During the half month when Chance was in a high fever and unconscious, he dreamed of being in the middle of a battlefield, surrounded by the sounds of clashing swords and the cries of warriors. He held Keiko's lifeless body in his arms, walking forward on his knees because his legs were too weak to support his weight. The rough, unforgiving earth beneath him was soaked by the tears streaming down his face. He turned his head, looking back at the enemy's battlefield, his voice low and broken.

"I will take you home," he whispered hoarsely, his voice raw with grief. "I will take you home."

This scene replayed in his dreams many times. When Chance finally awoke, he found it hard to muster interest in anything after Keiko's loss. The shadow of losing Keiko loomed over his heart. The joyful times they had shared were now replaced with a deep, painful void. His dedication to his duties remained steadfast, but those who knew him could see the sorrow in his eyes.

The bustling scenes of rebuilding the village seemed to blur around him. The sounds of hammers and workers' shouts were distant echoes compared to his somber silence. Every corner of the village reminded him of Keiko—her laughter by the river, her gentle touch, the warmth of her presence. The pain stayed with him, tormenting his heart and making each day difficult.

The tragic news reached the emperor in the capital. The elderly monarch, who held a special affection for Chance, was deeply saddened by the loss. The emperor had watched his son grow into a strong and capable leader, admiring his courage and dedication. Hearing of his son's ordeal, the emperor felt immense sorrow. He understood that the suffering Chance had endured was more than anyone should bear alone.

In the palace hall, the emperor sat quietly in contemplation. The room, adorned with exquisite tapestries and golden chandeliers, felt dim and somber with the weight of the news. He called upon his most trusted advisor, a man who had faithfully served the throne for decades. The advisor, with silver hair and wise eyes, bowed as he approached.

"Prepare an edict," the emperor commanded, his voice filled with emotion. "It is time to bring Chance back to the capital. He has proven his worth and endured enough pain. It is time for him to receive the position he deserves."

The advisor bowed deeply, understanding the significance of the order. "Yes, Your Majesty. I will see to it immediately."

The edict was meticulously written, each word carefully chosen to convey the emperor's pride and the urgency of the matter. The decree quickly spread across the empire, carried by the fastest messengers whose horses ran tirelessly through towns and villages. The message was too important to delay.

When the royal messenger arrived in the northwest, the village was bustling with activity. Chance was overseeing the reconstruction work, his face solemn, appearing almost emotionless, like a tool devoid of feelings—a sight that pained those who cared for him.

The messenger approached him, his demeanor solemn, uniform pristine, the imperial seal glinting in the sunlight.

"Your Highness, I bring an edict from His Majesty," the messenger said, handing over the scroll with a voice that echoed the empire's authority.

Chance took the scroll, his hands trembling slightly as he broke the seal and read the emperor's words:

"My dear son, Chance. Your dedication and bravery have not gone unnoticed. It is time for you to return to the capital. You have undergone great trials and proven your immeasurable worth. Now, you must be by my side, preparing to lead our great empire. Your experiences have shaped you into the leader we need. Come home, my son."

Tears welled up in Chance's eyes as he read the decree. His father's words, filled with pride and love, deeply moved him. He had always longed for such recognition, but the cost had been too high. The pain of his loss reminded him of what he had sacrificed, and the life he and Keiko had dreamed of was now forever unattainable. But he knew this was his destiny.

Chance gathered his closest friends, those who had shared in his struggles and triumphs. They met in the war tent, its walls adorned with maps and battle plans that now seemed like relics of a distant past.

"The emperor has summoned me back to the capital," Chance announced, his voice calm despite his inner turmoil. "I will return to assume my duties as the heir."

The advisors nodded, understanding the significance of the moment. They had seen the change in Chance, how sorrow had tempered his spirit but also steeled his resolve. They knew his departure marked the end of an era for their village and the beginning of a new chapter for the empire.

"Your Highness, we will miss your leadership here," one follower said, her voice tinged with emotion. "But we know you will be a great ruler for the future of our country."

Chance nodded solemnly, grateful for their support. "Thank you. I will never forget what we have achieved together."

The journey to the capital was long and filled with reflection. Accompanied by a small retinue, Chance traveled through winding roads, mountains, and forests, each turn revealing new landscapes. The beauty of the empire contrasted sharply with the darkness within his heart.

As Chance rode on, he thought of Keiko and their unborn child, the love and joy they had shared, and the dreams they had envisioned together. Each memory was bittersweet, reminding him of what he had lost. He resolved to be the best ruler he could be, to honor their memory, and create a world where such tragedies could be avoided.

When Chance arrived at the capital, he was greeted with great fanfare. The streets were lined with people cheering for the prince who had proven himself through hardship and bravery. The scene was both humbling and exhilarating, reminding Chance of the enormous responsibilities that lay ahead. Banners fluttered in the breeze, and trumpets blared, heralding the return of a hero.

However, Chance's mind was entirely focused on going back in time to save Keiko. He cared nothing for the present glory. The grand parade, the adoring crowds, the accolades—all felt hollow without Keiko by his side. Her absence was a void that nothing could fill.

As the palace gates approached, Chance stepped down from the carriage amidst the cheers. The emperor watched his son intently.

"Chance, my good son, you have governed the northwest region admirably. I hereby name you Crown Prince, the future heir to my throne."

Semon and the Crown Prince were shocked by Chance's return but had no choice but to accept the emperor's decision.

All Chance wanted was to return to his residence. He needed to restart the black hole experiment and send himself back to the day Keiko was captured. He was determined to change Keiko's fate and save her from death.