Chapter 151: Echoes of Creativity

The days that followed Amelia's presentation remained shrouded in a curious ambiguity. No official pronouncements came from the Aethel Council, but a subtle shift in the atmosphere became apparent. Amelia noticed Aethel officials lingering longer at her artwork during their meetings, their eyes tracing the vibrant patterns with a newfound inquisitiveness. One even dared to ask about her creative process, the translator awkwardly trying to convey the nuances of "inspiration" and "emotional connection." "Fascinating," the Aethel official rasped, its voice devoid of inflection. "This...expression...it seems to bypass logic and access...something else entirely." Amelia seized the opportunity. "Perhaps, esteemed Councilor," she ventured, "art offers a different perspective, a way to understand the universe through emotions, not just cold, hard logic." The Councilor tilted its head, its iridescent skin shimmering faintly. "Emotions," it repeated, the word sounding foreign on it