Thread: Carnival: Shadows And Whispers Under The Big Top (Dane Stalling & darkangel76)

Astrid's eyes, cool and blue, were like shimmering jewels as she watched the renowned aerialist whisk the mysterious girl through the yard and away from the chattering crowd. She gave her sister's arm a tug, her blonde head gesturing that her twin's eyes should follow her own. Understanding her sister's actionsin a way only twins couldKenna obeyed and easily spotted Albert as he carried the girl off toward what seemed to be his personal trailer. She bit down on her lower lip, a soft giggle bubbling up that she immediately stifled with her hand. Astrid just narrowed her eyes and nudged her sister gently. Shh... Astrid chided, clearly not wanting to rouse suspicion that they were somewhat stalking their idol. Though the two of them were fairly well known as followers of the troupe, she didn't want their presence causing an unnecessary stir. Kenna just blushed then, nodding as Astrid started to take long strides in Albert's general direction. Honestly, you've nothing better to do? came a soft voice like velvet, liquid honey as it melted into hot tea. A young girl , arms crossed, was leaning against a wooden beam that held one of the other tents erect. Her dark, wizened, eyes were fixed upon the two girls as they tried to move past her, their noses suddenly going high into the air. But the dark-eyed girl just chuckled softly the crow perched quietly on her shoulder suddenly letting out a shrill caw causing the two to jump. She just shook her head, dark waves spilling over slim shoulders as she reached up to stroke the black bird's breast. Damn it, Astrid hissed when she lost sight of Albert, her eyes focusing on the dark-haired girl who grinned devilishly her way. With a flourish, she let her hooded cape billow in the breeze as a trace scent of cinnamon wafted through the air. And then she was gone, having moved behind the tent she'd been standing in front of, revealing the banner advertising its show Wondrous Illusions Made Real! Don't let Cassie bother you, Kenna whispered soothingly to Astrid, a gentle hand moving to her sister's arm. Astrid just sniffed. I've got more on my mind than Cassidy Haskel, she spat, her eyes fixed on the poster for the illusionist. Kenna frowned and ran a hand through her auburn hair. She could tell that Astrid was lying. Her sister was furious. Fuming that that vagrant of a girl had foiled her pursuit. But already she could see the wheels turning in her cunning sister's mind. The night was young and soon they'd be on the road. That girl, whoever she was, would be a memory and things could go back to how they were. But for now... Come on, Astrid stated as she headed toward the illusionist's tent. Let's go watch the show. Felicity bit down on her lower lip as Albert's hands worked quicklytoo quickly. His voice was soft, reassuring and such sweet prose of the likes she'd longed to hear. But his manner made her shiver and she suddenly found herself recoiling away from his touch. That's loose enough, kind sir, Felicity said quietly, her voice almost a whisper. Her green eyes looked deeply into Albert's pleading that he stop. I assure you that I'm uninjured. Though thank you for such swift action. Her cheeks pink, she shifted uncomfortably on the divan and began to smooth out the rumples in her skirts. So many times she'd dreamed of Albert the Aerialist carrying her off in his arms, taking her away from the mundane everyday horrors that were her life. He'd stand up to her parents, profess his true feelings and promise her a life full of love, laughter and adventure. But right then, as Felicity sat there in Albert's presence, in his very own trailer no less, everything felt so entirely wrong. He was no doctor and how had she been fortunate enough to catch his eye? Surely this had nothing to do with the monster... The monster. For a fleeting moment Felicity recalled the way the monster had held onto her wrist, his wheezing rasps testing her innocence in claiming her suitcase. Which still remained with him. If you please, sir, Felicity spoke up. I...I need to go. Felicity winced slightly and looked down at the floor, afraid to look into Albert's intense gaze. Her tummy fluttered and a part of her wondered why she was giving up an opportunity to get to know such a dashing man, a fine performer, the best that Faraviata had ever seen! But, she couldn't help how she was feeling, the way everything inside her begged that she leave, get out! Of course, she'd have time for apologies later once she spoke to Dr. Manuel about joining his circus. Surely the man wouldn't mind another worker. Would he? Again, I thank you for your kindness. I'm certain I'll be safe now that the crowd has had its turn, Felicity added, though something was still puzzling herhow easily the monster had let her go. It was curious and strange and played right to the crowd that had sneered. How do I undo the locks? Stella mused idly as she sat there drinking in everything she was learning about this Dr. Manuel's research. She sipped her drink and let out an audible sigh as she smiled against her cup. This hysteria he was so keen on ridding women of, if he only realized exactly what he was playing at. A true fortune could be made if he actually understood the female body and the female mind. Oh, this was too perfect and he was in dire need of female influence. Yes, she was the perfect counterpart in this operation. She'd see to it that his work flourished, that women everywhere were satisfied, their hysteria oh how she laugheddealt with in the most precise of manners. The women would flock to them, seeking them out to soothe their agony, as it burned deep to the point of unbearable! I dare say, good doctor, Stella chimed in, her voice like that of a tinkling music box. If you do things right, you'll have women coming to you every day to not only alleviate their hysteria, but to prevent the build up as well. Her smile was coy, her blue eyes sharp. Her advisors blanched as they looked on, but she ignored them all. Yes, this was exactly where she wanted to be. Setting down her cup, she turned toward one very shocked advisor. Prepare my things, we leave with the troupe. I want to travel along with this Dr. Manuel and not only invest, but oversee. The man nodded knowing full well that once Miss Stella B. Lucas made up her mind, there was no going back.