In Vain

In the Gregorian Calendar: 5th August, 1723

"We passed the barracks, now what?"

"You see that wall over there? We'll just have to pass the courtyard and find the trapdoor," I point towards the dark wall with a sliver of moonlight making it visible.

A branch snaps. "Fatma, watch your step!"

"I can't see...!" she looks down at the broken branch, then around her. No one. I grab her hand and start walking again.

The courtyard outside the harem itself is exceedingly large. It's unfair that they don't allow us to come here. Whatever, I am finally going to be free. They won't be stopping me from going anywhere. That is, if I really manage to flee.

As I go nearer to the stone wall, I see the silhouette of a familiar figure. Fatma appears to notice as well, raising the lantern.

"Is that...Anisa? Why-"

"She said she'll help us. She has the door's key."