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03

The flight from Germany to the City of Love took roughly two hours. As soon as Lyra and her colleague stepped off the plane, they were greeted by the breathtaking sight of Paris. The airport was bustling with activity, yet the magic of the city seeped through even in the crowded terminals.

Lyra inhaled deeply, savouring the crisp winter air that carried the faint aroma of fresh pastries and rich coffee from nearby cafés. The iconic skyline, dominated by the Eiffel Tower standing tall and proud in the distance, filled her with a sense of awe and excitement.

"Welcome to Paris," her colleague, Junis, said with a smile, her eyes sparkling with the same enthusiasm Lyra felt. "Even if it's for work, we should try to enjoy this as much as we can."

Lyra nodded, her initial reluctance melting away as she absorbed the enchanting surroundings. "Absolutely. It's not every day we get to be in such a beautiful city."

They navigated through the airport, the anticipation of the upcoming gala mingling with the undeniable charm of Paris. The city's vibrant energy was infectious, and Lyra couldn't help but feel a surge of excitement for the days ahead. Despite her reservations about the event, she resolved to embrace the opportunity and savour her time in the City of Love.

Junis had booked a spacious cab that could comfortably accommodate all four of them, ensuring a smooth ride to their hotel. As they drove through the streets of Paris, the city's beauty unfolded before their eyes, just as countless visitors had described.

The cab glided past charming cafés with outdoor seating, where Parisians sipped coffee and chatted animatedly. The streets were lined with elegant Haussmann-style buildings, their wrought-iron balconies adorned with pots of vibrant flowers. The Seine River shimmered under the winter sun, and iconic landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre Museum stood proudly, exuding a timeless charm.

Lyra gazed out of the window, mesmerized by the picturesque scenes. "It's even more beautiful than I imagined," she murmured, her breath fogging the glass slightly.

Hans, sitting beside her, nodded in agreement. "Paris has a way of captivating you, doesn't it? Every corner seems to hold a piece of history and romance."

As the cab continued its journey, the Eiffel Tower came into view, its iron latticework glinting against the clear blue sky. Lyra felt a flutter of excitement and a sense of privilege to be experiencing the city firsthand.

They finally arrived at their hotel, an elegant building nestled in a charming neighbourhood. As they stepped out of the cab, the hotel's doorman greeted them warmly, and the scent of freshly baked croissants wafted from a nearby bakery.

Lyra smiled, feeling a renewed sense of anticipation for the days ahead. Despite the sudden change in plans, she was ready to embrace the enchantment of Paris and whatever adventures awaited them.

After settling into her room and freshening up, Lyra decided to explore Paris on her own, eager to experience the city's beauty at night. She stepped out of the hotel and onto the cobblestone streets, feeling a sense of freedom and adventure. The city was alive with an enchanting glow, the streetlights casting a warm, golden hue over everything.

The crisp night air was filled with the sounds of distant laughter, the soft hum of conversation, and the occasional clink of glasses from nearby cafés. Lyra walked along the Seine River, marvelling at the way the lights from the buildings and bridges reflected off the water, creating a shimmering, dreamlike scene.

As she wandered through the narrow, winding streets, she passed by quaint bistros with their inviting, aromatic scents, chic boutiques showcasing elegant displays, and small art galleries that beckoned with promises of hidden treasures. Each corner she turned revealed a new facet of Paris, from bustling squares filled with street performers to quiet, secluded alleys that whispered secrets of the past.