Thanks to FireChildSlytherin5 and CuttlefishShiz for reviewing. Sorry this chapter is short


Ruth stirred, suddenly aware that something was out of place. Through her lashes she saw what it was; Gwen's empty bed. Leaping up she snatched her felt shoes and swiftly slipped down through the servant corridors. It was early, nobody was about. As she reached the stables there was a clip clopping of hooves and she drew back, instinct telling her that it was on of the Cornwall group. When the noise went she crept through; the stall for Gwen's horse was empty.

No her head called out. Like a ghost she was out and across the courtyard following the faint beat of hooves.

Then they were with her sights; three horses. Morgana, Gorlois and Gwen. Ruth was pleased to see that Gwen was being led, she hadn't wanted to go willingly. Ducking and dodging she wove closer, catching the ambling mounts up easily. She would free Gwen and hide her away, father could do his worst but she'd never give up.


Her foot caught and Gorlois turned at the noise then kicked his horse into a trot, Morgana following suit. Surprise lost, Ruth began to run barefooted over the cobbles, desperate to do anything she could.

The horses went faster, she'd never catch them.

"Gwen!" she cried out and saw the girl turn back, trying to reach out a hand. But they were tied to the saddle

"Gwen!" Ruth knew she was running out of strength and breath but urged herself faster. Too little too late; the horses were over the drawbridge and up into a gallop

"Ruthie!" Gwen's call gave her new strength but her chances where gone.

"GWEN!" her bare feet slipped on the wood and she hit the drawbridge hard. The three horses were nearing the ridge but she saw Gwen twist back anxiously at her cry.

"I love you Ruth!" the words were a last stand, seconds later the trio of riders vanished out of sight

"GWEEEEN!!!" Ruth screamed the name out loud, tears coursing down her cheeks as she realised it was too late. Her maid was gone... her friend was gone forever. The princess crumpled into a heap, suddenly realising how much Gwen had meant to her... a friend. She'd never consciously thought that until now.

But there were two different people she knew;

Guinevere; mother's maid sent away by Father

Gwen... my friend since as long as I can remember and for as long as I do.


That chapter was so hard to write guys. Review if you liked it