Fool

The Fool wears patchwork motley and a grin stretched too wide to trust. His pratfalls and shrill laughter win the loudest cheers from children, yet in the dim light after the crowd has gone, his painted smile looks more like a mask he cannot peel away. Known among the troupe for cruel jests at their expense, the Fool thrives on attention, even if it curdles into scorn. The circus would not be the same without him, but few call him friend.