Enamoured by the dazzling lights, I walked into the tent and saw a realm of wonder. Macho men and women with tiny waists stood on scattered podiums, captivating curious onlookers. Many of these onlookers were women who wore a classic red lip, dresses which brought out their figure, and feathered scarves, all while donning men with fancy coats and fedoras – and most importantly, money. This was the world of the night children. It is not a place where I should be.
No longer am I perched on a rock, sat under the stars of a deep blue sky. I just got up and walked away. You know, there used to be someone there with me, looking out to the same sky, but it all seems like a distant memory that has led me here. I saw the glow of firefly-like lights in the distance, guiding me to a new place as the Star of Bethlehem guided the wise men. And I followed.
I found myself in a courtyard where cages sat atop wagons, carrying the deformed as if they were specimens to gawk at. It was an abominable sight; I should have stopped there. So, why did I keep walking? The presence of the towering tent urged me to come inside, and in my curiosity, I caved. The ringmaster watched me from afar as I waded through the small crowds, my attention not on hers until we were face to face.
She wore a black corset and velvet bodysuit, and commanded attention in her mysterious gaze. It was as if she knew I was looking for something more. I gulped, faced with an unfamiliar feeling of… dread? She took a couple of steps forward, enough to close the gap between us, and whispered in my ear, join us.
“You can leave it all behind. Join us.”
水 