In the tenth year since Magick's founding, spring.
"...And so, they ended their final battle atop the world. The evil Pope was defeated, transformed by magic into drifting dust and sand, and received the punishment he deserved. The true hero, meanwhile, departed against the light and vanished into the clouds beyond."
The deep, resonant narration rang in everyone's ears.
Then, the lights gradually narrowed, and the smooth, mournful sound of a violin began to play. A few seconds later, thunderous applause erupted through the theater.
When the applause ended, the stage curtains fully opened and the lights brightened. The actors took their bows one by one. It was eight in the evening, and another performance had ended at the Fool Family Grand Theater. Before long, the audience filed out through the main doors. Posters covered the walls on both sides of the entrance, bearing the title—"Dynasty"—followed by a string of promotional lines: "Adapted from real historical events, the most beloved play of the past decade returns to the stage. Not to be missed!"
Outside lay the main avenue of Havenlight's outer city.
The ongoing celebration had made the entire area exceptionally lively.
Strings of lanterns hung across the streets, elements glowing bright red and green within their tubes. Crowds flowed back and forth—adults leading children, lovers holding hands... The people of the Royal Capital were immersed in festival-like joy, while rune neon signs along the road painted them in dazzling colors.
After the performance, the theatergoers poured eagerly into the streets. Most followed the crowds to continue enjoying themselves, or headed toward nearby taverns and restaurants. Only a small number chose to turn around and leave.
Nina and Sandy were among that small number.
—The sisters moved away from the crowd, pushing the bicycles they had ridden there as they