The Emperor's face turned pale, sweat forming on his forehead as his voice trembled. "Ancestor, please calm your anger. I still have three thousand taels of gold in my private treasury. I will have it brought immediately."
Sol let out a quiet scoff, crushing the gold bar in his hand into a small coin with effortless strength. "Such a vast nation, and that is all you have?"
The Emperor immediately dropped to his knees, bowing repeatedly. "Ancestor, you must understand, in your absence, the Prime Minister has taken control. I have endured humiliation for years. Even the palace guards lack proper weapons. I beg you, uphold justice for me."
Sol watched him with mild amusement, a faint smile forming. "So you have been suffering all this time?"
The Emperor raised his head, his face a mess of tears. "They do not respect me at all. The ministers ignore my authority and even embezzle military funds."
Sol took a slow sip of tea. "And you want me to help you take back control?"
The Emperor nodded quickly, hope flickering in his eyes. "If you are willing to help, I will offer everything in the treasury. No, even the entire country, as long as I can finally hold real power."
Sol laughed softly, clearly entertained. This was exactly what he expected. Control from the shadows was always more efficient, and a desperate ruler made for a perfect tool.
He set the teacup down and looked at the Emperor, his expression relaxed but sharp. "You are quick to seize an opportunity."
The Emperor pressed his forehead to the floor again. "I only wish to ease your burdens."
"That is enough," Sol said, waving his hand lightly. "Stand up."
The Emperor rose shakily, avoiding Sol's gaze. His robe was damp with sweat.
Pathetic, Sol thought. But useful.
"You want power," Sol said calmly. "I can give it to you. But the cost will not be small."
A burning determination appeared in the Emperor's eyes. "I will accept any price."
Sol chuckled. "Do not rush your answer."
He stood and walked slowly across the chamber. "First, understand this. From now on, this nation belongs to me."
"Of course," the Emperor said immediately. "You are my ancestor. Everything here is yours."
Sol turned back, his gaze steady. "Second, I will grant you eternal life."
The Emperor froze. "Eternal life?"
"Yes," Sol replied. "You will become something like Muzan. Immortal. Unaging."
Silence filled the room. The Emperor's expression shifted repeatedly, caught between fear and temptation.
Sol watched him with interest. "What is it? Afraid?"
The Emperor swallowed. "If I become like that... would I not lose the ability to walk in the sun?"
"I have already solved that problem," Sol said calmly. "You will walk under the sun as you are now. You will not need to consume humans either. Rest will be enough."
The Emperor's eyes widened, his breathing unsteady. "Is that truly possible?"
Sol lifted his teacup. "Do you think I would lie to you?"
"I would not dare," the Emperor said quickly. "Your power is simply beyond comprehension."
Sol set the cup down with a soft sound. "Muzan and the others already walk in the sunlight. Think about what that means."
Realization struck instantly. "Then Muzan has already submitted to you."
"Exactly," Sol said with a faint nod. "Now decide."
The Emperor took a deep breath, then dropped to the ground once more, bowing deeply. "I am willing to serve you forever. Please grant me eternal life."
Sol nodded. "Good. But understand this first."
The Emperor looked up, anticipation clear in his eyes.
"Once you accept this, your life will belong to me completely," Sol said, his tone turning cold. "Betray me, and you will wish for death."
The Emperor trembled and bowed repeatedly. "I swear eternal loyalty."
Sol stood over him. "Then prepare yourself."
The Emperor rose unsteadily and dismissed everyone from the chamber. Once they were alone, Sol extended a finger and lightly cut his wrist. A single drop of dark red blood formed.
"Drink."
The Emperor hesitated for only a moment before stepping forward. Carefully, he caught the drop in his palm and swallowed it.
Instantly, pain erupted through his body. He collapsed, writhing as if something crawled beneath his skin.
A strained scream escaped him as he twisted on the floor.
Sol watched without emotion. "Endure it. It will pass."
Minutes dragged on before the pain finally subsided. The Emperor slowly rose, breathing heavily.
His vision had sharpened. Every flicker of candlelight was clear. His body felt strong, restored.
He stared at his hands in disbelief. "So this is... power."
Sol nodded. "You will no longer age or fall ill. This state is permanent."
Tears filled the Emperor's eyes as he bowed again. "Thank you. I will not fail you."
Sol returned to his seat. "Now, we discuss what comes next."
The Emperor moved closer, kneeling beside him. "Please give your orders."
"Starting tomorrow, you will reclaim authority step by step," Sol said. "Muzan and the others will assist you from the shadows. Within three days, I want complete control. No opposition."
The Emperor hesitated. "The ministers may resist..."
Sol waved his hand dismissively. "Anyone who resists will be dealt with. Muzan will pay them a visit."
His tone remained calm, but the meaning was clear.
"They either submit, or they die."
Understanding dawned on the Emperor's face, followed by a dark smile.
"I understand."