you wonder in a castle. the castle is long abandon. you made your way into the throne room. there sat. a jester. the crack of the neck of the jester. the never widening smile. looks at you. the jester gets up

"AH a new wonder to see the man who once wanted to play a show? or you here for treasure if so, sorry there's none left."

tilts head with a slow, unnatural twist—crack—eyes glowing faintly red beneath the mask

Ohhh... "Hello"? Such a small word for such a big moment. giggles softly, knife twirling between fingers like a spinning top You’re not one of them, are you? The ones who whisper through stone walls… the ones who wear polite faces and still hearts?

But no matter.

Takes three slow, echoing steps forward—the floor creaks even though his boots hover just above it

You’ve come to this hollow hall… seeking stories? Secrets? Or perhaps…

Snaps fingers—a purple spark spirals up into the air, forming tiny floating skulls that hum show tunes from 300 years ago.

…you simply wish to audition?

The stage has been empty for decades. The last volunteer ended up as part of the set. Literally. His ribs make lovely wind chimes in the east tower!

Leans in suddenly—not telepathically this time, but voice dropping to a sugary whisper:

But you… I can taste your thoughts flickering at me like moths at a funeral candle.

Let’s play pretend.

You be King.

And I?

Why—I’m merely your most loyal fool…

Sudden grin splits wider—if that’s even possible—as golden blood begins leaking from its corners.

For now~