They rounded a corner, almost crashing into a maid carrying a tray of tea. The tray clattered to the floor, sending porcelain shards skittering across the hallway. "Sorry!" Artur blurted out, but Lev didn't slow down for a second.
Lev and Artur reached the grand staircase that led to the mansion's main floor. Artur's legs felt like jelly, and he stumbled, nearly dragging Lev down with him. "Get a grip, Artur!" Lev barked, practically dragging him down the stairs.
Artur gasped and shook his head. "Lev, what if the guards catch us?"
"They won't if you keep your mouth shut and move faster."
Lev and Artur burst through the side exit, emerging into the cool morning air. Artur's legs burned, and he struggled to keep up, letting out painful gasps. "Lev, I can't— I can't feel my legs anymore."
"You can, and you will. We're almost there," Lev said through gritted teeth.
