As they entered the village, Astina glanced back once more. Hafen, walking beside her and pulling the cart, turned to meet her gaze. “What are you so worried about?” Hafen asked, his voice laced with curiosity. “Surely not about the Countess you left behind.” Astina shot him a glare, turning her head with an indignant huff. “And why shouldn’t I worry about my sister?” “Is the Countess not strong enough to fend for herself?” he countered. “…Just because she’s strong doesn’t mean she can’t be hurt,” Astina muttered, her voice tinged with a familiar sorrow.