As night fell, in the temporary inn where the students were staying, Astrid gazed at the deep night outside the window.
Just as she was about to extinguish the oil lamp and go to bed, a crisp knocking sound suddenly came from outside her room.
"Who's there?"
"It's me... Princess Astrid..."
Hearing Lyra's voice, Astrid stood up from her seat, walked slowly to the door, and gently turned the handle.
The door opened, revealing a pink-haired, sky blue-eyed girl in a white dress standing in the corridor.
Noticing that Astrid had already changed into a silk nightgown and had likely bathed, Lyra's voice was soft.
"Um... did I disturb your rest, Princess Astrid?"
Astrid shook her head and stepped aside, inviting her in.
"No, what brings you here?"
The sound of boots creaking on the wooden floor echoed as the faint yellow light stretched Lyra's shadow long.
"There are some things I wanted to discuss with you, Princess Astrid..."
Noticing the door closing, Lyra continued.
