A large enclosed carriage slowly climbed the slope, pulled by two powerful horses. Heavy curtains covered its windows, hiding whoever was riding inside. Four mounted guards surrounded it, two riding ahead and two bringing up the rear. Judging by the polished armor and embroidered banners hanging from the carriage, whoever was inside had to be nobility.
I got to my feet and stepped toward the road.
The moment they spotted me, all four guards drew their swords.
"Halt!" the guard at the front barked. "Royal business. Move aside."
"I'm heading to the Merygold mansion," I said, raising both hands. "This damn slope nearly killed me. Think you could help me out?"
The second guard gave me a skeptical look. "A kid like you? You know there's an entrance fee, right?"
"Doesn't matter," the first guard said without taking his eyes off me. "Move aside."
"Look, I just need…" I let out a tired sigh. "Alright. Fine."
"Good."
"Stop." A woman's calm voice came from inside the carriage.
