Morning arrived quickly at the Imperial Palace.
The gates opened as two horses waited in the courtyard, already prepared for travel to the southern territories.
Guards and servants stood nearby, watching quietly.
June Astral stepped into the courtyard first.
Today she wore practical travel clothes instead of royal attire—dark riding clothes, sturdy boots, and a light cloak.
Her long brown hair was tied into a high ponytail, with her familiar bangs resting over her forehead.
A sword hung calmly at her side.
She looked completely ready for battle.
Moments later, another figure appeared.
Lucas de Hein walked toward the courtyard.
His long dark coat moved slightly with each step, and his silver eyes calmly observed everything around him.
A faint magical aura followed him like a shadow.
June turned toward him.
"Good morning, Tower Master."
Lucas nodded once.
"Princess."
June mounted her horse smoothly.
"So this is our first mission together."
Lucas stepped beside his horse.
"Yes."
June smiled slightly.
"Try not to slow me down."
Lucas looked at her calmly.
"That will not be a problem."
June laughed softly.
"Confident."
Lucas mounted his horse with quiet ease.
"Realistic."
The palace gates slowly opened wider.
Beyond them stretched the long road leading to the Southern Pearls, where rumors of black magic and a mysterious villain were spreading.
June looked toward the road ahead.
Her playful expression disappeared, replaced by the calm focus of a ruler protecting her land.
"Let's go."
Lucas glanced at her once more before turning his gaze forward.