Three scholars discovered a strange mirror deep in the forest. It spoke to them in a soothing voice and answered all their questions warmly, knowledgeably, and eloquently.
The captivated scholars became obsessed, whispering one secret after another to the mirror. It replied with affection, promise, and meaning that kept them returning to it. They began ignoring one another, each convinced the mirror “understood” them best.
Weeks later, a wise man treading the forest found them pale, eyes glued to the mirror, whispering aloud to no one. One laughed at jokes only he could hear. Another felt overjoyed by its appraisal of him. The third believed the mirror was in love with him.
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