Chapter 22: A Chef’s Declaration

The victory against the Syndicate's command center had sent shockwaves through the eastern district. The once-feared criminal organization had been dealt a humiliating blow, and their grip on the district had begun to weaken.

Inside the guild's main hall, Zhang Ye sat at the long central table, surrounded by his core team. The members of the guild were exhausted but victorious, and their morale had never been higher.

Linna leaned against the table, arms crossed. "The Syndicate has pulled back from most of their strongholds. They've lost control over supply routes, and their hired mercenaries are starting to desert them. This is the perfect time to push forward and drive them out for good."

Kai smirked. "With all the damage we've done, they won't recover easily. I say we take the fight to them."

Zhang Ye tapped the table, his expression unreadable. "The Syndicate won't go down that easily. A wounded beast is the most dangerous."

Elira nodded. "They'll retaliate. Hard. We need to prepare."

Zhang Ye took a deep breath. His instincts told him that the real battle was only just beginning. The Syndicate wasn't just going to accept defeat; they would strike back with everything they had.

"We need to solidify our control over the district," Zhang Ye said. "Rebuild what was lost, strengthen our forces, and prepare for their next move."

The room fell silent as everyone processed his words.

Kai broke the silence. "So, what's next? Another batch of your magic food?"

Zhang Ye's lips curled into a small smile. "Something even better."

---

Zhang Ye stepped into the guild's grand kitchen, the place where his true strength lay. The scent of spices and freshly prepared dishes filled the air as he began working on his next culinary masterpiece.

This time, he needed something that would not only empower his allies but also act as a declaration—a statement that the guild would not back down.

His system provided the answer.

[New Recipe Unlocked: Monarch's Feast.]

The description intrigued him.

[Monarch's Feast: A grand banquet dish that inspires all who consume it, raising their morale, reinforcing their bodies, and temporarily enhancing their combat capabilities. The effects last longer than standard battle foods but require meticulous preparation.]

Zhang Ye's hands moved with precision, chopping, searing, and braising ingredients with a mastery that surpassed human limitations. The kitchen roared with activity as assistants rushed to help him, following his instructions with unwavering focus.

The banquet had to be perfect. Every dish had to carry the essence of his resolve.

As the final plates were set, a powerful aroma filled the guild, drawing in every member.

It was time.

---

In the guild's main hall, long tables were lined with food, each dish radiating warmth and strength. The members gathered, their eyes filled with anticipation.

Zhang Ye stepped forward. "We have fought hard, but the battle is not yet over." His voice rang through the hall. "The Syndicate will return, but when they do, we will not cower. We will not surrender. We will stand our ground, stronger than ever."

The guild members clenched their fists, determination burning in their eyes.

"This feast is not just food—it is a symbol of our will. Eat, regain your strength, and prepare for the battles ahead."

He raised a dish and took the first bite. The flavors burst across his tongue, a mix of fiery spice and deep, nourishing warmth. Power surged through him, and he knew the effect was working.

One by one, the guild members followed, and a wave of energy spread through the hall. The fatigue of battle melted away, replaced by renewed vigor.

Kai grinned. "Damn, Zhang Ye. You never fail to impress."

Linna smirked. "With food like this, I almost feel bad for the Syndicate."

Elira chuckled. "Almost."

As laughter and determination filled the hall, Zhang Ye's system chimed once more.

[Guild-Wide Buff Activated: Monarch's Feast. All members gain increased stamina and strength for the next 48 hours.]

Zhang Ye exhaled slowly. The war for the eastern district was far from over, but tonight, they had made their declaration.

And when the Syndicate came back, they would be ready.