Chapter 173 – Behind the White City’s Veil
Morning sunlight slipped through the gaps in the curtains, casting warm streaks of light across Sylvia’s face. She slowly opened her eyes, feeling refreshed after a deep and restful sleep. Outside the room, the city had already begun to stir footsteps and murmured conversations of the townspeople faintly reached her through the window.
Sylvia rose from the bed, standing still for a moment as she stretched. She felt much better this morning her mind clear and filled with energy for the new day. After a quick wash, she dressed in a simple outfit she had prepared earlier: a long, dark gown paired with a light cloak suitable for easy movement.
When she stepped out of her room, she found Alicia and Stacia already seated at the inn’s dining area. Alicia still looked a bit nervous, while Stacia seemed quite at ease, enjoying a cup of warm tea in front of her.
"Good morning," Sylvia greeted them as she sat in the empty seat between them.
"Morning," Alicia replied gently with a smile. "Did you sleep well?"
Sylvia nodded calmly. "Very well. How about you two?"
Stacia grinned, pointing at her tea with a satisfied look. "I’m thoroughly enjoying this. I didn’t expect food and drink in the real world to taste so rich. It’s far more vivid than I imagined."
Alicia nodded slowly. "I slept decently, though I woke up a few times still getting used to this body. But I feel better today."
Sylvia smiled softly, relieved to see them slowly adapting to their new bodies. "Good. Today, we need to start gathering information. This city may look peaceful on the surface, but it’s full of secrets that could help us uncover the gods’ real plans."
Stacia leaned back comfortably in her chair. "So, are we going straight to the Temple of the Goddess of Light, or are we going to be more subtle about it?"
Sylvia paused to think before answering, "I think we should be cautious at first. We don’t want to attract unnecessary attention too soon."
"Then where do we begin?" Alicia asked, her eyes curious.