P & P FF AU. NON..Canon GENERAL REGENCY
To Catch a Shining Star
Previously:
Now, if you do not mind. I need to get back to work." His words stunned all three...that had to be the same lady Sir Wallace had been talking about. But, the Billings not knowing the dynamics of the Kendall household and Mr. Bennet, having only met Sir Wallace once, were confused as to why the old man had said Miss Corianna instead of Mrs. or Widow Douglas.
Show Time
Ch. 12
Mr. Bruce's circus' stellar reputation was spreading remarkably fast, even though Duncan's own had been to Ravenshollow just ahead of theirs; it was very satisfactory to see people still coming to check them out even though some had come in thick jackets as the air was turning noticeably chilly. The gentleman saw people filing in from where he stood, as did a few entertainers; most, however, were too busy getting ready to worry about how many seats were, or were not, being filled.
The circus tent now glowed with the warm, inviting light of lanterns. Inside, the audience settled into their sturdy wooden benches, their eyes wide with wonder. Mr. Bruce stepped out and, in his booming voice and with a twinkle in his eye, stepped into the center of the ring, welcoming everyone to the night's spectacular spectacle.
The show began with a parade of animals, led by handlers who knew their animals intimately well. A pair of graceful ponies trotted in formation, followed by a mischievous monkey that performed tricks to the delight of the children. The villagers squealed in delight as the animals obeyed their trainers' commands without hesitation and with amazing grace.
Next, the acrobats took to the stage, their lithe bodies twisting, turning, and spinning with effortless ease in mid-air. They formed human pyramids, balanced on tightropes, and somersaulted through hoops. The crowd fed off their energy and easily erupted in applause as each daring feat was executed without error, despite the limited resources of the small circus.
The clowns followed next, bringing plenty of laughter with their harmless antics. They juggled, tumbled, and performed silly acts that had everyone in stitches. Their colorful costumes and painted faces added to the make-believe world of the circus, even if their attire was a bit worn and patched.
As the night progressed, the anticipation for the trick riders grew, for many of the people who had returned came solely for the purpose of seeing this particular part of the show. Mr. Bruce knew that because his ears had been wide open. The ringmaster announced the final act, and then bowed out as the lights dimmed; everything instantly went quiet.
The trick riders entered the ring, their horses prancing and snorting with excitement. The riders, dressed in elegant yet simple costumes, performed a series of breathtaking stunts. They stood on their horses' backs, leaped through hoops, and executed daring jumps that left the audience on the edge of their seats.
Finally, it was time for the star of the show, Corianna, to take the center of 'stage' so to speak. She rode into the ring on her magnificent, well-built stallion, her long, hair braided and put into a bun to keep it from cascading behind her. Her costume, with its sparkling stardust and one large star, stood out to anyone watching as if Corianna were now the only one in the tent, and her presence commanded the attention of every single soul in the tent; especially Mr. Bennet's, for that star looked strikingly similar to the one in his dream.
Corianna's skills were unparalleled. She performed intricate maneuvers with effortless ease, guiding her horse through a series of complicated routines. She stood on one leg, balanced on the saddle, and even performed a handstand on the horse's back. The audience watched in awe, their eyes intently fixed on her every move.
As the grand finale approached, Corianna prepared for what she knew would be viewed as her most daring stunt. She rode her horse at full gallop, leaping through a ring of fire. The crowd held their breath as she soared through the flames, landing gracefully on the other side, her cape unsinged. The tent erupted in applause, the audience on their feet, cheering and clapping.
The ringmaster re-entered the ring, his voice booming over the applause. He praised Corianna and the other performers, thanking the audience for their support. The performers took their final bows, basking in the adoration of the crowd.
As the audience filed out of the tent, the excitement lingered in the air. The villagers would talk about the night's performance for weeks to come, marveling at the skill and bravery of the circus performers.
"Mrs. Douglas, you are quite the rider. Mr. Bruce said you were raised in the circus," Mr. Bennet spoke as he and the Billings were introduced to her by Mr. Bruce. "What age did you start riding?"
"I started riding horses very young, before I could even walk; however, would you believe me if I said I did not start training until after I married and that was my first show since my husband's death and, if I have my way, I will not be doing it long? And, no, I am not engaged." When the gentleman looked shocked, Corianna's face lit up brightly as she laughed. "You explain, Mr. Bruce, I have not the time, or the inclination, I have to go talk to Uncle Wallace."
Corianna mounted her horse and rode over the hill, not admitting to herself that there was something different about the one called Mr. Bennet. There was an aura which shouted she knew him; but that as crazy, she had never met him. Therefore; it was not anything the lady was going to admit to anyone. Hence, her sole focus was getting to the Kendall's main home as she had heard about Lady Arianna's passing. So, it was understandable, Corianna wished to see 'Uncle' Wallace.
However, try as she might, Corianna could not shake off the feeling Mr. Bennet would be seen again, in a bigger role than most would expect. And His eyes and been the deepest blue she had ever seen. Why should she even care? It was not like he was going to even be sticking around Scotland; his accent shouted not only was he English, but most likely was from south of London. It was not likely they would see each other past this night, or maybe this week if he came again with his friend to see the show again.
"Come on Juno, let us go talk to Uncle Wallace. Thinking about deep blue eyes on a man I have met in pacing is not on any important agenda."
The horse neighed. If it was trying to tell her anything, Corianna opted not to listen. The lady simply pushed her horse onward toward the Kendall's manor.