I am running away as fast as my legs can carry me. I need to find safety for my beautiful baby girl. Faster, faster. I am being chased, chased by forces I cannot control, forces
stronger and faster than I could ever be. Panting, I hug the bundle to my chest, and she squeaks in fear. I caress the bundle and shush her, trying my hardest to calm her as I
look to the town below. An orphanage, alight with candles and lanterns. Warm, and dry, and safe. For her, it is perfect. It is small and insignificant, but much safer than the
streets of Nottingham. Placing her gently on the cold, stone steps, I feel a snowflake on my cheek. It is snowing, I realize in surprise. The cold seems to have gotten to my
darling, as she cries for me, loud enough to surely alert my pursuers. I pick her up once more, gently rocking her, and warm tears streak down my face as I mourn the cruelty of
the world. After a few moments, she quiets and coos, trying to grab at the necklace around my neck. Removing it, I place it around her own neck: golden, an engraved heart
pendant. Time is running out for me as I hear the shouts arise again. I kiss her golden-brown hair and soft, peachy cheek. Hoofbeats gallop closer, as if I can feel their breath on
the back of my neck. Leaning down to place her again, I get up quickly from my knees, an officer's shout crisp and sharp in my ears. As if sent by magic, they catch up to me. I
cannot let them harm her. I fight them as well as I can, but I am a maiden; how much can I possibly do? Though it is too late for me, my daughter will have a better life…