After enduring a long and tedious meeting with the imperial court, where strategies for Outworld's future were endlessly debated, Sindel gracefully rose from her seat. Though the matters discussed were important, the weight of politics often left her longing for something far more precious—time with her family.

With her mind still half-occupied by diplomatic affairs, Sindel made her way back to her private quarters. As the grand doors silently parted, a rare smile softened her regal expression. There, seated comfortably on the plush carpet, was her husband, Jerrod. The mighty emperor, stripped of his crown and titles for this fleeting moment, was fully immersed in play, laughter dancing in his eyes as he entertained their three daughters.

The twins, both four years old, giggled as they tried to climb over their father’s lap, their matching silver hair tangled from their playful chaos. Nestled safely in Jerrod’s arms was their youngest, who had just celebrated her first year of life. Her tiny fingers tugged at Jerrod’s robe, her wide eyes filled with wonder at the world around her.

For a moment, the burdens of leadership melted away, replaced by the gentle warmth of home—a reminder that amidst the power and politics, this was the true heart of the realm.