Astrid saw Hibbort again on the morning of the third day after Viscount Rostlin's trial ended. The once majestic and proud Emperor of the Empire lay on his bed, his formerly thick, wavy golden hair now slightly whitened at the tips, the marks of age unmistakably visible. Not only had new wrinkles formed at the corners of his eyes, but his entire aura had grown significantly older.
This was an active summons after several failed attempts at visitation, the first time in nearly half a month that Astrid had stepped into the Emperor's private chambers.
"Father... seems to be quite tiredd..."
After bowing respectfully, Astrid approached Hibbort's bedside. She noticed the chair placed nearby and spoke softly.
"The physician said Father fell ill due to overwork during the seasonal change, constantly preoccupied with state affairs to the point of exhaustion."
