Astrid held two dark brown books in her arms and paused slightly when she saw Lyra standing at the door in her nightdress, her pale legs exposed and her expression uncertain.
"What's the matter?" Astrid asked softly.
Hearing her voice, Lyra fidgeted with her fingers for a moment before looking up and handing Astrid what she was holding.
"Your Highness Astrid… My family sent me something…"
"I wanted to share some with you…"
Astrid glanced at the small metal box in Lyra's hand, her eyelashes fluttering slightly.
"What's inside?"
Lyra hesitated, biting her lower lip before replying, "Some beef jerky and wheat cakes made by my family."
As if suddenly remembering something, she quickly added, "When they sent it, they packed it with water-absorbing grass. Please don't worry, Your Highness, it's definitely not spoiled!"