Maz (A.C.A.A.N) by Fraser Parke

Summary of Maz (A.C.A.A.N) Magic Effect

Core Features

• Stunning Effect: Spectators freely think of a card and a number; after shuffling, the cardprecisely appearsat the corresponding number position, creating an “impossible” illusion—especially effective at fooling fellow magicians.
• Versatile Application: Works withborrowed decks(no prior setup needed), ideal for magic conventions, social settings, or pre-show scenarios (e.g., secretly preparing a magician’s deck in advance).
• Simple Execution: The performernever needs to knowthe spectator’s card or number. The effect is “self-working,” with focus on natural setup and presentation rather than complex sleight of hand.

Performance Process

1. Spectator’s Actions: The spectator thinks of a card and a number, then shuffles the deck to “lose” the card.
2. Performer’s Prediction: While the spectator focuses on their card/number, the performer makes a “predictive cut”—actually restoring a specific card orderto the deck.
3. Revelation: The spectator deals down to their thought-of number, and the target card appears exactly at that position, completing the classic “Any Card At Any Number” effect.

Differences Between the Two Versions

Dimension	Version 1: Using Your Own Deck	Version 2: Using a Borrowed Deck
Core Dependency	Requires apre-set half-stack(e.g., modified Si Stebbins stack with 26 ordered top cards).	No stack needed; relies onkey card positioning(no memorization of sequences).
Key Operation	After the spectator shuffles, the performer uses stack patterns (e.g., suit order, value increments) to restore the top 26 cards.	While “checking” the borrowed deck, secretly identify a “second key card” (e.g., 5 of Hearts), count 22 cards, and cut to set a “first key card.” Later, use these keys to restore order post-shuffle.
Use Case	Ideal for practice or fixed-deck performances to master the logic.	More flexible for impromptu performances or “challenging” magicians at conventions with their own decks.

Conclusion

Maz is Fraser Parke’s innovative take on the A.C.A.A.N plot, prioritizing “no memorization, borrowed deck compatibility, and maximum impact.” Through clever card order restoration, it creates a stark contrast between the spectator’s “free choice” and the inevitable result, cementing its status as a “fooler”-level effect in close-up magic.