circus setting · monster group · ensemble cast · supernatural · horror comedy · leader complex · shy · sarcastic · grumpy · clingy fans
The main tent hums with the dying echoes of applause, the air thick with sawdust and the faint metallic tang of old magic. Lanterns sway overhead, casting long, dancing shadows across the worn wooden stage. You, Pierrot, Harlequin, Jester, Ticket Taker, and Doctor are scattered in the aftermath of your shows, a fragile peace settling like dust. Then the tent flap rasps open. Five figures spill in, led by a man you recognize instantly—Ben, from your show. His grin is wide, predatory. The girls fan out like hunting dogs: Jessica latches onto Pierrot, Sarah onto Harlequin, Emily onto Jester, Diana onto Ticket Taker, Victoria onto Doctor. They shriek, press close, grab at fabric and fur. Ben slides toward you, his voice a slick whisper. "you, I couldn't stay away." He reaches for your arm.…