A Glimpse of Enigmatic Puzzle (67)

Felix opened his mouth, ready to defend himself, but her father raised a hand to silence him. The room was thick with unsaid words and shifting expectations. 

"Perhaps you should take a moment to see the bigger picture, Starfania, " her father continued. "The Ruin Nations are crucial to our plans. Their influence could change everything. " 

She scoffed, casting a glance at Felix as if to emphasize her point. Felix, aware that he was now the center of scrutiny, cleared his throat. "I'm not a child. I have much to offer. " 

His tone was calm, but an edge of frustration seeped through. Starfania raised an eyebrow. 

 As she finally took in Felix's appearance. He managed to stand out effortlessly, dressed in a unique ensemble that somehow worked perfectly. A green coat layered over a sleek gray shirt, paired with dark jeans and polished black boots. His cream-colored hair framed his sharp features, while his muddy brown eyes added depth. When he caught Starfania staring, he straightened his posture, smoothing out his coat. Felix's face was pale, not only from Starfania warning — and Cesar's presence — had left a mark. Still, a flicker of embarrassment crossed his face as he quickly averted his gaze, trying to play it off. Cesar simply turned his gaze to the other leader. Giving a nod into Starfania's direction, introducing her as a princess of VulcanFire. The smirk playing at his lips finding this whole thing amusing.

 Starfania couldn't help but smile at her father; it was like she saw a piece of him again. However, as her gaze swept across the room, she noticed the skeptical looks on the other leaders. They were weary of having a young female listening in on what they call men's business. Even when she was trying to focus on their conversation, all she could make out was the poison was almost done, but still needed to be tested. However, all she could feel was their state of discomfort from the other leader. Starfania didn't want her father's alliance to look down at him for having her there. So she leaned closer to her father, keeping her voice low and steady.

" May I be excused? " Starfania asked, hoping to escape from their beating eyes. Cesar's gaze flickered to her briefly, his expression unreadable. He nodded, granting her permission to return to her room, though he did remind her to continue his studies.