Chapter 12: The Odd Magician
Night Lan still knew about this place.
Wan Yu Square, the biggest entertainment hub in Yun Chang City, full of technological and mechanical elements, quite sci-fi.
She had been there before, but playing alone provided no experience, so she returned hastily.
Who would have thought that a Star Eclipses would appear here? Night Lan really wasn’t expecting it.
According to the knowledge of the Night Watchers, ordinary people wouldn’t detect any anomalies caused by Star Eclipses. Even if there were Star Eclipses nearby previously, she probably wouldn’t have noticed.
“Danger isn’t far away.”
Night Lan muttered those words to herself.
“Feels like I’ve entered another world. It’s truly incredible.”
Even after becoming a Night Watcher, she didn’t have the expected resolve.
At most, she was drawn in by the good benefits mentioned by Cai Xun and others, joining on a whim.
Did she really have the courage to face those dangerous enemies?
She was kind but didn’t seem brave.
Night Lan leisurely strolled around the square’s edge, kicking at the air as if stepping over tiny pebbles.
Then she noticed a crowd gathered around, watching some event.
“Huh?”
Curious Night Lan cautiously approached.
On closer look, an older gent in his forties in a black tuxedo and top hat was performing magical tricks politely.
He removed his hat and showed the inside, pointing his magic wand inside.
“Coo-coo-coo!”
“Coo-coo!”
“Goo!”
Several pigeons suddenly flew out from the hat.
Clap-clap-clap-clap!
“Great! Great!”
Thunderous applause erupted on the spot.
“Heh.”
The magician smirked, placing the hat down and pointing his wand again.
But nothing happened.
“Oh.”
Night Lan was intrigued, her eyes widening.
The magician paused, clearly puzzled by the lack of action.
“Was it a mistake?” Night Lan mumbled.
Then he tilted his head toward the hat and a spring punch jumped out, knocking him down.
“Haha~”
“Haha!”
The spectators laughed joyfully.
The magician got up, stuffed the spring punch back, and bowed.
Now Night Lan understood.
“So it wasn’t a mistake? Just a trick? Hmm~ It seems like a mix of a magician, a clown, and a comedian. Impressive!”
Night Lan giggled too, feeling the performance was entertaining and worthy of applause.
But her applause blended with the rest, causing no stir.
Night Lan didn’t notice the peculiar expressions or awkward actions surrounding her.
“What a retro way of performing. I didn’t expect to see such tricks in this fast-paced era. It’s rare and everyone seems to love it. I thought I was the only one who enjoyed joyful performances.”
Not keen on the fast pace, Night Lan felt out of sync with society.
Probably due to being poor and lazy.
Today’s youth are used to fast-paced living with increased tech-driven entertainment. Such stage acts have become outdated.
Between basic magic tricks and flashy tech machines, which attracts more people?
Obviously, the latter.
Despite this, surprisingly many came to watch the old gent perform.
Back to reality.
When the magician stopped, everyone’s expressions turned normal, the cheers ceased, and they all left.
“Huh?” Night Lan looked confused, unsure what just happened.
Looking at the motionless magician, he seemed to be fading away.
“Ugh…”
It reminded her of the loneliness when sitting alone, lost in her thoughts.
After a moment’s hesitation, Night Lan clapped again.
Clap-clap-clap~
The old magician’s gaze landed on her, sparkling with emotion.
“Do you find my show impressive?”
His voice was magnetic, heavy with tales, putting her under pressure.
Startled by his voice, Night Lan tensed up but summoned the courage to answer.
“Yeah, it’s awesome. Your performance is great. You’re a performer who spreads joy, right? Mixing magic, comedy, and clowning—it’s so natural. Can I see more?”
Night Lan had no clue why she boldly spoke to a stranger like that. Probably because she saw him as sad, hoping to cheer him up.
Her utmost kindness and warmth.
His eyes lit up, trembling, covering his face and bending down, a hoarse laughter emerging.
“Hahaha… Joyful? That’s good. You’re the true audience!”
Scared by his excitement, she stepped back.
“Um… There were many audiences earlier…”
Straightening up, he said, “No, they weren’t real audiences. They were just flatterers, not even willingly. I can’t bring genuine joy; it disappoints me. But then you came, voluntarily drawn by my act. True joy comes from within! Even your applause is so beautiful! This is what I’ve been seeking, what we are looking for!”
“Ahh… This…” Night Lan was perplexed.
Though she understood each word, the whole made little sense.
The old magician grew excited again.
“I have other friendly colleagues whose performance is equally amazing! They need someone like you. Come back with me? We’ll give you an exclusive show! I’m sure you’d love it, and your applause and cheers will be the best!”
“Mmm…”
Night Lan looked troubled. She found the magician odd but didn’t know exactly how.
“But I’m busy now. Maybe next time?”
Finally, she realized how strange the magician was.
If anything else strange was to happen, Night Lan would make a quick exit.
Isn’t that why she learned speed wishes after all?
However, the magician merely sighed.
“Pity, then. Since you’re here, I’ll give you a show tailored just for you. A new magic trick, enjoy it.”
“That’s fine.”
