Day 17: Lyra’s Journal

The rain has stopped, but my skin still feels wet. I remember Vex’s voice by the river—how he said the water was cold and the stones were sharp. I didn’t want to listen. But now, when I close my eyes, I can hear it. The way the river’s water sloshed against the rocks, like it was trying to say something. I don’t know what it was, but my stomach’s been growling all night. It’s strange how hunger can feel so heavy, like it’s pulling me back toward the ground. I think I’ll try to sit by the river again tomorrow. Maybe I’ll find something to eat.