The Second Escape

Dramahopeful3 audio scenes

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1 chapter • 3 scenes

Summary

In 1778 Ireland, Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby risk everything to flee forced marriages and live freely together, but when their first elopement fails at Waterford harbor, they must find the courage to defy their families—and society—one more time.

Characters

Sarah Ponsonby

Lady Frances Butler

Eleanor Butler

Mary Carryll

Settings

Waterford Harbor

Wind-battered docks where fishing boats creak against moorings and gulls wheel overhead. The harbor smells of tar and brine, its waters leading to freedom—or betrayal when family discovers fleeing daughters in men's clothing.

Butler Estate Library

A wood-paneled room lined with books Eleanor cannot openly discuss, tall windows offering glimpses of distant hills—freedom visible but unreachable. Dust motes drift through afternoon light that never quite reaches the shadowed corners.

Story Structure

The Journey to Freedom

Eleanor and Sarah's complete transformation from resigned captives to self-determined pioneers, condensing their call to adventure, trials through failed escape and societal opposition, and ultimate return to claim their chosen life in Wales.

The Journey to Freedom - Complete

Eleanor Butler and Sarah Ponsonby attempt their first escape to Wales disguised as men, are caught at Waterford Harbor, endure family interrogation and heightened surveillance, then—with Mary Carryll's aid—execute a second, successful escape to freedom.

The First Crossing

Eleanor and Sarah finalize their escape plan in the library, then with Mary's aid, flee to Waterford Harbor disguised as men and board a ship—only to be discovered and dragged back.

The Interrogation

After the failed escape, Eleanor faces Lady Frances's interrogation while Mary deflects suspicion, and Eleanor discovers her locked desk has been searched—transforming her fear into rage.

Story ID: story_1A6AMM9lYTuXGYYT
Created: December 28, 2025
Art Style: watercolor (traditional)
Status: published