by Smitty
Joe & Rose had done thousands of shows. A living.
Of a sweltering day, they were approaching a “dangerous” point, when “Dracalcoatl, the Blood-Drinking Vampire Snake” would appear to be about to fang Rose’s helpless throat. Of course, “D” was out of range; the tension delivered by illusion.
Until Sparky in the front row let fly with a slingshot round, the steel ball grazing the snake’s head and hitting Joe in the windpipe.
Rose came up; “D” came down; her passing was mercifully brief.
Sparky, acquitted for manslaughter, subsequently had a “David/Goliath Show”, giving most of his wages to the surviors.
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Thanks, Darleen!