Although the academy's final assessment itself only lasted three days, including the long journey, Astrid and Lyra were actually away from Capital City for more than half a week, and they hadn't even had the chance to look at the new issue of the Empire Weekly.
So, while it was called a welcoming dinner, the main purpose of the meal was for Elise to report the recent situation in the imperial capital to Astrid.
"Internal Minister Gregor proposed a new bill on restricting magic devices at the morning meeting with His Majesty the Emperor. The council is also discussing related matters. The specifics won't be clear until next month..."
"Led by Second Prince His Highness Alistair, the youngest son of the Duke Thomas, Vorelter Redgrave, and the daughter of Marquis Marlote struck a fur trade deal. There are rumors that the two danced and conversed happily after dinner."
