Minerva's expression was bland, and as an inherently beautiful girl, her languid visage only made her seem more endearing. However, to the eyes of the army officers and intruders surrounding her, her carefree expression was mixed with a mocking smile, almost bordering on contempt.
She was scorning herself, this little girl was scorning the self who controlled the entire situation—
At the realization, Major Louis Luwazo de Gramaison, who was initially brimming with pride, immediately darkened his expression. After stiffening for a few seconds, he remembered he already held the upper hand, and there was no need to heed the barking of a defeated dog, thus he spoke in an almost contrived, mournful tone,
"Princess, we originally hoped to persuade you and the naval officers to foster sincere cooperation between the army and the navy, helping us overcome the national crisis together. That the situation has developed to this stage was also inevitable…"
