I had big plans for my day off. I planned to do absolutely nothing! I'd sleep in, lounge around the apartment, maybe read some and play a video game. I knew I had to start thinking about my future, but I wasn't getting paid until the first, which was almost three weeks away, so I might as well enjoy what carefree time I had left. Of course the universe had other plans. Around ten, the phone rang and rang. I assumed my mother would get it, but she must have left for work early, or gone to see my sister. I reluctantly got up and answered it.
"Hello?"
I waited for a response, but there was none. I must not have gotten to it in time. I went to the bathroom and it rang again. I finished up and rushed back, only to have them hang up yet again. So I waited and waited, then I decided to make some peanut butter toast. Just as the bread went down in the toaster, there was another call. I rushed and got it on the second ring.
"Hello!" I said
I waited for a response, thinking surely I got them this time, but I didn't hear anything. Wait! No there was something...breathing? Someone was breathing on the other end of the phone, "Hello?" I said again. I waited and they didn't say a word. I hung up thinking that was weird.
I waited for my toast to pop up then slathered it with peanut butter. If I did it fast enough, it would get all melty from the heat and be so good. I took a few bites and drank some cold milk before the phone rang again. I stared at it, debating if I should let it ring. It rang four times then stopped. I kept eating and a few seconds later it rang again and then again and then again. Whoever it was kept calling. I picked it up and cautiously said, "Hello?"
I heard someone breath in, then the sound a nose makes when it sniffles. Someone was on the other end, they just weren't talking. I got this sick feeling in my stomach. "Who… who is this?" I asked. I heard them let out a heavy sigh, but they said nothing. I hung up and finished my breakfast feeling restless.
Who calls someone and doesn't speak? It was unnerving. Maybe they'd gotten the wrong phone number, but they should just say so. I kept expecting the phone to ring and debated what I'd do next time. Maybe I'd say nothing, yeah, see how they liked it! I smiled then went about my morning. A few minutes later as I was brushing my hair the phone rang.
I stared at it, but reluctantly walked over and picked it up. I didn't say anything this time. I just waited...waited for their breathing, but this time someone spoke. "Hello, may I speak to Mindy Evert?"
"Uh, yeah that's me?" I said cautiously.
"Hello Mindy, I'm Alice, from Darrow's Park. There have been some changes to this weekends script. We'll need you to come in and pick up the latest version."
"Oh!" I said,"Right now?"
"At your earliest convenience as long as it's before five. The office closes at five."
"Okay," I said. "Uh thanks."
"You're welcome."
"Uh wait," I stammered.
"Yes?"
"Did you call just now."
"No,"
"Okay thanks,"
"You're welcome. Have a nice day."
"You too,"
I hung up the phone and let out a sigh. I was hoping it had been her and it was just a bad connection or something. Still I was glad I'd picked up. I wondered if it was normal to change the script like this, or if something had happened. I checked the time then took a quick shower, got dress and caught the bus to Darrow's. The first thing I should buy when I get paid is a bus pass. I had a feeling I might be riding it a lot, not just with work, but when I looked for a new place. I suppose I could get a car, but those were pretty expensive. Oh maybe I could get a moped or a motorcycle!
I needed to start planning and keep an eye out for possibilities. Speaking of which, I wondered if the Dark Knight was working today. I blushed thinking of him as I got off the bus. I knew there was a way to check. Surely the schedule would list his hours, but I worried I might be approaching an unhealthy level of fixation. No, it was better to let these things happened naturally.
I got to the park and found my way to the office. A few other people were also picking up scripts, so I assumed this happened all the time. I got in line and they eventually handed me a manila envelop with my name on it. I put it in my backpack and debated what I should do. It seemed like such a waste to get right back on the bus, but each ticket was only good for three hours, and I needed to be careful with the cash I had.
I might do some digging when I got home and see if I'd squirreled a few dollars away somewhere or I might have to start selling my stuff. It was going to be a long month. I got back on the bus then pulled the script out. Immediately I noticed a note from Craig, "Stick to the script" He'd underlined it three times.
I shook my head then skimmed through it. There were a few new pages here or there, but most everything was the same. I got to my part and saw they'd added more lines.
Now after I greeted the king and queen, we'd talk about my 'encounter' with the Dark Knight and they'd give me a warning. I read through my lines twice. A few people gave me looks and I knew they must have thought I was weird. I packed it back up and waited for the bus to get to my stop.
When I got home, I turned on some music and played a video game. Then I read the script again, specifically checking for any more mentions of the Dark Knight. I smiled when I saw he now had a part. He was going to ride around outside the castle and make his presence known. It was a small part, but it meant he was going to be there this weekend! I rolled around on my bed. I swear I felt like I was sixteen again, finding out my crush was going to the same party!
When dad got home he was in a good mood. He took me out to dinner. It was nice, we didn't really get a lot of one on one time these days, where he wasn't in front of the TV. After we finished eating, we ordered something to go for mom and brought it home.
When mom got home she asked about my job again. The answers were still the same. I only got paid once a month, and I didn't know how much it was going to be. Again she wasn't happy about it, but didn't push. She ate her dinner and we watched TV together before we all went to bed.
The next day, I practiced my script, did some chores and cleaned my room. I found some much needed extra cash, then started going through my things. It was hard, there was a lot of stuff I didn't want to part with. Eventually, I stopped cleaning and read for a while. At one point the phone rang and I picked it up. I could hear noises on the other end, a dog barking, what sounded like wind chimes and someone breathing, but no one spoke. I stayed on the phone for a good minute or two, then hung up. They called four more times and I stopped answering.
I told my dad about it when he got home and he said he'd take another look at our answering machine. It had been broken for six years, but my parents refused to get a new one as long as we had one that could possible be fixed. The phone rang again and he answered. The caller hung up immediately. They called right back and he answered again. They stayed on the line a little longer, then hung up once more.
Dad thought it was strange. I was glad I wasn't the only one. He spent a few minutes changing the answering machines batteries, but it still didn't work. One of his shows was coming on soon and he set it to the side. He said he might look for a new one this weekend, but like me, he assumed it was just a wrong number. Still why didn't they say anything?
I spent the evening playing a cooking game. I ran a restaurant with my husband, and he would kiss my cheek ever time I got five stars on a level. It was a cute game. I only wish I could cook as good in real life. Eventually, I decided to turn in early, knowing tomorrow was going to be a big day.
As I was getting ready for bed, mom popped into my doorway and asked if I was coming with them this weekend, to visit my sister. They said my brother was going to be there, which was rare. I had a feeling something might be going on, but I told her I had to work both days, twelve hours maybe more. She looked a little disappointed, but honestly I'd doubted I'd be missed.
I set my alarm for six and got into bed, I didn't have to be there until eight, but I didn't want to be late. I laid down and found myself restless. I tossed and turned thinking about seeing the Dark Knight again. Come morning, I was still tired but got up. I showered, got dressed, ate and made myself something to eat, for when I got hungry. My goal was to only spend money on the bus until I got paid.
I thought I was making great time. I arrived half an hour early and was surprised to find the parking lot already filling up. At first, I thought it had to be employees as the park didn't open for another two hours. Yet when I got to the front gate, I saw there were two lines. One for guests and the other for employees. The guests line was already pretty long, maybe thirty or forty people.
I stood in the employee line and saw there were more security guards. They were checking everyone's badge. Once I got into the park, I only got a few steps before I saw another line, for the locker room and clocking in. I had no idea it was going to be this busy. I swear just about every character must have been here.
Even though I had arrived early, I clocked in a few minutes late. I put all my stuff in my locker and was glad I hadn't pack anything that needed to be refrigerated. I doubted there was going to be any space in the fridges today. Every room I entered was beyond crowded with people chatting and getting ready. I squeezed into the women's dressing room and found my chair was missing.
I grabbed my stuff and had to wait in another line to change. Some women didn't even bother waiting and just changed in front of everyone. Once I got a dressing room, I quickly changed then put my things in my cubby. I put on my jewelry, but had a hard time doing my hair and makeup as people kept bumping into me. It took a bit longer, but I finally managed, only to realize I'd put on the wrong dress.
Seriously, today was the big event, I was suppose to be wearing the ballgown! I can't believe I forgot! I carefully changed dresses as people were starting to file out. Someone got on the loudspeaker, and told everyone to check the lists near the schedule, to find out where there group was meeting for rehearsal.
By the time I got the other dress on, adjusted my jewelry and touched up my makeup, everyone was already gone. The halls were almost eerie, after having so many people only moments ago. I went to the lists and found out which group I was in and where they were meeting. They were gathering in second A-2. I got to the area as they were doing roll call. I was the last to arrive and everyone turned to look at me.
A guy with a clipboard, stepped up to me and asked, "Name?"
"Mindy," I said. "Mindy Evert."
A bunch of people laughed and the man shook his head, "Character's name."
"Oh Azure Queen." I said, feeling silly.
He looked over the clipboard, then marked something off, "You're late,"
"I'm sorry, I put on the wrong dress."
He looked me over, then shook his head again. "Can someone help the Azure Queen with her costume?"
A female handler rushed up to me, and I realized the costume wasn't on quite right "Oh sorry," I said again. "It's my first time putting it on by myself."
"Its fine," she said, "Some costumes require help."
We stepped off to the side and she made several adjustments as the man finished roll call. When my dress was on properly I went to stand with the others. They were standing in various groups and I got a few sideways glances. Some people whispered, but I couldn't be sure if it was about me.
I felt really awkward. I bit my lip then recalled the Dark Knight. Everything had been so busy this morning that I'd yet to look for him. I looked around, but he didn't seem to be in my group. I wondered what group he was in, or if he was even here yet.
After a few minutes, the man with the clipboard got our attention. He had us line up and checked out appearance next to the photo's Jules and Berry had taken. If something wasn't quite right a handler would assist us.
Once everyone was ready, they had our group walk down a long hall. We took a set of stairs, at the end of the hall, into the basement. From there we walked down another long hall, midway through this hall, there was a staircase with two dozen steps of so. Halfway up, the steps were covered in red carpet. We we went up them and soon found ourselves inside the new castle.
I let out a gasp as I took in the new design. When I was a kid, the castle was just a small hallway, lined with funny pictures that led into a bigger room with two thrones, where you could meet the king and queen. It was nothing major, but as a kid it was magical, visiting a castle and having your picture taken with royalty. Stepping about the new castle, I could see almost everything had changed.
The layout was still the same, a hall leading into the throne room, only it had been greatly improved upon. The entrance hall was now massive. It was lined with long windows instead of funny pictures. It lead into a throne room that was now the size of a freaking ballroom. Again there were so many windows and even a balcony.
A red velvet carpet with gold trim ran through the entrance hall all the way up to the thrones. In the ballroom there were several sparkling chandeliers, and the thrones themselves were encrusted with red rubies and gold. For a second I felt like I was on a tour of a real castle. I was in awe of everything, and I wasn't the only one. I watched the others taking it in with wide eyes. They were as impressed as I was. I just knew the guests were going to love this place. I know I did!
"Oh wow!" I heard one of the royal members in yellow say, "They did a lot with this!"
"Yeah, I heard we're going to be doing a lot more here." said one of the royal guards.
"I hear they plan to throw lavish balls, and the castle now doubles as a wedding venue." said another women. I wasn't sure what her character was.
"Honestly, who would want to get married at a theme park!" said another royal guard.
"I would!" said a young woman dressed in red. "If I weren't already married."
"You still might get your wish," said an older women in red, "At least your character will."
"Really, you think so?" asked the young women in red.
"Yeah, what do you think the latest storyline is about," said one of the royal guards.
I took a closer look at the young women in red, and realized she must be the Ruby Princess. I remember reading about her in the lore. This weekend the king and queen were to announce a contest, for her hand in marriage and alliance to their kingdom. Oh I hoped I'd get to stay on long enough to see the wedding. People started talking amongst themselves more, and the room got rather noisy until the guy with the clipboard let out a loud whistle, getting everyone attention.
He took a moment to introduced himself, knowing there were a lot of new people this weekend. His name was George and he was specifically in charge of the royals. We had a lot to do today and he wanted to make sure we were all on the same page. He went over our schedule. We were to rehearse until the park opened, then take our first hour break. Anyone who needed more help, would be called upon during that time, otherwise we could rest up before the show.
After the hour break, we'd get into the first of two starting positions. We would learn them both at this morning's rehearsal. We'd only used the first position at the beginning of the day. After that it was only the second position. The castle's ribbon cutting ceremony was at eleven, the guests would be let into the castle, and we needed to be in our first starting position, no later then eleven fifteen.
At eleven thirty we would start the pre-show walk until noon. From noon until four, we would be performing a twenty minute show every half an hour. Then we would get a second hour break. It would be our last break of the day, and we would need to make sure we ate, because after the show, we'd go straight into fan service and it could go until midnight.
Midnight! I began to panic! The busses only ran until eleven! How was I going to get home? It would suck to have to walk home so late at night. Maybe I could call my dad, on my hour break, and ask him to pick me up. I felt like such a kid, asking for a ride, but I didn't exactly have money for a cab. Once again, I needed to get my life together. At twenty-two I should have my own transportation.
Maybe they'd let me leave a little early, since Craig said I wouldn't get any requests. Before I could ask, George made it clear that even if we weren't featured or requested, we all had to stay until we were dismissed. He reminded us that our costumes and props must remain on the property at all times. We also needed to stay safe and not "interact" with fans outside the park, especially in the parking lot after work. He looked to someone specifically, and we all turned to see a man who I assumed was the Ruby King, given his attire and crown.
"It was one time and she was hot," said the Ruby King.
"And she turned out to be a total psycho." said a royal guard.
"One time is all it takes, Frank." said George. "And I don't care how hot someone is, we all need to stay safe. It's important not to meet with fans outside the premise. Save interactions for shows and fan service."
I quickly raised my hand and George turned to me, "Sorry, I'm new, what exactly is fan service?"
I got a few chuckles, but George was nice. "Come now, let's have some patience for the new people. Fan Service, is where the guests get to interact with their favorite characters. You take pictures, sign autographs and answer questions. It's our way of giving back to those that support us."
"Ah," I said nodding.
"Yes, but don't worry, it's more for established characters."
"Okay," I said, then raised my hand once more.
"Yes," he sighed.
"Sorry, I just, if it's more for the established characters, why do we all have to stay so late? It's just I take the bus and it stops at eleven."
"What are you like twelve?" said a royal in yellow. She rolled her eyes at me and several people laughed. I felt mortified! I should have just kept my mouth shut, but I was worried.
"Now, now, quiet down," said George. He turned to me and continued, "I see. Well they don't always go that late. Midnight is just our cut off. If we go over, you should be able to make travel arrangements with someone. I know a lot of people carpool, otherwise feel free to come find me or anyone on my team, and we'll see what we can do. Also as to why we need everyone. We take group photos throughout the night, for the newsletter and like to have everyone on hand. You never know when you might get a photo request or we need to reshoot something."
"Ah." I said. That made sense. I had no idea this place had a newsletter," Sorry, thank you."
"No problem, now where were we." said George.
He looked down at his clipboard and flipped through several pages. The royal in yellow said something I couldn't hear, and a few people snickered as they looked over at me. I felt sick and vowed to not ask any more questions.
"Right, well I think we covered everything." said George "Once you are dismissed by me or someone on my team, you can clock out and go home and then we'll do it all over again tomorrow! Minus the eight a.m. rehearsal. You can be here at eight if you want, but you aren't required to clock in until ten."
He flipped through several more pages on his clipboard and continued. "We'll do this storyline this weekend and next weekend, then have a weekend off before we start the big joust storyline. It is going to be outdoors in the new arena, weather permitting, if not then it will be in the dining coliseum, I believe."
"Will the dining coliseum be ready by then? I heard it's still being renovated," someone said. I didn't see who it was.
"Yes, parts are being updated." said George. He flipped through his clipboard, then continued. "Closer to the joust we'll be given more information, but right now you know what I know. Any questions about today's performance?"
I got a few looks, but I kept my hand down. "Great, if anyone does have questions, talk to Beth. She's my second in command this weekend." A women with curly hair stepped forward and gave a wave before she stepped back. I assumed that was Beth.
George talked to the handlers for a second, then called out our characters, one by one. As we stepped up, a handler moved us to the right or left side of the entrance hall. Then they had us go back downstairs, on the side we were on and line up. George was in my group, and told us to memorize who was in front of us and behind. This was our pre-show walk starting position. I thought I could remember it... at least I hoped. So far it felt like a lot and we'd yet to start practicing the scene.
They had us return to the entrance hall and taught us how to walk. They played some music and we practiced entering the hall. It was suppose to take half an hour for us all to walk through. The room had felt big before, but felt even bigger when I could only move a few steps at a time.
Once I was in the throne room, a handler showed me where tape had been placed on the floor with my character's name. It marked my throne room starting position. I memorized the spot and everyone who was around me. Once we had all entered, George went to each of us and posed us. I was to stand with my hands hands folded in front of me. It made my chest puff up a bit, and showed a bit more cleavage then I would have liked.
We started the scene and it played out just like in the script. The Ruby King and Queen welcomed everyone to their kingdom, and spoke of new alliances and their daughter's hand in marriage. From there each visiting royal was to approach the throne, swear their alliance, and give a gift of a stone from their kingdom. I was fourth in line. I watched the others hoping to learn something.
The Orange King, known as the Garnet King, kept forgetting his lines. George stopped his performance and showed us if we tugged our ear, someone would feed us our lines on the radio. That was convenient! We were all suppose to be on channel two. We all took a moment to set our radios.
Next up was the Yellow Queen. The one who'd called me twelve. I found she was the Sapphire Queen. She didn't forget her lines, but said them way too fast, like she was speed running them. George had her slow down and show more expression. I nodded to myself, noting what he was looking for, hoping to apply it to my own performance.
The Emerald King and Queen were up next, they kept interrupting each other. Apparently the script hadn't clarified who was supposed to say what. George read through the script, then cut the lines up so they'd take turns. He had them run it twice, then asked them to practice during the hour break. I bit my lip and couldn't help but think it didn't count as a break if you were working. I didn't say anything. I kept running my lines in the back of my head, hoping I wouldn't mess up too badly when it was my turn.
"Come forth Azure Queen, and let us greet you," called the Ruby Queen.
My heart raced as I made my way to the thrones. I hoped I wouldn't get too many notes. I quickly bowed then said. "Thank you, your majesties, it is an honor to before you."
"How are you enjoying our land?" asked the Ruby King.
"It is quite lovely, your majesty. Your people are so kind and generous. You are very fortunate."
"Yes, yes we are!" said the Ruby Queen. It was suppose to end here, with a thank you again for inviting me, and please accept my gift. Yet the new script added in recent events. The Ruby Queen let out a heavy sigh, and her pleasant expression turned to one of worry. "We've been told you had a run in with the Dark Knight, the other day. Are you alright?"
"Oh yes!" I gasp, "It was quite frightening! I feared for my life!" Seriously. I felt it was a bit over the top. I knew my character had been frightened at first, but after he'd helped me and spoke, I felt like my character would be torn between what she had heard and seen with her own eyes. She'd be cautious, yes, but also curious. Still, I could only perform what was in the script. I continued. "He came out of nowhere, but thankfully your guards saved me! I am truly indebted to you!"
"Yes, you are very fortunate to be alive," said the Ruby King. "You are new to this land and do not know of his vile treachery, but he has wrought darkness upon the land and is an enemy to the kingdom. You would do well not to cross paths with him again."
"And above all," the Ruby Queen spoke up. "You must not speak to him. He is a most vile fiend and every word that escapes his mouth is an unspeakable lie!"
Okay, okay I got it, the Ruby King and Queen really hated the Dark Knight! I could see they were trying to hammer that into my character. "Thank you, I shall heed your warning."
The Ruby King and Queen nodded, then the Ruby King said. "We must all stay vigilant, especially in these troubling times." The Ruby King then looked around the room as if to make sure everyone was listening, "If ever you should see the Dark Knight, any of you, always call for a guard."
The Ruby Queen nodded, "Yes, one day the guards shall capture him and his reign of terror will be over!"
We paused for a moment, George wanted the Ruby King to look around the room again. He did and George instructed him to look lower, at where the children would be. He really wanted the Ruby King's message to get across to everyone. The Ruby King nodded then looked around again, with the added correction.
We got back to it and it took me a second to remember my next line, "Uh, sorry, right, um. Thank you again for inviting me to your kingdom. Let me know if I or my kingdom, can ever be of assistance. As a gift of our alliance, I offer you some azurite from my kingdom."
A royal guard rushed up to the throne with some fake azurite on a pillow. The Ruby King and Queen accepted my gift and I moved to stand next to the Emerald King and Queen. I hoped I was done, but George had me go again. I needed to be louder and he changed where I was standing so more people could see me. He also said I was not to speak out of character and needed to get out of the habit, even if I was apologzing. They were all valid points, but it was still nerve-raking. They wanted me to remember so much in such a little time.
We ran it again with the changes. Then I stepped off to the side and watched the Amethyst King and Queen perform. They did such a good job that they didn't get any notes. As we were wrapping up the scene the opening bell rang. George still insisted we finish and we went fifteen minutes over. He eventually let us go, but reminded us we all needed to be in first positions by eleven fifteen. He also told us to keep an ear out, in case our names were called over the loudspeaker, for any last-minute notes.
We disbursed and everyone pretty much went to the breakroom. We quickly found we were the last group to finish rehearsal and it was already packed. I thought I'd drink some water from the fountain, then go to my locker and get a snack, but I could barely move down the hall; there were so many bodies. I worried about messing up my dress. I opted to stand in the hall and tried to unwind as much as I could.
At one point I thought I saw the Dark Knight, in his full armor, but quickly lost sight of him in the crowd. I wished I knew his name so I could stop calling him the Dark Knight. At this rate I wish I knew anyone's name. I got a few glances, but no one said hello. Of course I didn't either, feeling a bit overwhelmed. My job suddenly felt a lot harder. Those first few days now felt like a cakewalk.
My stomach felt like it was going to boil over. I started to feel overheated. I wanted to splash some water on my face, but there was a massive line for the ladies room. I bit my lip and wondered if I couldn't use another bathroom, further away from all this chaos. I found one of the maps and saw a bathroom halfway between here and the castle.
I made my way to it and found it gloriously empty. I stepped up to the sinks, but realized if I splashed water on my face I'd mess up my makeup and have to redo it. I didn't think I'd have the time. Instead, I put my back against one of the walls and enjoyed the peace and quiet for a few minutes.
I felt much better and decided to head back early. I didn't want to risk being late. As I made my way through the back area I heard footsteps and a clinking sound. I turned and saw it was the Dark Knight! My heart fluttered at the sight of him and I got far more excited then I should have. I did my best to hide it as he said."Hello."
"Hello," I said back, my voice was way too cheerful.
"How was rehearsal?"
"Oh, it was different, but I think it went well it. How about yours?"
"Everything is set." He said, getting closer to me.
I wished he'd take off his helmet so I could see his face. I just remembered the last time we were together and the kiss. I wanted to discuss it, but I wasn't sure if here was appropriate. Perhaps we could hang out some time after work. I'd really like to get to know him and know if there was something more here. If he was really interested, or if it was all just an act. Of course, I'd have to know his name first."
"Um, what's your name?" I asked.
"My name." he said. "I don't think my character has one."
"No. I mean your name, like as in you,"
"Ah," he said
"Yeah, it would be nice to know what I should call you. I'm Mindy, but uh, you already know that." I said, looking down at my feet. My cheeks started to grow hot. I was so awkward with this sort of thing. I shouldn't be. I had experience, but it had been a while…since I'd put myself out there. What if he wasn't interested, and I'd just read too much into things...too many romance novels. He hadn't responded and the silence was nerve-racking. I started talking again. "I was hoping, well thinking, maybe we could hang out sometime after work or something, if you wanted to and it would be nice to know what to call you."
He let out a sigh. I didn't know if that was good or bad. I dared to look up and his helmet was tilted to the side. I wondered what he was thinking. Given he hadn't answered yet, it wasn't good, right? He made a sound, maybe even spoke a word, but I didn't hear it as someone rushed up to us, "There you are!"
It was one of the handlers. I wasn't sure if they were talking to me or the Dark Knight. The handler turned to me. "Didn't you hear your name? Azure Queen!"
"Oh, sorry," I said. I'd gotten so overwhelmed I'd forgotten to listen.
"You have some more notes." said the handler.
He handed me a piece of paper and I took it. I quickly read it and found they wanted me to speak up even more. What! Was I suppose to shout my lines? They also noted my head dropped too much. I didn't seem royal enough. I needed to be more confident. I bit my lip as I read it over again, then looked up, hoping to finish my first real conversation with the Dark Knight, but he was gone and so was the handler. It was just me for a moment, and then I saw the others rushing down the hall with excitement. I guess it was showtime.
I turned and made my way to the hallway with the stairs. One of the handlers was already there and took the paper with my notes on it before gathering others. I waited for everyone to take their positions then found mine. Once we were all lined up things got surprisingly quiet. I looked down at my feet then reminded myself I needed to be more confident. I tried to pump myself up. I wasn't Mindy Evert right now, I was a queen...the Azure Queen. My people needed me to be strong and sure of my actions. I was wise and capable! I had traveled here on my own, to take care of business, and forge an alliance with the greatest kingdom in the land!
I breathed in deeply, raised my chest, pulled my shoulders back, lifted my head and folded my hands in front of me. I could do this! People began to whisper and then we heard cheers, a lot of cheers, a roar of a crowd, far more then I'd like to imagine. I swallowed, but remained in my position. Soon I heard several loud creaking sounds that echoed…large doors opening perhaps? Then a moment later footsteps, a lot of footsteps and chatter as the guests made their way into the entrance hall. I thought they were already suppose to be inside. Maybe there had been a speech with the ribbon cutting and it had gone over.
From the sounds, the guests seemed just as impressed as we'd been. From there, everything felt like it was happening so fast, minutes were like seconds as my stomach rumbled. Someone got on the loudspeaker and let the guests know we would be starting the pre-show walk soon. I listened as the minutes were counted down and then the music began. The stairs before us suddenly lit up, and I realized they'd had curtains drawn in front of the stairs.
The royal guard at the front of my line was instructed to go. He slowly walked up the stairs and a group of us stepped out of line. We watched him take his first steps into the entrance hall, and waited to see what would happen. Almost immediately, someone noticed him and shouted, "LOOK A ROYAL GUARD!"
"IT'S STARTING!"
The entrance hall got very loud as the guests cheered with excitement. We almost
couldn't hear the music. A handler rushed up to those of us who'd stepped out of place, and told us to get back in line. Then it was a waiting game. I listened as names were called and my line got shorter. Eventually I was at the stairs, and then halfway up, and then finally a step from entering the public eye.
This was it! I closed my eyes for a second reminding myself I was wise and capable! I was a queen! I opened my eyes as I heard them call the Emerald King and Queen. I watched them step out from the opposite stairs. They stepped together, stepped together and paused, then stepped together, stepped together and-"The Azure Queen!"
I froze and suddenly felt faint, like I might just fall back and tumble down the stairs. Someone hissed, "Move!" and my body listened. I took a step, then took a step and paused. My eyes were wide open. I took a step, then took a step and paused. Someone spoke into my earpiece. "Azure Queen fix your face!"
I almost apologized, but managed to stop myself at the last second. I put on a big smile, then realized it was too big, so I lessened it. I took a step, then took a step and I fucked up! As I paused I looked about. Up until that moment I'd only been staring forward, at the backs of the Emerald King and Queen. Yet as I looked around, I caught sight of all the people. They stood behind a red rope lines on both sides of the entrance hall and there were so, so, so many. The room had been huge hours ago, but now it felt small...suffocatingly so.
This….this should be nothing! There had been a ton of people the other day, but somehow that felt manageable. Mostly because I'd been so focused on my lines and the Dark Knight. His presence had sort of overshadowed everyone else and took up my head space. Now everything just felt dizzying. I realized I'd forgotten to breath, and I couldn't remember if I'd stepped once, or twice, or was suppose to be pausing. I just slowed down.
My headset blasted with voices, "What is she doing?"
"Move, Azure Queen, you're going too slow and messing up the spacing!"
"Sorry," I said, reaching for my button without thinking.
"Don't speak!" another hissed. "Stay in character!"
I was messing up right and left. The guests were starting to give me weird looks. I was so gonna get fired for this! I stopped walking unsure of what to do. Then a familiar voice came across the radio, "It's alright Mindy. You're doing fine. Breathe. Take one step at a time and breath. You've got this!"
"Who's Mindy?" another voice called out.
"I have no idea," said another.
I gasped. It was him! The Dark Knight! He must have heard me messing up and went out of his way to encourage me like the other day. My heart picked up and I started moving again. I stared forward as my cheeks grew hot. I wasn't quite sure where I'd left off, but went for it. I took a step, then took a step and paused. I kept going and the chatter in my earpiece stopped. Before I knew it I'd made it to the throne room! I moved into my starting position and everything else faded away as I couldn't stop smiling. Did this- This had to mean he liked me right? I mean people didn't do that for someone they didn't like?
I knew now wasn't the time. I could fuss over this later, and decide what it did or did not mean, but right now I needed to focus. I didn't- No! I would not mess up again! The crowd let out a roar and I wasn't sure why at first. Then I saw the Royal Ruby family had entered. I could tell they were super popular, the rest of us had gotten some cheers, but nothing like this.
Several minutes passed as they made their way to the throne room, followed by the last set of royal guards. The Ruby King and Queen stepped up to the thrones, then turned around and waved to the crowd for a minute or so before taking their seats. The princess stood off to the side of the thrones and the royal guards positioned themselves on either side of the royal family.
We all held our positions for five minutes, so pictures could be taken and guests could shift their attention to the throne room. I happened to glance up and noticed a mezzanine balcony above us, it wrapped around the entire room and was filling up with guests. I hadn't noticed the balcony before, probably because it was empty, but I suppose the throne room was only so big with sections of it roped off. I realized not everyone was going to get to see the show. It's probably why we had to do so many. When the time was up, George gave us the signal to start over the radio.
The first show was a bit...unreal. Everyone was on edge and several people messed up. I saw people pull their ears more then once. When my character was called, I nearly ran up to the throne. I went through my lines with my head held high, and tried to sound confident as I spoke loudly. I was surprised at how fast it went. One second I was being called, the next I was standing with the Emerald King and Queen and the show was over.
I wasn't sure what we were suppose to do next. Since rehearsal had gone over, we'd just been dismissed after we'd finished the scene. I looked around the room and found I wasn't the only one who didn't know what to do. We exchanged curious glances before several people started to move. I assumed I should just return to my starting position, but before I could move George got on the radio. He told us to hold our current positions for five minutes so the fans could take photos. Then, we were to switch back to our starting positions for another five minutes and start the next show.
Those that had moved quickly returned to their last positions. I held perfectly still as guests took several dozen, if not a hundred photos of us. Eventually, we were told it had been five minutes, and for about a minute, there was chaos as everyone rushed to their starting positions. The staff shuffled the guests out of the room and brought in a new group. I swear five minutes felt like five seconds and we were back at it again.
The second show felt smoother, again it went quick. By the third show I felt we had it down flat. I was able to relax a little on the fourth show, but became aware of the crowd once more. I tried not to look at them and pretended they weren't there. I messed up my lines, saying them out of order, but I managed to push through and recover. The remaining shows were a blur. I got a sort of tunnel vision and it started getting repetitive, which was nice because I knew what to expect.
When we got to the show before our break, George told us to hold our positions at the end until the room was cleared. We preformed the show then waited until all the guests were gone. I worried I might get in trouble for my earlier screw up, but George told us we all did a good job and dismissed us. We moved in a wave to the break room, and I fully expected it to be packed like earlier, but found it was just us. They seemed to have staggered everyone's breaks so we didn't all hit at once like this morning.
I was nice to have some space. I went to my locker and got my snacks. I'd also packed a bottle of water, but it was now warm. It was still better then nothing. I drank some of it, then found out we got free cold sodas for all our hard work. I was excited, but the others weren't, apparently sometimes they catered the bigger events so people were hoping for a buffet. I was just happy to have something cold to drink. I drank two grape sodas...which I later regretted.
I looked for the Dark Knight as I ate, but didn't see him. I wanted to thank him for what he'd done earlier and hoped to finish our conversation. I couldn't help but wonder what he'd been about to say before the handler had approached us. What if he was trying to tell me he wasn't interested? I suppose I'd just move on, after all I was used to rejection these days.
What scared me more, was if he was interested and wanted to pursue something. I liked the idea of dating again and having a relationship, but honestly I had so much on my plate right now with work, my family, and having to find a new place to live. I knew I should probably wait until things were a bit more stable. Maybe we could just be friends or something. I bit my lip knowing I was thinking about this...about him way too much.
Someone got on the loudspeaker and reminded us to check our costumes, makeup and props. We needed to be back in our throne room starting positions in ten minutes. I put my things away and didn't need to do much. I had been careful eating and drinking. I touched up my makeup and headed back.
I went to the hall with the stairs, where we had lined up for the pre-show walk. I assumed that I'd walk through the entrance hall back to the throne room, it was how we'd all left for the break room. However I noticed a handler standing in front of the stairs and that the curtain had been drawn. They informed me the entrance hall was now being used as a line. I could hear some muffled sounds and shuffling beyond the curtain. Before I could ask how else I could get to the throne room, they directed me to go further down the hall, up the stairs and through a doorway on my left. I did and it took me to the throne room.
I got into position and it wasn't long before the others returned. Soon the guests were let in and we started up once more. The second half of shows went well, but midway through I got the sudden urge to pee. I tried to ignore it, but couldn't recall the last time I'd gone. Maybe before I'd left the apartment this morning? I now regretted having those two sodas! The corset wasn't helping. It was looser than that first time, but I felt so much pressure and it only got worse as the shows went on. I tried to hide my discomfort, but wasn't sure how much longer I'd make it.
The last show was agony, but I got through it. We held our positions until the guests were cleared out. I knew we were suppose to go straight to fan service, but I could not wait! I swear I was about to burst! People broke into small groups and started talking. George looked busy, discussing something with Beth as they looked over his clipboard. Surely it would be okay to step away for a minute or two.
My feet were already moving and I dashed out of the room. I rushed down the hall to the closest bathroom I knew. The one I'd found this morning. I barely made it, then hopped in place as I struggled to get my dress off, not wanting to get it wet. I got down to my corset and slip, then gloriously relieved myself. Afterwards I felt so much better!
I washed my hands then carefully put my dress back on. I spent a few minutes checking myself in the mirror, to make sure I'd gotten everything right. I touched up my hair then checked on my makeup. It was a bit smudgy, but should still do. I walked back and almost went through the entrance hall. I remembered not to at the last second, and took the other route, though it should have been okay as I didn't hear any guests. In fact I didn't hear anyone at all. Things were strangely quiet.
When I got back to the throne room…everyone was gone! I frantically looked around then stepped back into the hall. I didn't see any sign of them, or anyone for that matter! I swear, I was only gone maybe five or ten minutes...okay maybe fifteen with fixing my dress.
I bit my lip as I hurried down the hall. I went all the way to the break room, hoping I might see them along the way, or that I'd find someone who could tell me where they'd gone. Yet it was empty….everywhere was empty! It had been so busy all day and yet there wasn't a single soul when I needed one.
I went to one of the maps hoping it would tell me where fan service was, but it didn't. Had George even told us where it was? I'd been so worried about how I was getting home that I might have missed it. I walked down more halls and it didn't take me long to get turned around and lost. I went through a metal door and it let me out into the park. I looked around hoping to see a character, but again nothing. I turned to go back in, only to find the door automatically locked. I cursed under my breath.
I stood there for a moment then remembered the radio! I felt like such an idiot, having run all around, when I could have just radioed someone. I pushed my button and timidly said, "Hey sorry, it's the Azure Queen, where did everyone go, per chance?" I waited, but there was no response. I pushed the button again and asked, "Like I know everyone went to fan service, but, uh, where is that...exactly?"
I waited and once again there was nothing. Okay, maybe they had switched channels or something. I tried a few different ones, but still nothing. I took a closer look at my radio and realized the battery must have died. Great! I let out a heavy sigh and started to walk around. Once more I hoped to find another character and ask if they knew where fan service was. I walked passed a few guests and got some looks. Then one of them recognized me.
"OH WOW!" A women shouted from my left, "LOOK IT'S THE AZURE QUEEN!"
"What is she doing out here?" asked another women.
"Oh maybe it's a special event!" said the women who'd shouted.
I tried to keep walking and they followed still talking.
"A secret event! NO WAY!"
Someone else passed by, "A secret event? Where?
"There! The Azure Queen!
Shit! What did I do! I kept going as the two women and passer by followed me. They picked up strays along the way and soon there was a whole group. I weaved in an out of streets, hoping to lose them, but they kept up. I was so getting in trouble for this! I tried to find another staff door, but wasn't familiar with this area. I tried a few doors, but they were locked and soon I was being surrounded on all sides. Several dozen eyes were looking at me...waiting to see what I would do. I wasn't suppose to break character, but maybe I could get them to point me in the right direction.
"Oh my," I said in character, "I seem to be lost. Where have all the other's gone?"
I waited hoping someone would point. Yeah no! All they did was stare, take pictures, and whisper. I wasn't sure what else I could do at this point. I began to feel overwhelmed like earlier today, only there was no script or Dark Knight to-
"LOOK!" Someone in the crowd shouted and pointed beyond me. "THE DARK KNIGHT!"
I turned around and there he was atop his horse! My breath caught in my throat as he turned in my direction. He pulled hard on the reigns, and the horse reared up before it dropped down and charge forward. The guests rushed to get out of the way, but I just stood there. He leaned to one side as he approached and reached out his arm. Somehow I understood what he was doing. I reached up and in one fell swoop whe lifted me up and onto his horse in front of him. I sat sidesaddle and clung to him as he kept on riding. Over his shoulder, I watched the crowd roar with astonishment and chase after us, but they could not keep up.
My heart thundered in my chest and I remembered to breath. I couldn't believe what had just happened. "Oh wow!" I gasped, beyond excited, "That had to be the coolest thing I've ever done!"
"Where have you been!" The Dark Night snarled as he navigated the horse through the streets. I pulled back caught off guard by his anger.
I quickly apologized, "I'm sorry. I got lost! I, uh drank too much soda on the break, and well...it didn't end well. I thought it would be okay to step away for a second, but everyone was gone when I got back and I've been wandering around ever since."
I shut my eyes thinking I talked too much. I didn't need to explain myself, let alone go into that much detail but I-
The Dark Knight slowed his horse and let out a chuckle. I opened my eyes as he kept laughing. I was glad he could find humor in my humiliation. His tone softened as he spoke. "I got her. She got lost, but I found her." I realized he wasn't talking to me, but the radio. I guess they'd been looking for me too.
I stared at him as we slowly rode through the park. I had been lost and he'd found me. I wasn't just thinking about now, but overall. Since meeting him things had been very different. I hoped they'd keep changing and perhaps-
"Why didn't you use your radio when you got lost?" He asked, pulling me from my thoughts.
"Oh yeah, well, it might be dead,"
"Let me guess you haven't been switching it out after your breaks."
"We were suppose to?"
I watched his helmet move as he shook his head and let out another chuckle. Then he talked to the radio saying, "Yes, we're on our way."
"Way? Where are we going?" I asked.
"They've been looking for you, both of us actually,"
"What? Why?"
"We've bee requested by the fans,"
"Oh," I said, thinking they must have really like our performance. It made me think of the other day and the kiss again. I wanted to know what it meant so badly and decided to just ask, "Sorry uh, about earlier, when you uh- when you kissed me. Was that acting? Or something more? What I'm saying I guess, is oh, uh," Why did I have to make this so painfully awkward...because it was! "I- What I'm saying is, do you like me or my character?"
I waited, but he didn't' say anything... which I suppose said something.
"I- Um- I'm sorry forget it." I said, "I-"
"Mindy," he said, his voice suddenly sound strained.
"What?" I asked, "What is it?"
"I need to focus," he hissed.
I looked around and saw we were heading towards a large building that was lit up. I could see the guests were crowded outside. We narrowly avoided getting spotted as we rode around to the side of the building. There was a large metal gate. The security guards unlocked it, when they spotted us and pulled it open. We rode through and Beth came rushing up to us.
"THERE YOU ARE! FINALLY!"
"Sorry," I said, "I got lost."
"George is about to lose it, if you two don't get in there!"
The Dark Knight moved his hands around me and helped me to dismount. Once I was safely on the ground, he turned the horse around. Beth called out, "You too Dark Knight! They're requesting you both!"
"I have to return Ryder to his stall."
"Hurry!" Beth spat.
Then she grabbed my arm and pulled me along. We went down some stairs and entered a tunnel on the side of the building. We went several feet in, then up a staircase before we walked through several rooms to a backstage area. I could see some of the others standing around. They turned to us as we entered the room and started whispering. I got several dirty looks and wondered what I'd done.
"Stay here!' said Beth. She rushed off, leaving me alone with the others.
The Sapphire Queen walked up to me and demanded, "What do you think you're doing?"
"Excuse me." I said
"Don't act all innocent," she spat "You know what you did?"
"I don't," I said.
"There is an order to this sort of thing!" said the Amethyst Queen, stepping next to the Sapphire Queen.
"You're new and should know your place," spat the Emerald Queen. She moved to stand on the other side of the Sapphire Queen. The three of them loomed over me.
"Order?" I said confused.
"It's your first day!" said the Amethyst Queen, "No one gets requested on their first day!"
"Um, well actually it's my third day." I said...which did not help things, if anything it made them angrier.
"This is your first fan service!" said the Emerald Queen. "No one gets requested on their first fan service!"
"Maybe by their fifth or sixth, they might get a photo request." said the Amethyst Queen.
"If they're extremely lucky!" added the Emerald Queen.
"I know some who've taken years to get a request," said the Sapphire Queen, putting her hands on her hips, "And they have actual talent! So who are you? Someone's daughter or niece? Who do you know or who did you fuck!"
"What!" I gasped at such an accusation and quickly stammered, "I- I don't know anyone and I didn't do anything!"
"Right! I heard Jules and Berry backed you," said the Emerald Queen.
"They needed someone-"
"Yeah someone, anyone but you!" said the Sapphire Queen, cutting me off.
"I'm sure you just happened by!" said the Emerald Queen.
"I did," I said.
"You stole Annette's part!"said the Amethyst Queen
"She quit for a commercial!"
"It fell through. And now she's out of work because of you!"said the Amethyst Queen
How was that my fault! I looked at them bewildered.
"I bet you sabotaged her, like you sabotaged us during the pre-show walk, getting everyone to look at you!" said the Sapphire queen, "You're such an attention whore!"
"My cousin's a writer and he says you shouldn't be here, that Craig fired you for dropping character and not following the script!" said the Amethyst Queen.
"Yeah! You're not suppose to talk to the Dark Night. No one talks to him! He's the villain! What are you stupid!" said the Emerald Queen
"You must be because you were warned to stay away from him and we heard you were just with him!"said the Sapphire Queen.
"So!" I manged.
"SO!" They practically jumped on me.
They got so close that I stumbled back a step or two. I wanted to say something like what business is it of yours, but I was so flustered by their accusations that I stammered. "I- It's what- Business."
"Uh, you're disrupting everything!" said the Amethyst Queen.
"You should quit!" said the Sapphire Queen.
"Yeah, no one wants you here!" said the Emerald Queen.
No one...wants... me….here…
"Are you crying!" said the Sapphire Queen.
I hadn't realized- They laughed at me, the kind of laugh that twists you up inside.
"Uh, you're so pathetic," said the Sapphire Queen.
"And you can't act!" said the Emerald Queen.
"You're so fat you ruined that dress. Annette would have looked so much better in it!" said the Sapphire Queen.
"You shouldn't be a character let alone a royal." said the Emerald Queen.
"Seriously, you should quit or you'd better watch your back bitch!" said the Sapphire Queen.
They walked off and I didn't say or do anything. I just stood there...pathetically. I didn't understand why they had all ganged up on me. They didn't have to like me, but why be so cruel? I wish I knew how to respond, but I felt so caught of guard. I didn't expect to be bullied, not at this age. I thought bullies were only in school...not out and about in everyday life. A few seconds later, Beth returned with George.
He asked me something, but I missed it, still lost in thought. "What? What was that?"
"Why didn't you answer your radio?" he demanded.
"Oh it's uh, broken," I said, still struggling with my thoughts. I felt broken. I felt like no matter what I did or where I went these days, no one wanted me. I just couldn't put myself back together after-
"Broken?" George practically ripped the radio off me. He examined it, then groaned "It's not broken, it's just run out of juice! Someone get me a radio for the Azure Queen!"A handler rushed up a second later and handed George a radio. He quickly put it on me.
"Are you crying?" asked Beth, taking a closer look at me. "You're messing up your makeup." I heard the girls laughing only a few feet away and I felt like I was going to puke.
"Sorry," I said.
"I need a make uppallet," Beth said into her radio.
"Where is the Dark Knight?" asked George.
"He's putting his horse away," said Beth.
"Seriously, can't someone else do it! The guests have almost been waiting half an hour!"
A handler gave Beth a makeup pallet and she turned to me, "Can you do your makeup?" I nodded, "Good, then go into that little bathroom over there, and use the mirror to clean yourself up."
She directed me to a room and I went in, shutting the door behind me. The room was small and quiet. I didn't turn on the lights right away. Instead I stewed in the dark for a moment, letting it all wash over me. I centered myself, then flipped on the lights and splashed cold water on my face. It felt good, really, really good! I dried myself off with some paper towels and put on my makeup.
When I stepped out, Beth was waiting for me and she had a clipboard. I followed her to the side of the stage. We stood next to the curtains and I could see what was going on. The stage was massive and had booths set up every few feet, with characters at them. At the front of the stage, I noticed lines of guests waiting behind red ropes. Security guards were at the front of each line. Every so often, a handler would let a guest past the rope and take them to the specific booth. I also saw camera flashes and noticed little racks with fabric next to each booth, where guests could take pictures with the characters.
"Now how this works," said Beth, tapping a pen on her clipboard, "Is you and the Dark Knight will get the signal from the announcer." She pointed to someone, but I didn't see who, "Then you'll move to the front and center stage, the green x. Do you see it?"
I saw a green x painted on the floor. "Yes, but the announcer?"
"The man with the microphone in gold."
I spotted him now, he was like a jester, but in all gold. I nodded and she continued. "Good you'll go there and wave to the crowd, then move to that booth." She pointed her pen at a booth the handlers were still setting up, "From there you'll-"
She paused, realizing something. She quickly spoke into her radio, "I just realized the Azure Queen and Dark Knight, don't have any official pictures. So! So what are they suppose to sigh? Yeah. Okay that could work. Well, get a dozen, no wait!" She looked at the stage again, specially one of the guest lines that wasn't moving and only getting bigger. "Better make it two hundred just to be safe. Yes, I'm sure, go, get it done!"
"Okay," she said, looking back at me, "Now all you have to do, is sign autographs and take the occasional picture."
"What about questions?" I asked. "I'm kind of new."
She looked at me then paused again."Well uh," She talked into her radio. "Drea? You there Drea? Yeah, I need you to drop whatever you're doing and handle the Azure Queen and Dark Knight booth. Yeah, the Azure Queen is a new undeveloped character and the Dark Knight isn't suppose to talk. Yep. Yeah, I know. Just tell them to stay tuned or something like that. Yes! Okay."
She looked back at me, "You don't answer questions. Someone asks you a question about your name, or where you're from, you can answer, but otherwise just smile and look to Drea. She'll be your booth's handler and will answer all fan questions, for you and the Dark Knight. Got it?"
"Yep,"I said. What else was I suppose to say! I felt so fucking overloaded right now!
"Good, now uh, just wait here for the Dark Knight. Then when you get the signal go."
I nodded and she left. I let out a heavy sigh and closed my eyes trying to stay calm. A second later, I felt something and realized someone was behind me. I opened my eyes and turned to see the Dark Knight. Before I could say anything he demanded "Who made you cry!"
"What." I said. Had he heard? He must have. He wasn't there so others must have been talking about it. Great, just great, of all the people I didn't want to know, it was the Dark Knight... him and my mother, yeah.
"Mindy!" He said, his voice sounding more agitated. I didn't respond and he asked again slowly. "Who...made...you...cry." He said like I was hard of hearing or even stupid. I wasn't either. I just didn't want to talk about it…not with him. How lame was it that someone could make me cry. I was a freaking adult. I was suppose to have a thicker skin.
"Mindy!" he hissed "Answer!"
"It was nothing really. Can we just not-"
"Who!" he said, refusing to let this go.
When I still didn't say anything, he grabbed my wrist, a little harder then I think he meant to, because it hurt. It got him the results he wanted. "The Sapphire Queen and a few of the other queens. They think I overstepped and disrupted the order of the things or something. She- They just ganged up on me, but I can handle it. I've been bullied before I just didn't expect it here. Maybe this job isn't for me."
"What!" He sounded alarmed, "Why?"
He pulled me in close to him. "I…it's a bit overwhelming."
"Anything truly worth while is," he said. I was surprised by the emotion in his voice. I heard something, breathing, no...sniffing? Was he smelling me?
"Are you smelling me?" His grip loosened. "Do I smell bad or something?" That had to be it? I felt beyond mortified and tried to pull my arm from him, but he didn't let go.
"No," he said quietly. "You smell…." There was a long silence. "It's fine."
"Okay," I said. "Sorry I just. I don't know what you think of me…. must think of me, crying so easily."
"I think nothing less," he said ,then lifted my chin up with his other hand so that I'd look up at him. "Your beautiful, if not more so." I was taken aback by what he said, "Don't let others dampen your light, especially when they have no light of their own."
"You're always so poetic." I said.
He chuckled. "I simply speak the truth, now get into character and don't be ashamed. You shouldn't want to quit. If anything you should be beaming with pride right now."
"Pride." I said confused. "At being bullied?"
"Yes. It's means they are jealous of you. After all, you must be doing something right, to get a request like this so soon. It's no simple task. It means you're good."
"I'm good." I said. "Good at this. No way, it's you."
"Its us," he, said moving both his hands to my waist.
It felt so natural like he'd done it a thousand times before. I wanted to wrap my arms around his neck and fall into him, but he suddenly let go and pulled back. I didn't want him to. I liked when he was close. I liked him and again wanted to get to know him. I wanted to see what was under the armor literally and figuratively. Yet before I could say a word, he took my hand and I realized we'd gotten the signal.
The announcer let out a roar, followed by a funny laugh then shouted. "AS PER YOUR SPECIAL REQUEST, THE DARK KNIGHT AND AZURE QUEEN!"
The Dark Knight pulled us onto the stage and I was blinded by the lights as he guided me to the x on the floor. I did my best to wave as the crowd roared and cheered. After a few seconds the Dark Knight escorted me to our booth. He let go of my hand, then pulled out a chair and gestured for me to sit. I went to, but he suddenly poked me hard. I stopped trying to sit just as he pulled the chair out from underneath me. He took it as his own, sat down and crossed his arms. It was a nasty move, but he was a villain. I took the chair next to him and sat down.
Our handler immediately came over and introduced herself, "Hey guys, I'm Drea. I'll be handling everything since you're new and you can't talk much. I'll help direct you and handle all the questions. Are you ready to start?"
"Yes." I lied. How did anyone ever get ready for something like this? Of course, most people had probably seen one before or had more then five minutes to prepare. The Dark Knight nodded, and Drea went over to the big line and started bringing guests over.
"OH WOW! IT'S REALLY YOU! BOTH OF YOU ARE AMAZING!" She kept screaming and jumping up and down. It was wild to see someone so excited over you.
"Will you sign my picture?" she asked, handing us a picture of...us. It was from earlier in the week. It was taken at a distance and showed the Dark Knight and I, down on the ground together. I was on my knees and the Dark Knight had dropped to one knee. I wasn't sure if we were allowed to sign this.
I looked to Drea and she examined it really quick, then nodded. I picked up a pen that was on the table and the Dark Knight stole it, right out of my hand. I scowled at him and a few fans cheered. I grabbed another pen then went to sign and he nudged me. I thought he was messing around again, but he whispered, "Azure Queen."
"Yes," I whispered back.
"No, your name,"
I realized I was suppose to sign my character's name and not my own. He'd saved me without anyone realizing. I signed Azure Queen, trying to make each letter pretty and visible. He barely scratched the picture with a D and a K before leaning back in his chair.
The fan looked at it and seemed overjoyed. "Can I take a picture with you both." I looked to Drea and she nodded, so I nodded back.
We got up and went over to the backdrop. Drea helped pose us and one of a dozen photographers came over and took our picture. It was the first of many. The fan smiled and waved to us. I waved back and the next guest stepped up. After about five guests someone arrived with a stack of Darrow's Park posters and we started signing one for each guest that approached our table.
After a dozen or so signatures, the Dark Knight told me to shorten my signature or we'd be here all day. I sign it AZQ cause it looked the coolest. We got more requests for photos. They usually wanted both of us or just the Dark Knight. He got three times the request for photos as me.
He also got the guards called on him a lot, especially by little kids. Drea would quickly apologize and say all the guards were fighting ogres and troll right now, but they would get to the Dark Knight as soon as they got a chance. The kids would still ask for an autograph. Some of them wanted to fight him and he was really good with them, pretending to run or get taken out. I wondered if he had experience. I hoped not! I mean, maybe as an uncle or a sibling. I hoped he didn't have kids, but for all I knew he could be married. I tried not to think about it, surely if he was married he wouldn't have kissed me, but some actors did so-
The Dark Knight nudged me and I realized I was getting distracted. We were suppose to be taking a picture. I got up and we took a picture with some teenage girls. Then we got back to it. Off and on we got questions and I was glad they were redirected. Some of them were real doozies like: Were the Dark Knight and Azure Queen in love? Were they a couple? What did that kiss mean? Why didn't they mention the kiss? What does the Azure Queen think of the Dark Knight? What does the Dark Knight think of the Azure Queen? Is the Azure Queen a villain? Is the Dark Knight not really a villain? Poor Drea took them all like a champ with the same responses. "Perhaps you'll learn the answer to your question another time." or "In time all will be revealed." I hoped so, especially about that kiss. I looked at the Dark Knight then smiled to myself
Around nine-fifteen it started to rain. Though were were inside, I heard it coming down pretty hard and it was soon followed by thunder. I didn't know what it was about lightning, but it made me think of someone. The man from my dreams. The one who was often my husband and the father of my children. I didn't recall much about him, only a feeling I got...the thread of a memory. I clutched my chest and the Dark Knight turned to me.
He leaned in and said "Its alright, we're inside."
He must have thought I was afraid. "I'm fine." I said.
He nodded and we kept signing autographs, though I noticed he sat a little closer to me. If anyone should be a little frightened, I think it would be the guy covered in metal from head to toe, but I didn't say anything. The storm got worse and the lights started to flicker. They decided to end the fan service early. The handlers stopped bringing guests up and we were able to get up and move around.
I thought we might be done, but forgot about the photoshoot. We had a small break while the park finished closing and the handlers set things up. I was hoping to talk to the Dark Knight, but I didn't see him anywhere. It was like he'd vanished. I avoided the Sapphire Queen and her minions, by watching the handlers. They got everything ready in a few minutes. It was a little past ten and I worried about the time, but did my best not to show is as they started posing us for the photos.
I did not like standing next to the Emerald Queen anymore, and did my best to pretend she wasn't there, even when she elbowed me. I thought of the Dark Knight and what he'd said to me. They were just jealous, clearly I was doing something right. I held my head up and smiled, thinking about that and about him. While they had been so cruel, he was so kind She kept giving me sour looks and got called out for it as one of them showed up in a photo. She was asked to fix her expression and keep her eyes on the camera, over the radio and I could see she was embarrassed. She stopped looking at me after that.
We took a dozen or so group photos. Then the new characters were pulled aside, to take portraits. The Dark Knight returned during mine and I lit up when I saw him. His armor was wet and I realized he'd been outside. Perhaps he'd gone out to have a cigarette or check on his horse. After the portraits were done, they had the Dark Knight and I take a few pictures. They got one of me staring at him with various expressions on my face, fear, curiosity, confusion, and determination. Then they had us do different poses, one of him giving me my apple back and another of him offering me a white rose. I pointed out it should be blue, and the photographer said it would get fixed in editing.
At one point the Dark Knight spoke to the photographer. I was told to get down and let the Dark Knight help me up. It was hard getting to the ground in my dress, but I managed. He helped me up, then pulled me in close... dangerously closed! My body was tightly pressed against his armor and my boobs popped up. I tried not to look down at them, but kept fearing they'd fall out of my dress!
I focused on him and could just make out his eyes. It didn't take me long to get lost in them. The photographer took a dozen or so photos of us, at different angles, and liked how they'd turned out. He showed us a few and I was reminded of a cover on a romance novel. The photographer said we had good chemistry, which made me blush. After that we were both dismissed by Beth. I was hoping to talk to the Dark Knight a little more, but they realized they didn't have any portraits of him and called him back. I wanted to wait, but checked the time and had less then half an hour to change and catch my bus. If I hurried I could just make it.
I waved to the Dark Knight and he nodded back as he posed for his portrait. I took off and practically sprinted to the dressing room. I was surprised all the changing curtains were already taken. I got my clothes, waited in line, changed, turned in my radio and waited in another line to clock out. I kept checking the time and started to worry. I only had about ten minutes to catch the bus. I clocked out a minute or two later, grabbed the stuff from my locker and went outside. It was barely sprinkling now, to which I was grateful. I checked the time again and found I had five minutes. I lit up thinking I was going to make it! I was going to-
"WHO THE FUCK DID THIS!"A woman screamed at the top of their lungs before madly sobbing.
I froze and looked around. There was a crowd forming off to my right in the parking lot.
I wondered what was going on. I passed by on my way to the bus and caught some of it. Apparently, all of Leslie's tires had been slashed. I didn't know who that was, but that sucked. I saw security guards making their way to the car with manger Herb.
The crowd parted and I slowed to see who it was. I recognized the Sapphire Queen! Though she was out of her costume, she wore her hair the same way as her character. She was hunched over the hood, of what I assumed was her car, madly sobbing. She kept shouting every so often, "WHY!" and cursing. Some people came over to comfort her.
I kept walking and was glad I did, because the last bus was a few minutes early. I got on and took a window seat. I watched the parking lot until it was out of sight, then sat back and let out a heavy sigh. I ran my hand over my face and tried to process everything. So, so much had happened today. Yet I couldn't help but think about what had just happened?
Who had done it? Who had slashed, not one, but all of her tires! I felt like that took some serious rage and risk. For a second, I wondered if it had anything to do with me, but how could it? I didn't know her. I just learned her name was Leslie and we'd only had the one or two interactions. Still, I couldn't help but feel strange, and think it was kind of...ironic.
She'd told me to watch my back and her tires get slashed. Maybe she'd messed with someone else, who didn't just stand there and take it. I bit my lip and worried they might blame me for this, but I doubted it. I recalled all those security monitors when I'd gotten my badge. Surely they'd catch who'd done this?
I yawned and tried not to think about it, or anything. I was already running on fumes as is. I didn't need extras noise in my head right now. It was dark when I got in, and my parents were surprisingly both asleep. They must have had a big day at my sister's. I shuffled about the apartment, got something to eat, then change, and went to bed. I was so exhausted, I passed out as soon as my head hit the pillow.
I woke to the phone ringing. Given how late it was, I knew it had to be important… maybe even an emergency! I rushed to get the phone and saw the light in my parents room come on as I answered it. "Hello!"
I waited and heard hard breathing. I paused, realizing it was the caller from before.
"What do you want?" I straight out asked. I was too tired for games, "Why do you keep calling here?"
They didn't say anything, but I could hear their breathing change. It was weird! This whole thing was weird! My mother rushed over and snatched the phone from my hand. "Joanie? Are you there? Is everything okay?" I realized my mother thought it was my sister, "Hello, hello," she said. She waited a second, then hung up and dialed Joanie's number. "Hello, are you okay, someone just called, was it you? Oh, no, okay go back to bed sweetie! I love you, rest up, sorry,"
She hung up, I looked at her and asked, "Did dad tell you someone's been calling and hanging up,"
"What? No. It's just a wrong number." she said.
"Ten times in a day?"
"You're exaggerating."
"Right, I must be mistaken," I said sarcastically.
"No one would call ten times for a wrong number."
"Yeah, I don't think its a wrong number."
"I'm tired Mindy. I don't have time for this."
"What! I'm just pointing out, something is going on here."
She waved me off and I felt annoyed. She acted like I was being paranoid. I felt like I couldn't catch a break. She went back to her room and shut the door. My dad just used the bathroom then shuffled back to bed. I yawned and tried to go back to bed, but I felt restless. Who the fuck kept calling?
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