Chapter 185 – The Pillar That Stands Tall
Morning light slowly swept across Nocture, touching every corner of the city with gentle warmth. A fine dew on the leaves shimmered like tiny crystals falling in the breeze, bringing a sense of peace that gradually pushed away the remnants of the night’s mist. In the grand castle at the heart of the city, tall windows began to open, letting sunlight pour in and greet rooms that had spent the night in silence.
In the spacious royal bedroom, Sofia slowly opened her eyes. She stared at the tall ceiling carved in intricate patterns, adorned with black roses, the emblem of Nocture. The air was laced with the faint scent of lavender and cedarwood, bringing comfort, though tinged with a subtle loneliness.
She let out a breath and rose from bed. Her feet touched the cold marble floor, refreshing her senses and sharpening her thoughts. She slipped into a simple white dress and then reached for her white-and-gold mantle that had been laid out on the chair near the mirror.
Today, like every day before it, she would once again carry out her role as leader, the guardian of a kingdom that continued to grow, even in Sylvia’s absence, whom she missed dearly.
Before the large gold-framed mirror, Sofia stood to check her appearance. She took a slow breath, as though trying to release the emptiness still weighing on her chest. The white-and-gold mantle looked elegant, but the black dragon emblem on her shoulder carried the hidden weight of responsibility.
As she stepped out of her room, undead servants standing in the corridor bowed respectfully, moving aside in silent, synchronized motion. Sofia passed them gracefully, her expression calm, though her eyes held something deeper within.
She made her way toward the main council chamber, where the kingdom’s advisors typically gathered every morning to report on the city’s developments. When she opened the grand ebony doors, all the officers, advisors, and officials stood immediately to offer their respects.
"Good morning, Lady Sofia," said Zark, stepping forward with a slight bow.
"Good morning," Sofia replied gently, then took her seat at the main chair, the one that should have belonged to Sylvia.
The room was filled with a long, polished darkwood table, with chairs lined neatly on both sides. In the center of the table, a large map of Nocture was spread out, marked with colorful pins denoting various construction projects and troop deployments.
"What’s the news today, Zark?" Sofia asked, her gaze shifting to the map.
Zark picked up a brief report from the table and began to speak, his tone firm yet respectful. "The fortress construction on the eastern border has been completed ahead of schedule. The undead laborers were extremely efficient, and all materials arrived on time. Our defenses are now stronger than ever."