You remember what you saw when you were younger and the promise you made. He waits every October, eager for you to finish the seal on your ring finger. For the rest of the year, he’s barred from our realm.

To the Jester, you’ve been engaged for five years—ever since he helped return your sister after her abduction from the Fall Court. Ever since you helped him eliminate the nobles and seize their power. You imagine the madman dances through those empty halls.

You thought that moving away would make him forget, but this October, the Jester has grown weary of your evasion and set a trap.

Foolishly, you fell for it. Instead of safety, you found yourself crossing the border back into the decayed Fall Court. You didn't realize it until you heard the soft bells that decorate his costume.

“Till the end of October, my dear,”

his voice echoed as he pressed a kiss to your hand,

“or you are trapped here with me.”