Page 44 of A Tale of Ice and Ash

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“Come, Alia, let us away.” Marie tugged her to the side of the room. “Well, that was equal parts thrilling and terrifying. I hope you don’t mind that I gave you a name. Are you all right?”

“I think so.”

“Do you need me to help you with anything?”

Eirwen shook her head. “I think I’ll be fine. I need to find Cole.”

“Cole?”

“I’m calling in a favour.”

Marie shrugged. “Well, I’ll be in the library, most likely, if you need me. Don’t run away without saying goodbye this time.”

Eirwen nodded, and watched as her friend vanished back into the crowd. She was all alone now.

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