[POV: Solenne]
The following morning brought quiet snowfall and a quiet resolve.
Solenne stood before the apothecary mirror, running a hand through her pale blonde hair, her fingers stained with the dark-green hue of dried herbs. Her reflection looked different from what she was used to.
Her cheeks were rounder, her skin clearer, and the golden locks of her hair held a shine that didn't used to be there. She stared into her stormy eyes, curiously studying herself as if it were the first time.
More than just physical changes, she was also different in other ways.
Not in how her eyes appeared or the tired curve of her shoulders, but in how she was starting to hold herself.
Straighter. Calmer. More… confident.
Solenne had spent most of her life being careful. Careful not to speak, be seen too much, or stand out. Her muteness had protected her in some ways and isolated her in others.
