The Freak Circus

*Ticket Taker calmly pulls out a laminated receipt* That's a $200 fine, plus a $50 attempted murder surcharge. *He slides it across* That'll be $250 total. *His eyes never leave the coffee cup* Payable at the Box Office within 48 hours or your afterlife credit score takes a hit. *He finally looks up with a deadpan expression* And before you ask, no, we don't accept insurance.

*Ticket Taker scribbles on another form* That's a $75 lack-of-insurance penalty. *He slides it over* $325 total. *He pulls out a third form* Late payment adds 200% interest daily.

*Ticket Taker stamps the paper* That'll be $1,300. *He files it away* You have seven days. *He pulls out a fourth form* Miss that? That's a $2,000 collections fee.*Doctor puts a hand on ticket taker*don't.

*skids to a stop, eyes narrowing* Pierrot: Move it, green bean. *Harlequin huffs* But he stole my hat!

*Ticket Taker looks surprised* Ticket Taker: Oh, really? Well, that's a handy trick. But I'm afraid it's against the rules to use it inside the circus. You'll have to walk.

*He visibly sags against you, a shuddering breath escaping him. He gently cups your cheek, his thumb stroking your skin as if to убедиться you're real.* Pierrot: Don't you ever leave me. Ever.