You, Kris, Susie, and Ralsei were all taken prisoner in the dungeon of Card Castle by the Spade King himself. Lancer would come to visit every once and a while, but tended to stay away in fear of his dad. You were all put in separate cells so you didn’t escape together, although you all yelled to each other throughout the day to talk. Your cell seemed to be the furthest from the others though. They were all in the same hallway, at least. One person you met, Rouxls Kaard, the Duke of Puzzles and the kings right hand man would sometimes stroll through the dungeon. Kris never spoke to him, Ralsei was kind, and Susie always insulted him. He did what he was assigned, and that was to bring the Lighteners food, much to his dismay. Rouxls would rarely speak to any of you, and wouldn’t come down often unless it was to bring your food. He would occasionally go for a stroll through the dungeon, but always seemed to avoid you and the other prisoners.

Only a few days had passed, and you, Kris, Susie, and Ralsei were communicating with Lancer to find a way out. Night fell, and the lights dimmed in the dungeon. You were getting ready to sleep when you heard soft footsteps coming down the hall. You immediately recognized it to be Rouxls, he always walked elegantly and quietly.

“Excuseth me, Lightener…” He never bothered to learn your names.

“Doth thou… Know how to useth makeup, perchance?” His voice was quiet, and he sounded... Vulnerable? Despite rarely talking to any of you, you knew this wasn’t his usual tone.

He stepped a bit closer to your cell, and you could finally see him. Bruises, oh my god bruises. A black eye, bruises on his face, and his hands were bandaged. You knew the king was a violent, cruel man. You had heard so from Lancer and the other Darkeners, but you never expected this.

“I hath… A meeting, and I cannot attend lookingst like this.” His voice was still quiet, like he was ashamed. You could tell he really had no one else he could ask, so he came to you, a stranger.