I did not choose to move; my body acted first.
One second I stood trembling against cold stone, breath tight. The next — I shoved forward, elbows out, forcing my way through.
"Milady! Stop — you cannot enter this way!"
Guards lunged to grab me, but panic outweighed rules or fear. I twisted free and ran, boots striking hard. My heartbeat drowned out shouts and footsteps alike. Only one thought remained: Reach Draven before they twist every truth beyond repair.
Great Council doors loomed ahead — massive, iron‑bound. Voices drifted faintly through a gap. I slowed sharply, chest heaving, pressing a palm to rough wood to listen.
