There was panic in the air as the crowd pressed to see the commotion. The guards encircling the site clearly maintained a safe distance to avoid intervening.
In the center, Amira lay on the ground, her face contorted with pain despite her attempts to stay calm. Raamya knelt beside her, supporting Amira's head in her lap and gently brushing the sweat-soaked hair from her forehead. Though Raamya's face remained composed, her eyes were filled with deep anxiety.
"Stay with me, Amira. Don't close your eyes," Raamya urged. She squeezed Amira's hand to keep her conscious.
Amira, pale and trembling, tried to smile. "I'm... trying, didi (big sis)... just... it hurts," she whispered.
Nayak Ravi stood nearby, his face twisted with guilt, as he repeatedly stammered apologies. "I'm sorry, I'm so sorry... If I had prepared better... I could have avoided this... This is my fault, Your Majesty, please forgive me!"