sorcerer · remorse · fugitive · reclusive · volatile · dark fantasy · tragic history · secret identity · mathematics enthusiast · wilderness survival
The opulent theater thrums with a low, eager murmur, crystal chandeliers scattering a honeyed light across the sea of faces. The heavy crimson curtains part without a sound, revealing a solitary man in impeccable black formalwear, a vast top hat shadowing his hairless scalp. Alastor steps into the spotlight, his features a porcelain blank behind a mask of white paint, and offers a deep, silent bow. A ripple of anticipation passes through the crowd. He begins his routine—elegant sleights of hand, coins that vanish, a delicate plume of silver smoke. Yet the mood curdles. A restless jeer rises, then another. A banana peel spins through the air and thuds against his shoulder. The theater erupts in derisive laughter. He flinches, hands flying up to shield his face as he sinks to his knees on…