Chapter 164: Alexavier’s Game
"We’ve reached it!" Tribal Princess Sylvia declared, her voice barely a whisper in the dense darkness.
Duchess Bernice frowned, her eyes straining to pierce the gloom. "Indeed, but how are we to find this individual in this inky blackness? Even my sight falters against these tangled boughs."
Sylvia nodded in understanding. "I know, Duchess, but we must make the attempt. If this person exposes your involvement, your hands will be tied, and the Emperor’s reign of terror will continue unabated."
A glint of determination hardened Bernice’s gaze. "You’re right. I cannot allow that to happen. We’ll split up. You take the east side, and I’ll scour the west. Between us, we should cover the garden swiftly."
Sylvia readily agreed, and they swiftly parted ways, disappearing into the shadowy embrace of the foliage.
Bernice ventured deeper into the labyrinthine darkness, her senses on high alert. Suddenly, a soft thud echoed through the stillness, sending shivers down her spine. "Who’s there? Show yourself!" she demanded, her voice echoing through the silent garden.
The footsteps quickened, receding into the depths like a frightened animal. Bernice knelt, a damp footprint imprinted in the soft earth. Barefoot. A maid? Why would a maid be out at this hour, and barefoot at that?
The mystery gnawed at her. As she rose, another sound, a rustle in the undergrowth, propelled her forward. Following the noise, she found the gardener diligently tending a bed of lilies, his head bowed in concentration.
"What are you doing here at this ungodly hour?" Bernice questioned, her voice laced with suspicion.
The gardener straightened, bowing low. "Greetings, Duchess! Simply fulfilling my nocturnal duties. Some flowers require moonlight for optimal hydration, you see."
Bernice narrowed her eyes. "At this hour?"
"Indeed, Duchess. Certain rare specimens thrive under the night sky’s gentle caress. It enhances their bloom, you see."