The snow-laden forest seemed endless, its shadows stretching long under the pale moonlight. Svetlana walked briskly, her iron mask tucked into her satchel, her breath visible in the cold air. The basket she carried swung lightly in her hand, its presence as inconspicuous as her own appearance. But Svetlana was no hapless traveler; she had a mission. Snegurochka lay ahead—her target.

She stopped abruptly as a soft voice broke through the silence.

“Miss! Miss! Over here!”

From the trees emerged a small figure clad in a bright red hood, skipping lightly through the snow. The girl smiled widely, her teeth just a bit too sharp. Her red cape swayed with every step, and in her hands was a knife she twirled like a toy.

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“Well, well,” the girl said, her voice sweet and bright, with an edge of malice. “What’s a lovely traveler like you doing in the woods so late? It’s dangerous, you know.”

Svetlana’s sharp eyes flicked over the figure. “Is it?” she replied evenly.

The girl giggled, her grin widening. “It is. But you seem strong. Care to escort me to my grandmother’s house? I can pay you. Copper coins, if you’re interested.”

Svetlana tilted her head slightly, her expression unreadable. She adjusted her basket and asked, “Where is this house?”

“Just ahead,” the girl replied, pointing down the narrow, snow-covered path. “Won’t take long.”

Svetlana gave a faint smile. “Lead the way.”