Black Mirror
A Black Mirror is a powerful and rare magical scrying device, coveted for its unparalleled ability to reveal hidden truths, locations, and answers to specific questions. While it appears to be a block of obsidian, it is, in fact, far more than common volcanic glass. The material of the Black Mirror is an enigmatic substance, known as noctulite, an otherworldly mineral believed to have formed in the heart of dying stars, brought to Earth eons ago by meteoric impacts. This material is incredibly dense, with a surface that absorbs almost all light, making it appear as a void rather than a reflective surface. The Noctulite’s dark, glossy exterior makes it resemble polished obsidian, but its properties are far more extraordinary.
Properties of Noctulite
- Absorption of Light: Noctulite absorbs ambient light, giving the Black Mirror its characteristic depthless black appearance. It is this property that allows the mirror to show clear, unclouded visions when activated.
- Connection to the Aether: The mineral is believed to be connected to the Aether, the mystical plane where all knowledge and possibilities converge. This connection allows the Black Mirror to display precise visions based on the user's intent.
How the Black Mirror Works
When paired with the proper candle, the Black Mirror can reveal straightforward and accurate visions based on the user's desires. It does not offer vague or symbolic representations; instead, it directly shows the user what they seek, provided no powerful protective wards are in place to block its vision.
- Direct Vision: The mirror can show specific places, people, or objects as they currently exist, regardless of distance. This makes it invaluable for locating lost items, observing distant locations, or finding individuals.
- Answers to Questions: If the user asks the mirror a question, and an answer exists, the mirror will display it directly. For instance, asking the mirror "Where is the hidden treasure?" will show the exact location, provided no magical wards are protecting it.
- Limitations: The mirror's abilities are formidable, but not infallible. Powerful protective wards, crafted by skilled mages, can obscure or block the mirror’s vision. However, these wards must be specifically designed with the Black Mirror's power in mind, making them rare and difficult to create.
Starfire Candle
To activate the Black Mirror, a specific type of candle known as the starfire candle is required. This candle is not just a source of light but an essential component that interacts with the Noctulite’s mystical properties to unlock the mirror’s scrying abilities. When the candle burns, its flame is white and blue, instead of yellow. Starfire candles are sources of magic and power.
- Ingredients: The Candle of Seeing is made from a combination of rare and magical substances:
- Wax from bees that have fed on nocturnal flowers, which are known for their connection to the moon and the unseen.
- Essence of Starfire, a rare alchemical substance distilled from the remains of meteoric fragments, believed to enhance the clarity of visions.
- Wick spun from the hair of a powerful magical being. Unicorn hair was used at times, making the production of such candles exceptionally dangerous.
- Crafting Process: The candle is crafted in a secretive ritual during the new moon, where the absence of natural light is believed to align the candle's energies with the stars.
Using the Black Mirror
To use the Black Mirror, the Candle of Seeing must be lit and placed before the mirror. The user focuses on the mirror, stating their desire clearly. As the candlelight reflects off the Noctulite, the mirror’s surface shifts from pure black to reveal the desired vision.
Examples of Use:
- Locating a Person: If someone wanted to find a missing person, they would light the Candle of Seeing, gaze into the Black Mirror, and state, "Show me [person's name]." The mirror would then display the person’s current location.
- Answering a Question: Asking a question like "What is the secret to unlocking the ancient vault?" would prompt the mirror to show the key, sequence, or method required, provided it is not obscured by magical protections.
- Viewing a Distant Location: The mirror can also show a specific place, such as "Show me the hidden temple in the mountains," revealing the temple as it currently appears.