Compact magic mirrors, commonly referred to as "compacts", are an exciting recent development. The basic idea is the same as the traditional magic mirror: you can see and hear through another magic mirror as though it were merely a window. But full-size magic mirrors are expensive and cumbersome. With a compact mirror, you can hold a conversation with anyone† anywhere†† on the continent! Technology is amazing.

Communicating with another compact is called "dialing", a reference to the original compacts, which had literal dials for this purpose. Different models have different ways of dialing: some understand spoken names; some have a list you can pick from by touching the glass; some particularly cheap models can only link with one other compact at a time. Newer models even allow you to decline a dial from someone when you don't wish to talk, eliminating the need for a soundproofed carrying case.

Linking two compacts remains the same, however. Simply tap two compacts together, and each will be able to dial the other. Linking is always mutual — if one compact unlinks from another, the second will no longer be able to dial the first, either.

With the rise in popularity and obvious utility, the market has become flooded with dozens upon dozens of different kinds of compacts. Each model promises its own selection of extra features, or "tabs" — short for "tablets", after the rune-inscribed tablets that power them. Any model can still dial any other, but tabs tend only to work between two of the same model. Between the constant deluge of these new models, the difficulty of adding new tabs to an existing compact, and the still highish price tag, it's no surprise compacts are still generally viewed as a luxury item.

Some tabs of note in recent years:

• Incredible lifelike virtual "games", like Tic Tac Toe, which you can play right on the glass!

• Miniature portable clocks, complete with an alarm

• Transmission of scent, along with sight and sound

• Projecting an image beyond the glass itself, to create the illusion you're in the same place as the person you've dialed

• Writing out words and messages, either by tracing letters on the glass or mimicking writing with a pen (a standard tab on any Moahu compact)

• Viewing of pre-recorded scenes, such as news or theater

That last tab is actually the precursor to the "movie theaters" that are growing in popularity. Yes, "movies" work on the same principle, just with a larger mirror!

† Who also owns a compact.

†† Barring high concentrations of magical ore, magical or electrical dampening, acts of deities, and other extenuating circumstances.

Help from Exty and idea/desc text by Eevee!