The mare's hooves thundered against the packed earth, each stride carrying Rui closer to freedom.
The city gate stretched before her, its wooden panels rising like the jaws of an ancient beast.
"Almost there," she whispered in the horse's ear.
A piercing whistle sounded through the air. Rui crouched reflexively as arrows flew past, missing her by inches.
One slammed into a neighboring post. Another grazed the horse's flank, prompting it to whinny in discomfort but keep moving.
The gate grew larger, with its aged surface barely yards away. Rui could see daylight through the gap and taste freedom on her tongue.
Then it happened.
As the mare's hooves crossed an invisible threshold, a bright blue light exploded from the earth.
Arcane symbols flashed to life across the gate's surface, triggering a barrier sigil with blinding intensity.
The mare yelled and reared up as magical energy flared in the air.
Rui's fingers fell off the reins.
