"I see… So she's finally decided to come back, yet she didn't come here to greet me," Empress Selena murmured, her surprise evident in her voice and expression.
"That's not the only reason I called you all here, my dear. There's more to it," Emperor Philip said, his expression serious as he looked at everyone.
"What do you mean, dear? Is she injured? If so, let's go and see her right away!" Empress Selena rose from her seat, a worried look crossing her face. She considered Valeria a friend, and they had always gotten along well.
Emperor Philip sighed, shaking his head. "You don't have to worry about that devil… She's in even better shape than when she left. In fact, she might be twice as strong as before—maybe even more. However…"
"However?" Empress Selena raised an eyebrow, clearly intrigued.
"Yes, Imperial Father, say it already. Don't keep us in suspense," Princess Elara chimed in, nodding eagerly. She, too, was curious about what her father had to say.
