Firebird

Chapter 20- While We Danced

Chapter 20- While We Danced

   A huge fire burned in the center of camp. The flames soared above our heads, fading into smoke as it rose towards the star laden sky. As usual, the fiddles and flutes played in chipper unison but even so, this dance was unlike the rest.

   Nearly everyone in Chalavar’s Circus was gathered around the fire, dancing with multiple different partners. They blended, still clad in the white and pink wedding attire. The stomping of feet and clapping hands was perfectly in rhythm with each song. It only took a couple violins to sound over the crowd. I suppose they were enhanced with some sort of magic otherwise, I wouldn’t believe anyone would hear them.

   The dances were different even than those I’d done previously. I was beginning to memorize them but there were still more. It was as if they were as never-ending as the circus.

   It was well into morning but there were no signs of slowing. I refused to sit down, afraid I would fall asleep. I didn’t want to rest anyway. Dancing has become one of my favorite things to do. It was something I believe nearly everyone here has in common.

   Gen tossed me into the air, catching me by my sides and gently lowering me. I spun under his arm three times before taking his hands as we went into the complex routine of steps.

   I wasn’t used to dancing with him. He was much more flexible than Astley, who was my usual partner but was playing the fiddle at this time. He could lift me more effortlessly so I didn’t have to jump as forcefully or put as much effort into the lifts.

   As the song ended, Gen and I stopped a moment to catch our breath. I would think that with all the physical activity I’ve been practicing, that I would have much better stamina. I could tell Gen was finished dancing and was ready for sleep. His face drooped and dark circles rested under his eyes.

   Fargus came behind him, smiling in his ever so slight way. “Don’t fall asleep, Gen. You know what happens.”

   “I know. I wish it wouldn’t. I’m exhausted. Maybe I can find a good place to hide out…”

   “I doubt that but I bid you good luck.”

   Gen thanked me for dancing with him then scampered away. Fargus took my hands as the next song started. He was so much bigger than me and it was hard to keep up with his long, graceful strides. He was patient and shortened his steps so I could stay with him.

   I was glad when the incredibly fast song ended and the first waltz of the night began. Fargus wasn’t the least bit exhausted, or so it looked. I felt disgustingly sweaty but I’ve learned that in this circus, everyone is so used to it, they don’t even notice.

   “How are you not tired by now?” I asked him once I caught my breath.

   “I haven’t danced this whole time. I watched for awhile.”

   “It’s interesting to see how differently everyone dances.”

   He stared at me looking slightly confused for a moment. I didn’t understand why that was perplexing him. He quickly regained himself and nodded. “Yes. It is. That’s exactly what I was going to say.”

   I twirled, came back wrapped in his arms then spun to our first position. I watched him as he stared off into nothing, his brow furrowed in deep thought. “Is something wrong?”

   “Not at all, my dear. Why do you ask?”

   That was the same tone Astley had when he had lied to me. A horrible scream interrupted my thoughts. It rang out over the music and laughter, putting it to a stop. Silence fell over the circus members. Only the crackle of the fire sang with the crickets.