Chapter 160 – The Memories That Remain
The path leading to Velthya’s residence felt so familiar, as if Sylvia had just walked it yesterday. The small buildings lining the road were almost unchanged, but the city’s activity was far more palpable than before. Children ran around laughing, vegetable vendors shouted their wares, and the scent of freshly baked bread floated gently through the morning air.
Sylvia walked slowly along the cobbled path, deliberately taking her time to observe every corner she passed. Her black dress fluttered lightly in the wind, drawing the attention of a few curious townspeople. Though some of their gazes felt piercing, Sylvia remained unfazed. She was used to being watched by strangers.
At the end of the road, a modest two-story house she knew well finally came into view. The small garden in front was still the same filled with wildflowers of various colors, tended yet allowed to grow naturally, just like in her memories.
Sylvia stopped in front of the large iron gate. She stared at it. There were guards there, and as she approached, one of them raised his spear to stop her.
"Who are you? This is Lady Velthya’s residence, the ruler of this city," the guard said firmly.
Sylvia wasn’t angry. It was only natural. So she introduced herself.
"My name is Sylvia Hortensia. I’m an acquaintance of Lady Velthya."
Hearing this, the guard lowered his spear and said, "Please wait a moment, I will confirm your identity with the Lady."
Sylvia nodded and waited as the guard went inside. It didn’t take long before she heard hurried footsteps, and a silver-haired woman with wolf-like ears and tail ran to hug her. Sylvia immediately recognized her Velthya, the Lycanthrope.
"Sylvia!"
Her voice rushed out like the breeze of spring mixed with surprise, joy, and longing too deep for words. Sylvia’s body flinched slightly as Velthya hugged her tightly without hesitation.