Rosalind threw the doors open with force, and at once the guards were on standby, their faces tightening as they crossed their swords in front of her. She shot them a sharp glare before swiftly slipping past them and making her way toward the stone stairs.
"Stop her at once!" one of the guards shouted, pointing after her as she moved.
"My lady!" the servant running after her called out, only to see Rosalind already hurrying up the stairs without slowing down.
She nearly stumbled but steadied herself as she climbed higher, her breath quickening with each step.
The guards stationed at the top moved to block her path, but she did not stop. "Out of my way, I'm here to see the king," she said firmly, her brows drawn together in urgency.
There was a brief hesitation before one of them stepped aside, allowing her through.
Rosalind gathered her dress slightly to move faster, her steps quick and unsteady as the sound of grunts and clashing swords reached her ears.
