Morning arrived quietly at the Imperial Palace.
Soft sunlight slowly entered June Astral's bedroom through the tall balcony doors.
On the large bed, June stirred slightly.
Her long brown hair was messy from sleep, strands falling across her face and shoulders.
She slowly opened her eyes.
Immediately, the bright sunlight touched her face.
"Mm…"
Still half asleep, June lifted her hand and covered her eyes with her fingers, letting only a little light pass through.
The warm sunlight slipped between her fingers.
She frowned slightly like a sleepy child.
"Too bright…"
After a moment she slowly sat up, her hair falling around her shoulders.
She stretched lazily and stepped down from the bed.
Her steps were slow and relaxed as she walked toward the balcony.
When she opened the doors, the cool morning air greeted her.
June stepped outside.
The palace gardens stretched below her, glowing softly under the morning sun.
Birds were flying above the trees, and the city in the distance was slowly waking.
June rested her arms lightly on the balcony railing and looked out quietly.
Her brown eyes were calm, still soft with sleep.
For a moment, she simply enjoyed the peaceful morning.
But suddenly—
Her gaze shifted slightly.
Something… felt strange.
Someone was watching.
June narrowed her eyes just a little, scanning the distance beyond the gardens.
A small smile slowly appeared on her rose-colored lips.
"…Again?"
She whispered softly to herself.