“Must I spell it out for you, girl? Do as every man before you has and offer it your blood. The trial will commence henceforth.” His foul temper left her wondering who had peed in his porridge.
Hazel pricked her finger on a thorn, just as she had before, and blood welled from the tiny hole in her fingertip. She waited an ominously long time before the mirror finally spoke into her mind. And that in itself was jarring.
We’ve met before, he said.
Hazel wasn’t entirely sure how to speak from one mind to another, but she gave it a shot.You said that the last time, she responded.
No, I said I’ve tasted your blood before. But you… I would remember you.
You’re the first to find me memorable, Hazel admitted.
I do not believe that to be true. And you lie, the mirror accused.
So do you, she said a little too quickly.
Indeed, my dear. So. You’ve come back.The voice was thoughtful, considering.
Yes, she said, trying to stifle her impatience.Can we wrap this up? They’re staring at me.
The mirror ignored her.Why have you come back? Did they not tell you I usually drive men out of their minds with madness or sadness?
Hazel tapped her foot.Yes.
And still you came back. An observation.
I did.
Why, I wonder? Is she driven by greed? Didn’t like what she saw?
I wasn’t given a choice.
Hmm. She could almost feel him appraising her, even without eyes.
Hazel’s heart raced as the entire room focused on her.Please, they’re going to suspect something.
Do they not already?he asked.
Mirror! Please!Hazel begged.I don’t have much time.
He went quiet.
Mirror?
I have a name you know.His voice was quiet, almost a whisper.
She shifted her weight.I-you do?What is it?
He was clearly toying with her, right? Perhaps this was what drove men to madness. Obscurity and nonsense.
Oh, sure. Now she cares.And now the mirror had developed an attitude.
She frowned. It wasn’t lost on her that perhaps this being was exceptionally lonely. Something she could relate to.
I do care. Won’t you tell me?
Magnus cleared his throat in a way that suggested he was losing patience. Onlookers mumbled under their breath.
Hazel begged as much as she could through thought alone.Please?—
