The soft golden light filtered through the open windows of the royal nursery, casting a warm glow over the room. Helena sat on the floor, her long, regal gown spread around her as she watched her young son, the newly crowned Emperor, playing with a set of carved wooden animals. His small hands gripped the figurines tightly, making them "march" across the velvet rug.

"Your father would have loved to see you like this," Helena murmured, her voice tinged with both pride and sorrow. Her son looked up at her, his eyes wide with the innocence of childhood, oblivious to the weight of the empire soon to rest on his young shoulders.

A soft knock on the door interrupted the moment, and the regent entered, bowing slightly.

Helena rose gracefully, still watching her son. "He reminds me of his father more and more each day." she said softly, a hint of sadness in her eyes.