"Be safe on the road, and remember to write a letter back when you get to the academy."
"Yes, I know. You should also rest more and not overwork yourselves."
After celebrating the New Year, Lyra, who had stayed at home for more than a month, packed up various local specialties and once again boarded the carriage to the imperial capital.
"It's actually not long until summer vacation. I'll be back soon!"
The girl's sweet voice blended into the early spring morning breeze, and even the sound of horse hooves couldn't completely drown it out.
Looking back at her parents who were seeing her off at the village entrance, Lyra's lips curled into a smile, her blue eyes filled with a hint of reluctance.
"Next time I come back, I probably won't be alone..."
As she thought this, the wheels of the carriage hit a bumpy stretch of gravel road. Lyra exclaimed and quickly steadied the suitcase beside her.
