The atmosphere around the castle became unnaturally quiet.
No one spoke.
The reunion had carried too much pain, too much guilt, and too many emotions that none of them had been prepared to face all at once. The memories that had once been erased had now fully returned, and with them came the unbearable realization of everything they had lost during that period of separation.
Ethan slowly released Rose from his embrace and looked toward the others.
His mother, Elina, was crying openly now. Tears continuously rolled down her face despite her attempts to control herself. Beside her stood Jack, his expression strained and his eyes red, though he stubbornly maintained a composed posture.
Elizabeth quietly wiped her eyes while pretending nobody noticed.
Even Zara, who was usually the most energetic among them, remained unusually silent.
Then Jack suddenly stepped forward and grabbed Ethan by the shoulder with trembling hands.
