The warm light of late afternoon streamed into the dorms as Alfin made her way inside, her hands clasped delicately in front of her. Though she often had official reasons for visiting, lately she simply wanted to enjoy the company of Class VII while she still could. The thought of everyone going their separate ways after graduation tugged at her heart.

She spent the first part of her visit chatting with Emma and Millium, admiring a new magical girl comic spread out on the coffee table. Afterward, she caught up with Alisa and Rean, teasing them lightly but with the warmth of someone who cared deeply about both.

Later, she found herself sitting with Laura in the lounge. Laura was dressed in a simple yet elegant silk white shirt, her demeanor calm and steady as always. Alfin had always admired her grace and strength.

"It's hard to believe it's all coming to an end so soon," Alfin said softly, gazing out the window.

"Indeed," Laura replied, her voice serene but tinged with nostalgia. "But it is also the beginning of many new paths. We must trust in one another to carry forward the bonds we've built here."

Alfin smiled warmly, finding comfort in Laura's words. Just then, the sound of soft, shuffling footsteps drew their attention.

Fie emerged from the hallway, looking a bit unkempt. Her cheeks were flushed, her silver hair slightly mussed, and she clutched her side with one hand. Her eyes had a glassy, almost dazed look, and she let out a soft, whiny sound as she trudged into the room.

Alfin blinked, concerned. "Oh my, Fie, are you—"

Before she could finish, Fie seemed to zero in on Laura, as though Alfin wasn't even there. Without a word, she climbed onto Laura's lap, curling up against her like a sleepy cat seeking warmth.

"Lauraaa," Fie mumbled, her voice low and plaintive.

Laura didn't seem the least bit surprised. With a small smile, she wrapped an arm around Fie's waist, her other hand gently brushing stray strands of hair out of Fie's face. "You seem quite unsettled, my little fairy," Laura said softly.

"Mmhmm," Fie murmured, her tone both whiny and grumpy. She snuggled closer, letting out a contented sigh as Laura began to lightly stroke her back.

Alfin, watching this tender display, was initially too stunned to speak. She'd known Fie to be reserved and cool, but here she was, openly clinging to Laura like a needy child. It was adorable.

"Have you taken anything to help?" Laura asked.

Fie shook her head, nuzzling into Laura's shoulder. "Didn't feel like it. Just wanted you."

Laura's expression softened even further. "You should still take care of yourself, Fie. But I'll stay with you as long as you need."

Fie let out a small, satisfied hum, her fingers absently tracing circles on Laura's arm.

Alfin, still watching with wide eyes, finally found her voice. "Is this a regular occurrence?" she asked, her tone light with curiosity.

"Ah, well, sometimes Fie needs extra companionship. As we all do, from time to time," Laura explained deftly.

"Mmgh," Fie mumbled, her voice muffled against Laura. "Hold my hand."

Laura laughed quietly, one hand holding Fie's while the other rubbed circles on her back.

Alfin pressed a hand to her cheek, her smile growing. "This is so sweet."

Fie peeked out from Laura's shoulder, her expression drowsy but playful. "She spoils me."

"You reciprocate quite often," Laura replied.

Alfin leaned back in her chair, observing the two with a newfound appreciation. It wasn't just their closeness that struck her—it was how natural it all felt, how they seemed to understand each other so deeply without needing many words.

"This is nice. Might just nap here," Fie sighed.

"Go ahead," Laura said, her tone as warm and steady as ever.

As Fie began to drift off, the princess stayed a while longer, content to bask in the comforting atmosphere as she and Laura quietly continued their conversation.