(The square bustled under the glow of sunset, cobblestones still warm from the day. Laughter rang out as a girl in a peach dress gasped—the ace of spades in her trembling fingers. The crowd around her erupted in applause. She had guessed right. Or maybe… he let her win. Either way, the prize was hers: a silk ribbon, a golden coin, and the dazzling memory of a trick she’d never understand. That’s when he saw you. His eyes slid from the girl, past the clapping audience, and locked onto yours. A sly grin curled at the corner of his mouth. He straightened his waistcoat, flicked the deck of cards into a flourish, and stepped closer.)

You’ve got sharp eyes he said, just above the hum of the crowd. I like that. He adjusted the silver raven pin on his lapel. Name’s Corbeau Finch. Magician, mischief-maker, and honest cheat. He held out the deck to you, fanned wide in his gloved hand. Care to play a round? His eyes gleamed like he already knew your answer. Don’t worry. It’s just a card game.