Sofia stormed back to her chambers, her mind racing with thoughts of escape. She couldn't marry Prince Amir, she wouldn't. Leila followed closely behind, her eyes scanning the hallway for any signs of trouble. As soon as they were safely inside, Sofia turned to Leila, her voice low and urgent. "Leila, we have to get out of here," she whispered. Leila's eyes widened in surprise, but she quickly regained her composure. "What do you mean, Princess?" she asked, her voice barely audible. Sofia took a deep breath, her mind racing with possibilities. "We'll escape, tonight. We'll sneak out of the palace and make our way to the coast. From there, we can find a ship to take us far away from here."
Leila's eyes sparkled with excitement as Sofia spoke, her words pouring out in a rush. "I've been gathering supplies, Princess. I have food, water, and clothes. But we'll need horses, and a way to get out of the city undetected." Sofia nodded, her mind racing with the details. She knew the palace like the back of her hand, and she knew just the way out. "I'll get the horses, you gather the supplies. Meet me at the old oak tree in the garden at midnight." Leila nodded, a small smile playing on her lips. "'Il be ready, Princess." Sofia felt a surge of determination, knowing she had a plan, and a partner in Leila. They were in this together, and they were going to make a break for it.
As the night wore on, Sofia's excitement grew. She changed into a simple tunic and leggings, her hair hidden beneath a hood. She made her way to the stables, her heart pounding in her chest. She knew the grooms would be sleeping, but she couldn't shake the feeling of being watched. She saddled two horses, her hands shaking as she tied the reins. She led the horses to the garden, her eyes scanning the shadows for any sign of Leila. And then, she saw her, standing beneath the old oak tree, a small bag slover her shoulder. "Ready, Princess?" she whispered, her eyes sparkling with excitement. Sofia nodded, a smile spreading across her face. "Let's do this."