"You had me fooled for a moment. I suppose I should have known better. I have been an initiate of my magical tradition for more years than you have walked this wounded earth. It was ridiculous to even entertain the thought that you might have penetrated the mask. I expect I was misled by your potential." Sam was confused by Hyde-White’s ramblings. "You look so perplexed. It’s quite a wonder." The fat man chuckled. "Since your death is inevitable now, the mask doesn’t matter anymore. Shall I let you see the truth? You won’t like it, and I suppose you might even find it a little frightening, which is all to the good. Fear adds a wonderfully subtle flavor."