The sound of my boots against the dusty ground was the only thing I could hear as I walked away from the arena, chewing my bubble gum, the faint tang of strawberry lingering on my tongue.
Behind me, the echoes of the crowd's murmurs faded as I made my way to clear my thoughts.
Just as I was about to turn a corner, a sharp, commanding voice rang out, cutting through the air like a blade.
"Stop right there," a woman's voice called out.
I turned around, raising an eyebrow in mild curiosity. A tall, regal woman approached, her flowing gown catching the sunlight, making her look almost ethereal. Behind her stood two guards wearing shimmering silver armor, their hands resting on their swords.
The Queen standing in front of me with a cool expression. She fixed her piercing gaze on me.
I stood still, one hand casually in my jacket's pocket as I blew a bubble and popped it, tilting my head.