Upon awakening, I found myself abruptly halted, the dawn
breaking as the vehicle came to rest. Gone were the endless
stretches of grey asphalt, replaced by winding lanes verdant with life.Though unfamiliar, this sylvan setting stirred within me a sense of tranquility and fleeting joy. The rustling of footsteps drew near, though the truck's cab obscured my view. Yet even in my confined state, I could not help but strain my ears towards the approaching sounds.
"You should've been here last night," It was the voice of a grumpy man. He must be the manager. "Anything happen?" he asked, frustration lacing each syllable.
"Do not fret, sir." The young driver responded, a hint of mirth
tinging his words despite the undercurrent of unease. "I bring with me the most unexpected companion. A coincidence, surely, yet one which I hope will prove delightful to you." His voice held a warmth that belied the tension lurking beneath.
The manager approached, his gait aided by a gnarled cane,
accompanied by the driver. A malicious smirk played upon his lips as he spoke, his voice dripping with insincere praise. "Well done, indeed," he sneered, his eyes gleaming with greed. "Sales have plummeted, but fear not – a fresh attraction shall soon bolster our coffers."
"Training will be simpler due to his tender age," the driver
conceded, "But the poor one looks scared. He was very neglected
where I found him."
"Yeah, yeah. Whatever," the manager dismissed, already turning
away. "Take him to the tent and off you go."
Vibrant colours of tents greeted my eyes, strung together in a
makeshift village bathed in twinkling lights. The glowing signage
proclaiming "Circus In The Bronx".
The driver deposited me in a humble abode adjacent to the grand spectacle, "Good luck, newcomer." Said him before disappearing. I was left alone in a smaller tent nearby, a solitary figure amidst the bustling commotion.
And so, my odyssey began, within the confines of this modest tent, unsure of what lay ahead.