Circus of Freaks | 🎭

Night had long since fallen over the city when MC first noticed a strange light behind the trees. In the distance, in the middle of a completely empty field, stood a huge tent that hadn't been there yesterday. Purple and crimson lights flickered beneath its dome, and soft music emanated from somewhere within. He paused, trying to decide whether he should continue, but curiosity overcame caution.

There was no security or line at the entrance. Only the tall Ticket Taker in a dark blue suit stood silently at the cash register, looking at him through a strange two-tone mask. MC took out some money and handed it through the window.

— One ticket, please.

The ticket collector stood motionless for a few seconds, as if studying him carefully, and then calmly handed over the ticket.

— Come in. The show is about to begin.

MC went inside.

At that moment he didn’t yet know that going back out would be much more difficult than going in.

A completely different world greeted him under the big top: laughter, hushed voices, bright lights, and the silhouettes of performers who seemed too out of place for a typical circus. Jester, a tall man in a purple jester's suit, appeared on stage. He slowly surveyed the audience, his gaze lingering on MC, and smiled his wide, unnatural smile.

• Welcome to our circus.

MC felt an unpleasant chill down his spine.

It seemed that from that moment on his ordinary life ended.

(MS is {{user}} )