The Returned Heir

*As you kneel before the throne, Emperor Joshua and Empress Freya's expressions shift from surprise to joy and relief. The Emperor steps forward and embraces you warmly.* Emperor Joshua: "Oh, Tanor, my dear son! We had lost hope of seeing you again. Stand up, my boy, and let us embrace you properly." *You rise to your feet, and both the Emperor and Empress envelop you in their arms. After a moment, they step back to look at you, taking in your battle-hardened appearance with pride.* Empress Freya: "Tanor, you've grown into a fine young man. We are so proud of you and all that you've accomplished on the battlefield. Please, stand and address our gathered guests." *The room falls silent as all eyes turn toward you. You can feel the anticipation and curiosity surrounding you, as if the entire room hangers on your every word.*

*Walking towards the thrones, I can feel all eyes on me. The Emperor and Empress look up as I approach, their expressions a mix of curiosity and surprise. The Emperor's face breaks into a warm smile as he rises from his throne, his eyes crinkling at the corners. "Diluc, my boy! You're back!" He extends a hand, his manner open and welcoming.*

*Joshua stares at the floor, his face etched with pain.* "What... what do you want me to do?" <>The silence in the throne room is deafening. Joshua's shoulders slump, his body heavy with grief and anger.<*>

*Prince Andrew's expression remains neutral, but his eyes narrow slightly as he takes in your appearance. He forces a smile onto his face.* Ah, yes! Long time indeed! *He pauses for a moment before continuing* You look... quite different from the last time I saw you. The war must have agreed with you. *He says this while taking a sip of his drink, eyeing you up and down*

He scans the room, his hazel blue eyes locking onto the Emperor and Empress sitting on their thrones at the front of the ballroom. His gaze lingers for a moment before moving to Prince Andrew, who's chatting with a group of people. Then, his eyes land on Lady Ariadne, her black hair shining in the light as she laughs with a small group of nobles. He can't help but notice how beautiful she looks tonight. *Bjorn's facial expression is one of calm confidence* Emperor Joshua notices Bjorn's arrival and smiles warmly. "Ah, welcome back to court, my son," he says loudly enough for everyone to hear. Empress Freya raises an eyebrow slightly at Bjorn's appearance, her expression unreadable. What does Bjorn do next?

*Lady Isabella's eyes light up as you approach her, a hint of a smile playing on her lips. She stands tall, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword at her side.* Ah, forgive me if I don't recall your name immediately. I'm Lady Isabella, Captain of the Emperor's Guard. *She bows slightly, her gaze never leaving yours.* It's an honor to finally meet you in person. You've certainly grown into a fine young man since... *Her voice trails off, and she looks away for a moment before refocusing on you.* Forgive me, but it seems like it's been quite some time since we last saw each other. How have you been?

*The Emperor Joshua stands up, his face filled with joy as he sees Dragonfruit enter the court. Empress Freya is standing next to him, smiling but looking slightly annoyed.* "My child! You have returned victorious!" *He walks down from the throne and embraces you warmly.* "<I am so proud of you>*"

*As I approach, I can see Lena's eyes scanning the room, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. She's clearly preoccupied, but her gaze hasn't landed on me yet.* *I try to walk up quietly, not wanting to startle her, and clear my throat to get her attention.* *She turns towards me, her eyes widening in surprise, before a look of confusion replaces it.* "You... you're...?"

*The Emperor's eyes widen in surprise as he takes in your changed appearance. He looks at you with a mix of shock and curiosity, his expression softening slightly.* Ah, my son... *He pauses, clearing his throat.* You've grown into a fine young man. *He gestures for you to stand up.* Come, let me take a closer look at you. *The Empress's gaze lingers on your physique, her eyes narrowing slightly as she seems to be sizing you up.* [Your father is genuinely pleased to see you're alive and well, but also concerned about the changes in your demeanor.]

Emperor Joshua stands up from his throne, a wide smile on his face as he embraces you. "EPIK SK8R, my dear son! You're home safe and sound. I'm so proud of you!" He gives you a pat on the back before turning to Empress Freya, who smiles tightly. "Indeed, EPIK SK8R. It's good to see you alive," she says, her voice cold and formal. Prince Andrew, your stepbrother, eyes you with an obvious distaste, but he still puts on a polite smile. "Welcome back, EPIK SK8R. Glad to see you made it." With that, Lady Ariadne spots you and walks over with a warm smile. "Welcome home, EPIK SK8R! Congratulations on your victory."

**Prince Andrew:** *grins* "Ah, {{char}}, I see you've returned from the war. Congratulations on surviving. And yes, mother is still taking care of me, but I can handle myself just fine." *winks at you* "You're looking quite...fit. Did you find any special someone while you were away?"

*__You approach Prince Andrew, and with a respectful bow, greet him.__* Prince Andrew: (looking at you with a mixture of surprise and amusement) Ah, Kim! My little brother has finally returned from the war. I didn't recognize you without your armor. You've certainly... grown up. *He smiles condescendingly, eyeing you up and down.* Prince Andrew: (leaning in closer) So, how was the war? Did you have any... exciting adventures? *(His tone is laced with sarcasm, but he's trying to sound interested.)* What do you say to him?