Yggdrasil's Ace

Chapter 16

Author Notes: looks like I made a bit of an error doing the author notes before the chapter...whoopsie. But uh yeah i'm not going back to fix it lol. Instead I'm ignoring it and moving on. Which well-if only the group could do that with Faris, I do not own Dragon Quest.

3rd P.O.V

The circus was a phenomenon with bright colored decorations, dim lighting and the glorious personalities entrancing the audience on stage. There were acrobats doing a balancing act on thin wires. Performers were wielding flaming swords to swallow and some were even flying on the backs of winged sabrecats.

It was certainly a spectacle to behold as people oohh at the edge of their seats. The small group of four were on the edge of their seats as well, though it wasn't due to being amazed with the show going down below. But rather with the rather unpleasant conversation they were having with the son of the Gallopolis Sultan.

Honestly Erik was ready to commit murder. And if the look on Ace and Veronica's face was any indication...they would let him, no questions asked. "Please my angel I beg of you to aid me." This was supposed to be a man of honor, learning to be a knight, friend to the townspeople and considered a master horse rider.

All lies-complete bullshit. "I refuse." Instead of admitting he was terrible at horseback riding and a coward, he had been hiring stunt doubles to take his place so his reputation would stay in good standing. Feeling so much pressure at being the sole heir-that he would rather run than struggle through his problems.

It was no wonder Ace didn't like the man. "Come now my dear ...please think this through." He was the complete opposite of the Luminary. And Erik found himself glad that she wasn't trying to sugarcoat how she felt about his so called genius plan. The blasted idiot wanted her to dress up as him and race in his place.

"No-you should think this through! Ace can't and won't race for you. It's ludicrous for you to try convincing her!" Of course Veronica was taking her role as a protector to the chosen hero very seriously. And had no qualms putting her two gold pieces in. There were several problems with his idea.

Ace was a woman for starters, looking nothing like Faris. The most she has is the height, and that's because of the high heeled boots that she usually wore. Something she most certainly wasn't doing now while wearing her new dress. "All royals are dressed in a special armor from head to toe-no one will be able to tell the difference."

He was so confident, smiling like he didn't have a care in the world. "I have no desire in partaking. I'm not even a professional racer. Why are you so insistent on me?" The fact that the swordswoman herself was openly showing her distaste to both the plan and the man spoke volumes.

Her eyes had a sheen from anger that neither Serena or Veronica had ever seen from her. "I saw how well you worked with Midno! The way you rode onto victory with him under your complete control was something of legends. You're the only one that he's allowed to ride him without issue. It Has to be you."

Well Ace couldn't deny that the black steed liked her and was a blast to race with. But that wasn't a good enough reason for him to literally hunt for her. In general he should've taken his responsibilities as the heir to the throne more seriously. She didn't like the idea that she was a supposed hero of ages.

Forced to fight a dark entity that could destroy the whole world-but she accepted it, and decided that she would fulfill her duty. Being a chosen prophesized hero wasn't like being a royal prince. But then again she was a long lost princess of a ruined kingdom.

So she was sure no matter the situation she would've been forced to make important decisions. She would still have to make sacrifices for the sake of the people. So...she really didn't have any sympathy for Faris' whining.

"Who the hell's Midno?" And it didn't help that Veronica, Serena and Erik were only aware of a part of this whole conversation. Erik was there to intervene when Faris tried convincing her to go to the palace...alone.

The twins were a bit late to the party, but arrived not too long after just for all of them to go to the circus. No matter what Ace had to explain afterwards. But first..."I have no desire of helping you shirk your duties." She had no intentions of changing her mind on the subject.

Something that his majesty was Not at all appreciating. His charismatic smile morphed then, destroying the pleasant front he usually wears to the public. Replacing it with malicious, sinister smirk. "Ahhh but you need the Rainbough though do you not?" He would not hesitate to play whatever advantage he had.

No matter what he had to get them to agree. "Not to mention there is talk of a supposed 'Darkspawn' being on the run. Possibly hiding in my grand city. How convenient that a group of colorful characters would show up just as such rumors began." All four of them stilled at the accusation.

One that Erik was not going to fall for. It was true-but the man had no proof, and would not let this aristocratic asshole try and manipulate them. "Can't claim that since there's been a nonstop showing of people here for the festival. You got no proof we're involved in this 'darkspawn' nonsense. Try again."

Serena was glad for the thief's quick thinking. Had he not chimed in when he did, there was a high likeliness where she would've said something incriminating-assuming they'd have to obey to the man's demands.

"It doesn't matter if I don't have evidence. I can easily go to my father and tell him that there's a group of suspicious people that threatened me..." Faris waved his hand, acting nonchalant as if he didn't just threatened them.

And it took Serena and Ace tag teaming to keep Erik and Veronica from leaping to throttle him from across the table-or cast their spells. Still none of them were pleased with how badly things were escalating. "Such statements are unbecoming of a noble prince."

Faris shrugged, not at all caring for Ace's words. "There is no such thing as chivalry in this day and age my dear. The deal isn't so bad is it? You race to win, my reputation is saved-you get the Rainbough you desperately want...but if you truly don't want to race. You could become my queen."

Erik's eyes widen, frozen stiff. Serena found herself blushing at the Luminary's expense. "Qu-queen you say? My that's quite a jump." That was not what anyone there was expecting. "You..." Erik snapped, his desire to have the man slashed to ribbons intensified tenfold.

It literally being Ace keeping him in place. He could feel her hand on his arm in an iron grip, her face neutral. She wasn't fooling him though, the disgust in her gaze was plain to see for him. Veronica stared on for a moment, horrified, feeling just as disgusted.

"How shameless can you be!? You can't make such demands! Who do you think you are?!" Unfortunately Ace already knew what his answer was. The teen had only been in his presence for the last hour or so, and she already got a good idea of the kind of man he was.

Despite living in an isolated village on the outskirts of the kingdom...she was observant. Had a good set of instinct, at least when it came to unwanted trouble. Not that it really helped her right now.

"The Prince of Gallopolis of course. Now I suggest that you enjoy the show tonight. I hear it's bound to be a riot with that silly jester making an appearance. You have three days before the Sand National...I await your arrival."

With that Faris leaves with a flutter of his cape, hardly hiding in his disguise amidst the crowds. However the civilians were more focused on the circus performers down below on stage, not at all realizing their future king was there.

It wasn't until after he was long out of sight that Ace finally released her blue haired friend, before slamming her head on the table with a frustrated huff. "I can't believe this." No one there could believe this.

"Don't worry...all will be well." A gentle hand flitted through her hair, an attempt to calm her as well as grab her attention. "We'll come up with something." Serena offered her a smile, but Ace couldn't find much reassurance from it. "I think I'll take getting abused in Heliodor again..."

She never wanted to go near royalty ever again so long as she lived. That's now two experiences that left her in a bad mood. King Carnelian was a wicked soul. Prince Faris was a manipulative fool. And both of them pissed her off to no end. If things didn't play out how they did, would she have grown up so selfish?

So inconsiderate and ignorant of the people outside the palace walls? She hoped not, but her experiences have not been pleasant. A strong, firm hand take hers, giving her silent reassurances as if her thoughts were heard.

Her gaze lifts to meet Erik's. "I won't let him get away with this. Give me a day and the Rainbough will be as good as ours." He was was still seething on her left. His entire body convulsing with rage.

Her mind was so overwhelmed, but hearing him say that made her recall the conversation they had just a few hours ago. How he offered to steal the sacred branch. At the time he had said it in jest. Not really expecting to do it. He was grinning, attempting to simply make her laugh.

Now as she saw him, she knew he was completely serious as he turned to glower in the direction Faris left. She squeezed, smiling tentatively as he applied pressure right back. "The moment they realize its gone they'll be after our heads..."

Even if it wasn't Ace, what just went down wasn't right-and there was no way he was going to let this stand. "What if Erik goes the day of the race?" Everyone turns to Serena, her idea having some serious merit. "Do you mean the Sand National?" She nodded with a slight hum, placing a finger up as she thought.

"Prince Faris said it'll be in a few days. This gives Erik the time to properly scope out the area, and this will lower his highness's guard yes?" It was a sound plan. Veronica smirked as she read her sister's mind.

Despite being polar opposite, both personality and height wise-the twins were on the same page. "Everyone will be too focused on getting the best seats to see 'his majesty' in action. The actual moron especially will be busy to make sure we fulfill our end of the deal. Erik can sneak in with no one the wiser."

Ace was perking up a bit as her companions spoke. "All Ace has to do is keep him busy. And once Erik finds the Rainbough, can do something to catch our attention-then we can make it out of there long before they even realize its gone." Her eyes fluttered down to her hand, still being held by Erik's.

And she could still feel Serena rubbing soothing motions on her back. It eased her turmoil slightly. "If I don't participate-If I don't win...he'll reveal me to the public, probably accusing me or you guys of attacking him. And even if Erik gets it, that'll be two armies after us."

There was no doubt she wanted to be optimistic of their chances. However her past record with luck and things happening wasn't too great. The cards were dealt, and all of them had a losing hand against this new problem.

"Now what did I tell you earlier Ace...have a little faith in me." She sighed, closing her eyes. "It's not you I don't have faith in." Her three companions shared a look. "We'll talk more about this later ok? Let's just enjoy the show for now." It was kinda hard for her to find such interest.

Nothing against the circus performers, but the Luminary didn't want to muster up the energy. She had a headache from the stress of it all. However Erik wasn't going to let her mope, instead dragging her out of her seat so they can get a better view of the show. Just in time for the ringleader to reach the center of the stage.

"Laaaadieeesss and gentlemen! It's the moment you've all been waiting for! It's time for the one-the only-SYLVANDO!" Lights were following as the jester mentioned did multiple flips before posing for the audience, throwing the rose that was in his mouth towards the crowd.

Of course he received grand applause for the flashy entrance. "Helloooooo darlings! Time to turn those frowns upside down~" The applause and cheers grew significantly as he gave a little bow. With a wink he begins with a juggling act.

Bringing out one yellow ball, throwing it up in the air, only for several more-each in different vibrant colors to show up in his hands. "Wow." The twin sisters watch on, excitement glittering in their eyes as the jester threw the balls high up towards the ceiling of the tent.

The people in the stands watched, amazed as the balls transform into daggers with a twirl and snap of Sylvando's fingers. Only to then start juggling the very sharp blades as well. Erik couldn't help smirking as he got a glance of the weapons.

"Those are the real deal, good quality too." Ace hummed, resting her head on her arms. Her mood was improving a bit as the show progressed, though every once in awhile she would hear a flap of of feathers, bringing her attention to the flying cats up above the stage.

The winged sabrecats were majestic, and the baby one especially trying to keep up with the adults was adorable. "Ace look out!" It was only for a moment she had turned away, but the corner of her eye caught the dagger heading in her direction.

She suddenly found herself dropping as an arm went around her shoulders. "Erik?" The boy in question covering her partially with his body. Her nose was buried into his chest. So close she could hear his frantic heartbeat as well as the screaming audience.

Then she saw fire, causing the knives to disappear, replacing them with sparkles and flowers gently descending down instead. Nearly everyone sighed in relief before they started clapping their hands.

"Ladies and gentlemen, please! There is no need to be afraid! The Great Sylvando will never endanger his adoring audience~" Erik snorted as he finally released a shaky breath of his own. "Would've been nice to know Before that...sorry Ace." Together the two stand.

Though she was still in a tight embrace, neither seemed to mind or try to break free. "It's fine. Thanks though." It took another few seconds, with Veronica silently gagging from her position before the blue haired criminal let her go.

Only to blink as the flowers fall onto their heads. "How lovely~" Serena immediately grabbed hers, revealing a bright orange hibiscus. Veronica had an oriental lily plopping right into her braids.

Erik, much to his dismay found purple petunias stuck in his spiked locks. With white carnations settled atop of Ace. "They're pretty." Erik huffed, slightly bemused as he plucked the petunias off him. "Again-could've done well without the near heart attack."

All of them were distracted with the little surprise that fell on their heads. They were so focused on admiring the beautiful blooms that no one was prepared when the Luminary was knocked to the ground. "Ace!" She found herself flipping a couple times backwards before finally landing on her back.

"What in all of Erdrea?" The reason for her tumble hopped up and down on her chest. Growling playfully while trying to get the flowers in her hair. "Is that a baby winged sabrecub?" It was the one she saw flying earlier. The little thing was sniffing heavily as its small paws batted at the carnations.

The movements pushing her strands of hair all over the place. "Looks like it likes you~" Ace wasn't even mad, if anything she found it funny. She couldn't help giggling as the silly creature gave a nice lick on her cheek. "I take it you like flowers?"

With a huff she sits up, finally able to form a genuine smile as the little monster meowed, using its hind legs to reach towards Ace's head. "Darling are you alright?!" Everyone turned as Sylvando hopped onto the rails of their little hideaway.

Analyzing the fallen girl from head to toe as he give a stern look to the cub. "Cheeky little thing, you can't go tackling people! Off." With another meow, the sabrecub hopped off. Bouncing away before expanding its wings to take to the sky again.

"I am So sorry for that honey." The jester offers the girl a hand up, truly feeling bad for the unplanned surprise. "I-it's fine. I'm ok." She tiredly accepts the help up. Feeling a tad unsteady on her feet, causing her friends to look on worriedly.

Thankfully it passes after a moment. "Oh thank the Goddess! Now darling I must return to the show. But before that allow me to give you this as an apology." With a flick of his wrist, Sylvando brings forth another white carnation for her. One that she hesitantly accepts. "Thank you."

He gives a swift bow before leaping back off the railing. "Anytime dear. Feel free to come backstage after the show-as I would like to properly speak with you about that little scoundrel. Ta ta~" Returning to his place in the spotlight as if nothing happened. "What a day..."

to be continued

Author Notes: Not gonna lie, this was probably one of my favorite chapters to write up to this point. Sylv is an awesome character and I love circus's in general so I went all out for this. Can i have a wing sabrecub? Please? I'll take good care of it lol.

With that lovely update out of the way, I need to end this. Guys thank you all so much for reading, if you like please feel free to show your support by fav/follow/reviewing~ I'll see you all next time, tchao for now