The Monarch remained silent for long seconds. The golden light reflected in her eyes, making them seem less like frozen sapphire and more like a deep lake about to thaw. But her expression… was complicated. There was fear, yes—but there was calculation, expectation, and pride battling against each other.
Finally, she took a deep breath, the warm vapor dissolving into the newly heated air.
"I… can't make a decision right now," she said finally, each word coming out carefully, as if balancing a blade on ice.
Strax narrowed his eyes, observing every micro-expression. He didn't seem disappointed. Nor angry. Just… assessing.
Then, he gave a short, almost amused smile.
"That's alright," he murmured. "I understand perfectly."
The Monarch looked up, surprised by how easily he accepted. It wasn't common for someone like him to back down—especially after giving a speech that could freeze the blood of any leader.
