I forced another awkward smile onto my face, realizing how silent I’d become the longer I sat there. I felt like a doll—a mere decoration brought to amuse them, or rather, to entertain Penrose specifically. I glanced at her, catching a flicker in her sharp eyes. It was unmistakable—a wicked idea had sparked in her mind.

"One more thing, my dearest, strict brother... How is it that Thalassa has your ability?" she asked, her smirk curving with intrigue as her gaze locked onto Hadrian.

...