155 It's a fair deal.

A dozen questions were fighting in my head. As I calculated the cost, the problem was Lady Pii didn't speak again. She was smart for someone so young.

"What is your counter?" I asked after ten minutes of waiting,

"Me blood."

"Much power."

That was not what I wanted. Blood was good and all but it was a consumable. I paused. And turn to look away. The price of blood depended on the rarity and Pii's was a rare blood line. It was commonly used in many potions. If Hebe was in the room she'd answer yes on my behalf. She had been dealing with the freeze dry version of it for so long that her potions would be two times better with real blood input. The problem has always been about the supply. There weren't any since Pii's kind were considered part of the community and would not be fore or hunted for their blood. The laws of free choice govern us all.

Blood magic was not my goal. I, on the other hand, had hoped on one of her three powers. I thought about it and I knew I rather have something that I could use as I wish.

Then again, the power of fast healing, the power of invisibility and the power to call rain were all in the common and useful type. Pii didn't have the attack power needed to claim up the power structure but she could live well with a good mate.

The male she was to be mated was a tribe leader with a name for duels. I rather not have him come after me if he learns of my involvement. So I don't plan on getting physically involved.

"How about a deal with one cup of blood every month?" I countered,

And I took action by placing the tailman in front of her. I could feel the tension from her body. Blood is something to be treasured and kept secure from the evil of the world.

However Pii was being swayed. It was more than she expected. This was more than the market price for a tailman but it was a better offer than before.

"Deal." said Pii, holding out her hand.

I took it and we made a deal. I felt the strings of faith pulled and bind our souls. From this day on every month Hebe would have a bucket of Salamander shifter blood. She'd be delighted.

Taking her leave with her tailman. The departing Pii look a little happier. She was standing a little taller and her movement seem faster somehow.

I turn again to find another customer, one I didn't expect to see.