Adrian sighed, asking, "Why did you follow us, Lyra?"

"Because I'm worried about you," Lyra said.

Adrian shook his head helplessly. "What does it have to do with you if something happens to me? Besides, the secret realm in the mountain is dangerous. Even with my help, the probability of your father coming back alive isn't high."

He wanted to prepare Lyra for the worst, so he told her the truth. And as expected, Lyra's eyes welled up with tears.

"It's not just for my father. I don't want an