Rosalind was led toward the throne hall, and despite trying to steady herself, her thoughts kept circling around the same question.
Why would the queen want to see someone like her?
"Your Majesty," the guard said with a bow before the throne.
Rosalind quickly lowered her head as well.
"Leave us," the queen ordered calmly.
The guard retreated at once, and Rosalind slowly lifted her gaze. Only then did she realize the queen was not alone. Another lady, perhaps around Rosalind's age, sat beside her, though there was no smile on the young woman's face. If anything, she looked slightly disheartened.
But that was not what shocked Rosalind the most.
It was the tiger resting beside the queen.
The beast wore a gold collar, though no chain held it.
A low growl rumbled from its throat, and Rosalind froze immediately when she saw it rise to its feet and begin walking toward her.
