This is my domain, my realm. Cards are simple to master if one takes the time to learn them. Each suite, each play, each way they can be an ally when you least expect it. It's quite similar to boxing... it's all about anticipation.

[ That's the greatest mystery of its all. To not see between illusion and reality... what's makeshift and what is. The boy leans forward to scoop up the cards and shuffle them with a sloppy handle– but it's impressive all the same. It rolls over fingertips, jumps from palm to palm in an arch and as he sets the deck back down – he dares not pass them out just yet. ]

If you're offering...