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"Are you... new here?"
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As Celestria stepped out of the carriage, the air was infused with the familiar scents of the Little Palace—fresh linen, polished wood, and the faint, lingering traces of the herbs used for healing. The world around her felt vivid and alive, as if the palace itself were welcoming her home after a long absence. She paused for a moment, her heart pounding with a mixture of relief and trepidation, letting the sights and sounds wash over her like a warm embrace.
The towering walls, adorned with intricate designs, loomed ahead, each stone telling a story of battles fought and victories won. As she took in her surroundings, she noticed other Grisha stepping out of their carriages, their voices mingling in lively chatter, excitement bubbling through the air. The sound was a comforting reminder that she wasn't alone in this journey; they were all returning to the Little Palace together, sharing in the unspoken camaraderie that came from being part of something greater.
With every step she took toward the entrance, her pulse quickened, a dance of anticipation fluttering in her chest. The sunlight filtered through the trees, casting dappled shadows that played at her feet, but it couldn't distract her from the weight of her recent experiences—the fight against the drüskelle, the overwhelming fear, and Zoya's fierce protection.
Once inside, the echo of her footsteps filled the hallway, the grandeur of the Little Palace enveloping her. But even as she breathed in the familiar surroundings, her mind raced back to the events that had transpired just hours before. Each moment replayed vividly—General Kirigan's probing gaze, the sharp object that had pierced her skin, the surge of power she had felt for the first time, and the way Zoya had rushed in to save her.
When Celestria finally reached her room, her heart leaped at the sight of Genya Safin, standing by her bed and meticulously smoothing the covers. Genya had always possessed an air of grace, but today, in the soft morning light, she appeared even more radiant, her focus entirely absorbed in the task at hand.
"Genya!" Celestria squealed, her voice bubbling with excitement and relief. Before she could think, she rushed forward, throwing her arms around Genya in an exuberant embrace that nearly knocked them both off balance.
Caught off guard, Genya let out a startled laugh, but she quickly recovered, returning the hug with equal fervor. "Celestria! You're back!" she exclaimed, stepping back to examine her friend, her gaze darting over Celestria's face and body for any signs of injury. "I was worried sick! What happened out there?"
Celestria beamed, her joy bubbling over. "Oh, Genya, you won't believe it! So much happened! I ran into a drüskelle in the woods." She paused for dramatic effect, the thrill of recounting the tale coursing through her. "He had a knife at my throat, and I thought—I thought I was going to die! But then Zoya came, and she was incredible! She used her powers to fight him off, and I—I found out I have powers too!"
