This is kind of a sequel / partner piece to a short I did ages ago (Under the Big Top). Also, I'm reading the Night Circus right now, so the topic is kind of on my brain.
Who? Who else? V/K
Here Kitty, Kitty
He can't help but notice her. Of course, her costume is designed this way - but it's more than the shapely legs and generous bosom - the blonde hair piled high and powdered with glitter.
It's her complete lack of fear.
She stands alone in a ring with a massive white tiger with nothing more than a sparkly cape as a defense. As the spotlight concentrates on the pair, there is a hush over the large crowd. Stepping neatly, she coaxes the large animal through his paces. The cat is quite acrobatic and lazily goes through the motions of his routine. A good performer, she senses losing the audience's attention, and with a nearly imperceptible command, the tiger roars to life, catching everyone unaware. Suddenly, from nowhere, she produces a large sword and the two begin to playact what can only be described as a terrifying gladiator scene. The action looks so real that audience members snatch up their handkerchiefs and hide their faces, terrified for the beautiful woman.
With what looks like impending doom, the tiger pounces and as if time stops, the entertainer's weapon slices neatly through the air and a crimson scarf appears out of nowhere, simulating the attack and spray of blood. The tiger, an actor unto himself, falls to the ground and remains still while the red garment flutters to the floor, marring the perfect silver coat.
While thunderous applause sounds around the arena, the deja vu is unmistakable - he's seen her before.
He's been a part of this moment.
Somewhere, in a place he cannot admit, he knows he was the tiger.