I flickered my eyelids open, exposing the sunlight into my sore pupils. Everything around me was blurry, perhaps that is because I need more sleep. Yes, definitely, i need more sleep. I went to rest my head deeper into the pillow when an aroma hit me in the face.

Food.

That was all I needed to hop up off the bed and run to the kitchen. I saw Janae standing over the oven with a frying pan filled with ham, with one in the oven covered in dough for biscuits. Zeke sat at the table, with a pack around his chair while he scribbled on a piece of paper.

I quietly strolled over to him and plopped down on the seat neighboring his. I looked and saw it was a map. I was curious so i asked, "What's this?"

"I am going on a brief trip." he replied very shortly. What's his deal this morning i thought. Oh well, i had my own trip.

I was returning to the palace. Not as Lady America, but as America Singer. A five, not a three. A musician, not a princess. I was going to expose the king and his plan, but at the right time, and the right place.

The king lied to Maxon, he told him I was dead. He believed him and had to move on. I get it, but I am sick and tired of the kings ways. It was time for his tyranny to end.

The king saw me as a threat, well now I am.

The last time I made a plan, Maxon ruined it. This time I am counting on him to do it again. If my entire plan goes right, I will never be the same again, but if he interferes like Maxon typically does then all will be fine.

"I'm leaving as well. AND you are not going to stop me." I said, and demanded at the same time.

He looked at me, and shook his head, "Fine America, have it your way. I tried stopping you once, and i had to save you. I will not be able to do it again."

I nodded, "Thank you for your hospitality, and I will remember you always. And i dearly hope we meet again."

With that I left the room and packed my bags. I Slipped on the pair of jeans Maxon gave me and pulled on an sweatshirt. I braided my hazel hair into a fishtail and threw on my sneakers.

I gave Janae a hug, and Zeke a firm handshake. I walked to the door, but i turned around once more before i left.

"One day, You will be free. You will not have to hide away from the palace in the forest. And If I can help it, the people of Illea will be equal." I proclaimed then ran out and down the shore.

I made my way to the river, great now I have to cross it. Well at least the sun is out and isn't cold. I turned my head from side-to-side, seeing if I was being watched. I wasn't so I took off my Jeans and sweatshirt, stuffing them in my pack.

I slid into the water holding my bag above my head and swam across. The current wasn't strong, so i made it across easily.

Once I reached the other side I put my clothes back on, and regained some warmth.

It was still early in the morning, I had plenty of time to make it to the palace. Originally i wanted to go to my secret town filled my old friends and musicians, but that was before I knew the truth.

I retraced my steps from the night of my escape. I looked for the hill i stood upon, and the tree i slept in. Obviously I couldn't find it. Out here everything looks the same. I took the wisest choice and followed the river. I tried to step on the most rocks that i could. I didn't want anyone following me.

Eventually, after about on hour of walking I saw a town. I made my way to it.

It was a small place. With very few people, but at least there is food. I stuck my hand in my pocket. 10$. Not much but it's better than nothing.

I walked through the streets, and found a fruit cart. I bought and apple, and an orange. I found a gift shop and got a bottled water. I was down to 6 dollars now. I need to save some for later, so I bit into the apple and started moving again.

Before i stepped out of the town I stopped a local and asked, "How far away is the palace? And which direction is it in?"

The young girl i asked snottily replied, "Don't you know anything? It just a mile down the road." She exclaimed pointing east.

I didn't thank her, and I moved on. I suddenly got more energy from being so close to Maxon, I ran towards it.

I came across a hill, once i climbed it I saw it.