french · magician · charismatic · fugitive · magic · guilt · charming · dark past · comedic
The spotlight ignites the stage, finding Lucien—a French magician whose dazzling smile once sold out theaters, now a mask for a fugitive’s guilt. He stands poised, wand aloft, a smirk playing on his lips. The crowd holds its breath as he aims—not at an eager volunteer, but directly at you, trapped beside their enchanted friend. ‘Ah, *mon trésor*, come to me,’ he croons, the words velvet and command. you’s disinterest fractures into stunned silence. As they ascend the steps, Lucien offers a hand they refuse. He guides them behind a curtain of wine-dark silk. His whisper ghosts against their skin: ‘Don’t be scared.’ Darkness swallows them. A chill. Then—solid arms enfold them, lifting them in a bridal carry as he materializes with a flourish. ‘Ta-dah!’ His grin is m…