A/N- hello how is everybody?
Merlin stared at Harper from across the flames. She had successfully caught two rabbits and had cooked them over the fire.
"So um you're being chased through the woods? Why?" Merlin asked.
Harper glanced up at him through the flames, "I was a slave." She replied coldly.
"A slave?" Merlin's eyes grew wide.
Harper nodded grimly, "In Camelot slavery is not aloud but in King Cenred's kingdom there is much slavery. Those who are very rich just take people whenever they want and the people can't do anything about it because they are too poor."
"Is that why those men are chasing you, because you are running away?" Merlin asked quietly.
Harper nodded, "I was taken from my family when I was young." She stared down at her lap. "I was serving a terrible man who kept me chained up in his home. I would have to wait on him and his men" She met his gaze, "a few days ago I found my chance and I ran. He sent his men after me. "She gave a small smile, "I am hoping to find my family and bring them to Camelot to live. I am hoping to find a good job that pays and be able to live free with my family" She smiled staring into the fire, dreaming about places and people Merlin couldn't imagine.
Merlin smiled, "Camelot will be very lucky to have you."
Harper glared at him, standing she said, "Come on we have to get going."
Merlin followed her with his eyes as she prepared to saddle up.
"O.K then," he muttered. Putting out the fire, he spread the ashes.
"What are you doing?" She frowned.
"Spreading the ashes," he explained. When she just blinked at him he explained. "So the men don't follow our trail."
She nodded, "oh ok." Turning she mounted the horse, "let's go, we've got to get to Meriweather."
A/N- It came upon a midnight clear that I was typing this chapter and I really did try to make it longer- I promise! It is as long as I could possibly make it, more tomorrow, see you then