Ian and I changed into our usual attire, and he led me to a hidden side door of the castle. I saw Mark standing by the side door reining a white horse. He was alone. When he passed the reins to Ian, he did not give up and asked in a low voice.
"Do you not need to send guards to protect you, Your Highness?"
"No!" Ian answered briefly and held me onto the horse's back by the waist. Then, he nimbly straddled behind me. He gently helped me put on the hood and wrapped his hands around me.
"At least bring your sword, Your Highness!" Mark said and handed a long sword to Ian. Ian did not say anything but took the sword. The horse neighed, and Ian and I rode off on the white horse.