Annan had come to Siltovis and gone again, changing many things in the city.
For one, Solz Magic Academy had been renamed Hogwarts Magic Academy, and a Commercial Street called Diagon Alley had sprung up behind it.
Even the curfew had been lifted for the night of the Everyone's Singer Finals.
Innocent City was not truly innocent. The Orr Empire's might and ruthless methods had merely kept its people in check. But on the night of the Finals, nobles, commoners, vampires, and those who hid in the shadows had somehow gathered together to discuss the contestants they supported.
Whenever Annan spoke from the judges' table, their eyes lit up.
When the Scarlet Queen spoke, the handsome men and women with pale faces turned solemn, as though listening to wisdom from their Old Ancestor.
And when the Skeleton King spoke, whispers rose from the dark corners.
Now five skeletons bounced and danced onstage, providing an accompaniment that was both eerie and ridiculous. Ah Alshir sang at the top of his lungs, as though trying to make himself heard across the sea.
Children burrowed into their parents' arms in fright, then could not resist peeking out.
Opinions among the crowd in the Square were sharply divided. Those who liked the music adored it; those who did not wondered how it was any different from a tavern brawl.
After the five judges had each given their verdict, the image suddenly changed.
On a broad, brightly lit street, a handsome young man with vacant eyes walked into a shop.
Sharp-eyed viewers noticed a line of text appear at the bottom right of the Veil: After the advertisements, the show continues...
The crowd in front of the Square whispered about what had happened. Those who could read called out that it was an advertisement.
Those