Inside the Emperor's barrier…
The Star Emperor's expression, at first unreadable, began to shift.
His aura—usually a still, composed force—started to ripple. Slowly at first, subtly. But with each word Duke Fleximy uttered, it intensified.
By the end of the report, the aura had become oppressive. A tide of crackling, silent rage.
The Emperor's face reddened with fury, and his very presence twisted the air. Though Duke Fleximy stood several star systems away, even through the long-distance transmission, he felt the pressure increase. He had to grit his teeth just to remain standing beneath that invisible weight.
Meanwhile, outside the barrier…
Though none could hear the private exchange, they could all feel the sudden shift.
Empress Velryss, who had previously risen to leave, found herself hesitating—then silently sitting back down. Her gaze fixed on the Emperor.
"He's… being cautious," she murmured.
