"Hmm... You must be Victor, the one I've heard so much about," an old man said, his wrinkled eyes narrowing as his frail body leaned slightly forward. He studied Victor intently as the latter sat before him.
"F-Father... He's not just Victor! He is the Emperor! Did you forget that?" Velc blurted out, his voice trembling with panic. His fearful gaze darted to his father, as if pleading for him to realize the gravity of the situation.
"Emperor? Oh... I forgot... Hahah..." Mortimer chuckled softly, his laughter carrying a dry yet amused tone. He shook his head and added, "Must be getting old... My memory isn't what it used to be... Hah."
Victor simply offered a polite smile, though his sharp eyes took in the old man's demeanour. He could tell Mortimer was good at pretending.... Those sturdy legs, barely trembling, spoke everything.
