Alaric, the ruthless emperor of the Lumina Empire, sat upon his grand throne, his gaze fixed on the aftermath of the carnage he had just unleashed. Fearful servants scurried about, their trembling hands frantically attempting to tidy up the chaos that had ensued.

With an almost innocent smile upon his lips, belied only by the malevolent gleam in his icy blue eyes, Alaric reveled in his victory. The foolish Count, in his arrogance, had dared to utter insults against Alaric's beloved mother, the dowager empress.

Alaric's mother, the empress, always've been a kind and loving woman, known for her caring nature and deep affection for her subjects. Her reign was marked by her unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of those under her rule, and her devotion to her only child, Alaric.

Alaric rose from his throne, his blood-stained clothes a stark reminder of the carnage he had recently inflicted upon another house. Disregarding the need to clean himself, he made his way to his mother's chambers, his weary heart seeking solace.

Lying down on the bed, he rested his head on his mother's lap, feeling her slender fingers gently caress his hair. Alaric knew that she disapproved of his actions, that she harbored a quiet fear of him, despite his loving demeanor.

With a soft, caring voice, he inquired, "How are you feeling, my dear mother?"

Alaric gazed at his mother with an expression of unabashed adoration, his eyes radiating a genuine love that contrasted with his usual cold demeanor. Despite her age of 38 years, she remained breathtakingly beautiful, possessing an unrivaled grace and elegance that seemed impervious even to her illness.

Though she was pale and thin, her emaciated state did little to diminish her timeless beauty in Alaric's eyes. She still emanated a regal and dignified presence.