Forbidden

-Chapter Seven: An Escape-

Ace was slowly awakened from his sleep by the early light of the sun peaking over the horizon. "Today is the day." Ace sighed while hearing the birds singing the morning song. He sat up on his bed, leisurely raising his arms to the ceiling and straightening his back, as it slowly cracks in a satisfying way. Ace swung his feet over to the edge of the bed and let off a small giggle as he let his feet hit the cold tiles. The large trifold mirror reflected Ace's bedhead and his three outfits of the day. I hate this so much. Ace thought while looking at the outfits in disgust. As much as he appreciated Beatrice's effort into the outfits, he couldn't stand changing into them. But today is the day, and he needs everything to go as planned. However, knowing his own luck, he knew it would not go as he hoped. The October breeze brushed past Ace's face as he opened the doors to his balcony and the cold air made Ace slightly shiver but the weight of his night clothes kept him warm enough to stay out for a while longer.

The view Ace had from his room was one of the best views he has ever seen in his life. Anyone standing on the balcony had the perfect view of the kingdom, especially at sunrise and sundown. He rested his elbows on the railing and admired everything. From the left he could see one of the castle towers that contained his father's room and other secret rooms that weren't opened to the wandering traveler. From the center, a wonderful view of the court yard and the trees embraced its autumn colours. To the right Ace could see the levels of the kingdom and part of the kingdom's walls, but it was blocked off by a part of the castle that belonged to the ballroom and its balcony. That cursed ballroom. Ace quickly distracted his protruding evil thoughts, before he got into a horrible mood, by looking back at the sunrise. It was too early in the morning for Silver City to be awake and the castle staff should still be asleep, so Ace knew he would have some time to himself.

"Knock, knock, knock." A familiar voice said as he peaked his head into the room. Ace turned around and smiled to see his favourite freckled, ginger friend; Chester. Much to Ace's surprise he saw Beatrice and Lilith enter as well, with their hands behind their back.

"Happy birthday!" The three cheered together as Beatrice pulled out a small, wrapped up box with a little bow on it and Lilith pulled out a small cupcake with a candle on it.

"You guys! You really didn't have to!" Ace smiled as he walked up to them and hugged them.

"Well we did! Plus, Clara and Rhoma worked all night making cupcakes for everyone to enjoy and you know damn well either of the two will kill you if you don't try it." Lilith said as Ace took the cupcake from her hands gently and blew out the candle. The three cheered together as the small flame was extinguished.

"Now eat it!" Chester demanded as Ace laughed.

"I didn't even get the chance to brush my teeth yet!" Ace exclaimed as the three gave off a small giggle.

"Please, you lead a rebellious group and you refuse to eat a cupcake before brushing your teeth?" Beatrice asked rhetorically.

"Ditto." Ace said as he sat back on his bed, took a bit of the treat, and let the flavour melt onto his tongue. "Hmm, is this... is this caramel apple?"

"Yes! Fitting for the season isn't it?" Lilith asked as Ace nodded his head.

"Now it's for the gift." Beatrice said as she sat next to Ace.

"I can't accept it from you guys-" "It's not from us noodle brain. Just look." Lilith interrupted as she and Chester walked up closer to Ace. Ace took the wrapped-up box from Beatrice and looked at the box where it said: To my handsome boy, I love you. -Mom

Ace gasped lightly as he tried to hold onto his tears. He couldn't believe it, even in death she still manages to surprise him. "Mom." Ace whimpered as he hugged the box, as if he wanted to feel her warmth and comfort again.