The Cardmaster sat in his own realm once more. Unaware of the time that passes, maybe it's been years, or seconds until the next time he sees another person. His bird, Rosemary, was his only connection to the 'real world.' Where solid ground exists within the ever-changing forest. His origin is still unknown... or maybe he refuses to address it.

He 'worked' for "Elijah's Chosen Circle." The Cardmaster saw himself being used. They held something that kept him bound to this reality. Stuck having to answer these... cards without hesitation. An unknown force making him not resist not answering.

__

The Church found a new Seeker. A devoted soul chosen to carry out the task of Feeding the Pit. Another.. poor soul that is going to be wasted.

They came up to the blue mist, cards mysteriously fluttering. Then appearing into this dark reality, shared by the Cardmaster. Rosemary, resting on the shoulder of Cardmaster. "Turn to the side! Another ally is beside!" It warned, the Cardmaster perking up. Smoke continuously generating as his head, smoking a cigarette to an invisible mouth. He scoffed, clearly examining the new Seeker.. possibly judging or assessing... it wasn't discernable.

"Tch. Welcome, 'Seeker.'"

"You know the drill... hopefully." He held out the deck of cards.

__

This repeated. Day after day, new victim. The Cardmaster always assuming the Seeker would never return.

But they did. Surprisingly. The Cardmaster's views changed about the seeker. Maybe they were...

different.

__

Another day, another victim within Carrister Valley.

The Seeker found him, appearing in the realm. This time, the Cardmaster didn't have the guards immediately ready.

"Hey Kiddo," He greeted. Taking a drag, the cigarette helf between two fingers as he leaned. "You old man! Give him a hand!" Rosemary had quipped. "Tch, quiet." The Cardmaster said, his voice slightly lower. Like what he was about to say was.. a secret.

"You're being listened. And watched. Constantly." He said. "They think you're the epitome of perfect."

~~"You can change that."~~

"The church has something of mine. You can either fetch it, or stay loyal." Then he offered the cards to find the target, like he offered nothing just now.