"I give all the credits to Estella," Lawrence replied.
"Yes," he paused. "I agree."
There was silence, then Leighton spoke again, "What have you been up to? How goes the banquet downstairs?" he asked.
Lawrence smiled, "It is as far as luxurious and welcoming, your majesty. I like it very much."
"Is that so? I'm glad."
There were knocks, "Your majesty," the voice called out behind the doors, then opened, "Some refreshments and tea," the servant came in. Her hands, bringing food.
The emperor didn't turn but continued to stare at the horizon, "Leave them be," he said. "Give me time with my son."
The servant bowed and placed the refreshments before the desk on the table. The woman gazed at Lawrence for a second and sighed.
'Did I look strange?' Lawrence asked himself.
The emperor spoke, "Do you know me?" he asked Lawrence.
Lawrence stood quietly. He heard things about the emperor but did not know enough to confirm that information.
"I see." there was disappointment in his voice, "You only know me as an Emperor," he said. "I'm Leighton Nicholas Cornelius Sage."
"I'm sorry, your majesty. It shames me for the lack of information." Lawrence replied.
"Not everyone may know me. It's fine, child." Leighton replied. "Tell," he paused. "What do you require? Tell me, and I will gift you," he added.
Lawrence paused for a moment, then remembered his past life. He recalled how he used to be a bookworm and longed for the scent of the books, "Books." he uttered his mind.
Leighton smiled, "You must be fond of them. You are a Sage, after all. Call for Kanon later. Ask him the books you would like to have. Bring as many carriages you want to accompany you back to your villa."
Lawrence flinched, "Thank you, your majesty." he replied.
Leighton paused, "I hear you resemble your mother's appearance more than you had ever since." there was hesitance in his voice.
Lawrence stared at the back of Leighton, "As they say, your majesty." he replied, reluctant.
"I see." silence, then spoke again, "I will send replicas of ancient books to your chambers. Look forward to it." Leighton said. "Are you sitting?"
Lawrence looked at his feet, "No, your majesty."
"Sit. Take some refreshments."
"Thank you, your majesty." and so Lawrence did. He sat down beside the table, took a bite on a cookie, and sipped his tea. 'Delicious! Grand! Best than what I've ever tasted before. I'm sure Arthur would have loved them.' he paused, then relinquished his thoughts.
Lawrence explored his eyes around the room. It was spacious, filled with books. He noticed soon stepping inside the room, the scent of fancy books traveled his nostrils. He liked it. It was peaceful and calming. Then he asked himself whether they had a chamber similar to this back in his villa. 'I would guess there were more rooms in the corridors of St. Apple. I never really explored the whole place. There was not much light, and cobwebs covered my path.'
"My palace," Leighton spoke. "Would you like to live there?"
Lawrence's face turned serious, "Your majesty," he called. "I may not have the right to speak of this but, you cannot face your son right now for the burden you have. I'm sure living with me would make you unpleasant. Furthermore, I'm content. I like the life I live now and would like to live the same for as long as I can." he added.
Leighton sighed, "Yes. I cannot look at you for the fear that crept within my conscious." he paused, "I'm a terrible father."
Lawrence smiled, "Your majesty, no. Father. I do not blame you for hating my appearance. I am but a child, yes. But I do not hold a grudge because I understand your burden. I'm sure you feel saddened, thus, I would never force you to face such a challenge. Just let me live in peace. That you provide, will very much satisfy me."
"Wise with your words, mind matured. I want to converse with you face to face. But can't find the courage to do so." he paused.
"Leave," gentle, he ordered. "Enjoy the banquet. I will send Kanon later for you. Leave." he uttered again.
Lawrence stood, "Yes, your majesty." he bowed. The doors opened. How? Lawrence wondered.