A/N: And we're back with a new fic I've wanted to try for a little while. Life's been very busy of late so I've hit a little snag with Cupid. Updates for this, another WIP and Cupid will be slower than I'm used to but I'm actually okay with taking things a little slower than usual.
ANYWAY
This fic is heavily inspired by several mystery games and movies I've watched. I kind of want to give you tags but some of them might spoil the story a little, so the only two things I'll give you is YES, this is a puzzleship/blindship. Yes. There will be boylove! Yes. There will be suspense and angst. Yes. There will be a happy ending. Please stay tuned, I promise it will end great! XD
As always I'd love to hear your feedback, and I'm curious as to what you think of the character descriptions and names I've given them.

KING OF GAMES

[King of Games. Your presence is requested at Blossomfall Estate. The details of when and where are enclosed. It is in your best interest to attend as matters of delicate financial obligations will be addressed and disclosed among others who share your plight. -C]

He read his letter for the hundredth time as he waited for the Ferry to arrive. He had debated about even attending, figuring it could be a prank or a scam; however the details enclosed along with said letter were too accurate and sensitive to ignore.

He had done some research on the estate he was going to. It belonged to a mysterious millionaire as private property. It was a large, extravagant and rich mansion located on a small island in the tropics. The name of said millionaire however was something he couldn't find. It was purchased several years ago though for $49M and is somewhere in the Caribbean. It looked lovely from the photos, but he was more concerned with who his host and the other guests would be.

He became aware of someone approaching and he carefully folded the letter back into his jacket pocket.

The man to greet him offered a hearty smile from ear to ear, upturned eyes expressed his friendly nature and his loud booming voice eased his nerves. A tanned fellow with dark, untamed, midnight hair loosely pulled into a ponytail in an attempt of being presentable. His clothes appeared too proper for him; they barely were able to contain his bulging muscles and looked uncomfortable. But he didn't show it on his face. He wore that happiness with pride.

"Hello! Are you waiting for the Merryweather?"

[You are to board the Merryweather at 4pm…]

That was what the instructional letter told him. This man must have been his escort.

"I am." He said pleasantly, holding out a friendly hand to the stranger. "I am the King of Games."

He was instructed not to use his real name, as all other guests would be protected by a moniker as well. The name given to him wasn't too creative or protective however. The world knew who the King of Games was.

"Ah! Of course! I am the Fisherman, here to escort you to the island. If you would follow me!"

The Fisherman, he supposed, was also an alias. He surmised this was expected too. If the guests were to go by another name, then for their protection as well so too would the staff. Amusing detail if not worrisome. It only served to heighten his anxiety after all. He would need to play his cards close to his chest if he was to survive this social gathering.

The Fisherman's voice was crisp and every word well chosen. He seemed to have an accent that he couldn't place but if he had to guess then English was not his first language and this accounted for how precise his words were spoken. But still he spoke true and boldly and everything about this man exuded friendliness. He felt, to some extent at least, he could trust this man. At least for a while.

They boarded a modest sized Ferry on the docks of the small town. It was larger than most Ferry's he'd seen, more akin to a luxurious yacht and it spared nothing to the imagination. Painted white, the golden letters of the Merryweather stood out along the side. Golden pegasus statues adorned the golden railings, and the floorboards were a pristine and polished white. Everything appeared as if the boat had come off the line that morning and he felt every bit a foreigner upon its deck.

He was given a brief tour. He was shown the outside deck of course which encircled the entire inner of the ship and the first sight inside was just as glamorous as he'd come to expect. Red carpets, glass mirrors, golden chandeliers and a fully stocked bar greeted him. Dining chairs to sit at least thirty guests and white leather couches lined the walls.

He was most surprised though to see a person sitting at the bar. He had nothing to base his judgement on but he had assumed he would not see another person until after he had arrived on the island.

The man sitting at the bar was hunched over and looked over his shoulder when they had entered. He wore a white suit, red blouse under the jacket with a black, undone tie. His long blonde hair was slicked back and a cigarette was keeping a lock of hair behind his ear.

On first impression he appeared dangerous and intimidating. He stood twice his height as his legs were lazily crossed and still touching the floor. He was tall, lanky but his shoulders were broad and his grin was wicked.

"Yo!" He waved towards them, shoving something back into his jacket before he turned to face them, leaning heavily on the bar counter with his elbows. "Another guest?"

"Ah, the Gambler." The Fisherman pronounced happily. "This is the King of Games!"

He waved at the blonde shyly and the blonde regarded him, looking him up and down before hopping off his stool.

He approached them arrogantly, hands in his pockets as he inspected him.

He tried to stand tall, not to intimidate this person known as the Gambler, but to at least demand some level of respect. The Gambler merely laughed and held out a hand to greet him. He smiled happily, hoping his nerves were not showing and praying his hands were not sweating as he took it. His shake was a lot softer than he expected. He thought a firm grasp of power is what this man would offer, but patient kindness is what he got instead. Perhaps this man was not so scary after all.

"I'm s'pose ta be the Gambler, but don ask me who picked these names. So your the King o Games, eh?" His accent was most definitely foreign. Some place in the US if he had to guess. It was definitely a typical accent, perhaps even stereotypical, but he couldn't quite place where without being offensive.

"Apparently. It's nice to meet you. May I call you the Gambler?" He asked politely. The Gambler didn't exactly roll off the tongue easily, but he would adapt if needed.

"Sure, call me whatever." The blonde merely shrugged and then turned to the Fisherman. "He the last? We headin out soon?"

"There's one more, then we're off to Blossomfall Estate." The Fisherman beamed proudly.

"Cool. Welp, better leave ya to it. See ya on the island my liege." The Gambler mocked a bow to him, tipping his imaginary hat before returning to the bar.

The rest of the tour he didn't meet anyone. He was shown the cafeteria, the small reading rooms and the laundry though he was advised the trip wasn't long enough that he should need to use it, before he was shown his room.

His room was small but welcome. A single round window granted him a view of the ocean and the gentle rocking upset his already nervous stomach, but it was private in here and felt safe.

Each room came equipped with a small bathroom, large enough for a toilet, sink and shower. The rest of the room was large enough for a single bed, a vanity with a wall mirror and a narrow but tall wardrobe. It was the most underfunded area of the boat, but he preferred it this way. Here he could reclaim some form of normality while he still had it and be out of the way until necessary.

The Fisherman showed him a golden cord he could pull if he needed assistance, told him he was welcome to go anywhere on the boat he wanted, and let him know that they'd be departing within the hour. Without further assistance he left and now, he was alone.

He looked around his room but with not much to look at, he sighed and plopped down on his bed. The Mattress was softer than he expected and the air crisp and fresh. The gentle caws of the sea birds outside and the salty smell of the ocean mixed with nerves and beautiful sunshine left him unwilling to move.

Soon he'd be on the island where he would meet others he knew nothing about. Soon he'd be on the island where they'd discuss what he could only surmise was the reason for his debt. Soon he'd be on the island, where he would undoubtedly be in the hands of his host…

…and his blackmailer.

He was awoken by a surprise announcement somewhere in the roof of his cabin. The voice wasn't too clear and quiet and he needed to strain to hear it, but he caught enough to make the sentence. They were readying to leave and asked to remain in their cabins until they heard the next transmission.

He rubbed his eyes of the sleep that took him and stretched out with a yawn. Moments later he felt the grinding and groaning of the ship's engines turning and after it settled out he sat up and looked out the window.

He couldn't quite tell if they were moving but it felt like they were. Something about the shift in gravity affirmed they were moving even with the rocking.

Five minutes later he heard the static of the hidden speaker and the Fisherman's voice followed, letting them know it was safe to roam and they would come to their destination in forty five minutes.

He wondered if he should leave his cabin and explore, perhaps go sit on the deck and soak in the rays and enjoy the seabreeze. But that would mean mingling and meeting strangers more than likely. He could stay away from them, but he couldn't guarantee their curiosity wouldn't bring them over to him.

He opted for remaining.

But fifteen minutes into that and the rocking was becoming unbearable. He felt flushed, restless and nervous. He felt trapped within this cabin and like the ocean was trying to turn the boat up so it might swallow them.

Thankfully he was merely half a step off the bed to the bathroom before his stomach decided it too felt too trapped within him.

He remained on the floor of his little bathroom for the remainder of the trip. The cold tiles were welcome through his suit pants but the cramped space was something his joints did not agree with. Still, he was able to find some solace upon the seat of the toilet, his stomach now empty and his body remarkably adjusted to the rocking, somewhat becoming one with the boat.

When he heard the announcement that they would be arriving within ten minutes he found the strength to push himself up, clean himself off, brush his teeth with the small bathroom travel pack he brought with him, and freshen himself up. He still appeared pink in the cheeks and wet in the eyes, but he looked better than he thought he would. Straightening himself off he gathered his little suitcase and left the safety of his cabin.

He felt much more relaxed now. Even the nerves of meeting new people didn't stop him from leaving and this was an after thought that had occurred to him when he entered the saloon. He didn't find anyone else until he got here but he was pleasantly relieved when he found a few people here at the bar or in booths by the window.

The Gambler was by the bar, enjoying a drink with whom he assumed was another guest.

This new stranger was just as tall and dressed in a dark smokey brown suit. Curiously his shoes were hastily cleaned steel capped work boots he supposed was to pass as dress shoes. His dark brown hair came to a sharp point at the front and were buzzed behind his ear and head. Military perhaps? High cheekbones framed his narrow face and his kind eyes were thin but his smile suggested he was rather playful in nature.

The Gambler took note of him immediately and called him over with a wide wave he couldn't ignore. His friend turned and smiled at him, raising a glass his way.

"Hey man, how ya finding the cruise?" The Gambler asked happily. Scotch was his drink of choice he saw, while the brunette favoured whiskey. He himself took to spirits but he wasn't inclined to drink as yet.

"Bit rocky for my tastes. I'll be glad to on land again." He said happily and the blonde laughed and raised his drink to that.

"I don't believe we've met. I'm Mr. Brown." The Brunette shook his hand firmly but not in an intimidating way. He smiled and felt safe to talk to.

"Pleasure to meet you Mr. Brown. I am the King of Games." He said shyly. There was something embarrassing about introducing himself as royalty to a name so casual.

"King of Games. How about these names, huh?" Mr. Brown chuckled.

"Tell me about it. I dun even gamble." The Gambler rolled his eyes, shoving something hand in his pocket and taking another swig of his drink. But there was a tell there he noticed. A tell that sparked his interest.

"Do you play games, Gambler?"

The blonde raised an inquisitive brow. "Games?"

"Mmm. I noticed the way you hold your drink. Pinky up. Most don't unless they work delicately for several years. Artists, gamers, writers…" He listed off slowly and he was taking a wild stab but he couldn't shake the feeling he was right.

"Ah well aren't you observant. Yeah I dabble in some gaming. Suppose you do too givin ya name."

He smiled and nodded. "I do. I'm rather good if I say so myself." He felt ridiculous for the admission, but a great deal of satisfaction and pride too.

"Ah, maybe we could play a game or two on the island, assuming they got at least some cards."

"I keep a deck on me. I'd be happy to pass the time playing with you. And you too Mr. Brown, if you are interested."

Mr. Brown smiled but put both hands in the air. "I'm afraid I make a better spectator."

"Too bad, just us then." The Gambler turned his excited grin to him and he could hardly contain the amused smirk tugging at his lips. A game perfect in his opinion. Not only were they fun, but what better way was there to get behind your opponents mind than with one? He got to know many people through games more intimately than any conversation.

"Have you gotten to meet anyone else?" Mr. Brown asked him conversationally and he found himself slightly at a disadvantage again. Now the conversation had turned to anything other than his specialty he was almost a fish out of water.

"Uh no. I haven't." He answered simply.

"Stick wit us. There's a few shady characters among us." The Gambler said, standing a head taller than necessary and puffing out his chest. There was no one else here so his tough guy exterior amused him but he was grateful as well. He felt he could trust these two at least.

"Shall we go out on deck? I'm sure we can see the island by now." Mr. Brown offered and wordlessly they followed him outside.

The Gambler spoke idly about previous trips on similar cruises but he was most interested in the island fast approaching.

It was beautiful with rolling hills, a tall mountain covered in lush trees, beautiful crystal blue waters and white sandy beaches. Palm trees along the coasts looked ripe with coconuts, a tall white lighthouse stood upon a steep cliff where the waves of the ocean crashed in their daring attempts to reach it. He could not see the manor from here but the wharf looked lovely and well kept. This certainly fit the bill for a tourist destination so far and if all he had seen was anything to go by, then their place of residence would not disappoint.

If this were a friendly visit he could see himself relaxing here with some friends. Playing among the waves, relaxing upon the beach in a hammock tied to trees, getting lost in the fields on a beautiful sunny day, hiking in those trees only to wind down by a fire. It looked absolutely divine and he half forgot why he was here in the first place.

"Ey looks like we're not the only ones checkin' out the view." The Gambler said, nudging his arm a little rougher than he liked. He followed his direction though and they were not alone sight seeing.

A woman dressed in a bright white and yellow flowered summer dress that she had to hold down lest she flash everyone stood some meters away. Her dress cut across her chest to rest comfortably upon her bare shoulders and a thin brown cord was tied at her waist. She wore open toed wedges and a large white sun hat she had to hold onto her head. Her fair skin looked smooth to the touch and her slim body suggested she was rather fit. He could not see her face but her short brown hair blew behind her, only keeping some semblance of style from her hat.

Another man was standing some meters from her too. He wore an ivory suit with his sleeves rolled up to his elbows to show off leather cuffs at his wrists. This man was very curious to him though. His suit was freshly pressed but he cared little for creasing if he rolled his sleeves in such a way. He wore fine gold around his fingers and his shoes were brand new if the shine was anything to go by. But his posture; he stood with a foot on the railing, leaning on his knee and bent over. His dark copper skin contrasted against his clothing and his sandy blonde hair which was tied back in a ponytail but he could tell that it was a thick mane by how wild it was. He couldn't see his face either but he knew how strong this man was by how broad his shoulders were, how strong his body appeared to be.

So… five guests. That he knew of. Himself as the King of Games, his blonde friend as the Gambler, his brunette friend as Mr. Brown, a woman and a mysterious man. The island was approaching and they'd meet officially soon - but perhaps more pressing was what awaited them. They were more than likely all here for the same reasons - the question was: why?

He kept to himself as much as he could as the Ferry drew closer to the wharf. He remained near his new acquaintances, even after the woman and the other stranger had come closer. He was sure they would introduce themselves later and they seemed to have the same thought.

Once the boat had stopped they waited behind a locked gate patiently while the Fisherman returned.

"Alright, ladies and gentlemen, we have arrived! Welcome to Blossomfall Estate! Here you will depart in an orderly fashion down the gangplank and meet with your guide to the manor. On behalf of Pegasus Industries, I'd like to thank you for boarding with us and we hope you have enjoyed your stay with us." His pronouncement was very formal and very friendly and he could tell in an instant it was a rehearsed spiel, but he smiled all the same for hearing it.

With that the Fisherman unlocked the gate and allowed them to depart.

The Gambler led the way, followed by Mr. Brown and he stepped close behind him. He was aware of the woman behind him and likely the stranger took up the rear. He didn't care to check though, he was more focused on not losing his footing.

Once upon solid ground he was immensely relieved. The world threatened to keep spinning and his equilibrium was beyond confused, but he loved the wood below him so much he half wanted to get on his knees and kiss it - might have had he been alone.

They were greeted by a thin, tall man, lean and lithe in frame. His smile was bright, his hair as white as snow and his skin not far behind. He wore a light blue button up that was rolled to the sleeves, light tanned dress pants and a pair of white gloves. His hair was tied back as well in a neat bun behind his head and his name badge read: Mouse.

His happy smile eased him and he felt compelled to get to know this man. Perhaps having a member of staff on his side would be good for him but also he simply felt a bond to him. He looked excited to be here, friendly in nature and just as meek as he really was.

"Good evening!"

He's British. He thought amusedly, smirking at the white creampuff of a man.

"Welcome to Blossomfall Estate! As soon as all the guests have stepped off the Ferry, I will begin introductions and escort you all to your destination, so if we could step away from the gangplank and make room…"

There's more? He wondered curiously. They followed his instruction, stepping several feet away and sure enough there were more guests filing down the gangplank. Two of them.

A very tall man, lean in nature however he somehow wielded immense power and arrogance in the scowl he wore. Brown hair was perfectly shaped and aided his frowning eyebrows in creating a very intimidating look. His outfit was quite extravagant in the way that it flowed and fanned out behind him, revealing dark leather clothing underneath. Heeled boots clopped as he stepped and he brought with him nought but a silver briefcase. His large coat that served more as a cape than a jacket, was white and his sleeves were belted together around his strong arms. His leather pants were tight and rather revealing. He was most definitely a notable character, likely someone who enjoyed showing off and had an ego to follow it. He was a man with power and he knew it. So what was he doing here?

Once the extra man stepped off the gangplank he stood some meters from the group. Seemingly disgusted for even being in their presence he supposed. But it mattered little for the man behind him stole his breath away.

Tanned skin as gorgeous as silk, wild tri coloured raven, scarlet and honey blonde hair pulled back into a ponytail not even a band could contain. It flared out behind him and his blonde bangs framed his perfectly shaped face. High cheekbones, beautiful long black lashes accentuated with fine penmanship of his liner. Brilliant ruby eyes glanced over each of them curiously and he found himself small and shy when they landed upon him for but a moment.

He wore a light grey suit with a hint of lavender in its tone, a deep crimson shirt underneath and a black tie. A red rose sat comfortably in his breast pocket and he noticed the golden choker hugging his beautifully strong neck. A small braid of hair tucked behind his ear, adorned with little golden beads and in his ears were small golden cuffs.

He was the definition of handsome. He was the embodiment of beauty. He was cute, dazzling and so breathtakingly gorgeous that he literally felt his brain erasing his vocabulary just to make room for his image. Was his mouth agape? Yes. Could he stop it? Absolutely not. How could he when in the presence of someone so stunningly hot.

"Good evening!" The British man he knew as Mouse, spoke loudly enough for them all to hear. He was standing closest to him and it was enough to make him shake his head and avert his gaze down to his shoes. He straightened out a small crease in his pants and adjusted his hold on his suitcase. The handle had gotten slippery - or maybe that was the sweat from his palms.

"Welcome to Blossomfall Estate! I am Mouse and I will be serving as your attendee during your stay with us. As you may have already guessed, all of you have been invited by my employer, whom you will meet shortly. As you may have also surmised, all of you are not going by your real names and have each been given an alias. I would suggest that all of you continue using these names, however it is not a requirement. If you would all like to follow me, I will escort you to the manor and there we will continue our introductions and get you settled into your rooms. Dinner will be provided in one hour hence and all of you will be enlightened then. Please, follow me."

Mouse gave a little bow and then happily turned on his heel to lead them away. The wharf lead to stone steps that appeared to be kept as naturally as possible before turning into man made ones that winded around a hill.

But he was more focused on swallowing his nerves and trying to look as calm and collected and cool as possible. After all, now there was someone nearby he wanted to impress and the last thing he wanted was to make any kind of fool of himself. He breathed slowly, quietly and purposefully in an attempt to force down his anxiety, but now that there was fucking hotty in range, that was almost impossible.

He was glad he agreed to follow his letter's instructions. Not only was he going to learn more regarding his blackmailer, but if he had not he might have missed the opportunity to be in proximity of someone so attractive. With any luck he might make a friend out of him, or something more.

Head in the game. He scolded himself. He had to focus. This wasn't one of those love at first sight dating shows. He was here for a reason. A very real reason. He needed to focus, or he might lose this game. And possibly more than that.