I seized the chaos like a lifeline—their shoving match exploding into a full brawl, fists flying wild, mana crackling like whips, daggers glinting in lethal arcs—perfect cover to slip away.
Heart slamming against my ribs, I scrambled up from the dais on wobbly legs, crimson robes tangling around my ankles like chains, one trembling hand clutching the gaping white silk inner robe tight over my exposed chest to hide my pebbled pink nipples, the other cradling my throbbing, bruised wrist.
Silent as a ghost, I edged backward toward the massive throne room doors, tears still blurring my vision but adrenaline sharpening every panicked step—boots whispering faintly on polished marble, golden hair swinging loose and wild down my back.
