Smile That Refuses to Break
"Why do you still smile in such a desperate situation? Why do you always gamble your life for others?"
The commanding officer's voice cut through the battlefield like a blade that had no edge—only weight.
He knew this man.
Not as an Emperor.
Not as a legend.
But as the reckless idiot who laughed too loud, fought too hard, and never once thought about himself.
Back when he had nothing.
Back when he was just… a man.
—
The Emperor twisted his body, letting a silver-tipped spear graze past his ribs instead of piercing through. His hand shot out, grabbing the attacker's wrist, snapping it with a clean motion before pushing him aside.
Blood dripped.
From everywhere.
Arrows still stuck in his flesh.
Smoke rising faintly where silver burned into his skin.
And yet—
He smiled.
Still smiling.
What makes me grin? he asked again, as if the idea tickled him.
