A

Friend's Return

Moving on.

Guess what? Song time! I'll only announce the song if it's from another movie or from the show and revised.

Never Had a Friend like Me

By: Genie

From: Aladdin

(Rest in Peace Robin Williams. I miss you)

xxx

Excitement was bustling throughout Enchancia. Announced in the village, and relayed to the palace, the Golden Wing Circus was due to arrive by noon. Two at the latest to properly feed and water the animal acts. It was all the same to Enchancia. They couldn't wait for the circus to arrive. Excited kids played circus in the streets, putting on little shows for their own amusement. Before they know it, the circus will be rolling in, and they'll be watching men put their heads in a lions mouth. The Trapeze artists were a crowd favorite. But the animals always captivated the audience. People love animals.

The Circus was going to set up in Dunwitty this year. The Dunwitty Mayor established an area where the circus can pitch their tent and have ample room preparing for their show. A vacant lot was left when a condemned mill was leveled. It was marked and barred from entry. Occupancy at inns were reserved and filled the night before with neighbors coming from all around to see. Family and Friends' houses were packed to max capacity as well. The anticipation of the Circus' arrival could be heard from the castle.

At the moment, however, the hustle and bustle went unnoticed by a handful. A weird trunk was in the throne room. None of the servants were aware of it until they arrived for work that morning. Baileywick certainly didn't approve of it. He was actually slightly peeved it eluded him. Constable Miles was at a loss as well. None of the guards reports anyone approaching or entering the palace last night. All that was clear is it was for Lydia. So the card said.

James jumped on the top, slamming all his weight to his feet. Amber and Sofia circled it, determined to spot a slot, or anything that would open it. Roland and a couple of guards attempted to pry it open. It was sealed shut. Miranda and Lydia ogled the traveling trunk perplexedly. No locks, no key hole. The trunk doesn't seem to open. Yet it was meant for Lydia to have. By the weight of it, something was definitely inside. James' next step was getting a cannon. That'll open it. And quite possibly create cause for a fifth basement.

"This is quite the surprise." Miranda remarked, marveling at the stubborn trunk. It was also very odd.

"Remind me again how no one noticed a huge, tacky trunk enter the castle?" Lydia itched her head. The guards simultaneously shrugged their hands. It was a mystery to them too. Lydia shook her head. "How did we come to find this?" Whatever this is?

"Gwen found me and told me saw it just sitting here." Miranda informed her.

"I was coming back from gathering ingredients in the garden. I didn't know what to do with it." Gwen tapped her index fingers together. "And I don't like touching other people's things."

"Any idea who it's from?" James knocked on the trunk. It sounded hollow, but nothing alive was in there.

"What does the card say?" Constable Miles quizzed, handing it to Lydia.

Lydia opened the decorative cardboard. A poem was inside. She cleared her throat, "Roses are red, violets are blue. Give me a crank-" A hole in the side open, and out sprouted a crank bar, "Inside...is a surprise for you. From: Someone you know?" Could the note be anymore cryptic or ominous if it tried.

"That's not remotely vague." Baileywick muttered sarcastically. He had half a mind to toss the trunk on a cart and send it away. "Wait! Princess Lydia!"

"What?" Lydia paused, her hands to the crank.

"Don't turn that crank! It could be a trap of some sorts!"

Lydia stared in doubt. "A trap at eight in the morning? Really?" She grumbled. Baileywick shrugged. Anything was possible. The trunk was proof. Someone or something snuck it in there. Lydia sighed resignedly, stepping away from the crank.

"Allow me." Constable Miles took it from there.

As he wound the crank, Pop Goes the Weasel strummed. Every night when I get home...Baileywick, Miranda, and Roland pondered what could be and Sofia shared nervous glances. They've owned enough toys to expect a springy surprise. By the size of the trunk, it might be big. The monkey's on the table... The music was nearing the end, and nothing was happening. Take a stick and knock it off...Lydia, Gwen, and James edged closer, leaning in close to search for a seam or something. It was possible it broke during transport. POP, The top flew open. The springs sprung a vat of green ooze, dousing the stumbling Gwen, James, and Lydia, Goes the weasel! Constable Miles and the others were startled back. Baileywick, Roland, and Miranda managed to escaped the jelly. Constable Miles boots and part of his uniform were slimed. Amber shrieked, jumping to Sofia's arms for the preservation of her shoes and gown. Meanwhile Sofia's were touched.

"EWW!" Gwen whined, flicked goop from her eyes. It was all stuck in her hair, soaked to her clothing. It was going to take hours to wash it out. If it'll come out at all.

"I take back what I said." Lydia lied flat in defeat, moaning to Baileywick. "It was a trap."

"BRILLIANT!" James cheered. A tangy smell coming from the ooze caught his nose. He tapped his tongue to a handful. Then he bit into it. "Lemon lime jelly?"

"What?" Sofia set Amber outside the range of the ooze. The pair dipped a finger and tired it. They lit up in the delicious tang. "He's right. This is lemon lime jelly!" James scarfed his cheeks full, looking like a deranged chipmunk.

"Who in their right mind packs this much jelly just to waste it?" Amber disparaged. She ate the glob she scooped to her pinky. Waste, nothing. It was delicious. A candle lit an epiphany in Lydia's head. She ogled the jelly, the elaborate trunk, the nursery rhyme, and then remembered the Golden Wing Circus was coming. A smile stretched her lips.

On cue, Chef Andre solicited the help of a couple of the servants and scooped the jelly into bowls. He found dessert for tonight. "Who leaves a trunk full of jelly in the throne room?" Miranda questioned the madness. Not that she doesn't like jelly, but the carpet was ruined.

"Someone…who needs..." Lydia packed some jelly into a ball, "A DISTRACTION!" She threw it past Baileywick.

"GAH!" The jelly splattered to an invisible surface inches behind him and Miranda. It fell and hit the floor with a THUD! Feathers exploded literally from thin air, covering a protrusion on the floor. Lydia chuckled victoriously, dusting her sticky hands, and placing them to her hips. "AW! What a rip!" A disembodied voice wailed. No one moved in the ballroom, too frightened by the feathers wrestling with themselves. "THANKS - PUH,PUH - FOR NUTHIN - PEW, PEW - LYDIA!" The green blob showed. A hollow, enraged face glared daggers at Lydia. Miranda, Sofia, and Amber screeched, cowering by Roland and James. The green face ascended to mid air. "Stupid swan feathers! Get everywhere!" The feathers drizzled to the, shaping to flailing arms, and a body. Constable Miles put himself between the invisible creature, and Gwen and Lydia. Shoes were heard stomping and kicking the pile of feathers, shouting curse word after curse word. That was definitely a person. "Do you have any idea how long it took me to get those?!"

"Not half as long as it took you to lug this thing in here." Lydia tapped the trunk. She kindly edged Constable Miles by the shoulder, "Honestly, did you really think I wouldn't recognize that old trick?" She stepped forward, practically insulted. "You used that trick on me the first day we met."

Roland and the others shared perplexed stares. Looking between Lydia and the...green face, they wondered if Lydia was losing her mind talking to a disembodied voice. Heck, they wondered if they'd lost their minds. Any normal person would be running for the hills, or crying ghost. Here they are, standing like deer in headlights, watching the pair as if they were a dog and pony show. One would think the mermaids would have sapped their ability to be impressed. No such luck.

"Can't blame a girl for trying." The strange person chortled. Sprinkling white dust poured above the odd figure. Long, voluminous black hair tied to a flowing ponytail materialized. "After all, the least expected is the most obvious." Piercing diamond blue eyes, and an equal beautiful smile captivated the marveling crowd. "At least that's what our teachers taught us..." From the shadows, a young woman around Lydia's age appeared. The dust may have clung to her brown shoulder shaul, and the bands occupying her forearms, but her sleeveless beige tunic and brown tights were clean, neat, and very accommodating to her burlap boots. In her hands was a pouch with the dust she'd poured on herself. She tied it to her belt, placing it with other pouches and trinkets begging for inquiry. "And I'm betting you didn't expect me to make my grand entrance like this." The girl bounced her snarky brow.

"You always were unpredictable." Lydia threw her head back, laughing as she sauntered to the suspicious girl. "But that's one of the things I always loved about you." The mysterious girl blew on her knuckles, boastfully rubbing them to her chest. Lydia's words dried so she shook her head. It's hard to argue with this one. "It's great to see you again, Adelea."

"You have no idea how badly I missed you too." The girls joined in a warm hug, humming happily. "You look good."

"You look better."

"Adelea?!" Sofia chimed. She knew that name. Lydia was hollering about her a few days ago. "Hold on! Is she THAT Adelea?!"

"Is there another?" Adelea playfully retorted. "Don't tell me you found another Adelea."

"Trust me," Lydia slowed her motor, "Even if I did, she'd be nothing like you."

Adelea put hands to her hips and puffed her chest proudly, "One of the most wonderful things about me is I'm the only one." A ping reflected off her grin.

"OH!" Miranda clapped her hands together, glistening in realization. "This is your friend from sorcery school! The one who sent you that letter last week!"

"Yep! This is her. Everyone, meet my best friend Adelea Salera." Adelea put the jocularity aside. She crossed her left hand to her chest, and bow extending her leg, and sweeping her right arm to the side. "Adelea and I met our first year of Sorcery school. We've been inseparable ever since."

"Graduation notwithstanding." Adelea reminded her.

"Lea, these are my family and friends. My Dad, King Roland the second, and my Mom Queen Miranda."

"Your Majesties," Adelea curtsied, "It's an honor to finally meet the both of you."

"Like wise, Adelea." Roland returned the bow.

"Lydia speaks very highly of you." Miranda lent her a hand, permitting Adelea to raise her head. "I can't tell you how happy I am to meet you."

Adelea timidly blushed. It was nice to know Lydia thinks about her. "Oh, um, Sorry about the mess!" She may have gone a little overboard with the jelly. She rifled in another pouch. Stitched to it were bubble patches. "Here. This ought to do the trick." Throwing a handful of dust in the air, bubbles automatically formed as it touched the green mess. The bubbles rubbed fiercely to the blob, coating the floor in a foam. Adelea sprinkled some on Lydia, Gwen, James, Miles, and Sofia. Bubbles swarmed the lot of them. The foam scrubbed vigorously like multiple brushes. The thick foam was a dry but moist substance. As they steadily popped, dissipating the green gunk, the carpets and tile sparkled and shined, emitted a fresh clean smell. The same was said for Lydia and the others splashed by the jelly. Their clothes looked good as new. Smelt fresh as they day they came off the cart. "That's better."

"Oh my! Most impressive!" Roland stroked the carpet. It wasn't even slightly damp. And there was no sign of stains or stickiness. Gwen and Sofia fawned over their clean dresses. James was feeling down that he couldn't finish eating what his body caught. Oh well. Chef Andre saved some. "Thank you very much, Adelea."

"My pleasure, Your Majesty."

Sofia, James, and Amber approached, eager to meet Lydia's mysterious friend. "These are my sisters, Sofia and Amber." The two girls waved. "And that's my brother James."

"Hi there!" Adelea knelt to Sofia. "So you're the famous Sofia?"

"Um...I guess." Sofia smiled awkwardly.

"Lydia always told me so much about you at school. I feel like I practically know you." She extended her a hand, "It's nice to finally meet you."

"Same here!" Sofia excitedly shook Adelea's hand.

"Amber, James," She leaned in with a sly grin, pretending to whisper in secret, "Have you been keeping her out of trouble?"

"We try..." Amber jokingly sighed exasperated.

"But trouble finds her anyway." James snorted.

"Yep! I'm gonna like these ones." Adelea winked. Lydia stuck her tongue at her. Then she shot a stern stare, calling Amber and James Traitors!

"Over here we have my friends. Our kitchen maid, Gwen."

"Nice to meet you." She shyly fiddled with her apron.

"Constable Miles, captain of our guard."

"Miss Salera." Miles bowed.

"And our Castle Steward, Baileywick."

"It is a pleasure to meet you. And thank you for cleaning up." He purred, loving the softness pushing the carpet.

"It's great to meet all of you." Adelea laughed incredulously, holding a hand to her spinning her as if in a funnel. "I'm standing here seeing it, and I still can't believe it." She whipped to Lydia, eyeing her thinking an imposter was standing there. "Bomb-Bad Lydia is a Princess now. It's too surreal, even for me."

"Bomb-Bad Lydia?" Miranda and Sofia shakily repeated. Adelea can't be talking about their Lydia. Said girl cringed, blushing madly at the name.

"Our first year, Lydia got so mad at another girl for always yanking on her hair that she blew up hers in retaliation." Adelea was hooting with laughter, but Lydia was melting in her misery. "It was like thousands of blond fuses lighting off at once!" James and Sofia had to laugh at that one. Amber, however, held onto her hair for dear life. "And this other time, when Lezard kept stealing her headband," All ears stressed at the boy's name. Lydia blushed strawberry red, "She stole his glasses, and they made the prettiest fireworks!" Adelea swerved her hands up in the air, able to see those very fireworks.

"She blew up her boyfriend's glasses?" Gwen gasped.

"HE'S NOT MY BOYFRIEND! ...A-anymore." ANYMORE?! She earned an uproar of huh's. Details - copious details - are in order at a later time. Miranda and Roland sure are cross with her. Amber most of all. This is completely different from what she's been telling them.

"And no." Adelea entered before speculations grew out of hand. "She used them to amply a firework spell, and cooked him so good people nearby thought we were having barbecue."

"PLEASE!" Lydia grasped Adelea's collar, forcing her to stand on her tip toes. "FOR THE LOVE OF EVERYTHING DECENT, JUST STOP TALKING!" She violently shook Adelea, making an assortment of tools, and a ball of lint, hit the floor. Her ears were so red they could be confused for tomatoes. "Fauna, Merryweather, and Flora already regaled them at my humiliating expense! I don't need you doing it too!"

"Thats what best friends are for, Lyd!" Adelea pat her head, "Mine and Lezard's job was to keep you smiling, and point out your most embarrassing flaws."

"MY flaws?!" Lydia jabbed an affronted thumb in her chest. "Last time I checked, I wasn't the one facing expulsion for putting Salamander pellets in Coach McGrath's socks!" Lydia knocked on Adela's forehead.

"What? He deserved it." And she wasn't ashamed of it either. Oh the headaches Lydia get's from this girl.

"So..." Gwen interceded the gradually escalating conversation, "Lezard was Lydia's best friend too?" Gwen helped the subject change directions. Lydia growled in the back of her throat. She'd protest. Although, by the smirks on her three younger siblings' faces, they'd pressure her for an answer. "

Adelea laughed menacingly, looping an arm around Lydia's neck, "Lydia, Lezard, and I were thick as thieves. (cue the music) But I was the better friend." She tooted her own horn. "And she doesn't have another one like me." She snapped her fingers. A chair spun like a top to her. She grabbed it and sat on it backwards. Sofia, James, and Amber gazed excitedly.

"Aladdin's got a monkey, carpet, and genie too." She snapped her fingers, conjuring shadowettes of the mentioned figures. "Ariel's got a crab and fish." Adelea's two fingers flourished, spiraling the shadowettes to Lydia, "But Lydia's luck got her me!" Lydia stumbled when she pounced to her back. "Terrible Twosome became our sign!" A banner displaying them as outlaws unraveled in her hand.

Adela whirled around, appearing between Miles and Baileywick, "With Lezard our corner had power, POW!" She vanished in grey smoke, appearing by Miranda and Roland. "Some heavy ammunition in our camp!" She extended a thumb and index finger, firing blazing dustball. Gwen hit the floor. The flames narrowly missed her bandana. "We were the punch," James bumped fists with her "Pizzaz," Amber flaunted her natural beauty, "Yahoo, and how!" Sofia and she highfived. "See, all we had to do was raise our wands," Lydia and Adelea raised imaginary wands, "And we'd say:

The girls stood back to back, confidently bobbing their shoulder, "Let ye who dare to challenge us," In a spin they wrapped arms to each other's waist, swaying their hips, "Prepare to pack your bags!"

"Lezard's the brains," Lydia winked, touching her head

"And I'm the brawn." Adela flexed a deflating muscle, then jumped to Lydia, "Lydia's the catch between."

Lydia rolled her eyes, resigning to the catchy song. "Life is a restaurant and..." She lifted Adelea's palm, "SHE'S MY MAITRE'D!" She threw Adelea in a spin, catching her on the 180 to her side.

Adelea dropped to a glitter made couch, "I'm her ice cream and novels on Friday nights." The ice cream and book were tossed aside. "She ain't never had friend like me!"

"Yes sir," Lydia surreptitiously leaned to Roland, Miles, and Baileywick, "She'll exaggerate all day long! Presume to argue! In a breath, you lose!" Flat, simple, and true through and through. "But say what you wish," Amber and James' snide remarks hitched in their mouths, "She's my true dish. As a better half," They connected palms, pressing themselves together in a dance, "It's her I'll choosse!" Lydia sprouted from nowhere, hooking Miranda's arm, "On the first day we met,

Adelea hooked Gwen, "Best friends we swore to be!"

"Good mood,"

"Or bad," The two pushed Gwen and Miranda together.

"Happy," Adelea beamed.

"Or mad," Lydia frowned.

Their hands joined. Adelea led her in a tango, "I/she ain't never had friend like me/her." Adelea dipped her, their arms extended outward.

The girls twirled and drew top hats and canes, dancing in a jig. Sofia, James, and Amber dropped in front, joining the dance. "Friend like her!"

"Oh my." Lydia twirled her cane, directing to Adelea.

"Ne-ver had!" The trio bounced their hips to one side.

"No no." Adelea threw jazz hands high and low.

James, Sofia, and Amber sported their own hats and canes, "The best of friends!"

"My my my." The girls tap around each other, "You've/I've never had a friend like me/you!" They shot fingers and winked at each other. The sibling trio ended the song with perfect splits. A round of applause coaxed the musical crew into a bow.

James, on the other hand, was carried off to a bench where he can heal from his most unwise splits trick. Roland felt sorry for him. He's made that mistake once or twice in his life. "So what's brought you to Enchancia, Adelea? Aside from rekindling with Lydia." Roland stroked up the conversation.

"OOH!" Sofia bounced excitedly, jerking Adelea's hand. "Are you here for the Golden Wing Circus? You should come see it with us!"

"Thanks, Sofia! But I wouldn't want to impose on your family time." Adelea politely declined.

"Nonsense." Miranda wouldn't hear of it. "The more the merrier, I say. And it would mean so much if you'd join us."

Adelea hesitated answering. It was tempting. Being able to watch a show with Royalty is a rare opportunity. And they are offering. Lydia tapping her shoulder halted her carriage of thought. "My mom and Sister are also someone who you can rarely say no to." She whispered. Miranda and Sofia weighed their sparkling, pleading eyes down upon her.

Adelea could feel her resolve waning. Her laughter signaled her surrender. "Okay, okay, I'll go!" She threw her hands in the air. Miranda and Sofia boastfully pumped fists. Works like a charm, their smirks spoke.

"By the way..." Adelea scanned the ceiling, and looked around Adelea in confusion, "I don't see Serena anywhere." A large lump lodged in Adelea's throat. Sweat beaded down her back. "Did she not come with you?"

"OH! UM!" She choked on her drying throat. "She's...around...yeah..." She pinched her shaul, shading pinkish red. Lydia lifted a brow. Adelea's acting like she was caught outside after curfew.

"Who's Serena?" Miles asked the question everyone wanted to know.

"Serena's my red-tailed hawk. Like Lydia and Eezeyal, she's one heck of a friend." She announced proudly. She massaged the shoulder the hawk's talons left forever impression engraved. "Although, Serena was originally a project for my Zoo-Biology class in school."

"Zoo-Biology?" Baileywick thoughtfully curled a finger to his chin. He's never heard of a class like that.

"It's a class combining Zoology and Biology. A class for animal and nature lovers." Lydia cleared the air. "It consists of five courses in one. Biology, herbology, botany, zoology, and ecology. Advanced, and carries a low pass rate because many of the students either dropped out or gave up." She gestured the spotlight on Adelea, crowning her moment, "Adelea aced the class with the highest score in recorded history."

"That's nothing compared to being added to the Honor's Category." Adelea humbled herself.

"You mean..." James glanced baffled between them, "The two of you aren't both Honor Graduates?"

"Nah. It wasn't my thing." Adelea waved off. It was overrated to her. It wasn't on purpose, but everyone wondered what the difference in skill is for Lydia and Adelea. "I was offered a spot - don't sell me short. But the Academy half didn't have Zoo-Biology based courses. So I stayed on Hexley's half."

"Are there sorcerer's dedicated to nature?" Amber asked skeptically.

"Every sorcerer is different in their future careers, Princess Amber." Adelea elucidated. "Some go on to be Royal Sorcerers, others teachers, or those like me who find their niche and run with it." Adelea's niche is dedicated to the study and preservation of the natural world which humans live in. It was her fond hope, by working hard and learning everything there is to know, she can use her magic to barricade those who wish to harm nature from destroying it.

"The teachers saw her talent and found her a wand perfect for her dream." That lump lodged in Adelea's throat again. Lydia noticed it right of the bat. The second she started playing with her shaul, Lydia knew something was up. And she wasn't about to pry. "There are wands specially designed for specific crafts, along with other talents to help the sorcerer along. Adelea graduated top of the class." Lydia placed a hand on her shoulder, "Animus Mal scouted her and later made her his apprentice."

"THE Animus Mal?" Roland gasped. "The world's most famous exotic animal researcher?"

"That's the one. And he let me have some time off to visit with Lydia." She noticed curious eyes drift to her belt. She tapped the pouches, and animal shaped whistles. "He helped me make these for whenever I decide to venture on my own and study the local wildlife."

"Amazing. Simply amazing!" Roland could hardly believe his ears. "If it is not too much trouble, would you mind demonstrating some of your magic for us?" Adelea and her big mouth. Lydia went rigid too. There is something Adelea isn't telling, and Roland inadvertently backed her into a corner.

"Maybe later, Dad!" Lydia moved in front of Adelea, reducing the heat. "Lea's had a long trip. Why don't I let her relax in my room for a while?"

"I think that's a wonderful idea, Rolly." Miranda hugged his arm. "Adelea can join us for breakfast."

"Agreed. Baileywick, have a guest room prepared."

"Right away, Your majesty." Baileywick happily accommodated.

"No! Please! You don't have to-"

Roland's raised hand halted her protest, "I insist." Adelea's jaw bobbed. A long groan meant to be her decline reverberated. "You've traveled a long way. Please say you'll stay."

Adelea breathed in defeat. Lydia wasn't kidding when she said saying no wasn't much of an option. "Very well. I'll stay." Oh...man...Adelea's inner self was shaking like a scared puppy. She was regretting coming to the castle. This is going to turn out really bad.

"Then it's settled. Follow me…" Lydia dragged Adelea from the throne room before anyone could take their next breath Her voice lowered, and a daunting glare unnerved Adelea for the near future, "And you can explain to me why two of your partners are missing." Adelea should have known. The blank spaces at her hip and shoulder - Lydia saw them a mile away. This was the part she dreaded while journeying to Enchancia. Maybe if she explains calmly, uses the correct words, and adds some humor - Lydia MIGHT not be upset with her.

Five grueling minutes later

"YOU...DID...WHAT?!" The scream quaked Robin and Mia off their perch in the gardens.

Cedric paused on a checkers' king me, lifting a brow familiar to the enraged echo. "Hm. She's late." Wormwood nodded.

Ubos and Eezeyal briefly broke from their card game in the cellar, sensing a disturbance in the force. "Gin~" Ubos sang mockingly. Eezeyal, unsportsmanlike, threw his cards at the ground.

Adelea lowered her reddened cheeks shamefully to the floor. Thank goodness Lydia's first stop on the tour was to the first basement Library. Practically soundproof down there. And rarely ever used. Lydia smashed her hands to her forehead, running clawing fingers over her scalp. She paced back and forth, literally at a loss for words, and not sure how to react. "You lost Serena and your wand...ON A BET?!"

"It was a...card game...actually." Adelea groaned, sinking in the floor. Her silence was the one way she could respond. Nothing she says will pardon this.

"Lea! How-when...w-why..." Again, she's at a loss for words. She won't pretend to be a saint. Lydia's done some nasty numbers in her life. But wagering her pet and wand, and losing? That takes the cake. Who even sacrifices their most prized possessions for a few coins in their purse? Why do I bother asking when it comes to Lea? "Please don't tell me you lost them to Sedgwick. I've told you that third eye of his makes him a card master." She desperately pleaded for a silver lining in her day.

"No-no! Sedge doesn't have them." Lydia was able to breathe on that. Should Sedgwick acquire anything, he mounts it on his wall of fame. Animals and objects alike. Serena, count your blessings. "And his third eye went blind a couple weeks ago."

"Ooh! What happened?" She winced.

"Something about a flash powder incident in the Black Out Cavern."

"That would do it. So who has them?"

"Someone part of the Golden Wing Circus. His name is Boswell."

The Golden Wing Circus. How bad of a coincidence this turned out to be. The most anticipated and awaited of traveling entertainments is holding Adelea's Wand and Hawk hostage. This will make for great P.R. Lydia cynically gnawed on her inner cheek. "How did you meet someone in the circus and lose a bet to them?"

"A couple of months ago, Boswell was at a Frozen Dairy Parlor in Greensville that I frequented." She showed Lydia the Buy one, get one free fast freeze yogurt she earned on her 101st visit. One hundred and one visits. Now that's dedication to an eatery. "He was playing with a deck of cards, looked lonely, one thing led to another and..." She trailed off, fiddling nervously with her fingers.

"And you still haven't mastered the art of the pokerface, have you?" Lydia crossly berated, tapping a scolding finger on her bicep. Adelea's famous silence all but confirmed her guilt. Lydia can't say she's surprised Adelea lost. She's never been much of a gambler. She can hardly bluff. "So you're telling me Serena and your wand have been in this Boswell guy's possession for two months? Why haven't you gotten them back yet?" Adelea's a girl of her word. She would honor any agreement, regardless of her feelings. But to not have Serena or her wand for two months? Just who is this Boswell Character.

"That's a really, really, REALLY, long story! And it doesn't matter!" A switch flicked and Adelea went hysterical, grasping Lydia by the arms, "What does matter is that you're the only one who can help me! Not just because you're a princess now! But because you have a way with animals that I can't match!" The tears welling in the corner of her eyes overflowed. Those earrings seemingly permanently pierced to her ears aren't foreign to her. "Please, Lydia! You have to help me get Serena back! You have to...you...have...t..." Adelea broke down, legs crippling. She slid to her knees, burying her falling tears.

Lydia was taken aback. A twinge of guilt pricked her heart for making light of Adelea's situation. In the back of her mind, she knew for a fact that something worse than a bet was lost in the last couple of months. Lydia raised Adelea's head. Her red nose sniffled and snorted. A soft cloth dabbed her puffy eyes. She muster the strength to calm down, blurry tears clearing. She was helped to her feet. Lydia's famous wholehearted smile soothed her savage despair.

"The circus was last seen camped five miles outside of Dunwitty." The icy grip of distress melted. Adelea cupped her hands. She screamed in her mind that she wasn't dreaming. "It just so happens riding a pegasus isn't too different from riding a Hippogriff."

"THANK YOU! THANK YOU!" Adelea's monstrous hug tackled Lydia to the floor. She snuggled her cheek against Lydia's. "Thank you, Lydia! Thank you!" Adelea was going to owe Lydia big time for this. For now, she let her friend have her moment.

xxx

As luck would have it, Constable Miles was preparing one of the Royal Horses for a one time around the palace. A beautiful golden brown stallion. Same deep brown mane and tail as the color at his calves. His wings spanned five feet in either direction. A powerful flyer from a lush, grass land league across the ocean. Roland said the stallion came from Cimarron. A wild thing when he first arrived. But, with time and patience and a boat load of apples, he came to trust them.

Constable Miles outfitted the stallion with a sturdy saddle, fastening it just snug enough that it wouldn't harm him. "There's a good boy, Spirit." He held the reins bridle in an open palm. The stallion's soft, thick lips slurped it like a treat. Miles gently helped it to the back of the jaw. From there it was smooth sailing. "Alright. How about some water before we go out, huh?" He slid Spirit a bucket. He held no objections. Miles pet the horse as he drank. Footsteps drew him to a pleasant surprise entering the stalls. "Princess Lydia. Miss Salera." He bowed.

"Hello, Constable." Lydia traded her uniform for her casual wear that was in dire need of a clean after her heated art project. The black trousers and maroon shirt are better suited for riding. "I need a favor."

"Anything, Princess." He was happy to help.

"Adelea and I need to run an important errand before the circus reaches Dunwitty." Errand is a kind term. Mission to save the life of my friend and career had a nice, dramatic ring. "Think we can borrow Spirit for a little while."

"I don't see the harm. I was about to take him for ride anyway." Miles pat Spirit's side, "What do you say, Spirit?" Spirit lifted his snout, bobbing it excitedly. "Just make sure you're back in time for the circus. I'd hate for you to miss it."

"We will."

"Thank you so much." Adelea hoarsely chimed. Constable Miles bowed his head, leaving the girls to get ready. Adelea was baffled COnstable Miles left so smoothly. "I'm surprised he didn't grill us for more information."

"Constable Miles and I have developed an understanding."

"Please don't tell it's your don't ask don't tell rule." Adelea can't handle another incident like the vampire squid corral. That's a bad memory.

"No-no! Whenever I use the word errand," Air quotes included, "He knows it means I have a magic related issue to take care of."

"Ooh. Trust between you and the help. I like it."

"He's more than that. He's one of my good friends." Adelea was happy to hear it. Lydia's not the smoothest adapter to new scenes. The first day of school - a long story - is confirmation of that. She's glad she's doing alright. "Spirit…" Spirit sputtered remnant water from his nostrils. "Hey buddy. Think you can take us to the circus outside town?"

"For you, Princess? You bet!" The gust from his unfolding wings told Adelea Spirit was all for the trip. Lydia mounted a foot in the stirrup. Pushing down, and pulling up, she swung her foot around and was ready to fly. She hoisted Adelea up. The saddled wobbled on her mount. She wrapped secure arms to Lydia's torso, holding her close so she wouldn't fall.

Spirit trotted to the landing platform. Strong winds teased the feathers on his wings. Adelea trembled like a leaf. Her thighs hugged the saddle as if her life depended on it. It very well might. The walls separating her from the 100 story splat below wasn't exactly...reassuring. It was a bad time to mention she's afraid of heights. Least of all when she agreed to the ride.

"Ready to go?" Spirit certainly was. The flicking whip tail of his was swatting flies left and right he was so excited.

"Take it slow on the take off, but book it in the air." For Adelea's first ride, Lydia was more than willing to go slow. Their goal is to reach the circus, hopefully, before they pick up and move for Enchancia.

"Then hang on!" Adelea didn't need to be told twice. Lydia felt the circulation numbing in her stomach. Any tighter and she'd pop. Spirit bucked his front hooves, darting in a fervent charge. Lydia and Adelea cringed together. Spirit picked up speed each time his hooves hit ground. He hurdled off the edge, curling headlong into a dive. Wings tucked to his side added speed. Adelea screamed at the top of her lungs. Her body weightless, and feeling ready to fly off. Spirit's wings spread. He sharply pulled up, and away they flew for the land beyond Dunwitty.

Lydia released the breath she's held since the take off. She firmly planted hands to the saddle, refusing to pass out in midair. Pressure building in her head steadily deflated. The familiar grip at her back, however, slowed the process. Adelea kept her face at Lydia's back. The world was way too far below them for her to stomach. There was time before they would reach the circus. Lydia needed the full story beforehand. Serena is very similar to Eezeyal. Lydia or Adelea make the promise, but Eezeyal and Serena don't. The winged loopholes that are the bane of swindlers everywhere. Serena would have taken off at the drop of a hat. There's more. And it scared Adelea worse than the towering heights.

A pat to Spirit's neck told him to keep flying as he was. At their height they would see something in regards to the circus. "Alright...start from the beginning." Adelea's arms tightened to Lydia's waist. She felt her bury her sad, puffy face in her back. Lydia managed to turn around, letting Adelea slide closer so her feet would slip to the stirrups. "Lea, what happened between you and Serena? I can tell it wasn't the bet keeping you both apart."

Adelea released a defeated breath. As an older sister herself, Adelea also has a keen sense when all is not well. Her younger brother Chris rarely slips anything past her. So she knew there was no point in prolonging what Lydia would pry out of her.

"Two months ago, Serena and I discovered a nesting ground for a bird called the Angelic Blue Jay." Adelea always had her journal on hand, sketching the animals she finds in their proper category. The Angelic Blue Jay was a beautiful bird. Navy blue feathers glistening like jewels. Pearl colored streaks traversing the lighter blue patch of the stomach ran to the ends of the wing and tail feathers, slender ribbons extending off the tips. Three more pearl white ribbon feathers criss-crossed as a flowy crown. "As a reward, Mal let us head to the nearby town to get our favorite desert." She can still taste the daiquiri sherbet yogurt and sprinkles. Serena munching on leftover seeds from fruit toppings. "That's when I noticed Boswell by himself in the corner."

"You went to play cards with him, pass the time, and somehow Serena and your wand wound up in his hands." Lydia summed up what Adelea already told her. "What I don't get is why Serena didn't make a run for it when she had the chance?"

"That's where...it get's complicated."

Flashback

(Seven cards in both Boswell and Adelea's hand. Boswell's top hat on the table, he padded his balding scalp with a red cloth. A devious smile showed past his poofy, curled mustache. That rotund body of his rocking back and forth. He was cool as a freeze dried cucumber. The winning hand to accompany the five cards on the table. All the while his 'worthy opponent' was had one foot in the grave, and was drowning fast. It was almost too easy.

Adelea was sweating bullets. Running fingers knotting her hair askew. The fates dealt her pitiful cards, and left her with a handful of chips to wager against Boswell's stockpile. It was too late to back out now. Boswell had her travel funds, her paycheck, and Mal's money too. As well as the coupons he had to practically fight all of Greensville for in order to reserve proper lodgings when they sleep in town.)

Boswell had me on the ropes. A couple of hands I was lucky and had the best cards you could hope for. Yet somehow he'd always draw the right cards at the right moment. He was cleaning me out faster than my yogurt was melting. But I was determined to win our money back. I had to. Or else we'd be sleeping in the rain again that night. Bluffing my way to victory seemed like the best option. "I think I'll raise." Boswell upped the pot that would clean me out. He saw right through my cards. He knew I had nothing. I was about to lose everything. That's when he made a proposition. "How about we change the stakes, My Dear?" Not like I had anything to lose. "I noticed your wand when you moseyed over here. A fine piece of craftsmanship if I do say so myself." (Adelea protectively placed her hands to the wand.) "What say you to this? My winnings included, I will give you back every penny you've lost. No questions asked." I'm not an idiot. Right off the bat I knew something was off. But it was too good to pass up.

I slid my bag to him. If he was telling the truth - He dumped all the money into my bag. No hesitation. I knew he was up to something. "What's the catch?" I crossed my arms, 'eager' to hear what he had to offer.

Boswell placed a stone talisman on the table. Characters belonging to Weiling's alphabet were inscribed. I recognized it from my books. It's all natural healer for any affliction to animals. Boswell allowed me to hold it. The charge emanating and tingling my fingers almost sent me to cloud nine. Mother Nature herself massaged my hands and arms. It would be perfect for Serena whenever she was sick while we were on the road. Boswell snatched it back before I accidentally walked away with it.

"This little beauty for your wand. Winner takes all. What do you say?"

What could I say? Serena's been feeling since we left Africa. She caught Jungle Fever and it was taking it's time leaving her system. But to hand over my wand? As you know, my wand's special talent is the 'mental influence of fauna, and progression of flora.' In less educated terms, I can control the minds of animals, and affect the plants. It's how I make sure Mal isn't bitten by a Cobra, or poisoned by dangerous flowers.

"Deal." We placed our bet in the middle, drew a new hand, and the game was on. Right off the bat I had four aces. Five when he flipped a card. I made sure not to show it, but I was winning. There was no way he could beat me. Then, like a dark veil lifting to show the dark figure lurking in the back, Boswell revealed his third royal flush. He won everything. My head cracked like a nut.

Flashback End

Lydia and Spirit had no words. Mainly because they were speechless by how any human gets three Royal Flushes in the course of a few rounds. It's not unheard of. But three blue moons and snowballs surviving in Hades held higher odds than that. Lydia needed to find out more about this Boswell character. It wasn't adding up.

"After the game ended, Boswell picked up my wand and that was it."

"That can't be it!" Lydia hollered. The story was getting good. That can't be all. "What happened to Serena?"

"Boswell must done it on accident." She started. Holding onto the belief of accidents is what kept her faith that Boswell stole Serena in the heat of the moment. "When he picked up my wand, Serena fell under Boswell's control and left with him. I tried to stop him, but he threw a smoke pellet in my face." Smoke in the eyes stinks. It stings and is murder to remove with water. "By the time I got out the door, he was gone. And Serena with him." S orrow wavered her throat. Tears welled to her eyes. She committed a personal taboo no sorcerer should ever subject themselves to. Sacrificing a wand for money. Money is replaceable. In the hands of the wrong person, a wand is the most dangerous weapon available.

Lydia spared Adelea trudging on her momentous screw up and put the pieces together. "This Boswell guy wised up to your wand's abilities and is taking his act on the road." Aligning himself with the Golden Wing Circus promises to set him up for wealth, fame, fortune, and all the cheap card tricks he can muster for maybe half a lifetime. "Is it safe in assuming Mal has no idea you lost this friendly game of cash?" Adelea can't lift her head to meet Lydia's eyes. She was too ashamed. Lydia's sigh sank her lower. Too bad the pegasus refused to fly lower than the clouds. It might make her feel better. "No wonder you came to Enchancia.

"It's pure luck the Golden Wing Circus happened to be heading in the same direction."

"Well let's hope your luck holds out. Because we found our circus." Lydia pointed toward the ground. Adelea mustered her courage. She poked one eye open, stiffly leaning sideways. A train of trailers and rowdy looking cages was stopped by a river just off the beaten path. "Take us down, Spirit!" Lydia ordered. It's time to set the record straight.

xxx

Actors removing their costumes expediently changed to their normal clothing before the elements had a chance to damage the fabric. It's become pertinent to place them in a tarp, and hang them. Further work to make them decent for their upcoming show can be done at their destination.

Stagehands worked fervently in preparation for their departure. Hay and food pellets, and other excrements, left by the ill table mannered animals were semi feasibly swept and disposed of. The world was not the Golden Wing Circus' trash bin. They will not treat it so.

"Alright, folks!" The Ringmaster of the parade clapped. "Keep up the good work!" He tipped his black hat. The peacock feather in the red band glistened. "We'll be one the road ahead of schedule." He shuffled in his red and black striped ensemble, drawing a quill and inventory slash to-do list. He checked the boxes of completed tasks, and double checked for any important equipment that slipped his staff. So far, all was in the green.

Teams of four worked at double pace to load up the attractions, and be ready in time to head out and meet their deadline. A couple of the cars were in dire need of new wheels. It was impressive to see the mechanics work on changing the wheels as the equipment was loaded up. Very efficient and effective. Teamwork and timing are a circus's greatest asset.

Last call to load up the trailers was announced ten minutes ago. A long road lied ahead to Enchancia. To be there at the times promised, respites and breaks would be decreased to a bare minimum, and shortened significantly. If they make good time and less obstacles are in the road, it might free up time to relax a bit more.

Heavy equipment was hauled to the opened trailers. Crates stuffed to the brim with feather scarves and costumes. Largest on the bottom, stacking to the smallest toward the ceiling. Monkeys climbed to their cages, Elephants sauntered theirs. Coachmen ensured the horse's reins were securely fastened, and the mechanics inspected the carriages. All was looking for so far.

The Ringmaster admired the perfect weather. If this string of good luck continues, there may be a chance an extra act can be squeezed in. "Yes, yes, yes…" He muttered studiously, reviewing his list for the tenth time. He flipped the page to the acts schedule. "Maybe move this here...insert here...probably scratch that one."

"Excuse me?" The Ringmaster addressed the soft beckon. He was surprised and delighted. Two young ladies graced him with their presence. "We're sorry to bother you. I'm Lydia, and this is Adelea. Are you the Ringmaster?"

"Indeed I am." He put his pad and pen away, offering a low bow to his guests. "How may I be of service? Hoping for a sneak peak?" He winked teasingly. Bother girls giggling brightened his morning.

"No, no. You'll be in Enchancia soon. We can wait." Adelea reassured him.

"Ahh. You're from Enchancia. You've certainly journeyed a long way for my humble circus. How can I assist you?" Humble, modest, polite, and charming. No wonder Adelea and Lydia liked older men.

"My friend and I heard an acquaintance of ours is traveling with you." Acquaintance triggered a gag reflex in Adelea's throat. "We were hoping to surprise him before he arrived."

"Who am I to deny two ladies a request?" He pinched the hat's brim, placing it at his heart to profess his absolute cooperation. "Who is this friend of yours?"

"His name is Boswell."

A lightning storm dampened the mood. "Oh..." The Ringmaster's amicable gleam instantly diminished to dower. "HIM!" He snarled in disgust. Lydia and Adelea flinched as he involuntarily pulled his hat in different directions. They saw the seams tearing one at a time.

"Is something wrong?" Lydia inadvertently asked standardly.

"I am afraid Mister Boswell is no longer with us." The smirk he failed to hid tugged his lips' corner. "For the very - if not excruciating - short time he was with us, he proved to be..." What is a word to describe an unsavory enabler to a show, "Ill fitted for this life."

"What?!" Adelea bit her tongue. The Ringmaster tilted his head at her outburst. He wondered if he said something wrong. Adelea took a breath. All was not lost. By the Ringmaster's admission, Boswell was not a permanent member. Therefore, why would he be here if he's not wanted. "Then...where is he?"

"The last time we saw him, he was on his way to Kaleides Village. He took half of my animal act with him!" The dark cloud to the silver lining

"Did you happen to see a hawk with him?" Adelea pleaded.

"And a panther, a tiger, an orangutan, my bear, my python, the buzzards that took me hours to gather, and my most prized of elephants!"

"Whoa..." The two girls gawked. That's a whole lot of act to lose to one guy.

"Indeed." The Ringmaster was sweating bullets. Lydia offered him her handkerchief. "The sad part is, those animals are supposed to be released back to their habitats in India." He was dried and gratefully handed Lydia her cloth. "They're long overdo for transport.

"Wasn't your circus in Khaldune a little over a month ago?" Lydia kept track of the Golden Wing Circus's root when she learned Adelea would be arriving the same day. "That would have been the perfect place."

"That's when Boswell used his newfound wand he acquired and stole my animal act. Kaleides Village is the halfway point to Khaldun's border." Adelea and Lydia's fretful eyes widened. They should have known Boswell would go mad with power. He has no idea of the repercussions Adelea's wand carries. Khaldune via pegasus was two hours away. At least. And there's no way of knowing if he's even still there. Boswell could be anywhere by now. "According to recent carrier pigeon, he's still in the village."

"Why haven't you gone for your animals then?" Lydia asked delicately. He was insulted by Boswell's treachery as it is.

"Before he departed, Boswell volunteered to deliver the animals to a beastkeeper in Khaldune who agreed to arrange for the animals to be returned to their homes. I signed ownership of the animals to him…" He trailed off in embarrassment.

Lydia rested a dumbfounded hand to her forehead, "Which legally made the animals his, and would allow him to sign off should he decide to relinquish the animals." Should, being the operative word. With that document, Boswell would have effortlessly been able to approve the transfer. Instead, he's gone and acquired himself a traveling zoo. "As long as he stays outside Khaldun's border, he doesn't have to give up the animals. But he can't take them anywhere else either."

"Why not?" Adelea asked intrigued.

"The document states he owns the animals," The Ringmaster interjected, "But he does not possess the proper licenses to own them. The second he enters Khaldune-"

"He'd have to hand over the animals." Adelea put two and two together. "Anywhere else, and he'd be fined, taken to jail...or worse." She grinned like the Cheshire Cat, Lydia shuddered to think what she's concocting in that head of hers.

"My sources say he's putting on a show around noon. You can catch him if you hurry."

"Thank you so much!" Adelea startled him giving him a hug. "Come on!" She dragged Lydia to Spirit, and up and away they flew.

Not one of my better song scenarios. Songs are easier to watch than write for.

Blue, hope you like what I did.

To be continued.