Evening silence wrapped the estate like a velvet cloak. The sky held the fading hue of purple, and qi lanterns lit the garden paths with a soft glow.
Calista stepped down from the carriage slowly, carefully cradling the sleeping Shion in her arms. The girl instinctively nestled against her, the bag of new clothes clutched to her chest like the most precious treasure.
Calista carried her through the hall, ignoring the silent servants. She entered her room, laid Shion on the wide canopy bed, and covered her with a blanket. For a moment, she gazed at her face, quiet and peaceful—so different from just a few hours ago.
She smiled.
"Good bunny."
She turned and left without a sound, heading toward the garden.
The evening was warm. On a marble bench by the pavilion sat two familiar figures—Veynessa with a goblet in hand, and Sylphia, leaning against her arm, gazing at the starry sky. Both were silent until they heard the familiar footsteps.
