[ she snorts, though it isn't kind. just the warm, reluctant acceptance of sabriel's optimism — a small beam that cuts through alina's swirling dread. ]

I've got a few tricks myself. If I can get close enough without being seen, and your shielding spells last long enough to protect us, we might have some luck on our side.

[ it's a pointedly vague reference to a newer usage of her life, but — the entire team doesn't need to know its potential and limits, alina reasons. that's only more ammunition to view her as a disposal tool — a knife to be replaced, as newt had implied. ]

I'd like to survive without falling through another floor, but — we're getting good at that. Surviving.