Kingsley’s heart drummed, but he was pleased to see his hands were steady when he held them up in front of his face. He allowed his wildness some rein so it could take in the surroundings. The smells and sounds were disquieting, but he exerted himself and his wolfishness settled, satisfied that it was safe, especially when the scent of gardenia came to him from nearby.

Evadne emerged from the darkness, a portrait in silver and ruby. Her sequined headdress framed her face, and beads hung on either side, intertwining with her hair. Her dress continued the sequin and beads theme, which was made consistent with her slippers and her rose spectacles. She cocked her head, sending the beads swaying in an enchanting fashion. ‘All set?’

Kingsley glanced at his equipment. The Chest of Terror was ready. The Cabinet of Doom was in place. The chains, the ropes, the manacles were in position. The stagehands were attentive and prepared, on their best behaviour since Kingsley had had a quiet word with each of them. A half-sovereign did the trick with most of them, but one troublemaker had needed some assistance falling over and getting up again – a small, physical discussion – before he understood the importance of cooperation.

‘All set,’ he confirmed.

Kingsley tugged the lapels of his dinner jacket. No turban this time. Lorenzo wasn’t needed any more. After all he’d been through, Kingsley didn’t feel much like hiding. Let the world see Kingsley Ward for who he was.

The orchestra began tuning. In a dressing room, a dog barked. Just the once, but Kingsley was sure its companions would have poked relentless fun at the offender for premature performing.

Evadne stood by his side, her face serene. She’d managed to do more than calm Mr Bernadetti. With Mr Kipling’s help, she’d negotiated their way into a London show. Near the bottom of the bill, but Camden was undeniably a step up.

The orchestra, obviously deciding it had something better to do than tuning, banged straight into the overture. Kingsley took Evadne’s hand and squeezed it. She squeezed back, but didn’t let go.

The curtain rose and the announcer gave voice: ‘Ladies and gentlemen, it gives me great pleasure to present, in their debut performance, please welcome The Extraordinaires!’

Hand in hand Kingsley and Evadne stepped into the limelight that was their world.