STOP! HALT! WHO GOES THERE?

Oh, it’s you again!

Thank goodness.

I was here in the dark, when I felt a presence and was worried that someone was reading this who shouldn’t be. That’s not to say you shouldn’t be reading this. You should most definitely be reading this.

You don’t mind waiting a moment while I turn on a light, do you?

There we are. Much better.

I apologize for my jumpiness. Thinking about everything that is forthcoming has made me slightly anxious. But being here with you, of all people… well, I’m quite happy you’re here to keep me company as we begin the fourth—and final—tale of our adventurous Magic Misfits.

As I’m sure you’re aware, the conclusion to an epic chronicle can be nerve-racking. And after learning all you have about Carter, Leila, Theo, Ridley, Olly, Illy, Ozzy, Izzy, Dante, the Other Mister Vernon, Presto, Change-O, Top Hat, and Theo’s doves, I’m sure you’re as worried about them as I’ve been. (Presto, Change-O, Top Hat, and the Doves sounds like a stupendous name for a band. Just sayin’.) You must be itching to find out how things have progressed for each of them since the disastrous end to our previous tale.

I’ll admit, I’ve shed a tear or two myself at the thought of Vernon’s Magic Shop lying in ruins. All those tricks, all that joy, all that sparkle burned to a crisp thanks to the villain Kalagan, who still lurks about the streets of Mineral Wells, watching from the shadows as our Misfits begin another year of school. I’m sure he’s only biding his time until he’s ready to strike again.…

Eep!

My apologies. I thought I heard a noise. Perhaps I shall turn on another light.

Now, allow me to catch you up on everything you need to know going into the coming adventure. The Magic Misfits are comprised of Carter Locke, who makes things vanish; Leila Vernon, who escapes from tight spots; Theo Stein-Meyer, an aficionado of levitation; Ridley Larsen, a tinkerer proficient in the magical art of transformation; and Olly and Izzy Golden, gymnastic, musical comedians who keep their friends laughing no matter the circumstances.

Of course, who could laugh when a showdown with a powerful magician bent on revenge is imminent? I’m not sure I could. Nevertheless, you must read on. The only thing left for me to share with you now is…