ARSONIST'S LULLABY ¹ | shadow & bone [ABANDONED]

TEN

( 𝗔𝗥𝗦𝗢𝗡𝗜𝗦𝗧'𝗦
𝗟𝗨𝗟𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗬 )

"SO, SET ABLAZE, THEN nearly drowned. You’ve made quite a first impression." Marie groaned out, her palm resting against her forehead as Alina and Nadia laughed at her demise.

"Are you discussing the tragic tale Newton again?" Katerina announced their presence from the door.

The trio turned and Katerina saw Marie released an aggravated sigh. "Oh, brilliant. You still remember. Hi Genya." She gave a small nod to the red head.

"Hi Genya," Nadia's face split in a teasing grin. "Morning Kat, you're out early."

"It's only nine."

"It's early for you. You slump around your room till ten."

"I'll have you know miss, that I've formed a routine." Katerina placed her hands around her waist and assumed a haughty tone. "I get out at six now."

"We all do." Marie deadpanned, but a smile was threatening her mouth. "And I think the only reason you're out early today, is because the general has you swamped with work."

Katerina clamped her jaw shut, giving up her argument. Marie was completely right. She nudged Genya, who like the angel that she was, came to her rescue. "They need you for the kefta."

Marie eyes widened in horror. "No, I’m so late. Nadia, come on." The duo rushed past them, nearly bumping into the Grand Palace handmaiden who was bringing in Genya's kit, Nadia leaving with a pat on Katerina's back.

"Thank all Saints I got here in time."

Alina laughed, turning to look at the mirror. "I think they tried their best, actually."

"That’s a terrifying thought." Genya turned, rolling her hands to unfurl Alina's hair.

"I know nothing about styling hair, but on that I can agree." Katerina pointed to Alina's hair which was barely held together by three clippers, "It looks like something I would've done as a child."

"You would've done this even a few years ago." Genya shook her head.

"Well, thank Saints I have you then," Katerina sat down with a huff in the seat Alina had previously warmed. Genya threw a disdainful smirk towards her. "Don't flirt, Volkov. It won't get you anywhere."

"No, no, I simply flatter. And on the contrary, it has gotten me everywhere."

"I feel like I'm imposing." Alina added, smiling cheekily.