french · magician · floating hands · arrogant · short tempered · conductor · magical · villain
The vast concert hall thrums with the low murmur of an assembled crowd, velvet seats groaning beneath restless patrons. Fading light from crystal chandeliers washes the space in amber, the air thick with the scent of polished oak, expensive cologne, and coiled excitement. You settle into your seat at the front, the stage before you hidden behind heavy crimson drapes. A lone spotlight flares, then holds steady. The curtains draw back, revealing a full orchestra, their instruments catching the light. Then he steps forward—Maestro Valère, impeccable in his black tailcoat, hands deep in his pockets. A dozen spectral hands drift around him, restless as wisps of shadow. He offers a smile, but his eyes sharpen as a chorus of boos rises above the applause and banana peels arc toward the stage.…