Act 7: Magician Missing

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Close to show time and no sign of Francis and his assistant. Not too much panic yet, considering how far a drive the bank was from the border, but the crew was getting antsy. When the guests started arriving and they took their places for the opening act, Arthur felt his stomach churn.

"Hey, Artie," said Alfred, popping his head into the box-office where Arthur was working, "Any sign of our disappearing magician?"

Arthur sighed, dropping his head into his hand.

"Not yet. Shouldn't you be getting ready?" Asked Arthur, suddenly realizing that Alfred's act was up next.

"Yeah," said Alfred, lifting the helmet he had been carrying, "Just wanted to check on you first."

Arthur looked at him and his furry brows knit together. He stood up and reached around Alfred's neck.

"Do be careful."

Alfred chuckled a little wrapping his free arm around Arthur's waist.

"Course, darlin'," he said, dipping into his mother's Texas drawl, "I have to come back to you, right?"

Arthur snuck a quick kiss then shooed Alfred out the door so they could both get back to their jobs. Now Arthur knew he would never be comfortable with Alfred's stunts.

To Arthur's relief though, the show went on without a hitch. All his crew was intact and the crowd seemed to love them. He just wished his deal with Vash had worked out.

After the show, Gilbert would often meet the audience as they past the box-office on their way out of the tent. This was Gilbert's favorite part of the circus. He loved meeting fans, even if they didn't speak the same language. If he needed to, he would bring one of the crew to translate, but his enthusiasm transcended culture. That's part of what made him a good ringleader.

Despite his French being different, Gilbert drafted Matthew into translating for this show. Although they found a French translator unnecessary.

Still in his black coattail suit from the show, Mathew was left to converse with an odd couple visiting from Scandinavia while their son was entranced by Gilbert's antics

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Still in his black coattail suit from the show, Mathew was left to converse with an odd couple visiting from Scandinavia while their son was entranced by Gilbert's antics. A fan had officially been made when Gilbert revealed the pet bird he kept in his tophat during shows.    

Smiling and waving to the last of their guests, Arthur joined Matthew and Gilbert outside the box-office.

"I must say, Arzhur, zhe show was magnifique."

The three jumped as Francis walked out of the tent, a young woman at his side.

"And front row tickets." He held up the two tickets that Arthur had set aside. "You must really want me in your show."

"How did you—!" Arthur ran back into the box-office to check the register where he had been keeping the tickets. "They're gone!"

"What did you expect, mon cher? I am a magician, non?" Said Francis as Arthur returned.

Arthur was livid, but Gilbert started laughing.

"I like this guy!" He said, grabbing Francis' hand and giving it a strong shake. "I'm Gilbert."

"Francis. And zhis is my charming assistant Jeanne." He gestured to the girl at his side.

"Nice to meet you," she said, French accent thinned down.

"So have you thought of your answer yet?" Matthew asked, trying to hide his nerves.

"Well, it would be a different stage for us..." Said Francis, thoughtfully stroking his stubbly chin. "I don't know..."

"Francis, don't drag this out for these poor people." said Jeanne, folding her arms across her chest.

"Oh, very well." Francis huffed, shooting her a glare that was shot right down by her own. "We will perform in your circus."

Gilbert almost shouted with excitement, but Matthew stomped on his foot.

"Ouch, Birdie! Vhat vas that for?"

"Nothing, Gil! I have to tell you something," said Matthew, taking Gilbert by the shoulders, nodding to the new performers before leading him away. "Welcome to the circus, Francis, Jeanne."

"Why don't we take this to my office? We can work out the details," said Arthur as Matthew and Gilbert disappeared into the tent.

After being pushed far enough, Gilbert threw his hands up.

"Alright, alright, Matt! Vhat is so important?"

"Oh. Sorry, Gil." said Matthew, coming to a stop. "I'm sorry. It's just Francis doesn't know aboot our deal with Vash. If you started cheering, he might get suspicious."

"Oh, is that all!" Said Gilbert, again completely relaxed. He put his arms around Matthew's waist, drawing him close. "Jou know there are other vays to get my attention."

"Sorry. I panicked." said Matthew, hanging his arms around Gilbert's neck.

"Vell, jou could make it up to me." Gilbert teased, nuzzling into Matthew's neck, but Matthew killed the mood.

"Have you told Arthur we're dating yet?"

Gilbert visibly wilted.

"Do I have to?" Gilbert whined. "He vill make me fill out that stupid Human Resource crap."

"Gil." Matthew warned, crossing his arms.

"Vhy?" Gilbert moaned.

"No cuddles until you tell Arthur."

Gilbert's eyes widen and he clutched his heart in shock.

Needless to say there was a stack of papers on Arthur's desk by morning.

A/N Started as UsUk, ended PruCan. Oh well.

Special thanks to one reader for suggesting Jeanne as the assistant. Thanks a lot!    

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