Fly by Night

(Dear reader, while not specifically mentioned, it is implied that Xulia is leaving a failed relationship where she was not treated properly but some individuals think she should overlook it for optics and reputation and Belem has some past trauma she is working through. Please read with caution and know that it is never your fault. Know that you are enough just the way you are-AR)

Dear X,

I hope this letter finds you in good health. O and I were delighted to hear that you had escaped the Maunors and are en route to us at (Redacted). The preparations have been made and we await your arrival with excitement and hope. Pray keep us informed as able.

With love, A

Dearest A and O,

I am safely in the (Redacted) Tavern and I am told I am about half way to where you are. Escaping was no small feat but it seems I had friends among the staff who were willing. I should point out that while Madeo is nice enough, with all the proper manners and education that comes with it, his perspectives are limited and he lacks the ability to see through the eyes of others. Tis no wonder his parents are ashamed of him and won’t claim him as their child. They really thought that being associated with me would help them. Can you believe the temerity?! I have so many things I wish to tell you both but it would take far too much paper. Fortunately, I have my journals so will share when I get there. Hopefully soon.

-X

Dearest X,

A is sick but wants me to tell you she will recover; simple allergies is all. We wish on every star we can count and pray thrice a day that you get here soon. We were visited by some individuals claiming to work for Madeo. We told them we hadn’t spoken to you in some years, that you were focusing on his family. They seemed satisfied with that and left us. Quite the fright it gave us. The larders are full to burst with fresh produce and we’ve just had a shipment in from town of choice meats. We look forward to cooking with you again.

- O

Dear A and O,

We were stopped on the road this evening by a questionable sort of crowd. I hid in the crawl space of the carriage, hoping they would not search. 3 of them demanding to know if I have been seen. I hear some paper being rustled about, perhaps a sketch. Some arguing and coarse language later, they were gone. I shouldn’t be surprised, he only paid attention after I flew the coop. Typical really, they only pay attention after we’ve gone away. Incompetence at its finest.

We did at last make it to a sort of béguinage, a sort of small community of women. I rather find these women intriguing as they seem to live by their own rules, make their own income and do as they please. Within reason, of course. The carriage crew was shown to a place outside the walls but I was given a lodging in the house proper. They seemed to understand my plight and resolved to help as they could. I should make a note of this place, that I may return their kindness one day.

Weather, we are told, is not favorable for travel the next three days but it seems within this establishment are 2 old acquaintances of ours, you may remember MC and BA. M remembers you quite fondly and has asked if she may write to you on occasion. B remembers you as well but isn't ready to write at this time. I hope you don’t mind that I took the liberty of divulging your address that their letters may find you at some point in the future. M is much the same as when we were girls. B is, however, much subdued and more reserved. They assure me I am safe in these walls as are my escorts so do not worry. Should only be a few more days.

-X

Honored A and O,

It is with joy that I write to you this evening, having crossed paths with X again after these past 5 years. While X’s plight does leave me enraged, I am full of joy that she has you waiting for her at the end of this road. Belem is here and together, we keep this humble abode in top shape. Well versed are we in such matters as the one X finds herself in. Rest assured, she is safe within these walls for as many days as needed. Rain is expected to fall for the next 3 days so travel will be difficult, if not impossible. Her crew will be seen to as well so rest your fears.

While she is not ready to write just yet, B sends her greetings and her wishes for your health and comfort. She does often express a wish to leave this place and, if I may be plain, so do I. Perhaps we should join X when she departs and join you all. I’m sure between the 5 of us, we could build something quite wonderful, safe, efficient and joyous.

X has divulged to me an address where I may send letters and small parcels. I may do so when time permits and certain circumstances have settled.

With faith, hope and love,

-MSC and BCA

To X, M and B,

Color us much surprised to see your names mentioned again after all this time. It brings us great joy to hear that you are both well but also sadness that B has lost some of her light. Dearest B, should these words pass your eyes, we are here when you are ready. We love you as much now as we did then so take your time.

We know it is but a day’s journey until we see you again and we are absolutely dizzy with excitement. If we know you, you’ll drive through the night to be on our door at daylight. Wouldn't be the first time you’ve done so. M and B, should you wish to join us, we would welcome you with open hearts and arms, as we have done before and will continue to do until our last breath and after.

-A and O

(Dear reader, if you’ve made it this far, thank you for you time. Respectfully- AR)