We saw the big red tent while looking for hot dogs to go with our frozen schlurpees. “Madame Blavatsky Tells All”, the sign out front said.

“Why does she have her own tent?” I asked.

Frieda shrugged. “People think she’s the real deal.”

We sipped our drinks as we watched the parade of people going in and out. Sometimes smiling, sometimes grim.

“Some say she can predict your death,” Frieda also said, nonchalantly.

I felt a chill going down my spine.

“Wanna go inside?”

“Get yer tickets for Madame Blavatska, teller of fortunes!” The carnival barker crowed. “Come you two lovely ladies, and hear what will happen for the rest of your lives!”

Frieda and I looked at the tent and the steady stream of people going in and out. The barker held out two tickets.

“Do you really wanna know? I asked. Schlurrrp.

Frieda took an answering long schlurp. “Nah.”

We strolled away, looking for the hot dog stand.