Chapter Eight: Splurge! Shop of Dreams!

The doors were harder to open than Sai thought they would be. But Sai was persistent if nothing else, and with a final mighty pull, he forced them open. He quickly bounced back, hand on the hilt of the sword, ready for anything.

"IRRASHAIMASE!!!"

Well, almost anything.

Beyond the door lay a huge cavern. It was brightly, brightly lit by some unseen power; lit as bright as day, it was. At the far end of the cave, visible over the tops of trees, was a huge tent. It looked like a carnival tent, decorated with lots of gaily colored ribbons and streamers. A path ran from the entrance of the tent, meandering through the park-like area before reaching the cavern entrance. There were groves and fountains and lawns and benches; birds warbled musically in the trees and butterflies flitted across the grass.

The speaker was an obese fellow. He wore a blue robe that was open in the chest, tied around the waist with a thick sash of a black cloth. Human he was not; his face was rather porcine, with a short, upturned snout and small tusks that protuded from his lower jaw to a level just below his snout. The tusks were enamaled in gold and capped with small, golden spheres. He wore a pair of round, tinted glasses and a round, cylindrical hat. At the top of the hat, around the rim, were a series of golden tassels that shimmered when the man moved his head.

"Welcome to Za'Bazaar, my friend! Will it just be you, or should we put tea on for your friends as well?"

Valgaarv looked up slightly at the lady before him. He thought she was very pretty and she didn't look like she would hurt him at all. "Okay," he said softly, taking her hand and smiling a little. "My name is Valgaarv, what's your name?"

Briar looked slightly taken aback by the question for a moment. She chuckled and bopped herself on the head lightly. "Silly me. I'm Briar," she said as they began to walk.

Val-chan looked at her curiously, then smiled happily again. He was a happy little boy. "Hello, Miss Briar," he said childishly, suddenly remembering his hands were muddy. "Ooops!" He slipped his hand away from hers and wiped it on his shirt. "Sorry, Miss Briar."

Briar stood, still smiling. Looking down at the boy, she said, "If you like, I know a shortcut that will take you to your mommy faster."

Valgaarv smiled happily, looking up at the lady and laughing slightly. "Okaaaay!" he exclaimed, jumping up in the air with joy.

Briar laughed at the child's enthusiasm. "Come this way, then." She led the child over to a niche hidden between two boulders. There was a stairwell there, descending into darkness. Briar flicked her fingers and a bright light appeared over her shoulder. "Let's go, shall we?"

Valgaarv looked slightly scared when it was dark, but relaxed when the light appeared. "Okay, let's go!" he replied happily, believing he was going to see Filia. "I want to see Filia!"

As the group ended their various conversations and started descending further into the cave, Tim decided to move ahead of everyone. After five or ten minutes, when they'd caught back up with him, he calmly noted, "Wow! There seems to be something for everybody in this place."

His face formed a smile. "I just discovered a dead body. Poor guy. Got stabbed in the back. Good knives, though. I think I'll keep them unless anyone else really needs them. Oh well, it just isn't a place of evil without a dead body." Looking at the various reactions in the room, he concluded by saying, "Boy, I hope there are more than just shadow creatures in this place. That's sooo four centuries ago. Right now the current trend in dungeon designing is using elementals."

Rill pouted as he wandered alone by the cavern walls, his tail swaying to his put off emotion. First Sai escapes him yet again, then that strange little minx of a girl Ninoa casts some sort of teleportation spell sending the two of them back with everyone else. Thus losing Sai yet again, and now he was becoming quite bored. Who cared what they were blabbing about? It didn't concern him. Although a few of the assembled appeared interesting, and potential candidates for his collection, instinct told him not to mess with these people. At least, not at this time. So taking notes on who looked ripe for the picking was enough for the moment.

Still feeling crestfallen, he sniffed indignantly. Suddenly his ears perked up and his tail swayed faster. Rill sniffed again. A familiar scent! And one to be very happy about. Closing his eyes half way, Rill sent a tendril of power out. A summoning to his first Bound. �Come to me,' it said, without words; using instead, a strange series of flashing images and feelings involving warmth and joy, �I call to you sweeting, first love. Heed my call, come to me.'

Sarino's ears perked up slightly, and his attention was drawn away from Filia and to somewhere else. "Rill-sama?" he murmered slightly, moving away from where he was walking beside Filia and heading to where he knew Rill was. When he spotted him, Sarino's pace quickened. "Rill-sama," he said in a satisfied, dreamy tone.

Filia wearily followed Sarino. She had an odd feeling... and it was completely weird upon seeing Rill. Why was Sarino calling his name like that?! This wasn't right....

Again, she took the elf by the shoulder. She nodded her confirmation; he was definitely under a spell. It smelled like a Rill one, no doubt.... She felt a shiver run up her spine. He reminded her too much of that damn Mazoku.

"Ah! My sweet and darling elfchild," Rill cooed, gathering Sarino into his arms and holding the Elf close. Being rather short, Rill easily rested his head within the crook of Sarino's neck, where he then took advantage of the positioning, and enticingly purred against Sarino.

Rill's power grew with the nearness of his Bonded, thus enwrapping Sarino within tender threads of itself. These threads wound about Sarino, then whispered to him; charming him with words and images that Rill wished only for him.

"Dearest Elf, forgive me for leaving you. I meant not to." Rill's voice fell upon Sarino's deaf ears, and yet Sarino was able to perceive what had been spoken by what Rill's power conveyed to him.

Gently ushering Sarino to lower his head closer to Rill's, Rill lightly kissed the lobe of one of Sarino's elfin ears. Then murmured into it, "If you only stay with me, I shall stay with you. For eternal is my mark. In that time, I have such things to show you, to tell you, to do to you. With me forever First Bound, Koi-Ichi."

Sarino closed his eyes and felt the words instead of hearing or reading them. He nodded slightly, a gentle smile on his face. "I understand," he said softly, hugging Rill gently in return. "I understand."

Deep within, Sarino's heart was saddened. How could he complete his wishes to become a master mage and shamanist? How could he ever make up to his father the unfortunate circumstances that had made him deaf? No... Rill makes it go away, he thought briefly, silencing his heart's protests.

Ninoa looked at Sarino and Rill strangely. Something definitely wan't right here. She had gotten a feeling about Rill for quite some time, but couldn't find a reason. But now....

"Hey, Filia," Ninoa whispered to the dragon-lady. "We'd better watch out for that character... I don't really trust him."

Ninoa then saw a light ahead as a doorway loomed before them. Her senses were momentarily dazed by the brightness of light that dazzled her. It felt good to her to be touched by this light as she traveled further. She then broke into a jog and then a sprint. Not noticing until it was too late, she crashed into Sai and thudded on the ground in front of her... unfortunately for Sai, he was the ground.

Filia nodded to Ninoa, and then watched her run off. That's right, something funny was going on. Soon, she and the others caught up to Ninoa, and discovered the door, the odd pig-man beyond it... and Sai, sprawled on the floor... under Ninoa. She jumped. "Sai-san," she whispered.

Sai stood up, brushed himself off, and looked at Ninoa. "What the...? You should be more careful."

He stared momentarily at the strange pig-like character, then back at Ninoa and the others who'd finally managed to catch up with him. Sai took one step forward towards the obese shopkeeper. What is this creature? Hum, better play along....

Sai muttered to Ninoa, "What the heck did you think you were doing?" Then he sighed. "Nevermind." He then reassured Filia, saying, "Don't worry, I am fine."

"Welcome, welcome, travellers, to the Shop of Dreams!" the shopkeeper boomed jovially to those gathering before him. He reached into a pocket, pulled a gold-rimmed monocle out, and placed it over his left eye.

Tim walked straight into the verdant cavern, seeming oblivious to the scenes that had been played out earlier. He walked around as a tourist would, taking time to observe everything he could. He paused only briefly to tip his hat to the shopkeeper, bid him a good morning, and start up an inane conversation. "Just out of curiosity, how much business do you get? I mean, this seems so far away from all the other touristy shops."

However, what was happening outside in Tim's mind weren't the same thoughts that were happening inwards. The dead body he'd come across earlier had belonged to someone he knew -- granted, he'd never really cared for that individual much, but still, even rivals deserved a better fate than that. This also meant that something or someone in this cave now had something that rightfully belonged to Tim's employers. Unfortunately for Tim, he was the one who had to retrieve it.

To Timothy's questions, the merchant chortled heartily, both hands holding his sizable paunch. "Alas, business is not as great as I would have it be, but this is a very special shop. Only a special few ever find this place."

Sai dusted himself off again, then looked back at the creature. "How did you know at first that others would arrive with me? Better yet, who are you?"

As the others began to enter, the merchant waved to them. "Be welcome and at peace, for no ill shall be caused here, save that which you instigate. For I am your gracious host, Ashrid il-Faleen, and this is my sovereign domain." He smiled jovially. "Come. My tents are a much more comfortable place and we have much business to discuss." With that, he turned and began making his way down the path to the tent in the distance. "For the Profit of all."

Celise entered Ashrid's cavern carefully, just a couple paces behind Lina. She had realized she'd been rude to Lina's companions, and decided to take this time in the shop to say hello. Ensuring that she stayed in sight and earshot of Lina, she wandered to where Tim was talking to the merchant, Ashrid.

"I never expected I would see you here, Mr. Tim. Here's your doll back. It was quite helpful."

Tim looked at the doll. He certainly recongized it. It was one of his beanie babies that looked like Lina Inverse. Now, he had two -- and this one was the more flattering of the two. The other one was based off a drawing by a travelling companion of hers called Gary or something like that. Oddly enough, the one based off the drawing was worth more, but I digress....

What was giving Tim a slight headache was that he didn't remember giving Celise anything. So Tim flipped through his collection of beanie babies -- and then the really odd thing happened. Not counting the doll Celise gave him, Tim already had two Lina Inverse dolls (the same number he'd had before he met Celise).

Looking at the doll and then at Celise, he said, "Uhhh... thank you. Glad I could help." He was not used to not knowing things, especially since he evidently had had quite a conversation with Celise. Tim made a note to talk to Celise when the two were alone and figure out just what exactly he'd told her....

The interior of the tent was every bit as huge as one would expect of such a grand structure. The front quarter of the tent was sectioned off into a large anteroom. A cloth wall left the back section a mystrey, although there was a small slit in it that served as a doorway. Directly in front of the door was a large pile of cushions. Adjacent to the pile were two tables, long and low, which extended out into the room at an angle, forming a 'V' with the cushions at the point. Several individual cushions were distributed randomly between the two tables. The room was lit by a brightly shining sphere hanging near the ceiling.

Ashrid went directly to the large pile of cushions and reclined there. "Come, be seated." He gestured at the individual cushions before him. He held up a hand and snapped his fingers. "Bring refreshments for the guests!"

Immediately, there was a flurry of activity at the back entrance. Servant girls, each clad in diaphanous, wispy cloth, one for each person, came out, bearing an ornate goblet and a pitcher. As the individual party members got settled, each servant came and knelt in front of one person and bowed so that their forehead touched the ground. They then poured the drink for the person. When the goblet was full, the girl sat both pitcher and goblet down on the floor, in front of the person, bowed again, then rose and left the chamber.

Ashrid studied each person for a brief moment, looking them over as any determined merchant would. Periodically, a male servant would come from the back, bearing an object. The different objects varied in size and shape, but what they were was hidden from view by a thick, red cloth that had been draped over each individual object.

The party was straggling in, people taking in the sights of the cave or doing other things. From where he was seated, Ashrid had an excellent view of the path that led up to the tent. As Ninoa approached, a frown crossed the piggish features of the merchant. It grew into a scowl of annoyance when it seemed that Ninoa had every intention of entering the tent. Agitated, he got back up. "Pardon me for just a moment, honored patrons."

He walked so he was just outside the tent and stood there. As Ninoa began to reach to pull the screen back and enter, Ashrid placed his arm in front of her and gently, but firmly, pushed her back. In a firm, polite voice, he said, "You know the rules. You may not enter. I do not know why you have come here, and nor do I care. It is none of my business. However, this is my domain, and none of our kind is allowed to interfere with the Profit."

Ninoa looked at Ashrid. "The Profit? What are you up to?"

Ashrid wasn't answering.

"Ashrid...," Ninoa started with a stern look, "if anything happens to them... you're the first one I'm coming to look for. Understand?"

Ashrid merely turned away and politely asked her to leave. Ninoa knew that something might go down. So, this pig-like man was the source of the presence she'd felt? She knew that he was up to something... but what?

She needed someone to be her eyes... then she realized what to do. "Sai!" she called out. "Could you come here for a moment?" When Sai came over, Ninoa took out of all things, Moshi. "I want you to keep Moshi with you for a little while, okay?" she asked him. "I'm going to run some errands and I don't want Moshi to get hurt... PLEASE do this for me." Seeing her plead with an uncommon air of innocence, he became startled for a moment. Ninoa then rushed off back through the cave before Sai could give an answer. There, she left him holding her Stuffed Tiger.

Sai walked into the tent, where he took a good look at the stuffed tiger. "Good grief... I guess girls will be girls." He looked up and sighed. "I wonder what he meant by Ninoa knowing the rules," Sai thought to himself, his attention drawn back to the strange pig-like shopkeeper.

Ninoa kept going until she was outside Ashrid's cavern, just beyond the still-open Welcome doors, with her back turned to them. She sat down on the cave floor and tried to concentrate. "Come on... work... work...," she muttered with her eyes closed. Visions started to flash before her eyes until she could clearly see visions of the others.

"Good... Sai took Moshi with him into the tent," Ninoa spoke with a smile. "This will make things a little easier." Using Moshi as her eyes, she started to look around as items were being presented still kept under wraps. Drinks seemed to be served as she looked on. Ninoa began to feel unlucky that she wasn't in the group at the moment... then she realized that they could be endangered, and she knew that letting them die would definitely not bode well for her....

Her concentration broke. Crap. She'd let her emotions get the better of her for the moment. Then, she sensed something. It was something she had been looking for....

"An ancient... dragon?" she softly whispered to herself. "Here?"

Tim looked at his goblet and was surprised to see what was inside. He put his finger inside the cup and tasted the concoction. Yes, indeed, it was what he thought it was. Exalain Honey Mead. Very expensive. Takes 5 years to brew up a batch and like Dragon Cuisine, it could not be duplicated magically. Tim was very, very impressed. "And to think I was actually served some in my lifetime," he thought.

Immediately he looked through his pack until he found a blue crystal wineflask and poured the contents of the goblet inside. Then he took out a cup and requested some hot water. "Excuse me for my breach of etiquette, but there are certain times where one drinks that quality of mead and this simply isn't one of those times. If our drinks aren't free, I will be more than happy to pay for it." Tim pulled out a bag, just in case. "Also not to presume upon our host, but traditionally Exalain Honey Mead is served with Dragon Cuisine and I would recommend you not serve that at this moment. I know of at least two of us who would have severe problems with that. So I'll just have some hot water for my tea, please."

Ashrid returned to his cushion throne after dealing with Ninoa. At Timothy's request, he snapped his fingers; a servant girl brought out the requested hot water. "Do not worry about the fee for the drink. It is merely protocol," he said graciously.

Lina's ears perked up. "Did anyone say... Dragon Cuisine?" she asked, licking her lips. Then she took a look at the plushie that Tim held in his hands, and blushed. "Ano... Where'd you get that?" she asked, and wondered where she could get a Gourry one ^^ She looked to her cup, and was relieved to see only some wine. She took a small sip. "Tastes like home...."

Gourry blinked, then took a sip from his own goblet. "Ano... Lina... I got apple juice...."

Lina only giggled.

"Oh, I picked this up in a toy store in Seryuun shortly after the crisis with the royal family. You know, the one where the Mazoku tried to take over Seryuun," Tim said. "As far as these go, it was a very well done series and anybody who had a role was pretty much made into one of these toys. Even the Mazoku in both human and Mazoku forms. I was able to locate all of them but one -- and they only made fifty of those. This set is the pride and joy of my collection. I even managed to get the Xellos beanie signed by Xellos himself. Nice guy, even if he is a little bit secretive."

Roughly five minutes after Briar and Valgaarv began making their way to rejoin the rest of the party, there was a ripple in the air of the clearing before the mouth of the cave. A few seconds later, a man appeared.

He was pale-skinned, wearing a simple black outfit that kind of ressembled a business suit. His hair was long, black, and slicked back. All around him, plants began to wilt and die, doing so as soon as he appeared. He strode purposely to the opening of the cave; plants withered as they entered the radius of his aura.

"Briar, when do we get there?" Valgaarv said, about five minutes after they'd started climbing down the staircase. "How long has it been?" he asked again, looking around and behind them worriedly. Something didn't feel safe to him, and he disliked that feeling. "I'm scared." He turned and held tightly to Briar, slightly shaking in fear.

"Don't worry, Val-chan. If anyone comes to bother us," she struck a boxing pose, "I'll punch, punch, punch them." She accented each 'punch' by doing a straight armed jab at some imaginary threat. "Besides. It's just a little farther."

Val-chan tried his best to mimic Briar's punches and kicks, but ended up (despite looking incredibly precious and cute) falling on his rear end. "Owwwwie!" he said, looking like he was going to cry. But he withheld tears and got up, rubbing his rump. "That hurt!"

Briar looked concerned momentarily, then smiled at the boy's courage. "You're such a brave boy! Maybe I should have you protect me instead," she said, eyes twinkling merrily.

"Okay!" the child said happily, leaping into the air and giving a happy "Yippeee!! I'll protect you, Miss Briar! I won't let anything happen to you; promise!"

Ninoa quietly waited as she sensed the ancient dragon draw somewhat nearer. How could one survive so very long? She didn't want to bother with the details. If one did exist, she knew that it would play an important part in the time to come. She then went back to concentrating on the group as she looked through Moshi's eyes. There, Ninoa saw Sai looking back into the tiger's eyes. She then smiled at the occurence in delight at his interest.

Walking around inside in the tent, Sai looked at the stuffed tiger once again. "Unbelievable." He rubbed the tiger gently, then walked around the tent, thinking about what this piggish creature might be planning.

"Well... I guess I have no choice but to sit and wait for the rest of the group to show up." Sai sat down and started thinking about his life. He lowered his head and got an upset look on his face, then looked up and stared at everyone in the tent.

Quickly shuffling over to Sarino's side, Rill wrapped an arm low around the elf's waist, and had Sarino drape an arm securely over one of his shoulders. He cheerfully cuddled up to Sarino.

"As much as I detest the notion, mayhaps we should join the others. In such a new and strange place, it does us no good to get separated and lost." Rill giggled lightly, its sound fused with his purring. "Of course, I would like it very much if we were to spend some time alone, together," and he sent a fleeting image of his true intentions to Sarino. Something that could make even the most jaded blush. Rill laughed, "All in good time of course! Now come, sweeting," he pulled Sarino merrily, to walk with him towards the tent.

Filia blinked with surprise as she saw poor Sarino being pulled away. "R-Rill-san!" she cried out, chasing after them. "What are you doing?!" She stepped in front of the two, arms crossed. "We really shouldn't be fooling aound like this...."

A sly, devilish grin came over Rill's already impish features. "Are you jealous, Golden Belle?" He cuddled up to Sarino, in a way that was more provocative. Rill's long purple tail curled about Sarino possessively. "Don't be, Sweeting. I'm sure that the three of us could all . . . fool around together." The spark in his violet eyes, and the alluding within his tone, left little holds on what Rill was truly proposing.

Sarino looked at Filia curiously, his eyes questioning her. But his arms were around Rill protectively, and his gaze soon turned to one of warning. A gaze that said, 'To harm him, you get through me first!'

"Rill-sama," he said, his voice more confident than before, less childish. "Perhaps later," he said this with a sensual gaze in his deep blue eyes.

Filia blushed, and then looked angrily at the two. "How dare you...." she growled, tail now sticking up behind her. "I'm not jealous! And why would I -- 0h, nevermind!" she said, crossing her arms and looking away. "Do what you want!"

Rill was simply tickled with delight. That responding look, captivated within stunning blue eyes, brought him such elation. So much that he breathed in a sharp gasp of surprise, then threw his arms about Sarino's neck, and gave the Elf a quick, kittenish lick upon the cheek. Though his tail remained hooked around Sarino's legs, Rill turned away from him and with alluring hooded eyes gazed at the put-out Filia. "Do what I want, hm? Sounds like an excellent proposal." His tail slid up around Sarino's waist, and Rill drew the other fellow closer as he approached Filia. Eventually coming to stand warily close to the dragon-girl, Rill quickly snatched a lock of golden hair gently, and with his other hand, grabbed the end of her tail.

"Wh-WHAT?!" Filia cried out, trying to pull away. "LET ME GO!" she screamed, making it echo throughout the shop. That's when she pulled out her mace, pummelling Rill to the ground. "RILL NO HENTAI!!" she screamed, flushing an angry red.

From his place embedded within the shop's floor, Rill began to whimper. His usual sly devilishness abruptly faded. The mischievous and lewd demeanor crumpled, replaced by a strangely childlike and piteous personae. A sobbing kreen started, and Rill buried his face in his hands. "That was so cruel and hurtful of you, Gold-One," he cried, gathering himself up into a tight ball on the floor. His tail fell away from Sarino and coiled around himself instead.

Filia raised a hand to her mouth. "Oh.... I'm sorry!" she whispered. She hadn't mean to upset him so! Slowly she made her way to the curled up, crying figure. She placed an arm around him. "It's okay...."

Slowly, Rill raised his head to gaze upon Filia. It was then that she saw that there were no telltale signs of sadness upon his face, no tracks of tears staining his fair cheeks. The expression that was there, which had always been there, was the impish playfulness that Rill embodied.

With a gentle hand, Rill took again a lock of her golden tresses into his hand. He purred as he rubbed the fine textile against his cheek. The seductive, lidded eyes shone, and soon his entire body glowed with a fine violet aura. "Sweet impulsive Dragon, your intents to do me harm are found to be rather enticing. Now be Bound to me." Grasping the hair in a tender, yet firm grip, he pulled Filia's face down to his, where he astutely kissed her surprised lips.

Ninoa then felt a quickened pulse. Something had happened to someone else; she could feel it. But it didn't appear Ashrid had done anything in particular. So, what was going on? She really didn't like being left in the dark... for one, it scared her to be left in the dark....

Of course, Filia was INCREDIBLY surprised. She pulled away as quick as she could -- which wasn't very quick, since she was in shock. Her face was mixed with surprise and anger. That didn't stop her from once again taking that heavy, pointed mace and pummelling Rill's hard head, making a dull Thud noise. "HENTAIIIIIIIII!!!" she screamed, making the mace hit the ground (and Rill's head) several times. The ground even cracked under the fury of her attack.

After being pummelled several times with that impressive mace of hers, giggling Rill seemed to snake his way out from contact. Smiling like a madman, he nimbly leapt upon Sarino's back. One arm bent over Sarino's shoulder, while the other wound beneath an arm, coming to have both hugging at the Elf's chest. Rill's legs laced around Sarino's waist, and the violet tail twirled down along one of Sarino's legs.

"You know what, I have this nagging feeling that she won't be tightly Bound to me."

Sarino pursed his lips and frowned, his eyes filled with concern for Rill. "Are you alright, Rill-san?" he asked in a worried tone, craning his neck to look at the smaller person. "Did she hurt you?"

Rill kissed those frowning lips lightly. Even in the dim light, Rill's eyes shone and sparkled with mirth and mischief. "Not at all, Dearheart. But thank you kindly for your concern." Kissing Sarino sprightly once more, he then grinned and pointed to the brilliance of Ashrid's tent. "Onward, my trusty Elfin Steed!"

Everyone in the tent was waiting quietly and watching Ashrid expectantly. When it seemed that the rest of the group was not going to come in, the piggish shopkeeper clapped his hands together with a wet, meaty smacking sound. "Now, it seems that you are the only ones who are interested in such fine bargains as I have," he said, taking off the monocle and placing it in his robe. "So let me explain to you the nature of this shop."

"As I said, this is a very special shop. Why, you ask?" His gaze swept the assembled throng. "Certainly not because it is in the bottom of a particularly dank, nasty cave. It is here at the bottom of this cave, so that only the boldest and most vibrant of people will make it here. This shop exists as a reward for their great courage -- for people such as yourselves."

"What makes this shop special? I'll tell you. Because here, and only at this shop, will you have a one-time chance, a lone opportunity to get anything you want!" He smiled benignly. "For a price, of course."

He held up a hand to forestall questions. "However, what you think you want, and what you really want, may not be the same thing -- although in some cases, they are not mutually exclusive." He shifted in his throne of cushions. "Pricing is fair, up front, and based on the value of the object you want. For example, the Ring of Philioni would have a greater price than say, a meal of dragon cusine."

He leaned forward and eyed each of them with a slick merchant's gaze. "There is something for each of you. There is only one price and it has been set individually for each of you. Now, you do not have to accept my deal. But once set, all sales are final." He reclined gracefully. "You have each accepted my hospitality. The only price for that is that you hear what I offer you."

"Questions?"

Sai stood up. "Hum. So each of these 'gifts' of yours has a different price...?" Just then, his attention was drawn to the entrance. He saw Rill appear, riding the elf-boy Sarino into the tent.

Sai raised one eyebrow. "What the?" He stared at both Sarino and Rill. "I don't know, and I don't think I want to know. You okay, Sarino? And where did you come from, Rill? Oh, nevermind...."

Lina raised an eyebrow at Rill and the other man. "Not even gunna ask," she said simply, a small blush spreading across her cheeks.

Looking through the eyes of her Moshi, Ninoa could see that Rill was riding atop Sarino. Seriously, how could anyone stand to put themselves through that type of humiliation? Then she decided that perhaps Rill and Sarino were really, REALLY good friends. Then again, maybe they weren't, but it was still beyond Ninoa as to why someone would go through with that....

As Rill, Sarino, and a fuming Filia entered, Ashrid called out a welcome to them and bade them be seated. They were promptly served in the same manner as the rest of the group. Then, turning to Sai, he answered the young man's question. "The price of my gifts?" He smiled benignly. "It is matched to the recipient, Sai Knifedge. The price for your gift is different than, say, the price for Celise Ginhane's gift would be."

Rill slid languidly off of Sarino's back, taking to standing closely alongside him instead. Nodding politely to the servant girl who offered him some sort of sweet drink, Rill's ears twitched in excitement and interest as he gazed about the strange shop. He was greatly captivated by much of the finery of the place.

As he looked about, Rill caught sight of Sai and grinned wickedly. Catching the other boy's eye, Rill decided to have a little fun. Dipping his index finger into the elixir, Rill then raised the wetted digit to his lips, and coyly licked the tip of it. Making sure he still held Sai's gaze, Rill then slowly and deliberately glided his protruding tongue up and down his finger. And then, eyes dancing with merriment, Rill reinserted his finger into the goblet, and turning to Sarino, ran the damp finger over the Elf's lips.

The elf licked his lips slightly, tasting what was there. He wasn't very fond of it, though, and pursed his lips slightly in unhappiness. "Mm....." was all he said there. "I'm not one for that. But thank you, Rill."

Sai's eyes widened like never before when he saw Rill do that. "What the...?" He then mouthed the words at Rill: "What are you doing?"

Sai felt his mouth go dry. One of the servants walked up to him and presented a drink. He took the goblet without saying a word and gulped it down. I need to get my mind off of that Rill, Sai thought to himself.

When everyone was seated and the servants had finally left, Ashrid leaned forward and rubbed his palms together. "Now, who would like to be first?"

Tim gave a lopsided grin. It could be amusing to see how Ashrid tried to peg people's wants and desires. Although Tim's policy in such situations was "Caveat Emptor" or "buyer beware", it would be bad manners not to at least hear the offer. "Okay, Ashrid, I'll bite. What do you think I want and what do you think I'd be willing to pay?" Then, Tim took a drink of tea and waited for his host to speak.

Ashrid smiled jovially, rubbing his palms together. "Timothy Grey, Collector extrodinare. In a flux between desire and duty; this creates a paradox as to what to give you. But, you have the courage to be first, and that I admire." Ashrid gestured, and a male servant brought one of the draped items from one of the tables and placed it in front of the merchant. "Therefore, I shall give you a bonus, independent of the charge." A different servant came from the back, bearing a much smaller object. "The bonus: A rare Prince Philionell Beanie Baby, in his ninja costume." He placed it on a plate and slid it over to Tim by means of a short length of wood as a prod.

"Now, the other." He placed a thick rectangular object on a plate. With a showman's finesse, he removed the cloth cover. It was a book, a thick book that Timothy identified immediately.

The collector's eyes narrowed, but otherwise he gave no reaction. "The price?" he said, simply.

Ashrid leaned forward and held out a hand. He smiled and displayed three fingers. "Three minutes. You have a similar book, only bound to you. I wish to study it for three minutes." He leaned back and crossed his arms. "What say you?"

"Only a fool purchases a book sight unseen. The book you refer to is a family heirloom and I don't loan those out to just anybody. When you consider the amount of time it takes to cast a flare arrow, three minutes is an eternity. So I propose this: you loan me the book for six minutes to see if it's worth the trade. If it is, I'll trade with you. If it isn't, you may have any other three items in my inventory in exchange for the doll." Tim took a sip of tea. He didn't know what Ashrid knew, but had a feeling that Ashrid expected resistance to the trade. Although he didn't show it on the outside, Tim also knew that whatever was in that book might ruin his plans with Lina Inverse, and that was simply unacceptable.

Ashrid chortled. "A most delightful fellow are you, Timothy Grey." His gaze narrowed just slightly in glee. "But the value of a book lies in its content and the surprise in learning that content. If you know the content, then the value declines." He waved off Timothy's protest. "But you are also correct, for without examination, the surprise dwelling within the book may be the wrong one. So, six minutes with the book may you spend as a trial, and one minute with the the book you possess may I spend in a similar manner, so that both may gauge the content of either book to our heart's content. What say you?"

Tim put his hand behind his back in an "aw shucks" manner. "I must admit you have a very interesting offer. However, there are a couple of things that I just don't understand. The first one is, I can't imagine what good three minutes with my book would do you. That is, assuming we are talking about the same book; I have several on me. There's nothing special about any of them. It's just a book my grandfather gave me when I was a boy of six. Or is it? That brings me to my second point; just what do you mean by 'bound to me?' Are these books magical in some way I haven't figured out yet? All I know about the book is that it's a collection of stories."

Lina blinked. What were Tim and Ashrid talking about? A book? Her lips curled into that kittygirl look. She grabbed Tim's shoulder, glancing at him in fascination. "Hmm... What book is this?" she asked innocently, grinning at him. She knew it had to be something important... or he wouldn't be lying about it so obviously. "May I take a look?"

Ashrid smiled. "We speak of the book that all Collectors bear, that is unique to each Collector and bears a collection of tales unique to them. Timothy Grey, your book more than likely has nothing that I really need. It merely provides me a chance to vicariously experience the outer world, even if only for a moment -- for I am bound to this cave and may not leave it. In exchange, you get the book your comrade bore, that which you are bound by duty to return.

"How I obtained the book is not written within the book itself. The other Collector fell victim to the Shadow Wraiths that lurk above, and another customer bore it to me at some later date in exchange for their gift.

"Now! My price is set. Three minutes with your book, in exchange for my book. Or one minute to study your book in exchange for allowing you to study mine for six minutes. By the Profit."

Sai was finding it difficult to concentrate on the transaction being discussed. Rill's alarming presence was taking up all his attention. Finally he noticed that both the pig-like creature and Tim had stopped talking. To get his mind off Rill, he then turned to the creature, Ashrid. "I guess I am next, then."

Ninoa could feel something odd about Sai. He was uneasy. The tonic couldn't have worn off... not yet, anyhow... so what was it? She then peered around with Moshi to see Rill near him. "When I see that Rill...," fumed Ninoa, "I am going to give 'im such a headache!"

Ninoa didn't notice a man standing far away from her, gazing at her with a smile. He had white hair and a sword strapped to his side. He watched as Ninoa sat there. "Enjoy yourself for now... Knight," spoke the man to himself. "You won't get much of a chance to do so later...."

While Ninoa did not notice her observer, both she and the white-haired man felt a presence approaching rapidly from the caves above, a presence that caused the hairs to rise on the back of Ninoa's neck. As she turned to get a fix on the presence, it made an appearance in the form of the black suited man who had entered the cave earlier. He paid no attention to Ninoa, not even giving her the slightest glance. Instead, he walked up to the semi-open doors and stood there, looking within.

"Very well, then, Sai Knifedge. As Mr. Grey contemplates his price, I shall tell you yours." Ashrid leaned back in his throne. "Poor Sai Knifedge. A noble soul driven by pride. Seeking to do great things to become worthy of your heritage, you are. Yet that valiant heart is hampered by two things."

A servant brought a covered object to Ashrid, who removed the cloth. Underneath was a white headband adorned with a spidery script. The letters moved and twisted in an almost hypnotic manner, refusing to be read. "A very, very long time ago, in a kingdom far to the south whose name has long since passed from the tongues of mortal men, there was a monastery that lay near the border. This monastery was home to a group of warrior monks who followed a strict code.

"It came to pass that the lands the monastery guarded fell under assault by Amazons from the neighboring country, led by Queen Ceres. The monks were in a terrible quandary; their code forbade any harm to women. Yet if their monastery fell, then the kingdom would be caught unawares and would surely fall.

"The head of the monastery, Ilruth, trapped by duty and duty, fell into despair. He secreted himself in his quarters while the rest of the monks wove the monastery's defense. When he emerged, he had created a band of cloth he named Ilruth's Advent. By donning it, it gave him the courage to fight and the power to to end the conflict. With spells more powerful than any had ever seen, Ilruth was able to successfully defend his land until the king was able to rouse an army and crush the Amazons."

Ashrid smiled. "It is an old tale, a fragment of a forgotten time. But a true tale nonetheless. Before you, Sai Knifedge, lies Ilruth's Advent, capable of bestowing Ilruth's courage and power upon you when you don it, should you accept it.

"But such a magnificent item demands a price of equal measure." Ashrid leaned forward and held up one finger. "The price is one minute of your life. For one minute of my choosing, anytime, anyplace, you will do my bidding completely. The price is set. Unless," Ashrid smiled cynically, "you want to make that two or more minutes."

As Sai pondered the merchant's offer, Tim grinned. "I've been thinking, and I've decided that I can get you a better offer, Ashrid. I don't know if you're aware of this, but I'm not exactly sworn to return the book. I swore only to return the infomation inside the book. After fifteen minutes of having the book, it'll become useless to me.

"I can understand how dreadful it must be to be stuck here. I'd go nuts. So this is my counteroffer. LOAN me the book for an hour, and I'll return it to you. During that time, I will cast two major spells. The first will duplicate both sets of infomation into both books. The second will make your book operate as mine does for me, more or less. That second ritual may be tricky and it may not work completely, or I might suffer some major damage from the magical feedback. Hopefully, though, it will just go off without a hitch. If the book you have isn't similar to mine, I can guarantee you this will not work.

"Of course, I'm sure you'll understand that I'd have to perform the spells in a more private setting. I'd allow two of your guards to accompany me to make sure I'm not pulling a fast one. Likewise, I'd want Lina Inverse to accompany me to make sure your guards don't try anything stupid like an ambush. What do you say to this?"

Ashrid looked back to Timothy, and cocked one brow. "Having a book that records my memories has little appeal for me, and you holding a book that records my memories, no matter how briefly, appeals to me less. I also do not particularly care for spells being cast within my domain, and there are no private settings outside in the cavern, either. Therefore, you have not named me a better offer." He shrugged. "If you mistrust my motives, I shall read your book in front of you, which was my intent. It does not seem, however, that I shall get the chance." Again, he shrugged. "Pity. Choose, Timothy Grey."

Tim looked into space for a second. Then he glanced up at Lina, who was still gazing acquisitively at the book on the table, and grinned. "If I were you, I wouldn't be so eager to get my hands on that book. I sincerely doubt it's worth selling your soul over."

Tim then looked straight into the eyes of Ashrid. "I gave you MY last offer. You did not take it. There is no need for futher negotiations. Of course, since you know about my people, or think you do, then you know exactly what I have to do now. But that's neither here nor there. So please go on to the others and don't let me bother you."

Tim tipped his hat and started to leave the tent for some fresh air. As he began his trip, he whispered to Lina Inverse, "He's trying to play on fears to make me play my trump card, so I'll need your help. Please follow me and I'll explain everything."

Ashrid laughed jovially. "My first offer you have refused, Timothy Grey," he said, as a servant removed the book and took it to the back.

"But my second offer, you accepted. Three things from your inventory in exchange for the doll, I believe you said. And as for any three things you possess," his gaze turned startlingly mavolent, "since the magic of the deal has been invoked, I name a lock of your hair, a puff of air from your cheeks, and a drop of your spittle to give me power over you," his mood shifted radically; his hand went behind his head and he chuckled ruefully, "is what I would say, but I gave it to you for free. Looks like you got the better of me.

"By the way," he said benignly, "please do not do anything foolish. Neither you nor Lina Inverse possess the power to affect this place, unless Lina Inverse is willing to destroy the world over some minor trifle that is worthless to her." With a curt nod of his head, he dismissed Timothy. "But humans never listen, so by all means, do as you feel you must."

Tim tipped his hat to Ashrid and smiled a knowing smirk. "If it's any consolation to you, you have forced me to reveal my hand much sooner than I would have liked, and it will take some time to repair the damage. So we are quite even. How and what I do next will depend on your machinations, Mazoku. Stay out of my affairs and I will stay out of yours."

Tim turned to Lina and sighed. "It's time you and I had a real meaningful chat. I'm sure you have many questions and it's time I started answering them." As he left the tent, Lina following close behind, he absently picked up his new Beanie Baby and stuffed it into his pack.

Throughout the entire confrontation, Sai had been considering Ashrid's deal. "Hum.... This is interesting." He wondered what the merchant would make him do for that one minute, if he agreed.

Finally he sighed and looked around at everyone else. This is the chance I've been waiting for. A chance to prove myself. He looked back at the piglike creature. "Very well. I agree."

Ashrid smiled, having dismissed Timothy already, and turned back to Sai. "It is done, then!" The air thickened momentarily around Sai, then relaxed. Ashrid slid the headband over to the young man, its new owner.

Then Ashrid looked over to the others. "Who's next?"

A small smile slowly curled its way onto the dark man's face. He stepped forward through the doors that proclaimed "Welcome," and walked into Ashrid's cavern, staying in the very center of the path as he walked. The path was not quite the radius of his withering aura; instead of crumbling to dust, the plants along the sides of the path writhed and twisted as though in agony. The man walked a short ways up the path, until he came to a point between two trees where he had a clear view of the tent and those outside it. There he stopped and stood watching.

Tim halted once they were quite a distance from Ashrid's tent, in among the trees that lined the small cavern. Lina looked to Tim meaningfully. What exactly would she learn from him? If the merchant truly was another Mazoku.... It was best to know the people around you, else you risk stepping into trouble.

Tim glared at the tent and muttered under his breath, "This would have been much easier had he given me the book and tried trading for the doll. It's going to be very embarassing if it turns out that Ashrid dies just because he wouldn't give me a book full of recipes...."

Then the Collector turned back towards Lina, rubbed his hands together, and took a deep breath. "I want you to know that what I'm about to do breaks a few rules, so I would REALLY appreciate it if you didn't mention this to anybody. First thing, our meeting was definitely NOT accidental, and I'm not doing a favor for some friends or anything like that. I'm on assignment, but not for any Mazoku. Just like you, I have no idea about what exactly is going on in this cave. Sorry.

"Second, and this is where I really start breaking the rules.... I'm going to tell you my assignment and just who I'm working for. My assignment is you. I'm to observe your actions and make an unbiased report to my bosses. Please note that I said the word 'observe', not 'attempt to kill' or 'hinder' or anything like that.

"As for my occupation, I'm a Collector for the Library of Talerod in Cerem City. My job is basically to go around the continents and collect artifacts and facts for the scholars there. Cerem, as I'm sure you already know, houses one of the biggest universities and magical learning centers around. The library itself houses a great deal of material on all sorts of topics. In fact, I think your sister once held a lecture there. Unfortunately, I was way too young to attend. Pity. I'm sure if she was anything like you, it would have been a lively conversation.

"I'm sure it won't take long for you to figure out why the scholars are interested in you. Even wizards who spend their time in ivory towers take notice when you take down beings like Shabranigdo. They sent me to investigate you because they really couldn't find any unbiased infomation about you. For some odd reason, you are either universally loved or universally hated, and there's no middle ground. The reason why I got your assignment is that I happen to be lucky enough to get myself out of tough spots like this. The same can't be said for other Collectors, like the fellow who used to own the book that Ashrid now possesses."

Tim stared off into space, as if he was trying to figure out just what to say next. "I suspect that only barely scratches the surface of your questions. But, as they say in Cerem, it's really tough to learn while your mouth is open. So please, ask any question and I'll answer it the best I can."

Lina nodded at Tim, still puzzling over what he'd told her. Studying... her? She wasn't that big of a deal... was she? Still, the mere idea of being considered interesting enough to be worth studying was mighty flattering.

The sorceress put her hands upon her hips, and thought of Gourry, with a small blush upon her cheeks. The swordsman was, in a way, the reason why she had so much power. When he had gotten himself captured by the Hellmaster, she pushed her strength to the limit just to save him. She gave up the world for him....

She sighed, looking into Tim's eyes. "My power... My power comes from those around me. The power to protect myself and the ones I care for." She gave a grin, satisfied.

Then she thought for a minute, remembering more of what Tim had just told her. "My sister... gave a speech? Wouldn't something like that be awfully hard to follow? She doesn't like using long sentences... as in, more than three words."

"Power is rather complicated, wouldn't you agree, Mistress Lina?" Celise said calmly; she'd followed Lina out of the tent, not wanting the sorceress out of her sight. "One can draw power from the most unusual of places when one is in dire need of it. But the strongest source is what lies in your own heart. Faith in yourself, Faith in your friends, Faith in your loved ones, Faith in even a God, or perhaps a reversed situation. At times, the need for power can result in self-sacrifice, or the sacrifice of another. But one can only call himself truly powerful, if he knows how to draw and use these powers to their fullest, wouldn't you agree?"

Tim stood there and nodded. He had been going to comment on how profound Lina's statement was, but Celise had got to it ahead of him. "Those who are truly powerful have no need to mention how powerful they are, Celise. I think that's one of the reasons why my earlier statements took Lina aback for a little bit.

"My disagreement with Ashrid, however, is not about power. It's about ceremony and doing what's right for a fallen comrade, no matter what he thought of me in life. What's right is taking the sum of his life experiences back to Cerem. And that's what I'm bound to do.

"Something else bothers me about Ashrid, too, but I can't quite put my finger on it. Whatever it is, it's odder than the Mazoku deals I've run across before; feels more sinister, too. Am I being overly suspicious or should we really keep our guard up?"

One thing's for certain, though, Tim thought to himself. I don't think Ashrid is going to stop until he gets my book. Especially since those books have much more power when the original owner is still alive, and.... Tim shivered. Better stop this train of thought, Tim; the last thing you need is to go into a situation like this with trepidation.

Filia, sitting in the tent, took another sip of her wine. It was unusually very good. She wondered who had purchased it, and how they had come across it.... But that wasn't important now, was it? Her eyes kept trailing back to Rill. That Rill.... He was up to something, and that something made her stomach churn. He reminded her.... He reminded her of someone whom she really didn't want to be reminded of.

She set down the goblet, and folded her hands togther, her expression distant.

The tent was silent. No one seemed to want to take Ashrid up on his offer. "My," he said in an amused tone of voice. "What an unusual lack of confidence you have," he said to the group. "Perhaps you, Gourry Gabriev."

Gourry glanced to either side. After making sure there were not any other people around named Gourry Gabriev, he pointed to himself. "Me?"

"Of course." Ashrid settled in his cushions again. "You are a simple soul, one who is content with your life as it is. But there is something missing. Something that used to be part of what defined you is now gone."

A servant brought Ashrid a large, narrow object that really could not be anything other than what it looked like. Ashrid removed the cover, and indeed, it was a sword. "A Sword of Light," Ashrid said simply. He pulled out a key, nocked it at the base of the metal blade, and twisted. The blade fell off and seconds later was replaced by a glowing, translucent blade of blue light. The light blade flickered out and Ashrid reattached the metal blade.

"A Sword of Light is very valuable, do you not think? Therefore the price must be equal to it." He leaned forward. "I will give you a choice. I can name my price to you, or you may designate a surrogate from your close companions, and I will name my price to that person." He smiled. "What say you?"

Gourry looked really confused. A new Sword of Light would be great, but he really had not been able to follow anything the funny-looking man had said after that. Feeling a headache starting to come on, he called out, "Oi, Lina! Come here!"

Lina sweatdropped. "What NOW, Gourry?" she yelled, somewhat annoyed. Here she was, in an important conversation, half of which was sort of about him. And then he starts yelling her name, probably for some retarded reason....

She walked back into the tent, Tim and Celise following, and stood by Gourry's side, then noticed the blade that was lying in front of him. "The Hikari No Ken?" she asked, suprised. How did the merchant get his hands on that? she thought to herself, then looked to Gourry. "What did he say before presenting this to you?" she asked, suddenly serious. She wanted that sword....

"Umm... Well... He... Uh...," Gourry began. Then he exclaimed brightly, "I didn't get it!"

Lina sweatdropped and whacked him. "You moron!"

"There is no need to be so extreme, Lina Inverse," Ashrid interjected. "I merely gave him a choice. Either I name my price to him, or he may designate a surrogate out of his close companions and I will name my price to that person."

Lina stood fiercely at Gourry's side. "Tell me the price. As his companion, I have a duty to help him make his own decisions." She crossed her arms, and the look on her face said, 'do it or i'll Dragon Slave you into next week.' Her eyes narrowed even further. "Now, tell me," she said in a low, threatening voice.

Ashrid did not seem particularly bothered by Lina's attitude. If anything, he seemed to be slightly amused by it. "Very well. Gourry Gabriev, do you allow Lina Inverse to stand and pay in lieu of yourself?"

Gourry glanced up at Lina, who nodded slightly. "Uhh, sure," the blond swordsman said.

"Very well." Ashrid shifted to face Lina. "As you know, Lina Inverse, a weapon such as this is very powerful and rather hard to come by. Therefore a fairly high price it demands. So, of late, you received a book from Celise Ginhane, correct?" He waited for her to nod. "For my price, I will name four choices. You may choose any." He smiled benignly.

"The choices are: One minute of his life, to be chosen at my convenience, in which he does my bidding completely. Or, one minute of your life, under the same conditions. Or five pages of your choosing of the book Celise Ginhane was bade to present to you may I study for a minute each. Or no deal, in which case there is no Profit for either of us."

"I will negotiate only if you are willing to add minutes or pages." He folded his hands in his lap. "What say you?"

Lina narrowed her eyes. She didn't like this.... "And where did you get that sword?" she said, gesturing at it. It looked a lot like Gou -- like her sword. She looked accusingly at the merchant. "Tell me exactly who you are. I need more information. I don't jump into stupid deals with stupid men. Tell me more or you will be one of those stupid men." She looked smugly at him, awaiting his answer.

Tim looked upon the situation and shook his head. Don't expect an answer to your questions, Lina. That's not how he operates. Fear. Love. Desires. He's hoping your emotions overload your ability to see the obvious. So Ashrid plays yet another card and another mystery unfolds....

Tim then turned to Celise. "Just out of curiosity, Celise, what exactly did I say to you earlier when I gave you the Lina doll?" And just why does Ashrid want the book you gave to Lina? Is the key to defeating him within those pages, or does he just think that it is?

"No deal for Gourry Gabriev, then." Ashrid shrugged. He reattached the metal blade and handed the sword to the servant who had brought it to him. As the servant began to head to the back, Ashrid turned to Lina.

"I am Ashrid il-Faleen, a not-so-simple merchant. Why? Because my stock is special and demands a special price." He smiled neutrally. "Where I get my stock, now," he said in an amused tone, "is my secret. After all, if I told, you would go to them and the Profit would not be mine, now would it?" He glanced at a different servant. "My purpose is my own and to reveal it would give you power over me."

The servant sat another cloth-draped object in front of Ashrid. "Shall I tell you what I offer you, Lina Inverse?"

Lina looked to Ashrid questioningly. She didn't like this, but she was willing to play along. If he wouldn't give her any information willingly, she would slowly ooze it outta him, anyway. "Alright, tell me what ya got. And don't put the sword away just yet!" she said, and winked.

Ashrid nodded to the servant carrying away the sword, who paused in front of the flap to the back rooms. The merchant turned back to Lina, and smiled. "Lina Inverse, sorceress supreme, whose name will outlast this age; that is who you are. You seek many things: power, money, and more. But in your heart of hearts, you seek something else. Power you have, and there is none who can match you. Even your dreaded sister can not match you, for power is defined by its use. If you wanted power in the mortal realm, who would there be to gainsay you? All you would have to do is walk into a kingdom and declare yourself Queen or Empress, and who could stop you if that was what you truly wanted? It is the same for money. You could walk into any royal treasury and walk out with every coin there, and who could stop you if you wanted to?

"You have a good heart, in spite of whatever may be said of you. And that is what shall define your legacy in ages hence. I respect you for that and am honored to deal with you. Therefore, I offer you not power, nor money, for in your heart of hearts those are not what you truly want.

"You have one flaw in your own opinion; one flaw that you are very sensitive about. However, this is not for others' ears, as you are particularly sensitive about it." He held up a hand and snapped his fingers. "You are not happy with your physical development." He uncovered the plate. On it was a simple, semi-lacy article of clothing -- a bra to be specific.

Lina turned bright red.

"Before you hit me, allow me to explain," he said with a nervous smile. "By wearing this, you will rapidly develop the figure you envision yourself having. Once the magic of the item has worked, you need not wear it again, unless you wish to change your figure again." He draped the cloth over the article of clothing again. "And don't worry, the others here know nothing of what I have just offered you."

He snapped his fingers again. "Now, the price. Such a thing is no great magic or power. Therefore my price is much simpler. Perhaps recite the first half of your Ragna Blade spell. Or allow me to view half of a page from the book Celise Ginhane presented you."

Gourry looked up at Lina, wondering why Ashrid was naming a price without offering anything to her.

Ninoa began to become bored. She knew Lina had been offered something, but what was it? She took her eyes off the conversation for a moment and paid the price, by momentarily losing both her concentration and her ability to see the goings-on inside the tent. Oh well, she would figure it all out sooner or later.

Ninoa then started to sketch a square in the cavern's sandy floor. At each of the square's corners, as well as in the middle, she sketched out icons that appeared to be swords. "Okay, the Sword of Light appears to be right here..." Ninoa started. "The Astral Sabre is up north... The Night Blade is south... The Holy Sword of Flagoon is to the east... now what was the name of that sword to the west?"

Ninoa then put her hands behind her head, "Well, let's see, Flagoon shouldn't be too much trouble, the Sword of Light is here, the Astral Sabre is in the Kataart Mountain Range, the Night Blade... well, I'll try not thinking about the Night Blade for the moment... and to get that other sword I'll need the help of that Ancient Dragon I sensed a while back...."

Lina's eyes glittered, but then a thought occurred to her. The bra... or... the sword.... Ano.... Her face fell on the inside, but the outside was a well groomed poker face!

"I will do any spell except Raguna Blade or...." She was scared to even mention it. "Or the Giga Slave. I cannot give you all you wish of me. And if you know so much about me, you know I could destroy you right now and take what I like. But... deals are good. Now, give me a better deal." She crossed her arms. I'm doing okay... I'm doing okay.... "Oh, and I'll put the sword on that tab," she added.

Ashrid smiled. "Would you like me to recite the words to either spell? I know both, therefore reciting the first half of that spell gives me nothing new. But if you are unwilling, then so be it.

"Five and a half pages of your choosing from your book covers both items. Half a page covers your item; five more covers the sword. Or a minute of either of your lives will cover the sword alone."

His smile turned into a slick merchant's grin. "They are two separate deals after all. One for you, one for Gourry Gabriev. The prices must be separate, for so I am bound by the Profit."

Lina thought about this. She definitely would not have him look at that book before she got a chance. It might be too important. And she couldn't let Gourry get dragged into being Ashrid's slave, even for a minute. She put her finger to her chin in thought.

"Alright, let's compromise. I will give you two minutes of my life, on a couple of conditions. One. You won't put me against my friends or allies. Two. You won't get me killed." She glared at the merchant. "That's my final offer. Will you accept it for both the bra and the sword?"

"Done!" Ashrid smiled gleefully and clapped his hands. For a brief second, the 'smack' of his clap hung in the air and there was a tenseness in the air around Lina. Then it faded, as quickly as it had come. "It is done! May we both find Profit from our dealings." He slid the still covered garment to Lina as the servant brought the sword back to Ashrid, who then slid it in front of Gourry.

As the blond swordsman picked it up, something occured to him. He leaned over to Lina and whispered, "Bra?"

Lina stared at Gourry and blushed a dark red. "Shut up!" she said sharply, holding her newly-acquired item to her small chest in her fists. She'd accidentally said it out loud. How... embarrasing!

Quickly she fireballed Gourry for the comment that he no doubt would have said if she hadn't done so. Then she looked to Celise. "Any... private places around here?" she asked.

Then she smiled at Gourry's burnt form. "I'll let you borrow that sword. You can be so useless sometimes!" she joked, winking cutely.

Tim watched Ashrid's bargain with Lina, and gave very little if any reaction to it. All he did was close his eyes for a split second as if he was just absorbing it all in.

He turned to Celise who hadn't yet answered his question. She also gave no outward reactions to what had just transpired. Tim smiled slightly, and gave a knowing wink as if the two had had a conversation that no one else had heard. In truth, no words were spoken, but Tim got the strong impression that he could trust Celise. Strangely enough, he felt rather comfortable around her, even though she presented him with more questions than answers. If Tim had thought about it, it wouldn't have surprised him. He had always had a weakness for puzzles. "Don't worry about it, Celise, I think I know what she's up to and my questions can wait."

With that, Tim tipped his hat and headed straight for where Briar was sitting. He snuck up behind her and put his arms around her in the same manner she had done to him earlier. "So, Bri-chan," Tim whispered in her ears. "What has Ashrid offered you?"

"Ahhn!" the illusionary Briar yelped softly, startled. Glancing back, her blush faded, replaced by a shy smile as she realized who it was. She slid her arm around his waist and leaned her head against his chest. "Nothing yet, Tim-chan," she said contentedly. "But if you're the offer, I'm afraid I would have to gladly accept."

"Suuuure you would," Tim whispered to Briar in a playful tone. "I bet you say that to ALL the boys. I wouldn't say it to Rill if I were you, though. He'd take it as an invitation for you to become his eighth wife, and frankly I just can't see you eighth in anything."

Rill, who hadn't SEEMED to be listening to the ongoing conversation, lazily brought out the Mallet O'Doom, swung it up high and smashed it upon Tim's head.

Tim glared at Rill and muttered under his breath, "Touchy... sheesh. No sense of humor." Tim then turned his attentions back to Briar. "Anyway, it will take Ashrid a lot more than what he offered, to have him own me long enough for him to offer me to you. If you want me, you're gonna have to do it the old-fashioned way."

The illusion of Briar looked lazily up at Tim, not shifting her position. "Wouldn't have it any other way, Darlin'. Too bad you seem to dig the the quiet, enigmatic type." She sat up and lazily stretched. "So," she whispered. "What are you going to do about that book? I'll help you best I can, if you think there's any way I can."

Tim continued his whisperings. "The book will take care of itself; all I have to do is sit back and enjoy the show. Given enough time, you can bet I'll get that book, free and clear of any 'personal' price. Besides, it's good that you don't get everything you want all at once. It spoils you and makes you soft. That's why I love a good mystery -- and if it's a cute little mystery like you I enjoy it even more. There is one little question you could answer for me. Was this what you wanted to show us or is this an opening act to the main performance?"

At 'cute little mystery,' Briar's illusion blushed faintly. At Tim's question, on the other hand, she looked puzzled. "I guess this is it...." Her voice trailed off as she pondered the implications of Timothy's question. She glanced up at him again. "You callin' me a shill, buster?" she whispered with mock anger as she socked his arm lightly. "I said earlier that I hadn't been down here before." She studied her cushion intently, avoiding Tim's eyes. "For personal reasons," her lips said. She glanced back up. "But the story of treasure down here is very old."

"I meant no disrespect, Bri," Tim said in a friendly voice, then put his hands behind his head in an "aw shucks" manner. "My mind sometimes wanders and I just forgot that part of the conversation. What I meant was, did the legends end at the curiousity shop or was there more to it than that?"

"Hmmm," illusionary Briar pondered. "None of them ended at a curiosity shop. They all ended with something to the effect of 'and there shall you find the greatest treasure you seek.'" She giggled. "Assumin' this is what they were talkin' about, then naturally, the stories left out the catch."

Tim simply said to Briar, "Every good legend has their tests before the treasure. I think that's where we are at. Be careful, Bri, when it becomes your turn." Tim looked around the room and when his eyes looked at Lina, he smiled softly. In his arrogance, Ashrid had made his fatal flaw.

Ashrid glanced over the remaining customers. A strange, half-amused smile came to his face. "Celise Ginhane, would you hear what I have to offer you?"

The half-dragon seemed slightly surprised to be called on. She nodded politely.

"A very long time have you been bound. But like a butterfly, you are now free, and fairer to the eye by far." A servant brought over another covered tray. This one seemed to have nothing on it, and the reason became apparent when he removed the cloth. All that was on it was a strip of parchment, which Ashrid held up for all to see. Two symbols adorned it. The symbols were of an ancient language, one that predated the coming of man. Celise recognized them immediately, for the script was the one used during the time before she was sealed.

"Duty. Companionship," Ashrid said simply, with the same half-amused smile. "These things you seek, and I can not offer them to you. I can merely point it out." He set the parchment back on the tray and slid it over to her. "There is no Profit to be found; therefore, there is no charge." He laughed merrily.

"Now, who else would like to deal?"

Ashrid quirked a brow at the lack of response. "Well, then," he said. "How about you, Sarino Airstone. What would you give to have your hearing back, to be able to hear the flute you treasure so?"

Sai felt different. He reached up and touched the headband on his head and smiled. Wow! Sai then noticed he was still holding Ninoa's stuffed tiger. He looked at the tiger and smirked. Sai looked at everyone else, none of whom seemed likely to reply to Ashrid's question, and started to become bored.

Sai walked to a corner of the tent and sat there, petting the stuffed tiger. "Man... Adventures don't seem to happen anymore. How am I supposed to honor my father if I can't do any great deeds?" Sai sighed, but then looked at the tiger and smirked. "I don't know how that creature came to know all that stuff about me. But don't you tell anyone, okay? Alone... We all end up alone sooner or later. It is just all my life for me, though." Sai lowered his head and began to think.

Ninoa frowned at this unwitting message from Sai. Alone all his life... That was depressing. What a nice boy this Sai seemed. And he was to be alone? And who was his father? And why was he out to honor him?

She could see how one could be alone for such a long time. She herself had been alone for most of her life. From the time of her birth, there was so much conflict pertaining to her. From the moment her father disowned her, she'd felt alone. Though she did make peace with him in the twilight of his life, Ninoa still felt alone.

She had never had many companions throughout her travels. And the ones she did have ended up dying. Some even in her arms. Why was she always the one to survive?

Then she recalled another that had survived. Metcliff was his name. But Ninoa didn't want to think about him. Ever since that day, he wanted nothing to do with her. He blamed everything on her... and she almost believed it. If not for Moshi, she would have lost her sanity a while ago.

Her thoughts then returned to Sai. This young man had been through quite a bit from the look in his eyes. That told Ninoa something about him. Into his soul one could see through his eyes... or so one might be told by poets and romantics. "Don't worry, Sai," Ninoa finally proclaimed to herself, "I won't let you be alone anymore..."

Sai looked up at everyone. "Fools; sooner or later they are going to wake up and realize in the end that they are alone and that there will be no one to comfort them." Sai smirked, looking at Tim and Briar. "Oh man, the irony is delicious." He giggled, then looked at the tiger. "I can't believe I am talking to a stuffed animal. I guess being alone for so long has got to me. But it is worth it -- as long as you don't give up on your hopes, you can take anything." Sai then lowered his head. "I don't need anybody." He then started to pet the tiger, and said out loud, "Good Lord this is taking forever. Can we go now?"

Rill yawned and flopped down onto one of the large plushy cushions on the floor. What strange dealings this even stranger pigman was proposing. He just seemed to have something for everybody, now didn't he? And something that was of great worth to them, often personally. Still, it was boring. Rill would much rather find someplace private and secluded. A place to be alone . . . with his Elf, his Dragon, his unBound Sai, maybe even that one named Tim. Rill purred as he envisioned all the wonderful things he could be doing right now instead of being here.

Sai looked at Gourry and Lina, then at Sarino and Rill, and finally at Tim and Briar. He was really starting to become annoyed. "WILL you people cut the crap. We've got better things to do than cuddle up to each other, talking about who knows what." Sai stood up and glared at Tim and the illusionary Briar. "If you two are quite done, can we continue here? Boy, talk about a waste of time." Sai stormed out of the tent, not paying attenion to his surroundings.

After Sai stormed off, Ashrid smiled. "Young man has no manners whatsoever, does he? Perhaps I sold him the wrong thing." The merchant shrugged. "It is no concern of mine."

As Sai stomped down the path out of the verdant cave, he came to the black-suited man standing in the middle of the path. Sai was forced to go around him, as the man was neither moving, nor paying any attention to Sai at all. As he passed the man, Sai got a momentary queasiness in his gut that subsided as soon as he passed the man. Sai also could have sworn that the man had said something as he passed. Something like, "One down," but it could have been the breeze.

Ninoa was quick to notice the actions of the impatient Sai, as he was still carrying her bespelled Moshi. She didn't pay the black suited man much attention as she went into the cavern to meet up with Sai. "Geez, doesn't he ever stay put?" Ninoa wondered. The sword of light was of importance, but as long as Gourry had it along with Miss Lina, it SHOULD be safe.

As she headed out, she did not realize there was another person watching her from the shadows. He looked quietly at her and then looked into the tree-lined cavern, toward the tent, while smiling knowingly.

Sai held his stomach. "That is strange." He turned around to face the man in black. Sai was surprised that someone other than the members of his group had gotten to this cavern. How did he get past the creatures in the cave? Also, why did my gut ache when I passed him? Sai then raised one eyebrow. "Who are you? How did you get here?"

The man, standing in view of the open doors, did not deign to answer that particular question. He turned his head, not taking his eyes off of the tent. "Your stomach knows better than your head." Then he looked back to the tent.

Sai was surprised when he heard this. "My stomach knows better than my head. What the heck does that mean?" He recalled the sudden pain in his gut, then raised one eyebrow. Why isn't this man going into the tent with the others? He could just walk right in. Sai then remembered that the pig-like creature in there knew everyone and everything that entered his personal domain, and that no Mazoku were allowed there.... Suddenly he called upon the power of the Band to increase his power, and cast a powerful spell of flame at the man.

Sai watched the fire column burn, eyes widening. The man looked completely unscathed by it. "Nice toy Ashrid gave you," the black-suited man said. "That spell has not stung in several millenia." The man turned his head and looked at Sai. The mavolence in that gaze caused Sai to blanch and take a half-step back. "Though not bound by his rules, I respect Ashrid's domain. If you do something foolish like that again, I will kill you." He looked back to the tent. "My business is not with you. Begone."

Spooked that such a powerful spell had had no effect at all, Sai turned around to fulfil his original purpose of leaving Ashrid's cavern. On his way out, he ran into Ninoa. "Oh, you are back. How did it go?" he asked her, then looked at the stuffed tiger he was holding in his hand. "Oh yeah... here is Moshi." He gave Ninoa back her tiger. "Interesting companion you have there. He is great to have conversaions with. If you need me I will be waiting for the others at the mouth of the cave." He then proceeded to walk out.

Briar and Val-chan walked down the stairwell hand in hand. As they walked, Briar's other hand wove a complex dweomer over the two of them, which rendered them both invisible and inaudible, and which allowed Val-chan to see what she wanted him to see.

At the bottom of the stairwell, there was a door, a big, banded, heavy looking thing. Briar walked up to it and pushed on it with all of her strength. Nothing happened. "Val-chan? Can you help me? I don't think I can do this by myself."

Lina sighed, staring at the sword. They finally had it back... It was weird. She then glared at Gourry, biting her lower lip. Had he figure it out? Had he ever wondered why she still stayed with him even when he'd lost the original Sword of Light? She began to blush, but then smiled. Nah.... He's not that smart.

Ashrid looked at Sarino, who was lost in thought. "What of you, Rill Tane? Would you like for me to make an offer to you?"

"Something for me?" Rill inquired as he blinked away his most pleasant reverie. He grinned, his ears perked, and his tail twitched excitedly. "What could you offer lovely little me, sir?"

"Rill Tane, boy of secrets and as avid a collector as your companion, though your interests coincide not." A servant brought a covered tray over. "I offer you a means to keep track of your collection." He removed the cover. Underneath lay a spiked bracelet. "By wearing this, a tether, so to speak, will appear to connect you to that which is yours.

"Allow me to demonstrate." He slid the bracelet on. All of the spikes vanished but two. "Those who are bound to me, be revealed." The spikes glowed, and a semi-translucent cord shot from each spike. One went to Lina's wrist, the other through the tent flap and outside. There was no sensation on Lina's wrist, but the cord there was visible to everyone. The cords flickered out when Ashrid removed the bracelet. "One spike for each that is yours. The tethers only manifest when you will them to."

He set the bracelet down on the tray. "In exchange, I wish to view how you bind that which you collect. This," he pointed to a silver button on the bracelet, "will shatter at the next binding you perform, and it will show me all I need to know." He leaned forward and gazed at Rill. "What say you?"

Rill tapped his chin lightly with one of his dexterous fingers, looking upward, considering the deal. "Good Tradesman, a part of my Binding power already enables me to keep tabs upon those Bound to myself. However, I do fear that it may not be the most reliable of mine aspects. This quaint little trinket you offer me may indeed be the solution to my plight." He grinned widely. "I accept this deal."

"I am glad you find Profit in our venture," Ashrid said formally, as he slid the bracelet to Rill. His eyes flicked past the party for a moment, and his jovial expression dimmed by a slight degree. Then he looked to Filia. "Filia Ul Copt, would you hear my offer?"

Quite vainly, Rill snatched up the magical bracelet. He slid it onto his arm, then held it up, turning it this way and that, admiring the band in the light. The two spikes that appeared gleamed, and soon glowed. The transparent threads snaked out and formed half-seen collars around Sarino's and Filia's necks respectively. Rills tail swung wildly in his excitement. Purring loudly, Rill deftly caught the strand leading to Sarino, and, pulling firmly, brought the Elf to him. With much enthusiasm, he then hugged his Elf, snuggling himself against Sarino. "What a wonderful plaything."

In response to Ashrid's question, Filia asked, "M-Me?," very surprised. You see, she hadn't really been paying attention. "H-Hai...." Well, she had nothing to lose, ne? She tried to smile, being polite and all. That's when she felt something wrap its arms around her. Rill... his smile.... "ARRGGH!!" she cried, pulling away, and yet again pulled out her wonderful mace and smashed him to the floor. For some reason Filia was begining to suspect that he enjoyed it.

Tim watched Ashrid's dealings with Rill with a combination of apprension and disgust. When Tim heard Ashrid's price, he felt he was going to be sick to his stomach. He leaned over to Briar and whispered, "You wish to help me, Briar? Then prepare for combat. The Mazoku has just interefered in my affairs."

Tim then stood up, pulled out his sword, and started casting Astral Bide. When done, Tim stared straight at Rill with a murderous intent in his eyes. "Neither Briar nor I are going to be your playthings. You even THINK about it, and you are going to die a horrible death."

Tim then turned his attention to the tables that separated him and Ashrid. With one anger-filled sword swing, he broke the table in front of him in two. "Put me in such a position again, Mazoku, and you'll wish Lina Inverse had cast Ragna Blade upon you. Now, for this trespass upon my spirit, restitution must be made. Give me the items you had reserved for Briar and me, free and clear, or 'Profit' will become loss."

Lina tilted her head. What was Tim doing? She needed to study his intent more. Damn... oh well. She walked up to Tim quietly, and poked his shoulder. "What exactly are you doing?" Then she whispered, "Geez, can't you learn to stall?" She then winked, and glared at Gourry. Of course he knew what she was up to; he always knew her plans.

Shaking his head, and pulling himself up, Rill directed that wide grin upon Filia. "What fun you are, Sweeting. Although I would love to play with you more, I fear that troublesome things are afoot for our good Tradesman."

With a refined catlike grace, Rill strode toward Tim. The serpentine tail waved and swung behind him. The long ears seemed tapered back and dipped down, though certainly not in a remorseful fashion. His delicate fingers came to his lips, very lightly brushing them. "Tim, was it? Pray tell please, why do you cause this disturbance? Do not ask this Tradesman to deliver his merchandise for no profit. You insult him to do so."

Tim walked away slowly from Lina without saying a word, turning instead to Rill and in a sing-song tone that suggested that he'd lost it, said, "But, Rill, you haven't paid for your goods yet. Ashrid won't let you get the item for free. You have to pay. You have to try and convert one of us to your little harem.... It won't be me, and it won't be Briar, or you will not walk out of this tent. He plans to enslave us all. I plan to ruin him before he gets me.... I wonder... I wonder which clown will get his desires, la-la-la-la-la-la-la-la."

As Tim went through his crazy speech, he waved and slashed his sword wildly about, thrashing at all the things inside the tent. He even swung at Rill and Ashrid a few times, yet both were clearly so far away from Tim's sword that there was no way he could even possibly come close to them, much less hit them.

As he continued, he looked over at Lina and arched an eyebrow at her, and sang, "Pay me no mind, keep doing what you were doing, la la la," then continued working his way through the tent. "Of course, dear, dear trader. My generous offer is still open. Briar's item and my book, free and clear, and you'll never hear from me again... la-la-la-la...."

The illusion of Briar had bounded up as soon as Tim had spoke the word. She had done nothing, merely standing in a ready position, but her hands glowed with arcane energy. She payed Tim no attention, focusing mainly on Ashrid. Her spell had been in place for a while now; time to see the results. Not that Briar could do anything against Ashrid on his turf. That was to her advantage, however.

Ashrid sighed. "Stop that, Timothy Grey. Violence is unacceptable within my domain." He pointed at Tim's sword. The spell on it went out, causing Timothy to pause for a moment. "Rill Tane, you have a year and a day to cast the spell of binding. Where and who is of no concern to me."

Timothy fired up his sword again, so Ashrid said, "It would seem, Filia Ul Copt, that your companions are making dealing impossible." Sarino might have noticed it, had his attention not been focused on protecting Rill, by standing in front of the scaly boy, spell on his lips. "I guess I shall have to have them kill the Ancient child, rather than bring him here," Ashrid finished with a regretful shrug.

As Val and Briar began to open the door, they heard voices from behind and above them in the tunnel. "It's down here! Hurry, the master demands its capture! Kill anyone with the dragonling!" Looking over their shoulders, they saw shadows and light approaching, heard the tromp of rapidly approaching boots. Beneath her guise, under all of the masks, where no one could see, Briar smiled.

Outside the tent, the dark-suited man watched the events unfold with a look of hungry anticipation. A slight smile crossed his features.

Tim's lunatic act quickly disappeared; in its place a frown appeared, followed by another glare. "See, that's where you are quite wrong, Ashrid. If you were a real merchant, then yes, I would see your point. But you aren't. You're a Mazoku who acts like a bandit king and pretends to be a merchant."

Tim continued walking around the tent, lunging out at things every so often so that Ashrid's attention would be focused on him and him alone. "You ordered the death of an associate of mine and then stole his book, the sum of his existence. You can pretend that someone else killed him and sold you the book all you like. Either way, it means you are still dealing with stolen goods. An honest merchant, indeed. Bah! Did you really think I was going to allow his death to go unanswered, unavenged? Did you really think that I wasn't going to notice why the shadow creatures haven't attacked us since we ran into you? You're in league with them and probably are their leader.

"The only compensation I have gotten from this sad scene is the look on your face when you discovered just how close you came to getting a piece of my associate's soul. Trouble is, that only works with a living book and by the time you got it, well, you made sure he was dead before he got it.... No, Ashrid. In this case violence is perfectly allowable and necessary. As you have ruined the plans of my associate, now I plan on ruining EVERY deal you try to make from this point forward until I get what is rightfully mine, free and clear. This is my tribute to an 'honest and humble merchant'."

"I suspect you overrate the value of your soul to me, Timothy Grey. I have no power over you. I have power to protect my domain, though. You seek to twist my words, Timothy Grey. but that is what all mortals do. I am bound to speak naught but the truth, or nothing at all. If you do not sit down, and allow me to finish business...." He looked at Tim, Lina, the illusionary Briar, and Gourry pointedly. Briar scowled at him.

"Then I will kill you."

As Ninoa was about to follow Sai out, a man appeared before her. He smiled a devilish smile and laughed. "So, you've found yourself a new crush, have you?" the man spoke to the girl.

"What matter is it to you?" Ninoa responded harshly. "It doesn't concern you, does it?"

"Oh, my dear Ninoa, it does," the man spoke. "For if something were to happen to him, would you ever forgive yourself? I know...." The man then raised a finger and started to generate red energy from it. "What if he were to meet an untimely demise? Hmm? That would be so tragic now, wouldn't it? Just like a certain someone from long ago... eh?"

Ninoa's eyes narrowed. "You wouldn't dare...."

"But, haven't I already?" the man said, smiling maliciously. "Just imagining you and him together makes me faint. I should end his life just to spare him that fate...."

"STOP IT!" Ninoa screamed out. "Haven't you done enough?"

"I fear I might have done too little," the man answered as he began to aim at Sai from a distance. "Now, watch and learn how to really kill someone." The man then began to fire off a beam of red energy... or was about to if Ninoa had not slammed into his back with her head. The man then slumped to the ground, only to get back up as fast as he could. He grinned as he turned back to Ninoa. "You really are getting to be annoying, just like those old times."

Ninoa stood up and looked angrily at the man. "Metcliff, why is it that you have to kill others? You want to kill me, right?"

"I actually want to hurt you," Metcliff told Ninoa. "THEN I want to kill you...."

"Oh?" assessed Ninoa, who walked right past him. "And you choose to kill people who have nothing to do with this to hurt me? You always were the coward, weren't you?"

"Shaddap!" Metcliff shouted in rage as he drew an ominous looking blade from its sheath.

Ninoa proceeded to cast a spell quickly as he started to rush her in a beserk rage. "HOLY RAY!" Ninoa shouted as a stream of light traveled from her hand and struck Metcliff in the chest. He was then thrown back directly towards the tent as a result.

Lina's eyebrow rose. What was Tim doing? A distraction...? Her eyes darted around. With so many people in her group.... For once in her life, she didn't know what she should do. Slowly Gourry approached her, but she didn't mind. It would help her cast her little spell... She put her head down, so her eyes were covered by the shadows. And so it only looked as though she was tired....

Ashrid, despite appearances, had been completely aware of what was going on at every point within his demense, and was rapidly coming to the conclusion that these customers were more trouble than they were worth. He pointed a finger in Lina's direction. This served a double purpose. One, Metcliff bounced soundlessly off of a barrier rather than crashing into the tent. Two, it was pointing at Lina. "None of that. Two more words of it and I shall remove you."

Lina's eyebrow twitched, very annoyed. How could he have known?! She gave a hard glare at Ashrid before turning to Gourry. She didn't know what to do now. This merchant could somehow sense her magic. Oh, this was gonna be hard. Maybe Raguna blade... she could cast that pretty fast. Ah! Lucky! She realized there was only ONE more word left to say! She was scaring herself needlessly. "Dragon Slave!" she exclaimed as she hurled the spell straight at Ashrid.

Tim grinned like a cheshire cat. Ashrid had turned his back to him. "Ya know, Ashrid, I don't think you're close enough... REY WING!" With that, Tim flew straight at him with his Astral Bided sword in hand.

For such a complicated individual, his plan was brutally simple. He was going to knock Ashrid point blank into a Dragon Slave or into Gourry's new sword, hopefully both. If Tim's sword could hurt him on the way there, so much the better. A Reckless Plan? Yes. Was his plan a stupid mistake? Probably. Would it work? Maybe. Was Ashrid expecting this? No, and that's why Tim thought it had a chance....