Chapter 179 – Between the Night, Jerky, and Longing
Night had finally arrived, bringing a gentle darkness that enveloped the old castle in comforting silence. The night sky appeared exceptionally clear, dotted with countless tiny stars sparkling shyly, like delicate diamonds carefully scattered across a vast black fabric. The soft rustle of leaves carried by the night breeze added a calming yet melancholic touch that soothed the heart.
Inside a small command room that had been deliberately prepared, Sylvia stood tall in front of a large wooden table covered with detailed maps of the surrounding territories. Most of the maps were marked with small symbols indicating the positions of the zombie units she had ordered to patrol strategic points. Her sharp, serious eyes scanned each symbol, ensuring no area was overlooked.
"Unit One, head to the eastern region. Ensure there are no hidden threats," Sylvia commanded firmly to one of the elite zombies standing respectfully before her. The zombie gave a short salute before swiftly turning and leaving to carry out its duty silently.
Sylvia shifted her gaze northward, pointing at another strategic location on the map. "Unit Two, move northward. Keep watch on movements at the forest border. Immediately report if anything suspicious arises."
Without protest or questions, the other zombie unit marched out in orderly silence, disciplined and swift, disappearing into the quiet night.
Several minutes passed, and once the room emptied again, Sylvia drew in a deep breath and exhaled slowly. She was acutely aware that the peace she had experienced today was only temporary. Her enemies, especially the gods and their countless armies, were undoubtedly devising plans hidden in the shadows of this seemingly peaceful night.
She gently shook her head, momentarily pushing aside complicated thoughts, then stepped out of the command room, gracefully making her way toward her private quarters located atop the castle.
As soon as she entered her room, Sylvia slipped out of her elegant yet slightly heavy dress, letting the fabric fall onto the bedroom floor. She inhaled deeply, stretching her slightly sore body after an active day. Sylvia walked to an old wooden wardrobe in the corner, pulling out a thin, soft black camisole, and casually slipped into it. She chose to wear nothing else except simple black underwear beneath it, finding this attire far more comfortable.
Having changed into her preferred clothing, Sylvia approached a small table in the room’s corner, filled with simple items like a kettle and several beautiful porcelain cups. She picked up the small metal kettle, gently placing her palm beneath it. Instantly, a tiny purplish-black flame her Nether Flame sprang forth, quickly and perfectly heating the kettle without sound or excessive smoke.
Slowly, the aroma of brewing tea filled the room, infusing the space with the calming scent of herbal leaves. Sylvia carefully placed several dried tea leaves from a small container into the kettle, allowing them to steep perfectly in the freshly heated water.
While waiting for the tea, she opened her system storage, retrieving several pieces of dark-colored jerky whose enticing aroma filled the air as soon as they appeared. The jerky looked fresh, its surface glistening faintly under the soft glow of a small crystal lamp in the room’s corner.
After a few minutes, the herbal tea was ready. Sylvia poured the warm, golden-brown liquid into the prepared cup and carried the entire set tea kettle, cup, and jerky toward her spacious, open balcony.