Chapter 157 – The Queen and the World’s Movement
The cold morning wind slipped through the high windows of the castle’s main hall. The black curtains, usually still, fluttered gently, creating a soft rustling that blended with the footsteps of the undead servants who passed silently through the corridors. The castle had been fully restored since its reconstruction, yet there was something in the morning air that felt different heavier, more tense, as if the world itself was holding its breath.
On the northern balcony, Sylvia stood in a dark gray house robe. Her silver hair was tied loosely, and a steaming cup of tea rested in her hand. She gazed far into the north, toward the fog that slowly dissipated after the long night that had passed over Nocture.
She knew what had happened last night. Zark had sent her a telepathic report after the infiltrators were captured. The details, names, methods, tactics even Lieutenant Keron’s statement about the reappearance of the Internal Extremist Surveillance Division. Sylvia had read it all, memorized it, and tucked it away in her heart like thorns that had yet to pierce but were clearly felt.
"A small assault like that is just an opener," she murmured softly, to no one. "They’re measuring. Testing. Waiting for us to lower our guard."
Soft footsteps echoed behind her. Celes appeared through the balcony door, wearing a light leather coat adorned with thin metal shoulder guards. Her red hair was braided back, and a rolled document was in her hand.
"Good morning, Your Majesty," she greeted lightly.
Sylvia turned slightly. "A report?"
"Two came in this morning. One from the northern beastkin tribes, the other... about Velthya," Celes replied, handing over the documents.
Sylvia unrolled the first. It was lengthy, yet neatly and systematically written. The beastkin tribes in the north diverse groups who had thus far remained neutral or avoided the affairs of the central world were beginning to show interest in her. They had sent a small delegation to the border, not with demands for war, but offers of trade and limited alliance.
Interestingly, the report noted that most beastkin did not trust the gods. To them, the forces of nature and ancestral spirits were far more important than divine institutions.
"They could be very valuable allies," Sylvia whispered. "Especially if they’re not already in the gods’ grasp."