Chapter 5: Social classes in Sexton
Ruelle stood among the tall trees of the forest, sunlight filtering through the leaves above. Beside her lay the trunk she had set down just moments ago. Her parents had abruptly dropped her off midway, leaving her alone.
Her father's words echoed in her mind, "Don't disappoint us."
Despite the crisp, fragrant air that enveloped her, Ruelle found it increasingly difficult to breathe. Each inhalation felt laboured, her anxious nerves constricting like vines around her chest now with uncertainty.
Suddenly, the sound of wheels creaking against the forest floor broke through the quiet place, growing louder as a black carriage rumbled towards her. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she waved her hands, desperate for a ride. But the coachman paid her no mind, driving past with a detached indifference, while inside, a group of young women looked right through her, as if she didn't exist.
"Wait!" Ruelle called out to the next carriage rumbling by, her voice tinged with urgency. But it disappeared behind the trees, leaving her feeling abandoned.
Worried, Ruelle fumbled for her pocket watch, her fingers trembling slightly as she checked the time. It was ten past five. She needed to be at Sexton by six—not a minute later. If not, she would be denied entry.
With no other choice before her, Ruelle grasped the handle of her trunk and pulled it down the winding path, chasing after the ghostly silhouette of the last carriage that had disappeared into the trees. Just as despair began to creep over her, another carriage appeared, its wheels creaking and rumbling. She caught sight of the trunks piled high atop the carriage. Not wanting to lose this chance, she dropped her trunk in the path and leaped into the road so that the coachman didn't miss her.
"Woah, lady! Are you trying to get yourself killed or the poor horses!" The coachman's eyes widened in disbelief as the horses shifted after the reins were pulled.
The coachman regarded Ruelle, noticing the trail left by her trunk on the forest floor. After a moment, he sighed, his expression softening. "Let's get your trunk tied on quickly."
Ruelle's heart lifted at his willingness to help, a warmth spreading through her as she beamed up at him. "Thank you very much!" she exclaimed, the gratitude brightening her voice.
Ruelle's eyes brightened at his kindness and she thanked him, "Thank you very much!"