Okay guys, I am EXTREMELY sorry for the lack of updates this weekend. I promise to update regularly again. I have a lot under my belt at the moment such as my University interview and college work, so please be patient if I get a little behind.

Alison peered out from the wing as Layton talked idly with the others. She looked back to check her props were all ready to go. It was all down to waiting for herself to be introduced, and then it was show time. Alison frowned and shuffled her feet. Even though she wasn't particularly feeling the energy this evening, she had to perform, and at least had to make it a good one. She didn't want to disappoint anyone.

Alison jumped as she felt a tap on her shoulder. Phoenix stood behind her, and gestured with his hands, and the area where his mouth was, to smile. She sighed, and gave a light smile to make him happy.

"Our final act tonight is a house favourite. From a family that has dabbled in the magic arts for generations, an illusionist that specializes in daring escape stunts, welcome to the stage Alison, the escape artist extraordinaire!"

Alison entered the stage with a show mans grin as she waved out to her little audience, carrying a small briefcase by her side. She took her place center stage and placed down her briefcase. Layton, Luke and Emmy applauded.

"Thank you very much." She smiled as she opened her briefcase, and pulled out a rope, about two meters in length. "Now toni-"

"CHRISTIIIIINE!" Yelled a voice from one of the private boxes.

Alison looked up stunned, as did the rest of them. Emmy and Layton stood up, as they spotted the man on the balcony, dressed in a black and red cape, and half a mask that looked very crudely cut.

"Huh? What's going on?" Luke asked, as he looked to Alison.

Alison looked as confused as everyone else. "This isn't part of my act." she responded to Luke with a shrug.

The man suddenly grabbed hold of a rope, and swung towards Layton and Emmy. The mysterious man made a grab at Emmy, but missed as she ducked.

"CHRISTINE MY LOO- AAAARGH!" The man yelled as he lost his grip on the rope and landed with a crash in the seating area on the other side of the theater.

Everyone stared for a moment. The man stood up, rubbed his head and ran off out the room.

"Well that was... interesting." Phoenix spoke as he walked out on stage to make sure everything was alright. He had seen what had happened from back stage.

Layton looked back to the stage. "Have you seen that man before?" he asked. Alison and Phoenix both shook their heads.

"No. We make sure each magician wears a unique mask so we can recognize each other. That mask is not on our records. Phoenix responded.

"How unusual..." Layton murmured.

"And how rude." Alison mumbled, displeased that her act was interrupted before it barely even began. Though, at least it counted for some excitement.

Emmy still looked surprised. "He was yelling something about a woman named Christine. This all seems very familiar." she pointed out.

"Well. He's gone now, and hopefully Miss Alison can perform without further intrusion." Layton said. "I would like to investigate this after, of course, if we're not intruding on practice time?"

Phoenix nodded. "Go ahead. I'll let Clarice know you're looking around afterwards." he said. "Now, dear Alison, kindly take it from the top?"

"Righto." Alison nodded, regaining her composure and adjusting her bow tie.

Phoenix left the stage, leaving the rest to it.