The white light resolved into a mirror. Elias saw himself, but older. Weary. Holding the same black tape. Behind him stood a younger version of himself, watching from the doorway of the same apartment, eyes wide.
He took it to the counter. The current owner, a teenager named Kai with a nose ring and zero curiosity, shrugged. “Five bucks. Or trade for something less depressing.” Ultimate Magician Video Collection VOLUME 8
“Hello, student,” he said. “The first seven volumes taught you tricks. Misdirection. Sleight of hand. Card forces. All the little lies that amuse children.” The white light resolved into a mirror
Below that, a single playing card: the joker. Ultimate Magician Video Collection VOLUME 8
Elias found it wedged between a Betamax of Ghostbusters and a mysterious substance that might have been gum.