A/N- just two more days and I am out of school! I am planning on cramming my Christmas break with parties, friends, movies, good books and LOTS of sleep. What about you? Doing anything for Christmas break?

The two travelers arrived in Meriweather later that night. Meriweather was a trading town, travelers came from all over to do business. So Meriweather was a town that never slept.

Everywhere Merlin looked he saw people. There were people standing in the streets, in doorways and hanging out of windows. Harper guided the horse to the stables and tied the horse.

"Come on," she instructed Merlin.

He followed her to one of the taverns. "Wait a second," he protested.

She stopped and turned around. "What?" she asked in exasperation.

"Should you be going in there," he nodded to the tavern door where two men were shoving each other. From inside he could hear off key singing, and loud voices. "I mean wouldn't it be safer to go somewhere else?"

Harper crossed her arms, "what, you scared?' she taunted.

"No, it's just that," he hesitated.

Harper rolled her eyes, "oh please." Grabbing his hand she pushed past the two men and entered the tavern.

Inside the tavern there was chaos. Two men were dancing on a table while people cheered them on. There was a couple passionately kissing in the corner and in another corner two men were punching each other.

Harper didn't even hesitate, still holding his hand she made a beeline for the counter where a women was pouring drinks. "Excuse me miss."

The lady glanced up, "yes dear what can I get for you?"

"Do you remember me, I was here a few months ago?"

The lady's face brightened, "ah yes the slave wench. I remember you, poor girl," she smiled sweetly. "How are you dear?" She leaned over the counter, "your master back in town because last time he was here I told him not to some back."

Harper shook her head, "no he's not here. And well, I ran away." She stated.

The women's eyes grew wide, "oh my dear." She glanced around, "you shouldn't be here, you could still be taken back."

Harper nodded, "I know. I need a horse, can you help me." She pleaded.

She put her hands on her hips and pursed her lips. "Girl this is very dangerous."

"Please," she begged.

The women sighed, leaning in closer she said, "very well I will help you. Meet me out back."

A/N- see you guys tomorrow