Magic

The crowds were queuing inquisitively outside. The air filled with a sense of expectance as more and more people joined the line. A constant hum of excited babble was only interrupted by intermittent shrieks of joy from nearby rides. Those in the front of the line eagerly liberated their wallets of a few spare notes so they would not miss this experience of a lifetime.

The marquee quickly filled with animated youngsters, cute couples, and families on summer vacation. Even the grumpiest soul could not help but afford a smile. Before long the entrance was shut, to the despair of those still outside. The lights were dimmed as the crowd began to settle. A curiously dressed man made his way to the centre of the ring. A grin which could compete with the Cheshire cat was plastered across his face. He pulled out a microphone and the words, “Take your seats. The show is about to begin!” echoed through the fairground.

At the outskirts of the fairground, away from all bright lights and busy pathways, a broken-down caravan could be seen. Inside this hell-hole, the dim light of a candle illuminated its four walls. A bed, a small table and a shaggy arm chair were the only possessions within this lodging. In the corner upon the armchair sat a special individual. He spoke little and spent his days staring at the ceiling, making friends with the shadows on his wall. He was the star of the show, and it was nearly time for his limelight. He got up, blew out the candle and made his way out.

He entered the marquee from a side opening and was met by thunderous applause. The applause, however, was not for him. The crowd was unaware of his presence as the lights were still dimmed. Sticking to the shadows, he slowly progressed to the centre sta...

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... Edmond could respond, a man came running towards them. He ripped Abigail away as quickly as he could. When he had her in his arms he turned to face Edmond. Fire came pouring out of his eyes as he shouted, “Stay away from my daughter! You monster!” Abigail was dragged up the pathway, she struggled but to no avail, her father was determined.

There Edmond stood, looking out into the distance. Abigail and her father disappeared beyond sight. In his hands he still clutched the raggedy looking doll. He turned and made his way back to the holdings. The door of his caravan creaked as he opened it and stumbled into the dark and empty room. He slowly sat down in his chair and let out a forlorn sigh.

He picked up the forgotten toy which he had placed on the table beside him. A glint appeared in his eyes as he murmured, “So Fay, tell me a story.”