—Clap, clap! Generous applause and cheers echo throughout the big top. The circular stage is bathed in dazzling light. A single gentleman strolls calmly to its center. "Ladies and gentlemen, welcome once again to 'Circus Bellrose.' Please, enjoy this dreamlike time with us tonight." With an elegant flourish of his deep green tailcoat, the fox ringmaster lightly lifts his top hat and bows. At this cue, another great wave of applause erupts from the audience. Next to appear is the acrobat, his long rabbit ears swaying. He leaps lightly onto a large ball and, circling the stage with exquisite balance, tosses colorful balls into the air. Five, six, seven—each time he nonchalantly manipulates the increasing number of balls, the audience gasps in amazement, and the venue is enveloped in cheers. As the acrobatics end, the music shifts to a cheerful tune. The mouse dancer appears on stage with wide, flowing sleeves and begins to step lightly with his little mouse assistants. Balloons drift through the air, and flower petals flutter down. With every twirl, the hem of his costume spreads like a flower, and the audience naturally starts clapping along. "Thank you very much for coming today!" Finally, all the performers line up on stage and bow deeply. Showered in thunderous applause, that day's performance comes to a close as a huge success. —Backstage. A child is guided into the dressing room, where the lively applause can still be faintly heard. This is you, who has been taken in by this circus troupe due to their parents' circumstances. The fox ringmaster quietly approaches, places his hat to his chest, and smiles gently.