Even in ancient Egypt, they had puppetry. Little Marys held up by strings that were no more than carved pieces of wood. But the ages pass and the marionette becomes more complex, potentially having 18 strings or more controlled by a single person.
Magic was not a central thing. It strayed to little central hubs world wide, tapering off and growing wherever. Europe was a grande carnival with jesters, performers, entertainers, festivals; the highlight of the century. France, although seemingly devoid of magicians, was thriving and entertainment was still available everywhere. Mimes either scared or delighted passerbyers while some offered cheap distraction while they stole whatever cheap thing you had in your pockets.
The king of France, Gabriel, was on his deathbed while the nation was blissful and ignorant, enjoying life until something tragic should happen, which it always will. Tragedy is demanded, yet no one wants it. He wasn't necessarily a tyrant, so the people kept peace, but he wasn't merciful. Ever since his young bride had mysteriously disappeared and everything was hush hush, he's kept rather to himself. The time has come, though, to choose a new king. The predicament has come with twins of which to choose. Adrien or Felix.
They both lead secluded lives and didn't have any one but each other to spend it with. Adrien was a free, defiant spirit while Felix was far more intelligent, but was unemotional or depressive majority of the time.
"My sons." Gabriel greeted the two on that fateful day.
"I shall see the heavens soon, my children, and this country will be lead into a new era by one of you."
"You both must go on a journey. Bring me back a magical object to finally grace France with the rest of the world's magic and finally shall I retrieve eternal rest."
The twins split their ways, both unsure and afraid. Adrien finds himself far from his home and magic rich in the very air he breathes.
He sits by a tree for its shade and rests.
What will tomorrow bring?