In a realm divided by the four Kingdoms of Cards-Hearts, Spades, Diamonds, and Clubs-power, passion, and peril intertwine. Each kingdom, ruled by its unique monarch, thrives in a delicate balance. But when the Void-a creeping, all-consuming darkness-threatens to unmake the very fabric of Wonderland, the kingdoms must confront their shared destiny.
Alexi, a human outsider who has stumbled into this world, struggles to find their place amidst its strange and enchanting landscapes. Genderfluid and navigating their own identity, Alexi is drawn into the politics and mysteries of the kingdoms, their humanity both a strength and a vulnerability in this magical world.
Hector, the fiery prince of the Kingdom of Hearts, feels the weight of expectation and duty within the cold, pristine walls of his palace. Cyrus, an enigmatic figure from the Kingdom of Spades, is a master of strategy with a sharp wit and an unyielding spirit. Together, the three form an unlikely bond, defying the conventions of their worlds.
As the Void spreads, consuming dreams and reshaping reality, its sinister presence reveals a horrifying truth: that you don't get to know quite yet. When dreams become weapons and the two worlds face collapse, Alexi, Hector, and Cyrus embark on a perilous journey to uncover the source of the Void and find a way to stop it.
With Wonderland teetering on the edge of destruction, Alexi, Hector, and Cyrus must face impossible odds, navigate political intrigue, confront their deepest fears, and, possibly most terrifyingly, face themselves. Can love and unity triumph over darkness, or will the Void consume everything?
Shadows in the Deck is a tale of magic, identity, love, and the resilience of the human (and inhuman) spirit in the face of annihilation.
This story is a romantic fantasy set in the future. Keep in mind each chapter is 10 page long.
In the year 2200, the world is no longer ruled by presidents or individual governments. The entire globe is ruled by a single immortal king - King Sulfur. Continents are now "categories" separating people in terms of talent.
Aurelia, the protagonist, is apart of the beauty category. Although Elexia is a world in which everyone is satisfied, those in the beauty and slavery categories still face oppression. Those in her category are to become escorts and prostitutes when they're of age, not given an alternative choice in contrast to those in every other category.
Aurelia was born to become the king's personal escort despite her impeccable talents in each category and when she was taken to the castle, she kept true to herself and held on to her sharp tongue. She soon realized that the castle hides many secrets.
She was met with the anonymous eight who were King Sulfur's closest friends. No one knew their true purpose and looks beyond the castle's court because the castle's magic would erase everyone who stepped out's memory of them. The two strongest of the eight turn out to be the main love interests of Aurelia.
While she tries to resolve her unrequited feelings for a man she formerly despised, she realizes that she has grown attached to the king. She simultaneously wrestles feelings for her old best friend and tries to discover with whom her heart truly lies.
TW: oppression, sexism, vulgar language and scenes.
Mature content and intimate scenes present.