The Cycle is the name given to the approximately 2000 year long loop of time that persists in the Principality of Kesh. The Cycle predicts the events that will happen in the Principality, assigning the citizens of the Principality roles to follow.
Places and events that are not within the Principality's borders, or part of the repetitive pattern or roles, are referred to as Off Cycle.
Coming of Age
When citizens of the Principality comes of age, they are taken Off Cycle and shown the true nature of the Principality. After this, they are given a choice; remain On Cycle, in the role which Crystal Palace predicts they will follow, and live a safe, but certain, life. Or, join the Rapid Evening, and live a lift that, while more dangerous and still well predicted by Crystal Palace, carries the potential for chance, and the potential that Crystal Palace's predictions will be wrong.