II-Freedom does not feed
I traveled for two days. I only stopped to eat and rest a few hours during the night. However, I slept little because it is not easy for someone who has always known the comfort of a bed to sleep under the stars. The slightest noise would wake me up and when the sky began to tint the first light of dawn, my body made me suffer horribly.
I won a few gold coins I had collected these difficult years, and jewelry that I wore at my wedding. It was an ornament of pearls, given by my father who did not want her daughter to appear before the altar neck and bare arms for fear of the reaction of the noble guests. I decided to sell them in the first town I passed because I desperately need this money and most importantly, I did not remember any of my past life. I also carried a small dagger that I managed to steal in the armory of the castle and enough food to keep a few days.
During my ride, I reflected on the way to survive in an unknown world. Of course, I could always cash in my purse when my horse would be empty, but I was reluctant to separate myself from the only true gift that I received in my entire life.
I won my freedom, but the hardest was yet to come, and now, I needed to survive. What did I do? I had no gift for weapons and did not want to start any military career. I was skilled in the art of reading, writing and use of plants, but I wanted to settle anywhere. Indeed, I fear that my husband tries to find me and I was terrified at the idea that succeeds. So I saw myself obliged to lead a nomadic lifestyle for a few months.
the evening of the second day, drunk with fatigue and wracked with pains, I dreamed of a soft mattress and a hot meal. So I started looking for a place in which to rent a room at low prices.
few miles later, I caught sight of a village with relief and headed me immediately. Just coming into town, I was attracted by music and laughter and approached the building where the sign was a huge mug of beer. I left my horse in the barn after dessellée and corked with fresh straw, then I entered the crowded tavern with a colorful and joyous crowd. It was a very welcoming place with a bar of solid oak, its panels and a fireplace where the fire crackled. From the kitchen came a delicious smell that made me mouth water. A group of musicians played a tune known as assistance resumed in chorus.
I made my way to the innkeeper and asked him by slipping a coin on the counter:
- Do you have a free room for the night? I also wish that someone takes care to feed my mare.
- You're in luck, my young lady, he replied, handing me a key. This is the last I have left. Today's evening performance, so I have a crazy world! Hey, Mosquito, he cried a lanky boy, will take care of the horse of the Demoiselle.
Turning to me he added:
- By cons, for dinner, all tables are taken. But you can eat at the bar.
I thanked him a big smile, sitting down on a stool and ordered a plate of stew with fresh bread and a pitcher of wine mixed with water.
I had just finished my meal when the problems began. The musicians announced that their repertoire was exhausted and they withdrew. The crowd began immediate protest by a few whistles. Then, the alcohol, it quickly became vindictive. The artists seemed increasingly uncomfortable feeling that the situation completely escaped them.
Then I did something foolish that I'd never thought her capable. I rose with a bound, climbed on the counter under the very eyes of the innkeeper and threw in a loud voice.
- Good people, no quarrels. Do not spoil, by unnecessary violence, an evening so enjoyable. Since these nice entertainers regaled us a long time, I suggest you allow them to take a well deserved rest. As for me, if you want, I can tell you a story.
The assembly was so surprised that the cries stoppèrent instantly. I took the opportunity to continue cheerfully
- Good! Firstly applaud these musicians so talented!
When the applause ceased, I launched into the story of my favorite novel, a tale of adventures that I had traveled dozens of times, combining romantic scenes and epic passages. My audience was captivated! I felt a real joy to see their emotional march through their eyes, trigger their laughter or tears. At the end of my performance, I was rewarded with a standing ovation. Women heartfelt pressed my hand thanking me, men were beating me in congratulating me on the shoulder. I was intoxicated by my success ...
While the facility was emptied and I was going to get into my room, the bartender gave me back my piece:
- I would be ashamed to keep young Minstrel. Thanks to you, I did two times more profit than usual. You can stay with me all you want in exchange for other nights like this one!
- I'm too tired to respond positively to your proposal or not, I murmured. But I promise to think about tomorrow.
Just lying in my bed, I fall asleep now, a word spinning endlessly in my mind: "Minstrel ..."
Image: " Sann'véan " Sandrine Gestin - Oil on canvas - 65 x 54cm (2002) Own work, published in the book Terra Incognita
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