The men holding the reins of the horses they were after also ran from the scene, leaving Jafar and Selima a clean path to the mounts. The two fugitives wasted not a second, but ran forward into the chaos and climbed into the saddles of the waiting steeds. Digging their heels into the horses’ bellies they urged their mounts forward, towards the open gate and freedom.
The horses’ owners gave up an instant cry, echoed seconds later by the guards who recognized Selima by her bright blue and red clothing. There were shouts to stop, which the two fugitives ignored. By the time the guards on the ground could draw their swords the escapees were well past them.
There were more guards atop the walls, however, and they had bows. By the time Jafar and Selima passed the massive bronze outer gate, the
