On this day, some years ago, Christopher Rand left the house of Pamina Payne and her children, tail between his legs, never to return. It became a day celebrated with joy and relief every year. It was a miracle — the light and loveliness of the magic flute had delivered them from the ill-intent of Rand, and also from the hand of Lermontov, the Night Magician. No matter how simple their fare, or what challenges they faced, they were always grateful for this gift of freedom from tyranny. P2A..Rossignol I.