The surroundings were enveloped in light.

A familiar yet nauseating sensation of weightlessness washed over Lin, who desperately suppressed the urge to vomit.

This is nothing compared to Lucia's leap, he reminded himself.

Soon, the glowing light faded, revealing the familiar teleportation chamber of the Imperial Palace.

"Lin!"

Before he could even fully take in his surroundings, someone rushed into his arms.@@novelbin@@

Lucia had thrown herself at him, examining his face with concern.

"Are you okay? I'm sorry, I should have stayed with you until the end... I'm so sorry I left you alone."

For some reason, the Hero's demeanor had changed. Previously hesitant and cautious, she was now clinging to him in a public space.

Though only a few nobles had gathered in the teleportation chamber due to the sudden return, Lin, who usually preferred not to draw attention, was taken aback by Lucia's uninhibited behavior.

"Luciena, stop. You're making the porter uncomfortable."

"What did you just say?"

Both Arsil and Naidrian, who had been waiting nearby, were shocked by Tigrea’s words.

The mage, who had always been stern and blunt, now spoke softly and gently as she pulled Lin away from the Hero.

Lucia, on the other hand, froze.

"Your tone has changed... quite a bit."

"Thanks to Lin."

A brief, whispered exchange, a duel of sorts between sword and shield.

Lucia was on the verge of bursting with rage as she noticed Tigrea's subtle smile directed at Lin. As a woman, Lucia understood all too well what that smile meant.

"You dare...! I'm the woman Lin personally rescued. From your hands, no less!"

"I'm truly sorry for that."

"Do you think an apology is enough?!"

Tigrea wanted to apologize immediately, but there were too many eyes watching them. It wasn’t just about pride; everyone in the Imperial Palace was connected to Linasien, making the situation complicated.

Meanwhile, Lucia was emanating an aura of dark resentment.

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