The dining-room door swung open, and a lively conversation filled the air, mingling with the warm glow of the chandeliers. Starfania stole a quick glance at the figures entering, their presence commanding attention. She was caught in the act, and glanced away. Inside, however, nervousness coiled inside tightly, knowing she would face them. Taking a deep breath, she steadied herself. Just as she composed her thoughts, Starfania felt Ren's gaze linger on her. Her expression softened, yet her tone changed as they told them that this conversation was gravity.
" Starfania, " Ren said, her voice low but resolute, " I think it's time you understood who your father's alliances are–and why they matter so deeply. "
In that moment, the surrounding atmosphere shifted, weighted with a mix of anticipation and intrigue. Her mind raced, recalling her earlier cryptic remarks about the meeting.
" Wait, " she interrupted, her eyes narrowing, " there's a meeting happening right now? "
Ren's lips curled into a knowing smile. " Oh, yes. And the people you'll see there… well, let's just say they're more remarkable than you might imagine. "
Before she could question further, Ren gestured subtly towards the trio that had just walked in, who now sat at the far end of the table. One of them, a tall figure with a sharp feature, tapped on his companion's shoulder and pointed in their direction.
Starfania felt their gaze land on her, and she froze momentarily, the weight of the attention was unwavering. Ren's voice started taking a storyline approach as her eyes shifted towards the figure across the room. " Allow me to introduce the key players. First, Felix Nightshade of the Ruin Nations. "
As Ren spoke, Starfania's eyes followed hers to a figure cloaked in dark, elegant attire. Felix alluded an aura of quiet dominance, his piercing gaze scanning the room as though calculating his potential move.
" Felix is a strategic genius, " Ren said, her tone revenant. " He's the reason we're still on top. Without him, Lyam would have already succeeded in destroying your father's plan. "