As the walkway opened up to the Imperial Palace's gardens, Jade briefly considered bringing Oliver to see the Emperor. But the Emperor was most likely occupied with his responsibilities, and how could Jade interrupt that by giving him something fun? No, the Emperor interrupted himself far too often. Best to keep the fun as far from him as possible.

"Most towns and villages aren't situation on the water. Unlike among the nobility, it's acceptable for our farmers to have practical concerns." He said it quite neutrally, as if he didn't think poorly of the upper class's self-induced stupidity. The trappings they undertook to ensure that everyone knew how much better they were was good sport for Jade's amusement.