Fiona struggled desperately in the iron grip of the two guards as they pinned her harshly to the forest floor, damp earth staining her gown, her breath uneven with panic.
"Why are you chasing after us? The Queen gave us permission to leave so Lady Gabriella can have a safe delivery," she said.
"Why are you doing this?" she cried, voice breaking as she struggled for breath. "The Queen gave us permission to leave! Lady Gabriella must be taken somewhere safe, she is carrying the King's child!"
The head guard remained mounted on horseback, looking down at her with cold disdain.
"Hold your tongue, you insolent slave-wench."
"You are defying Her Majesty's command!" Fiona shouted, desperation rising in her voice as their grip tightened. "Ahh—!"
Her scream echoed through the dense trees.
Then, abruptly—
Everything stopped.
Even the wind.
A maid's voice rang out through the forest mist, trembling but clear.
"Her Majesty the Queen as arrived!"
