Dila's trembling right foot hovered high above the scarlet carpet, her heart hammering as though the entire world waited for this single step. The silence outside was unbearable.... hundreds of students, teachers, and armored knights still bowed low, their breaths caught in reverence.
Her toes twitched nervously, her silver hair brushing against her flushed cheeks. Just as she was about to set her foot down, the nearest knight suddenly leaned forward, armor clinking softly as he dropped to one knee.
Dila's blue eyes widened in shock, her pupils trembling as her whole body jolted. "U… uwaaa… waa… waaa…!" the flustered sounds slipped out, her voice cracking like a child caught in the spotlight. Her face burned crimson, steam almost rising from her ears as she flailed slightly in panic.
The knight kept his head bowed low, voice calm but firm, echoing into the thick silence. "Princess… please. Step upon my back. You may use it as a stairway."
