Power and Prestige: A Fantasy Austen Retelling (Magical Regency Book 1) by Sarah L. McConkie

Author:Sarah L. McConkie [McConkie, Sarah L.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Published: 2020-08-31T16:00:00+00:00

Chapter Ten

“I am rather put out that Darkwood could not be here,” moped Magess Degowyn later that week. “At least Caliazo has not deserted us.”

For the first time ever, Cassia agreed with the Magess on something, but only on her sentiment toward Caliazo.

“Thank you,” said the Colonel, finishing his perusal of the room with a wide smile toward Cassia.

Caliazo had called again yesterday and Cassia couldn’t help but admit she liked his attentions. It also conveniently removed her from the fretful interactions of Mistress and Master Clovis, which were starting to wear on her nerves.

“I hope you all enjoyed dinner,” said the Magess with great gravity. “Now, for the most important of all our events.” The old lady swished her hand and what Cassia had thought was a wall gathered away into a corner like a stage curtain.

“Oh!” cried Gynelle, glancing toward Cassia. A huge cavernous room opened before them. Several handheld mirrors rested on top of different tables, and that made up the only furniture in the room. Cassia realized then she should have guessed mirrors to be involved, based on the dress she wore. Each of the three ladies had donned similar versions of a frosty-silver gown, which shimmered with any movement. Somehow when she stopped, the pieces of the dress seemed to form together into a reflective, although still moveable, material. Cassia had nearly jumped when she glanced at her lap at dinner and saw herself staring back. The shock and awe from the Clovises had settled and the Magess began again.

“These are the Mirrors of Dionia. The great Merlin himself once traveled to Dionia, Africa and brought them back. He had heard of the magical properties from the villagers there. It has been said that anyone who lifts the mirror will find their own face in the reflection, but the scene will reveal something new to the viewer, a revelation or insight into something hitherto unknown.”

“Oh my!” said Master Clovis, drumming his fingers together. “Who shall be first?”

“The ladies of the party,” chided the Magess, lifting her index finger toward Master Clovis. “There are two mirrors, so let us start with the Retton sisters.”

Gynelle stood immediately, but Cassia did not budge.

The Magess clapped her hands. “Do not be afraid, ladies.”

Gynelle seemed overly willing. She moved to Cassia and took her by the arm. “Come, it will be fun! Aren’t you intrigued?”

Seeing no other choice, Cassia rolled her eyes and slowly stood. The Magess had positioned herself next to the two tall tables and wielded a smile Cassia couldn’t trust.

“I shall only look into the glass, your Ladyship, if I don’t have to disclose what I see.”

The greyish, harsh lined eyebrows plunged downward. “Do you not wish to know insights into your own life?”

“I think I am just as curious as the next person, but I do not wish to feel compelled that I must share what I see with everyone.”

Cassia didn’t remove her gaze and the Magess’ color rose on her pale cheeks.

“I think that is quite fair,” piped in the Colonel.

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