The Imperial Hall remained silent for a moment after Lucas de Hein greeted the Emperor.
Many nobles were still staring at him.
The young Master of the Magical Tower rarely appeared in court, and his presence alone made the atmosphere tense.
The Emperor spoke calmly.
"Lucas de Hein, thank you for accepting the invitation."
Lucas straightened slightly.
"It seemed necessary today."
His voice was calm and direct.
Some nobles exchanged surprised looks.
Lucas usually avoided imperial matters.
Meanwhile, near the throne, June Astral watched him carefully.
Her brown eyes were filled with quiet amusement.
She slowly walked a few steps forward.
"Master Lucas."
Her voice was soft but clear.
Lucas turned his head toward her.
Their eyes met again.
Up close, he could clearly see the same girl from the market.
The short girl with brown hair and playful bangs.
But today she wore noble clothing, standing proudly beside the throne.
There was no doubt now.
She was truly June Astral.
The Emperor spoke again.
"June."
June nodded slightly.
"Yes, Father."
Then she looked back at Lucas.
Her smile grew a little wider.
"Have we met before?"
Several nobles looked confused.
Lucas stared at her calmly.
For a moment, neither of them spoke.
Then Lucas replied in his usual cold tone.
"…Perhaps."
June laughed softly.
"A market can be a very busy place."
A few nobles blinked, not understanding what she meant.
But Lucas understood immediately.
His silver eyes narrowed slightly.
So she remembered.
June placed her hands behind her back casually.
Her expression looked innocent again.
But her eyes sparkled with playful mischief.
It was clear.
The Princess who defeated bandits in the market and the Master of the Magical Tower had officially recognized each other.
And this time…
They weren't strangers in a crowd.
They were standing in the center of the empire's power.