A Secret Scheme at Midnight (103)

After a moment of silence, Starfania sighed, her resolve waning. "What if I let everyone down? What about my father? VulcanFire is my home. " 

Cantina nodded, understanding the weight of Starfania's thoughts. "It's normal to doubt yourself, especially in tough times. But remember, you don't have to carry this alone. Lean on those around you." 

She paused, letting her words sink in. "You can learn from every experience, good or bad. It's part of growing." 

Starfania shifted her gaze to the ground, feeling a mix of fear and uncertainty. "But what if I fail? The pressure feels immense." 

"Failure isn't the end," Cantina insisted gently. "It's just another step in the journey. Your father would want you to try. He raised you to be strong, to face challenges head-on." 

 Starfania could feel a flicker of determination kindle within her. "I just want to make him proud. I want to show everyone that I'm capable." 

"Then take it one step at a time," Cantina suggested, her voice steady. "Start with believing in yourself. Choose to move forward, even when it feels hard. You'll surprise yourself." 

A small smile broke through Starfania's frown. "You really think so? Can I do this?" 

"I know you can," Cantina replied, her confidence infectious. "Trust your instincts. You have more strength than you realize."

She straightened her shoulders with that final push from Cantian as she looked into her eyes. Starfania said her expression was serious. " I'll do it, but on one condition. "

 Cantina arched an eyebrow, intrigued. " Do tell, what is this condition of yours? "

" I want my friends to accompany me on this mission. " Starfania said firmly. Cantina's lips curved into a mischievous grin. She said in a playful tone. " With all fairness, I never said they couldn't. "

Starfania found herself torn between two paths, each tugging at her heart in opposing directions. The desire to venture beyond the confines of her home stirred within her, promising adventure and purpose, yet the fear of the unfamiliar loomed large, whispering the comfort of staying within the bounds of what she knew. This internal conflict weighed heavily on her, but she knew the decision was inevitable. 

 Cantina's voice broke through Starfania's swirling thoughts, sharp and clear. She advised them to make their escape at midnight, emphasizing that this mission is of utmost importance.

" Timing is critical, " she said. " Since you know this kingdom well, it will be best if you plan this escape. However, no one can know your the daughter of Cesar or that you come from the kingdom of VulcanFire. "

" Any more questions before you return? " Cantina said, her voice tinged with an unusual gentleness. Starfania paused, grappling with a lingering uncertainty, before finally saying. " Just one more question? "

As she pointed around the dark room surrounding them where the wall seemed to shift and pulse with otherworldly energy. " How do I leave? "

Cantina's lips curved into a knowing smile as she unveiled the truth. " Just wake up. " 

Starfania blinked, her confusion deepening. 

"Wake up?" she echoed, glancing at the flickering shadows that danced across the walls. The surreal atmosphere felt like a dream teetering on the edge of reality. "What do you mean by that?" 

Cantina leaned closer, her expression earnest. "This place reflects your mind. It's not as solid as it appears. When you decide you're ready to go, you simply need to focus on waking up. "