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

The gas lamps were starting to dim and the din of the crowd was slowly beginning to quiet into a low and dull murmur. Felicity could still hear the beating of her heart as it thudded beneath her breast, her breaths quick and short as her anticipation grew. She knew the show would be starting soon and that meant the delightful duo of aerialists would soon make their appearance. How she longed to see Albert once more as he flawlessly walked along that high wire. Her green eyes flitted upward, catching a small glimpse of that thin cable causing her breath to hitch. Oh, she might faint, if she wasn't careful. As Felicity took in the spectacular sight high above, she was certain no man could do it better than Albert Sparrow or as marvelously! And the very idea that she might get the chance to even speak to him once she joined the troupeassuming their leader had no objections to her tagging along...oh, she'd do her share once brought on board she was a hard workermade her heart flutter. Her face suddenly felt hot and she pondered the idea of loosening the strings of her corset. Abominable thing made it hard to breathe. Turning to where she'd set her suitcase down, Felicity suddenly gasped in shock and horror. The thing had been there but a moment ago, however it was no longer where she'd set it! Panic filled her and she tried to think on what to do! The case had been filled with her most precious belongingsclothes, various necessities and things she didn't wish to forget. This was an absolute horror! A fiasco of the very worst kind! The lights were getting lower and an eerie hush suddenly came over the excited crowd. But Felicity could no longer enjoy the show. The scent of the lavender soaps she used filled her nose, but it provided no comfort. It only served to further her despair. How could she enjoy Albert's act now? She couldn't. Not when everything was suddenly going so terribly, terribly wrong! Meanwhile, just outside the large tent, Ava stood next to Albert, a smug grin plastered across her flawless face. She heaved a heavy sigh and held up a smudge looking glass for one final glance at her face. She scowled as she fixed a dark curl with her free hand. Glancing over at Albert, her grin broadened. You're a dreadful brute when you want to be, Ava teased. She lightly elbowed Albert's side and then set the looking glass down. She gave a soft huff knowing there wasn't any more she could do. Her make up and hair would have to do. You know the pitiful creature can't help it. She laughed as she spoke. Clearly there was no sincerity in any of her words. Not everyone is as dashing as you. She paused a moment and turned only to see one of the many banners with Cal's face drawn all over it. She cringed. Still... she went on, her voice trailing. I suppose everyone has their place. Ava smiled, her teeth white against her red-painted lips. And ours is up there. Always will be. She gave Albert a wink and readied herself to enter the tent for their show. Back inside the tent, Felicity was on the verge of hysterics. She'd already paid her money and the show was about to begin! How she longed to see Albert's farewell act in Faraviata! Her last night in her hometown! But, she had to find her suitcase! It was of utmost importance if she was to put her plan into action. Devastated, but determined, she gripped the sides of her pale ruffling skirts and had to excuse herself from her seat. Excuse me...so sorry...pardon me... Felicity whispered, her face beet red and sheepish. Several people gave her harsh glares as she made her way through the row of seats and out into the aisle where she could make a very reluctant exit. Felicity tugged on a reddish curl and sniffled. This had turned into the worst night of her life! Rhianna had told her that she'd be coming to a crossroads and she just knew that meant she was destined to be with this carnival troupe. She was ready! She was willing! She was...standing before the tent labeled 'The Monster'. She shivered noticeably. Glancing back and forth, she wondered if she should dare go inside. She'd told herself that she would on the final night. After all, if she were to join this troupe, she'd have to meet this 'monster', perhaps even talk with him! Digging deep and finding her courage, she took a step closer toward 'The Monster'. With a shaking hand, she reached for the tent flap, the canvas stiff against her palm. She swallowed hard, but there was no turning back. Placing some coin in the hand of the overseer, she pressed forward and entered the darkness of the tent where her eyes were just barely able to make out a cage.