Her New Life

Chapter 3.2: Haven Part 2

"Ummm, Jane?" It was the young girl's voice. "Sarah told me to deliver your food to you..."

There was a pause. "My troupe and I are leaving soon. I just wanted to say goodbye to you all..."

.....

Jane stroked her chin, clearly pondering something. Suddenly, she clapped her hands and shot off the bed to open the door. The girl's eyes widened before she was dragged in. Jane took the tray from the girl and placed it on the stand beside the bed.

Maxi stared at both women in bewilderment. Jane began pacing around while whispering to the girl. She glanced at Maxi. Their discussion was so fast-paced and low that Maxi could not even comprehend what they were saying. The next events were a blur.

The girl rushed out the door. Jane cupped Maxi's hands and told her everything would be fine before leaving as well. After hearing a commotion outside, a tired elderly man came sauntering in, along with Jane and the girl. The man had gentle blue eyes and shoulder-length gray hair. His clothes were modest but vibrant, and he was at least a head shorter than the young girl. He seemed almost familiar, but she couldn't quite place him. He studied her for a moment before they resumed their conversation. She could only pick up bits and pieces.

"...looks awfully frail..."

"She needs.... only a..."

"...help her...work, and cook for us..."

...perhaps..."

The old man stroked his beard like a woman combing her hair. After a beat of silence, the girl shook the man.

"Please, Orie! We could always use help on the road. Don't forget your oath too." She gave him a petulant look. The old man scowled and grabbed the girl's shoulders.

"I know, I know! But... if she's fleeing the duchy, someone's bound to come after her. And we don't have the means to protect ourselves that well." 

His face softened when he looked at Maxi. From the way the conversation was going, it seemed Maxi was once again out of options. The young girl raised her chin haughtily and spoke in a resolute tone. 

"That never stopped you before."

Silence fills the room before the old man heaves a sigh. He scratches his head sheepishly. He turns to Maxi. 

"Are you certain Miss? We travel through monster territory often.  We are in the entertainment business, meaning you will be exposed to all sorts of shady folks on the road. This is by no means an easy way to live, though you aren't obligated to stay. Do you wish to journey with us?"

 Everyone's attention was on her now. Maximillian felt cold sweat trickle down her spine. She had little to no other plan, and she doubted that she would meet people any kinder than the ones in this room. She took a deep breath and nodded.

"Y-Yes. I w-will join y-you."

The man sighed, the young girl clapped her hands together jovially, and Jane nodded in relief. "Then no time must be wasted. We leave immediately." 

He gave the orange-haired girl a tired frown and turned towards the door. He stopped and said, "Ah! I suppose introductions are a bit late. My name is Orion Celric, the troupe leader of the Wandering Winds. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Miss..." He waited for a reply.

Maxi flushed, thinking of a suitable name to give. 

"M-Ma-"

"Marian," Jane cut in. "Her name is Marian, no last name."

The old man stared at them, for a moment, before shrugging with a smile.

"A pleasure, Miss Marian."

................................................................................................................................................................

The troupe had already removed themselves from the tavern to much of the customers' dismay and loaded themselves onto a wagon. Orion briefed her on where they were headed and to not draw too much attention herself. Therefore, Jane tied her hair into a tight bun and pulled her hood on. In exchange for safe passage, Maxi was tasked with menial duties such as cooking, pitching tents, and cleaning. She felt as though it wasn't a fair trade since she was inadvertently endangering their lives. But she readily agreed, not wanting them to change their minds. 

 Maxi clutched what little belongings she had to her chest. Jane had given her a few more coins and lent her trousers and a cloak to make the journey easier. She was perplexed as to why Jane requested to keep her old dress, but she knew better than to ask questions. Maximillian turned towards Jane.

"Thank y-you, f-for e-every-everything." 

Jane gave her a shy smile. 

"Keep your head down, milady. The world is an unforgiving place, especially for a young lady." She pushed Maxi towards the wagon.

"I pray that you make it as far away as possible from this place." With that final solemn farewell, she hurried back into the tavern to avoid suspicion. 

The back of the wagon was packed with the performers from the tavern, ranging from old women to young boys. Maximillian settled into the back of the wagon next to the young girl. She gave her a gentle smile and leaned over to her. 

"I suppose my introductions are late as well. My name is Penelope Celric. I hope we get to know each other better on this Journey, Marian." 

Taking note of her last name, Maxi smiled and nodded. "As d-do I." 

Suddenly the wagon began shaking and moving away from the tavern. She felt a surge of anxiety wash over her, as well as a bit of guilt. Although she knew staying would lead her to an early grave, she had left her younger sister behind. She knew Rosetta's life would be much better than hers, but deep down she still felt a strange sense of fear. 

No, she thought. Rosetta will be fine. After all, Father loves her more than I. Steeling herself for the journey to come, Maxi looked out to the town, hoping to never see this place again. As she looked up at the clear sky, she prayed for a new happy life and safe travels.