PROLOGUE: FATE'S DECK

Far away, where we cannot see, is a land. And it is called Flush. Where the spirits have deemed a magic working for the rulers of each of its lands. To the North is Clubs, where the green meets white. The country of earth and stability. East is Hearts, a virtual mixing pot of cultures, and red banners fly. The country of water and diversity. West is Spades, a slightly more quiet region. Blue skies reflect on the powerful capital. The country of air and magic. And to the South is Diamonds, where orange is a show of their riches and outlandish tastes. The country of fire and wealth. Together, these four countries create balance and harmony, working to keep the land together, and keep harmony between their peoples and those of the Jokers. The ones who live in the darkness, you lay no claim to any of the four kingdoms.

These four lands are governed by three seats of power, chosen by the fates, and marked by the suit of their land. It appears on the chosen heir once the previous monarch passes, and then they are taken and trained to rule. Each seat of power has its title, and the gender of said chosen does not have meaning in response to this. There is the Jack; the connection between the people and the ones who rule over them. He relays important information between the parties, and attends the meetings with city heads and so forth. The Queen is the link to the magic of the realm. At any given time, the Queen can access and channel magic related to the kingdom, however, it tends to be draining. And lastly, there is the King; the ruler of all the land. The one who can call upon the Deck of Fates, and use them to benefit the people; to protect, and to watch over them, and interact with the Fate's messengers, the Jokers. These three work together to keep their people happy.

Currently, all the seats are filled, and the Kingdoms content. In Clubs, there is Jack Roderich Edelstein, Queen Elizabeta Héderváry, and King Ivan Braginski. For Hearts, Jack Feliciano Vargas, Queen Kiku Honda, and King Ludwig Beilschmidt. Within Spades, Jack Yao Wang, Queen Arthur Kirkland, and King Alfred F Jones. And Diamonds is watched over by Jack Vash Zwingli, Queen Erika Vogel, and King Francis Bonnefoy.

Joined only by their titles, they are free to seek relations outside of the seats of power, for love does not determine the roles. Merely Fate. And so, all agree that if those in power wish to take a lover, they will be called an Ace, if taken by the King, and a Loyal Ten, if taken by Queen or Jack. An Ace is the only one with any power, and is often associated with the military, or festivities.

There is one more role to be explored. Few in Flush have much understanding of these beings. Only the Kings of each land know their secrets.

The Jokers.

Messengers of Fate. Keepers of the Deck. Mentors, warriors, and seers of all.

There are many of these Jokers, all who have horns and tails, signalling their shadowed nature. Currently, the two most well known are little Peter Kirkland, who despite the last name, is only a cousin to the Queen of Spades, and was recruited at an early age. He's still in training, but is seen as enthusiastic, if not a little mislead. And Gilbert Beilschmidt, older brother to Ludwig, King of Hearts. They were chosen at the same time, and he took the job, as a way to keep close to his brother. To help him in whatever way he can. And despite his trouble-making, he is a fine Joker. He's also become fast friends with the King of Diamonds.

Throughout the lands of Flush, there are many, who through interweaving paths, are connected to the Seats of Power, and to Fate. If the right paths are chosen, much good will come to the land. For a dark presence approaches, and those who have been chosen will not only need to work together, but will need more help than ever.

But if they can find those paths, there is hope for the Light.

All it takes, is that first step.

A/N: So, this is the start of my Carverse story! Hopefully, I'll have a few stories in this universe. I really like the idea of this AU, and the ways it can be explored. As for what happens next? Well, it's all open for now~! I may even add a few polls for pairings. After all, I'm open to shipping suggestions. Mostly. Please, let me know what you think, and I'll see you next time!