53

Edwina.

I almost couldn't believe that our plan had succeeded to this extent, a daring escape in motion. I moved forward, driven by a sense of determination and a willingness to face whatever consequences awaited me. Death seemed a preferable outcome to a life of submission.

The chariot glided slowly through the night, the moon casting an ethereal glow on the beautiful maids lining our path. After a brief ride, an unspoken understanding passed between Benita and me — it was time to forge our path. Locking eyes, we steered the horses onto a different route, disappearing into the shadows without a backward glance.

Confusion reigned among the maids we left behind. The abrupt shift in our trajectory confounded them, and it took precious moments for them to comprehend the situation. As realization dawned, screams pierced the air, a discordant melody of surprise and alarm.

Benita and I urged the horses forward, racing like maniacs through the night. Meanwhile, Rebecca, our unwi