Dellicia’S Circus Extraordinaire

By Cordelia Socorro Martinez

Circus Extraordinaire has arrived at New York! Majesty, mystery, and magic are sure to follow. Dellicia and her loyal crew must leave as soon as they arrive, due to unexpected circumstances that derail the tour. Everyone has to look to their past to preserve their future. On their journey, they are faced with trials not of this realm. Decisions against her will lead her to a lost love. The alluring power that surrounds Dellicias young son leads him to the Black Mountains and secrets that are to be revealed there. Its not just another day at the circus.

• Language: English
• Publisher: iUniverse
• Release date: Jun 14, 2017
• ISBN: 9781532018084

Cordelia Socorro Martinez

Cordelia Socorro Martinez is a native New Yorker. She has written and told many stories at a young age. Inspired by Anne Rice, Stephen King, and C. S. Lewis. After losing her sight in 2010 and began to suffer from night terrors, Cordelia was inspired to write the first book of her series, Dellicia’s Circus Extraordinaire..

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Copyright © 2017 Cordelia Socorro Martinez.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced by any means, graphic, electronic, or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, taping or by any information storage retrieval system without the written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles and reviews.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

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Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Thinkstock are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Thinkstock.

ISBN: 978-1-5320-1830-5 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-5320-1808-4 (e)

Library of Congress Control Number: 2017903023

iUniverse rev. date: 06/13/2017

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Prologue

Chapter 1.  Opening Night

Supermom

Chapter 2.  Boy’s Night Out

The List

Wwfb

Chapter 3.  New Additions

The Sub-Dwellers

Chapter 4.  The Messenger

The Legend Of The Blackpaw

Chapter 5.  The Storm, This Way Comes

The Water

Chapter 6.  Passing The Times

The Other Mother

The Soul Eater

Chapter 7.  The Hunter’s Moon

Chapter 8.  Wolf Rave

Chapter 9.  The Eye Of The Storm

Dedicate

d to

Luz Maria

To Louis, wishing you were here to read and act out my stories.

Special thanks to Aslan, Josh, Jenae, Cole, and most importantly, Richard, for having

patience and listening while typing. Joyce, who I

kept up late at night, when she wanted to

sleep, telling her all my ideas.

xoxo CSM

PROLOGUE

It was a cold, dark, foggy morning as the black 1920’s style bristle turned off the Major Deegan. The bristle, a gold and teal sphinx ornament sitting at the front, raced alongside of the vintage, speeding locomotive. As the headlights cut through the fog, the sound of the Valkyries by Richard Wagner could be heard for miles.

The train occupied a rusty, old track that was racketing dangerously. Sparks flew off the train’s wheels as it threatened to derail. The bristle quickly caught up to the freights first car, a door slid open and two men were shouting over the sound of the tracks. We can’t make it! These tracks haven’t been used for years! one of the train crew yelled. Another worker, an engineer, responded, I know, I know, but the boss is on our tail! A loud thunder clap rings in the dark and they looked up at the sky to see lightning in the distance behind the train. The men then saw the headlights of the bristle coming closer. They sighed, and the engineer decided, Tell everyone to hold on, cuz its gonna be a bumpy ride!

The train’s breaks screeched loudly as it came into a rail yard. Each cart jutted heavily forward and then back before coming to a final stop. The bristle stopped at the end of the station’s tracks as the freight doors began to slide open.

The workmen began to unload the train. James, the handyman, a middle aged man, with a tired face, worn hat and overseer of the circus equipment, jumped down off the freight taking a deep breath. He stared down at his feet as he walked over to the bristle, his boots scuffing against the gravel. He opened up the passenger door and a pair of shiny black boots and tight mermaid skirt stepped out the car and onto the floor. A cream French manicured hand with a gold and onyx ring on the index finger, extended forward. James took his mistress’ hand and helped her out of the bristle. Dellicia, could pass for the age of 20, 50 or anywhere in between. She looked young, but timeless with wisdom beyond her years. Her long thick raven hair was tied into a tight round bun behind her head. With her rain stick cane in hand and a shawl draped over her shoulders it seemed as if the morning fog only enhanced her beauty even more. Madame, James said nervously. Dellicia walked passed him clapping her hands, Hurry, hurry we have to set up, the opening is tomorrow. Then with searching eyes Dellicia called, Where is she? Where is my little baby?

Two workers grabbed Dellicia with one hand each on her elbow and waist, hoisting her into one of the opening cabooses. In the caboose Dellicia cooed There you are. Was it a bumpy ride, my Coco? In Dellicia’s arms was a black gibbon monkey. Coco’s long tail wrapped around Dellicia’s waist and her arms wrapped around Dellicia’s neck, kissing her cheek. The same two workers then helped Dellicia back down. Katrina, no older than 20, her Yugoslavian accent very thick, came from the middle freight all excited jumping up and down. Oh I can’t believe we’re here, She said. Her brother, Armand, was barking orders as the men were bringing out a cage with a big black panther.

The panther seemed agitated, pacing back and forth. One of the workers stumbled and the cage jolted forward. Careful, you idiots! yelled Armand. Armand, Katrina and their other sister, Katia were handlers of a big cat show. They were triplets. Katrina ran to Dellicia, kissing her on each side of her cheeks. I can’t believe we’re here! She said excitedly.

It’s just another dirty, filthy city, Armand snarled.

Oh that’s not true, you know what they say about New York. If you can make it here, you can make it anywhere.

This is not New York, Armand sneered with distaste, this is Randall’s Island.

How is Katia? Is she any better? Dellicia asked.

No she’s not, she doesn’t want to eat nor change and Armand isn’t helping make anything better, said Katrina. They both watch as Armand went to supervise the cat cage barking orders and insults.

And the little one? Katrina asks. Dellicia gestures to the car and Katrina runs to the bristle and hops inside. Armand returns to ask, How long are we going to be in the cesspool?

Not long. It will be different here, Dellicia responds.

It’s one in the same to me, Armand says.

Dellicia smiles as she turns around quickly clapping her hands Hurry, hurry my people hurry, for tomorrow is the opening of the Circus Extraordinaire! Every one of the crew and performers cheered. She put Coco down to her side and went into the bristle. The giant headlights turned on and the music played so loud it could be heard even as it zoomed down past the end of the station towards Randall’s Island.

RANDALL’S ISLAND, THE ARRIVAL

The circus extraordinaire had an old timeless, renaissance feel about it. The Mediterranean Canopy tents were being set up and everyone was working diligently. The sound of sledgehammering steaks into the ground, the chatter, the scent of caramel apples and peanuts were all in the air. Dellicia was overseeing every nook and cranny of her circus. She made sure everything was safe, secure and perfect. Remember Carl, we don’t want any problems with the inspectors or to go against any city ordinances, Dellicia explained, while triple checking to make sure everything was sturdy. Coming to the Twirling Teacups she took a ride on the roundabout to ensure it was secure, sturdy, safe and fun for the children. She especially enjoyed testing the rides. The workers smiled at their mistress. She took great pride and enjoyment in her circus. Every member was important to her like each digit on her hands. There were always helping hands to assist and carry her down from wherever she was. She turned and walked up the three steps into her trailer.

Hello Ollie, Dellicia said looking through some papers. A voice answered Del-liciiiaaa, how are you?

I’m doing very well Ollie. I can say that we won’t be here too long. I’m waiting for a delivery from Bandit.

The voice exclaimed Bandit! Bandit! Oh no, He sighs, Are you still dealing with the Bandit?

That’s not nice Ollie. From time to time, I do need his unconventional talents.

There was a chirp, and a fluttering noise, Dellicia smiled. Dellicia took a white mouse out of a glass tank by its tail and tossed it in the air. The talons of the huge white speckled snow owl caught it. Ooooh a snack! Thank you Dellicia. There was a knock on the door. Enter, the latch isn’t on, Dellicia said. She was searching through her desk drawer, ruffling through some papers. She put the vintage half-spectacles that were connected to a chain around her neck on the bridge of her nose. Hugo came into her trailer. His thick welsh accent seemed to match his boyish voice. Dellicia smiled and said hello to Hugo as he quickly climbed up the three-stepped stool on the side of Dellicia’s desk. Hugo stood just a little less than 3ft tall in a small suit. With bright eyes, big dimples, hair nicely combed to the side, he was the smallest magician and illusionist in the world. Dellicia was grateful to have him in the circus extraordinaire. Always the gentleman, Hugo took a single rose from inside his suit jacket, and bowed gracefully as he handed it to Dellicia. May I? Hugo asked gesturing to the stool. Dellicia smiled, as she smelled the rose, You certainly may,. Hugo’s little body plopped on the stool. He asked while looking around eagerly, To whom were you talking to? Dellicia’s hand pointed over her shoulder to the perch in the corner where Ollie was. I was talking to Ollie. The owl squawked and his head seemed to make a quick 90 degree turn. Owl’s cannot talk, Hugo said. Ollie squawked even louder and turned his back on the both of them. Of course owls can talk. All birds can talk; they just choose who they would like to speak to. What can I do for you Hugo? Are your quarters comfortable? Dellicia asked. Hugo nodded and said Yes

Are you settled in?

Yes

Is your equipment unpacked and intact?

Yes Yes!

Did you have enough to eat? Are being treated kindly and with respect? yes yes yes yes yes!

What can I do for you Hugo? Dellicia said noticing his little crush on her.

Will we be able visit the city? Will I be permitted to go? I am very interested on seeing everything here. Hugo asked.

Well Hugo, don’t I always allow you to go around and about, especially in the cities?

His little voice was excited with glee, But this is New York, you know what they say about New York!

Dellicia groaned Ughh, yes I know what they say Hugo but I don’t see why there should be any problems or why all of you cannot unwind. Run about and enjoy yourselves. Bending down to Hugo’s level they met eye to eye. His eyes locked on hers as he listened to her obediently, nearly in a trance, As long as you follow the rules. She said. Almost testing him in her tone Hugo immediately recited in unison with her as she spoke the rules. Be swift like a thief in the night, harming and offending none. Caring for one another like a family and clan returning safely and never bringing shame and disgrace to the circus extraordinaire. Dellicia’s mind took her to a dark memory of a hostile crowd. Angry faces carrying axes, two-by-fours, pitch forks and lit torches flashed in front of her. Just then, a loud knock brought her back to the present. Enter, the latch isn’t on, Dellicia called. James, the foreman, entered. Yes? she questioned with her left eyebrow raised.

Madam, we seem to be having problems with the tanks. I’m afraid a tank got damaged on arrival. Dellicia’s hand slammed on the desk., her calm, soothing demeanor leaving her. I told you to be careful! She scolded.

But madame… James started saying in defense.

I told you! I told you! I told you to be extremely careful! Dellicia shouted. She took the reading glasses off her face and proceeded out of the trailer. Hugo scrambled off the stool, looking up at tall James. His small voice chastised him She told you, she told you, she told you, you idiot!

Just before Hugo was about to follow Dellicia, James’s foot swatted Hugo in the backside kicking him out of the trailer. James cleared his throat, Pardon me didn’t see you there. Hugo dusted his suit as he picked himself up, You idiot! He raced to Dellicia’s skirt grabbing on to the back hem to keep up. Her boots quickly scattered the shredded woodchips that were on the ground. She went to the darkened middle bale ring tent. The massive pool sized glass tank loomed high in the center of the tent. Dellicia looked at the spider web shaped crack, at the bottom right corner of the tank, as it threatened to widen. She looked at the huge tank, there was fissure in it. In the corner of the tent, sitting in a chair was a mermaid draped in a thin wet sheet. A pale scaly hand poked out from the wrapping. Oh my dear I am so, so sorry Dellicia said as she knelt down. She gently took the long scaly hand in her own. How is he? Dellicia questioned to the shrouded figure.

My lord is still angry and extremely weak. He is not used to being among you all.

Dellicia turned around and looked at the four barrels of shellfish. Have you eaten anything my lady? Dellicia asked.

The mermaid shook her head no. Standing, Dellicia turned looking to Hugo and began to panic, Where is that tank replacement? Hugo! Hugo popped up to attention. Where is that tank replacement? I need a replacement! Go find James now! She stomped her foot. The tent flap pulled loose as Hugo rushed out, a hard breeze pushing it open and sunlight flashed inside. The pale scaly translucent figure flinched, dropping the drape as her long fingers covered her face. The daylight was extremely too bright. Dellicia quickly ran and tied the end of the tent’s flap to its hook. She went to a bucket and stuck her hand in, tasting the water. Not enough salt she murmured to herself.

Dellicia reached over and grabbed the container of Dead Sea salt crystals to pour the whole thing into the bucket of water. She then poured it onto the mermaid’s fin. Her dried tail began to unfold like a wide fan, waving back and forth. The mermaid made a purr-like, cooing sound of relief. Several workmen came in pushing a huge, wide tank. Sam, Tommy, you fill that tank up as quickly as possible Dellicia ordered. Sam nodded and Tommy ran for the big hose. The men did their work quickly and diligently. They didn’t like seeing their mistress displeased. The tank was half full when there was a humungous splash as the old tank was being removed. Most of the water fell upon Dellicia and the mermaid. Dellicia smiled wiping her face. Oh forgive me my lady, I’m so sorry the mermaid said.

No, I’m sorry Dellicia interrupted. The two women had an understanding. The mermaid moved, placing something in Dellicia’s palm. Oh no no no no Dellicia protested the gift. The mermaid’s scaled hand went on top of Dellicia’s knuckles, stopping her protests. The mermaid had put an enormous black pearl in the palm of Dellicia’s hand. Before the mermaid could insist and Dellicia could withdraw, the sultry roar of a panther could be heard, both threatening and menacing. Something was definitely wrong in the cat’s tent.

A piercing shriek rang out, Noooo! Dellicia and the mermaid froze as they listened, What now? Dellicia murmured, rushing out of the tent and leaving both pearl and mermaid behind. Ahhh…Bitch! shouted a masculine, gruff voice. Katrina shrieked, Stop! Don’t do that! Dellicia rushed into the smaller push pole type panther tent.

Katrina was cowering against a wall of the tent, her face flushed, eyes blinded by tears. The tent was set for a performance with the cat pedestals and rings in the center. Against the side of the tent a large cage sat with the door swung open. On the largest bull tub at the center of the tent sat Katia, the panther, swiping menacingly at Armand. The legs of the training chair were bitten off. Blood streamed down Armand’s face from where the cat had slashed him with her great claws. The panther was snarling and roaring at Armand, Fucking bitch! Armand bellowed. He reached for the wooden handler pole at the side of the cage. Stop it! Don’t do that! Katrina warned. Dellicia grabbed the pole before Armand could get to it, snapping it over her knee. What are you doing? she asked.

I’m tired of this! Armand yelled back She does not want to eat, she does not want to change his voice escalating "and she doesn’t want to perform!’’

So be it. the ring mistress retorted sternly. Armand snared and lunged toward her, making a gargling panther sound from his throat. Armand!, Katrina called out as he stormed out through the tent flaps. A long, eerily soothing sound entered the tent. The sounds of Sabastian’s pan flute floated into the space. The sound itself seemed to be accompanied by a mist of dust and glitter. Mist surrounded the panther as she it became calm. The melodic billowing veil lured the great cat back into the cage. Closing her eyes, Katia bowed her head circling within the enclosure three times before lying down and falling asleep. Dellicia patted Sabastian’s chest and he gave her a slight nod as she passed him. Looking up, her disposition changed suddenly into enormous glee as the Helium balloons took to the air.

The scent of candy apples, popcorn, and cotton candy tickled everyone’s nose. The noises and clatter started and children ran around excitedly. Hurly burly men barked and rides whirled to life, while people laughed and smiled in a swarm of movement and colors. For after all, who doesn’t love coming to a circus on opening day? Puppets, kites, pinwheels, and over-sized swirled lollipops are being sold to patrons as they made enormous lines. The ring mistress strolled the grounds with pride as she watched others enjoy her circus extraordinaire. She peered over a child’s shoulder that was squirting a water gun into a clown’s mouth. Attempting to make the balloon above it burst. The alarms rang as someone else won the prize and the little girl pouted in disappointment. The ring mistress smiled and took a purple gorilla off of a hook as she called out, Everyone is a winner! The girl blushed and said, Thank you, before she snatched the gorilla from Dellicia as the mistress passed on her way back to the restricted tent area. James and another worker stood at the bale ring tent. They both separated to let their mistress in. The enormous tank was filled with cloudy water that had a fluorescent glow, and took up most of the tent. The tank had a wooden deck connected along one side with a wooden ladder on the opposite side. To the left side of the tank were several large barrels filled with shellfish. Dellicia rested her palms against the glass and the water on the top of the tank began to bubble. Dellicia’s head darted from side to side. Something from the bottom of the tank was about to surface. The flap of the tent flew up as the blinding light of day shined through. The mistress ran to the flap and squatted down to secure the ropes to grommet in the ground, enshrouding the tent in darkness again. Before she could stand back up, Dellicia heard a loud thud behind her followed by loud drops of water falling, and she smiled. Dellicia stood and slowly turned around. There he stood at six feet tall with translucent skin, scaled from his wrist to his triceps. His pectorals and abdominals were extremely muscular, but his legs and the center of his loins were all scales down to his ankles and his long toes were webbed. The mistress looked up at his turquoise eyes that glowed with her reflection. More than a thousand thin tentacles left his head forming what reminded her of hair flowing well beyond his shoulders. Instead of nostrils, there were