

He closed in on the "living statue", looking Azil straight in the eye, his voice now filled with aged hatred, that long since burnt out, but became poison.

"And thanks to that, i now see just how little you actually care about the one you dare claim to serve. You could've asked any soul mage to take a look at him and they would've told you everything." - Emile's face hardened, as a small cut appeared on Azil's cheek. - "He would've died if you let him stay like that any longer. The empire, you claim to love would've been in chaos. You should thank the Twelve i came before it was too late!"

"Enough!" - Finally cried Lanfor, unable to bare witness this any further, but proceeded talking a lot quieter. - "You've… done enough, Emile."

Emile had released his grip on the elderly mage without any further words, making him fall on the grass, gasping for air, trying to grapple with what had just happened. He raised his eyes to look at his ex-student. His eyes expressing nothing but horror.

"W-what was that…?" - He finally asked on the edge of hearing. His words barely legible with how shaky man's voice was. - "… What kind of a monster…"

"Ah, it's just a little trick i learned, while i was travelling. Human soul is a lot more malleable than one would like to think." - Emile pretended not to hear that last part, turning to Lanfor instead. - "Pretty sure he won't be able to keep fighting anytime soon. And he is injured."

However, Lanfor did not respond, unsure of what to say, he simply looked at Altair, who nodded and went over to help Azil up.

A silence fell between the two, as the Emperor was still trying to understand what he had just witnessed. After a while, he turned around and walked away, gesturing for Emile to follow.

Walk through the halls of the Palace, much to Lanfor's surprise, ended up being a quiet one. He expected Emile to say at least something after all that happened, and yet did not hear a single thing, being left to observe mage's expression.

He always knew that Emile was no regular person. But Lanfor would've never assumed that he was able of doing something as terrifying as that. he could only imagine how Azil must've felt, being unable to move or even breathe. Were all soul mages capable of something like that? What other abilities does Emile possess? How did he manage to find this out in the first place? Questions swarmed Emperor's mind, every possible answer only making him question what he knew of this person even more.

Finally, they reached a door to one of the guest rooms.

"You can stay here for as long as you want." - Lanfor handed Emile a key to the door. He wanted to say something more, but couldn't bring himself to do it.

"A room in the palace… Now that's some good treatment." - Emile smiled, taking the key, yet failed to conceal that he too felt uneasy about the situation.

Putting the key into the keyhole, he hesitated to turn it, instead turning back to Lanfor.

"Listen, i'm.-"

"How did-"

They spoke in unison, causing a surprised pause, which was then followed by a quiet laughter.

"You go first." - Emile said, letting go of the key.

"… How did you do that?" - Lanfor hesitated before asking. - "Or, rather, how did you figure out that you can in the first place?"

"Hm… Well, it's a bit hard to explain to someone who's far from science… Do you know how everyone has magic inside them? The soul? It's actually spread throughout one's body like a giant system of streams." - Emile tried to explain, gesturing with his hands. - "And if you put a block to a stream, then the "water" in it will stop flowing. It might still be there, but it won't move. I thought that… since we already do that inside our own bodies, surely there's a way to do the same externally... It's… not a particularly good sensation, however… And it is also quite draining, unless you know what you're doing."

Much to Emile's surprise, Lanfor seemed to understand the river stream analogy, making him exhale with relief and finally say what he was going to from the start.

"But… I'm sorry. About all of that. I could've ended the duel without it, i just… I don't know what came over me." - He averted his gaze. - "I should've at least warned you."

He would've kept apologizing if he didn't feel a light hand on his shoulder, making him look up once again, to see Lanfor's smile.

"I'm glad you're back."

Taking a moment, Emile brushed away Lanfor's hand with a lighthearted exhale.

"Well of course you are. Who else would've kept you out of trouble." - He said, despetrately hiding how relieved he was to hear his friend's words, which only made Lanfor laugh.

"This room is yours. I made sure it will always be waiting for you." - He said, still keeping a smile. - "That being said, if you ever want to leave again. I just hope you'll at least warn me next time."

"Well, i might've gotten my license back this time, but if i want to stay as your court mage, i'd have to actually do my job, so…" - Emile shrugged lightheartedly, before turning the key and opening a door.

"Oh, and… We're having a ball soon. To commemorate your arrival. I'll try to settle everything regarding your license and other formalities before then. But you should rest for now. I'll get someone to bring you food."

Lanfor finally took a good look at his friend, only now noticing that Emile didn't go unscathed in those two years either.

His clothes were all heavily worn, ripped and fixed several times over in a few places. Even his beloved hat needed repairs. Not to mention how long his hair got and how much weight he seemed to lose.

Emile nodded goodbye to his friend, entering the room to get some rest. This was the same room that him and Lanfor used to play in as kids. He would've never guessed that it was one of the guest rooms, but in the hindsight it made sense to let kids roam in an unoccupied room.

Quite expectedly so, his bag was already in the room, being brought here by one of the many servants. What did surprise him, however, was a piece of cloth, which was carefully folded and laid atop the table in the middle of the room. Taking a closer look, he realized that it was a cloak. Made out of an expensive, very thick and sturdy fabric, dyed in deep blue and decorated with sheep's fur, it was sure to withstand any type of weather and climate, providing protection and warmth. Golden clasps were made into a shape of pentagons - a symbol of the soul mages.

It didn't take a lot of thought to realize that this cloak was meant for the new court mage of His Highness.

And after putting it on, Emile couldn't help but smile, realizing that it was always meant for him.

Passing nights were unusually hard for the young Emperor. What usually felt like a simple weakness and a headache, which he got used to, now rendered him unable to fall asleep, or get out of bed at all. And it wasn't helped by the fact that court healers had no idea how to help him.

Lanfor laid in his bed, not even trying to fall asleep anymore. Simply waiting for the morning to come, when he heard a slight squeak of the opening window, followed by the sound of climbing into the room and softly landing on the carpet inside of it.

Someone had broken into Emperor's bedroom. Lanfor did not dare to move, let alone look at the intruder, as thoughts of who this could possibly be swarmed his mind. Could it be a spy? A traitor? An assassin? The whole world was in unrest now, given how poor of a job he did, it was no wonder the people would try and get rid of him. He thought of calling the guards, but regardless of what he did, the outcome was already determined.

He had accepted his fate by the time when the sounds, which were gone ever since the intruder stepped foot on the carpet, resumed. But not in a way that Lanfor had anticipated.

"Come now, Lanfor. You know i can tell if you're sleeping or not." - A familiar voice was heard, making the Emperor wonder if his ears deceived him.

Overpowering his weakness, he turned in his bed to look at the intruder, but all he could see was a silhouette of a man, who laughed, before creating a small orb of dense magic in his hand. Just enough to light up his face.

"Hey, don't panic. It's still me, see?" - He walked closer to the Emperor's bed.

"Emile…" - Lanfor exhaled, under his breath, not believing his eyes.

He actually returned. His friend, who'd been gone for almost three years wasn't just alive, but stood right there in front of him. Lanfor tried to get up to properly greet Emile, but was stopped by his friend's heavy hand, forcing him back on the bed. Instead, the mage chose to sit down next to the Emperor.

One would think that friends who'd been away from one another for several years would have plenty of things to talk about, however, none of the two men spoke. Whether was it from awkwardness, lack of topics, or the abundance of those is anyone's guess, however, one thing was for certain. For Lanfor just seeing his friend alive and well already lifted a heavy weight from his heart.

"I- We thought that you were…" - Finally, young Emperor broke the silence, his voice sounded somewhat weakened.

"Dead?" - Emile scoffed, falling back, watching as the small ball of light flew above them. - "Now that's upsetting. Do you really have that bad of an opinion of me?" - He joked, failing to read the room.

"You… Didn't attend the coronation." - Lanfor grasped onto the sheets, looking away from the mage. - "And none of my letters gotten a reply since."

Emile's expression dropped. For a moment he was grateful that the lack of light in the room didn't let Lanfor see his face, as the silence between the two fell once again before being quickly broken.

"I couldn't. Your coronation was right next to my finals, and…" - Emile explained, trying his best to hide the doubt in his own words. - "I didn't appear in Uvlance since graduation."

"Why didn't you at least tell me?"

"... I don't know" - Mage confessed, after a pause, looking into the distance.

"Where were you even?" - Lanfor adjusted his position, to get his legs from below Emile's back, now sounding more annoyed than saddened.

"I was… Traveling. Mostly. Was all over the place! Elssia, Trading Union… I even got my way into Grauen! …Although that one ended up being somewhat disappointing." - Emile smiled excitedly, turning to his side and gesturing over an imaginary map. - "But you probably been to a lot more than that, being an Emperor an-" - He began, before cutting himself short, noticing Lanfor's tightened grip on the sheets. - "I-i didn't mean it like that. Oh, Great Dragon, i'm so sorry."

"It's okay. It really is. It used to be hard, but i got a hang of it, i think." - Lanfor smiled dimly at his friend. - "Although, i think you overestimate how much i get to leave the castle."

Hearing this, Emile sat back up, taking yet another look at Lanfor and, most importantly, his magic. As the ball of light passed above Emperor's head, the mage could barely hold back his emotions, not even sure what he felt at the sight of his friend's pale face, which expressed nothing but tiredness, no matter how much he attempted to hide it, accompanied by a shimmer of white that started to appear in his hair despite the young age.

And his magic… Emile couldn't even imagine how Lanfor's magic got to such a devastating state, wondering only how his friend managed to survive so long with it being this unstable. Emile silently reproached himself for leaving Lanfor.

Without even thinking, he reached out to Lanfor, bringing him into a hug, unable to say a word.

Lanfor was taken by surprise by his friend's actions, but didn't mind the embrace. Somehow, this made it feel almost as if all of his weakness and pain washed away in an instant, giving way to nothing but relief and calmness. The Emperor wrapped his hands around his friend, letting out a bitter laugh, as tears started running down his face.

Eventually, Emile let go, now looking straight at Lanfor, who was wiping out his tears. Mage sighed with a serious expression.

"You can't keep lying to yourself, you know."

"Wh- What do you mean?" - Lanfor's heart dropped, upon hearing that.

"Just…" - Words refused to come out Emile's mouth, making him fall back onto the bad again, with a frustrated groan. - "It's just that you're a moron."

Mage's sudden expression made Lanfor smile, letting out an agreeing sigh. For a while the silence fell between the two, but it felt different now, having no traces of initial awkwardness or discomfort. The Emperor looked towards the window, seeing only a starry sky, as careful wind moved the curtain out of the way. Such a peaceful night.

"You know, it's about time i settle down." - Emile broke the silence, dragging Lanfor out of his thoughts.

"And where are you going to stay? I want to at least be able to send letters."

"You tell me, Your Highness." - The mage shrugged. - "I barely had time to read your letters, and that one was not even a letter. It was just a bunch of paperwork."

"Wait you're…" -Lanfor couldn't believe his ears, yet unable to contain his excitement. - "You're agreeing to be my Court Mage!?"

"Well, yeah." - Emile got up on his elbows. - "I'm already here, might as well make myself useful."

"I guess." - Lanfor smiled, finally without a trace of sadness behind it, before answering to Emile's question. - "Usually all court servants live within the castle, but i don't think you'll like that all too much."

"If i'm getting into the position, might as well do it on my own terms!" - Emile plopped back onto the sheets with a victorious smile, just now noting for himself how much softer palace's beds were, compared to all of the taverns and farmhouses he spent nights in before.

Lanfor laughed at his friend's behaviour, almost as if he hadn't already begun coming up with ideas on how he could bend the rules to accommodate Emile's free-spirited nature. It wasn't unheard of for rulers to bend some rules for their loved ones, but it was a completely different thing to attempt and do the same for someone who was considered as little more than a personal servant or a guard. But maybe there was still a way.

"Do you still have the… watch, that i gave you?" - Lanfor asked, somewhat carefully.

Without a word, Emile reached into his inner pocket, taking out an intricately decorated pocket watch, all the little details of which came together to form royal family's crest. Small scratches shined in the dim light. Many would consider the fact that Emile allowed this piece of art to get scratched in the first place an act of disrespect, but to Lanfor it was simply proof that his friend never forgot.

This answer was more than enough for the young Emperor.

"In that case, we can discuss your "employment" tomorrow. I'll make sure to prepare everything in the morning and wait for you. Just… Promise that you will come."

"Well it's too late to back down now, is it?" - Emile replied, not really paying much attention, instead, playing around with the ball of light, like a cat would with a feather.

Who knows how long the two spent talking, laughing and remembering their past together. Who knows how many stories of Emile's adventures were shared, how many annoyances about being an Emperor Lanfor expressed, and how many memories of their childhood days the two men remembered.

Stories of their training together, of their school days, their teachers, their peers, of how they spent time in the castle's gardens and how they escaped from the palace at nights. Emile couldn't help but note that Lanfor should fix the gaps in the surveillance, otherwise he might not end up as the only night visitor for the Emperor.

Only when the night sky began to lighten up did they choose to part.

"Wish we could spend some more time like this, but it's really time for me to go." - Catching the ball of light said Emile. - "I did kinda break into the Emperor's room in the middle of a night, afterall."

Emile crushed the ball of light in his fist, after standing up, making the air around him fill with shimmering particles of magic, which soon faded. Lanfor prepared to get up as well, this time without being stopped by his friend, who, instead, handed the Emperor his cane.

"You can tell the rest tomorrow, when you visit in a more… legal manner." - Lanfor joked, taking the cane from Emile's hand and standing up.

Lanfor's body still felt somewhat weakened, but this time he stood straight, being helped by his friend, who also made sure he didn't accidentally bump into anything. Slowly, almost hesitantly, they made their way towards the balcony door. It was time to say goodbye.

They opened the balcony doors, letting the morning chill inside. On the railing lied a pointy hat, patiently awaiting its owner, moving ever so slightly with the breeze.

Emile patted his friend on the shoulder for the last time, before letting go of him and moving forward to take the hat. He jumped onto the railings and put his hat on in a single swift movement, like it was a carefully rehearsed action in a play.

"Until we meet again, Your Highness!" - Emile sang, turning to face Lanfor with a dramatic bow, making him laugh once more.

"Just make sure not to break any laws in your next visit."

"Then don't make me!"

Emile smiled for the last time, before jumping of the balcony back first, which caught the Emperor off guard, making him drop everything and rush towards the railing, only to notice a barely visible shadow running through the gardens and towards the palace's wall, allowing for a wave of relief to wash over Lanfor.

For a while he stood there, watching as the shadow of his friend closed in first on the Palace's wall, then ran between the buildings of the Castle and finally disappeared beyond the Castle's wall. He then lifted his gaze to look at the starry sky, quietly thanking everyone up there for letting him meet his old friend once again.

Only then did Lanfor realize that he managed to stand there all on his own for so long, having dropped the cane when he rushed towards the railings. He looked back at it, before coming to pick it up. For the first time since his coronation his body felt light enough to be able to stand on his own. He looked at the intricately designed piece of wood in his hand, before turning back towards the city and the night sky.

How long have it been since he managed to enjoy the beaty of the night like this? And when did he last leave the castle? His memories of the past years were a blur, feeling almost as if they didn't happen in the first place. However, now it suddenly felt as if the clouds in his mind were cleared with a single gush of wind.

Who knows, maybe it was some kind of a spell his friend used while he wasn't looking. Come to think of it, Emile never told him what he was capable of.

The Emperor looked to the sky one last time, before closing the balcony doors and going back to his bed.

As Lanfor had been dressed for the nearing coronation, he looked out of the window, not yet ready to look at himself in the mirror. The clear sky and early rays of sunlight made the distant city look much brighter than it seemed from the inside. For a moment he felt bad for the weather mages, who had to rush with the alterations of weather schedule for coronation. Today was supposed to be rain, and yet there was not a single cloud in the sky.

As a child he imagined this day many times, but it was never supposed to be so bitter. Lanfor turned to Altair, making sure to avoid looking into the mirror.

"Has my letter been delivered? Did you get an answer?"

He asked, holding onto hope. He wished for his friend to at last come to the ceremony. But Lanfor was in for yet another disappointment, as his butler simply shook his head with a look of sympathy.

"I see..." - A bitter smile appeared on Lanfor's face, as he looked away to the maids, who'd just finished putting on his outfit.

Finally, he faced himself in the mirror. The outfit was nothing short of a masterpiece, carefully picked and tailored to only fit him. Gold embroidery complimented the white base of the outfit, and the purple satin of the cloak, secured by the royal ruby broach, added a colour accent to an otherwise monochrome outfit. Without a doubt, this was an outfit befitting of an emperor. And yet, Lanfor couldn't feel like it fit him.

He had always hoped for this day to be a happy memory. But he never had time to prepare for it to be.

He looked at his reflection once again, shaking off the sad thoughts. That was not something he had time to worry about anymore. After all, today he was going to officially take over his father's role. He turned to Altair again, swallowing his emotions.

"How long do we have?"

"About 5 more minutes, Your Highness." - The butler stumbled ever so slightly on addressing Lanfor. It had not been an easy task for him to make a switch after so many years of referring to him with "Your Majesty".

Neither was it easy for Lanfor himself.

"I see. It would be best if we arrive early, wouldn't it?"

"The coach is already waiting for you." - Altair bowed, watching how Lanfor stepped off the podium and headed towards the exit, before following after his prince.

As they approached the exit of the residence, Lanfor finally spoke with a slight tremble in his voice.

"... Will you come with me?"

"If you so desire, Your Majesty." - The butler nodded, with a soft smile, reassuring the prince. He could only imagine how hard it must've been for Lanfor, but only thing that he could do was doing his job. - "Serving you is my duty"

"... Then get to the ceremony before me." - Lanfor turned to face the butler, his face now hardened, sadness turning into determination. - "I want you to be the one to open the door to the throne room for me."

Such a sudden burst of emotion was unexpected for Altair and yet, he felt somewhat happy about his prince allowing himself to lash out like that. Butler bowed, smiling.

"If such is your wish. But I would have to go separately from you."

"You wouldn't be allowed in the same coach either way." - Lanfor sighed, before exiting the residence, leaving behind a lot more than he would ever be willing to admit.

The residence was just outside the city, but still in a remote enough location, surrounded by forests. It had been a quiet place, where the royal family could rest during warm months, but was practically useless in winter. As Lanfor got into the coach he looked back at the residence, taking a moment to appreciate it for the last time. White walls contrasted against the yellowing leaves, making the scene feel somewhat wondrous. His mother and siblings had left soon after the death of his father. And now it was his turn. It's a shame the Emperor doesn't have time to visit the residence, forced to spend most his time in the palace.

The coach moved slowly, passing through the main road of the city. Many people had come outside to celebrate the coronation and look at the new Emperor with their own eyes, almost as if they didn't just bury the previous one. Lanfor had to swallow his distaste for the celebration, and avoided looking outside. He wondered if people in other parts of the Empire celebrated too, or if they chose to go on with their day as they would any other, before his eye caught a glimpse of the Magic Academy.

His thoughts now turned to his friend. It had been over a month since they last spoke and Altair said there was no response from him even to the coronation invitation. Lanfor wondered if Emile would surprise him with his arrival. The thought made prince smile to himself. Even if it was probably false.

The sun had already risen, making the city glow in it's light as it always did. The city was as beautiful as always. And yet, felt more distant than ever.

Leaving the coach, Lanfor stood on the road to the palace's throne room. Two guards stood by his sides, making sure no one dares stand in front of the soon-to-be-Emperor, as people gathered by his path. Those were low aristocrats, invited to the reception, but not trusted enough to attend the actual ceremony.

Lanfor swallowed, before moving forward. Trying his best not to look at everyone who were so desperately begging for his attention on the road, and only looked before him. As they went deeper into the palace, the crowd thinned, soon disappearing entirely, as he approached the door to the throne room. The guards that were following him joined the two that were already at the door.

He looked around, searching for Altair. It's not like Lanfor truly expected him to be able to get there first, so he simply sighed, preparing himself to enter. But was stopped by a figure, that stepped in front of the door.

"I apologise for my late arrival, Your Highness." - Altair bowed.

"You..." - Lanfor began, surprised, but was interrupted.

"Serving you is my duty. How can I disobey an order?" - The butler smiled. - "Now, allow me. Your people are awaiting you. I wish you the best of luck." - He gestured at the guards to open the doors, stepping out of the prince's way.

Lanfor watched as the doors opened, revealing the throne room, filled with blinding lights and voices of the people who were invited to attend the ceremony. Glass panels in the ceiling let in enough light to make the hall practically glow under the watchful eye of the 12. He didn't even notice that the sun was already almost at it’s peak until now.

He glanced at Altair one last time, receiving a reassuring nod, before he stepped forward towards the throne, where he was already awaited by the Council Leaders and the Empress, leaving all the worries behind, as a good Emperor should. The guard announced his name with his entrance.

He didn't hear the sound of music, or the whispers of the aristocrats and high ranking civil servants. Neither did he see the glares from those who wished for his brother or sister to take the throne for him. Nor did he care about any of this anymore. Coming up to the stairs just below the throne, all he could see were faces of his mother, the Council Leaders, and the rays of sunlight. He knelt before them, showing his respect and awaiting the command. His mother smiled slightly, before beginning the ceremony.

"People of Uvlance, dear brothers and sisters, we gathered here today to celebrate the beginning of a new era of our Empire." - Her voice echoed through a now silent hall, everyone's attention being drawn to her. - "Today our Empire will get a new Emperor!"

"As per late Emperor Alden Edinard's wish, the one to inherit his throne will be his second son - Lanfor Edinard." - The Magic Council Leader continued after the Empress. - "Please, stand up and approach the throne, child."

Lanfor played the part, doing just as he had to, coming up the stairs and stopping in front of the throne, as the other Council Leaders kept pronouncing their speeches.

"Emperor Alden had accomplished many great things in his time." - The Lord’s Council Leader spoke. - "We believe that you will continue to bear the legacy him and everyone before had left behind and achieve even greater deeds."

"We believe that under your rule our Empire can continue moving forward as it always had." - The Demihuman Council Leader chimed in, before all three stepped away from the throne, leaving only the Empress to face her son.

"And above all else, I believe that your heart cannot be swayed by wrongful temptation and that the Twelve will forever guide your soul to do the right thing." - She concluded, before turning and picking the crown from the throne.

Lanfor, without missing a beat, knelt once again. He now was before the crown.

"Lanfor Edinard." - All four said in unison. - "Do you swear to ensure the safety of the Empire?"

"Do you swear to always listen to its people?" - The Lord’s Council Leader asked.

"Do you swear to honour the traditions?" - The Magic Council continued.

"Do you swear to never stop looking forward?" - The Demihuman Council Leader added.

"And do you swear to never forget the memory of our ancestors? To spread the memory and to learn from their mistakes?" - Concluded the Empress.

"... I swear." - Lanfor answered with a small delay, his voice trembling slightly. Regardless of how he tried, he couldn't contain his emotions. At the very least, no one could see his face while he was kneeling.

"In that case..." - Empress spoke with a gentle smile, almost as if she was relieved. - "With the power bestowed in us by..."

"The Great Dragon." - The Magic Council Leader declared, before stepping off the podium.

"The Blood of the First Emperor!" - The Lord’s Council Leader smiled proudly, walking down the stairs.

"And the Rivercross Valley!" - The Demihuman Council Leader finished, practically jumping towards the audience.

"Let the watchful eye of the Twelve be witness!" - The Empress continued, placing the crown on Lanfor's head. - "As from this moment, Uvlance Empire is welcoming a new Emperor! Please, stand up, my child, and take your rightful throne." - She stepped to the side, allowing Lanfor to approach the throne directly.

For a moment he looked at it, unable to bring himself to sit on it, allowing the silence to fill the throne room again. He contemplated, before bowing to the empty throne. Honouring its previous owner for the final time. Only then could he take it.

As he faced the crowd, everyone had bowed to him. But only ones that he looked at were his mother, who lowered her head in a slight bow and Altair, who stood next to the guards by the door, bowing as he would do many times every day. Some things never change after all. Lanfor couldn't help but smile slightly at that.

"We will serve our duties under your command, Your Highness!" - The Council Leaders spoke all together, kneeling before Lanfor.

"You may stand. I believe that your experience will be of great help as well."

- He nodded, before standing up and addressing the whole audience. - "And I swear in front of the watchful eye of the Twelve to uphold the bright memory of Emperor Alden!"

The audience rose, cheering at the new Emperor. Lanfor looked at his siblings in the front row. His brother nodding proudly, while his sister cheered. After a few moments, he gestured to the Council Leaders to move on with the rest of the ceremony, settling down into the throne once again, feeling somewhat weakened now that the most important part was over.

His breath grew a little heavier, as he watched people pour into the throne room to start the celebration.

"Will you not join the others?" - he finally heard his mother ask, startling him a little. - "You're going to miss out on all the fun."

"Ah? Oh no, I..." - He took a moment to collect his scattering thoughts. - "I just don't think it's right for me now."

"You did great, you know." - She laughed, slowly submerging into memories of her late husband. - "I remember your father talking about how he kept messing up the order of what he should do. And then he was almost late because the coach suddenly fell ill and they had to find a different one."

Lanfor smiled at her, without interrupting, after all, having his mother by his side was a lot better than not having anyone at all. Especially as he noticed his body getting weaker and his thoughts more scattered.

"... Lanfor? You don't look very well, do you want to leave?" - The Empress asked, noticing her son grow paler.

Worried voices and soft hands catching his body were the last things he remembered, before waking up in his bed. Looking around, he realised that it already was evening. He missed the entirety of the reception that happened after the ceremony. At least the ceremony itself went smoothly, he thought to himself, looking towards the window.

He still felt worse than usual, but overcame the weakness of his body to close in on the window, opening it ever so slightly in hopes of a certain someone paying him a visit. It’s not like his friend ever needed the window to be open, but Lanfor knew he would like an invitation. A slight breeze blew through the small opening, sending shiver down Lanfor's spine. He felt his legs starting to shake, so he carefully stumbled towards his bed, laying back down.

That night he had a hard time falling asleep, with thoughts of what happened swirling in his mind. Newspapers will no doubt call this ceremony a disaster. And no one will actually listen to him anymore. Not after such showcase of weakness.

He wondered what would his father do in such a situation, but such thoughts simply made tears run down the young Emperor's face, as the emotions he left behind in the morning caught up all at once.

Emile never appeared that night.

Or ever again.

Regardless of how many letter Lanfor wrote him, or how many people he sent searching for his friend.