Leaving the Palace for No

Leon and I changed into our regular attire, and he led the way to one of the more secluded side-doors of the castle. I saw Mark standing alone by the side door with a white horse in his hand. " he asked in a still unyielding whisper, as he handed Leon the reins. " "Is it really necessary to send guards to protect you, my prince?" "No need!" After Leon's curt reply, he took me by the waist and seated me on the horse, and then with agility he straddled me. He gently helped me into my hood and wrapped his arms around me. "At least bring your sword, my prince!" Mark said, and held out a long sword to Leon, who took it without a word. The only sound was a whinny from the horses, and Leon and I were already galloping out on our white horses. I heard the door close behind me, and looking up, the living greenery of the road came into view, and the sky was bluer than ever. The smell of grass and damp earth came to my nose, and I breathed greedily in the fresh air, which I had not had for a long