: The Keepe

er her second v

dn't covered them. But someone, or *something*, had. The material was old, moth-eaten, and heavy with the

off*. Her eyes looked a little too wide. Her exp

s watching t

t them

room. She didn't want to go-but she had to. Elias Va

e cycle. I believe the mirror can be sealed-but not without sacrifice

essel, or bre

stared back-normal now, no strange smiles or flick

u want?" sh

dn't answer.

flection s

behind her: the study. Her grandmother's old desk. A drawer sli

he recognized i

the study and to

pt

around, the locket w

ng. Inside was a photo-her as

s folded

when the time comes. Be s

r than

inst her skin. The mirror had *shown* her th

the dreams

wasn't alone. Dozens of figures surrounded her-reflect

e in. W

she s

as

m, wrapped in shadow, hands pres

shows," he said. "But

ut he was yanked backwa

, the taste of as

said she h

y three

before her, the locket warm in her palm, the journa

. A name

... what would she forg

that mean h

. a

sacrifice s

d it be

surface-Evelyn, screaming; a younger Elias, burning pap

instant, it showe

isted, smiling wi

ispered throu

hoo

**the time was