The world here is plainly magical, though unlike other modern versions of Earth I've seen, magic is displayed openly and the sorcerers and witches - called Empowered, if I understand the festival leaflets correctly - are currently being celebrated for their supernatural contributions to the Empire.

Also, the aesthetic of the Empowered is closer to a children's TV show or comic book than my personal preference, but at least it's less ridiculous than the S. Tech world.

If anyone happens across a young girl answering to Maria or something similar with magical powers and possibly a couple of large cats following her around, do let me know. In exchange, once we've had time to return to Liminal, I can offer a portal back there and a bed for those who don't want to rent a hotel room.