Chapter 178 – Under the Same Sky
The soft afternoon sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting gentle shadows across the courtyard of the ancient castle where Sylvia now lived. The air, which had once felt warm, gradually cooled as a gentle evening breeze blew, carrying the scent of wildflowers flourishing around the castle. Sylvia stood for a moment in the castle courtyard, observing the unfamiliar yet beautiful view before her.
Though this castle was not Nocture, Sylvia felt a tranquility nearly the same as the place she had left far behind. The castle stood proudly atop hilly land, surrounded by tall trees and wildflowers that made it look like a fortress forgotten by time.
"Alicia, Stacia, how about we take a little walk around the castle?" Sylvia gently suggested, turning toward her two sisters standing behind her.
Alicia smiled softly, her expression always graceful and calm. "Of course. Besides, we haven’t really explored this place yet."
Stacia, who had initially looked lazy, finally nodded as well. "Alright, better than being bored inside all day, I guess."
Sylvia smiled gently at their responses. Without waiting longer, she began walking along a small path leading toward a natural-looking garden, followed by Alicia and Stacia strolling slowly behind her.
They walked in comfortable silence, Sylvia glancing around occasionally, enjoying the refreshing natural scenery. Large trees shaded the path, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere. Brightly colored butterflies fluttered low, sometimes landing on wildflowers nearby, adding to the serene beauty of the quiet afternoon.
"So beautiful," Alicia murmured softly, her gaze following a pale blue butterfly floating nearby.
Sylvia nodded in agreement. "Yes, I never imagined this world had such a beautiful and peaceful side."
Stacia, walking at the back, wore a slight frown. Yet secretly, she too enjoyed the peaceful atmosphere. As she walked, she occasionally bent down to pick wildflowers growing by the roadside, twirling them between her fingers with a casual expression.
"What do you think Nocture is like now?" Alicia suddenly asked, breaking the silence with a gentle, curious tone.
Sylvia was silent for a moment. Alicia’s question unconsciously brought her back to distant memories the city now under Sofia’s care. Unnoticed, Sylvia’s expression grew serious, filled with both curiosity and deep longing.