Darkvision - Bruce R. Cordell [44]
Tebora moved closer, to the display nearest Ususi. "Oh, yes, Madam Urale! For instance, this configuration before you- it's called 'Strong and Tireless!' And why is that? Because once you accept these Datharathi crystal substitutions"-she waved to the display where the sculpture's left arm, right leg, and long strip down the back were artificial-"you'll find yourself with the strength of several men, and with the vigor to hold your own against any normal person!"
"Really? That seems an extraordinary claim," said Ususi.
"Oh, but why would I say so if it weren't true? Perhaps you'd like a demonstration?"
"Maybe," said Ususi, "First tell me-why do you call these crystals Datharathi?"
The woman laughed. "Do you jest? Surely you've heard of Datharathi Minerals, one of the most influential chakas in Vaelan?"
"Oh, of course I have-who hasn't? But where do they mine the crystal?"
The woman paused as if considering the question, but Iahn tensed. Something moved behind that pause-he could feel its enmity. It wasn't the saleswoman. Whatever it was, "it" gazed out at Urale and Alon for a moment through the woman's one living and one crystal eye, then retreated, apparently satisfied.
Oblivious to whatever had just passed through her, Tebora said, "Who knows where the crystal is mined? Who cares? The raw crystal's no good by itself, anyway-it must be custom cut and fitted by our trained staff here at the Body Shop to imbue its spectacular advantages. Raw Datharathi crystal is worthless. But maybe you're looking for something other than our 'Strong and Tireless' configuration? How about 'Quick and Vigorous?' 'Insightful and Spellstrong?' 'Pious and Healing?' 'Cerebral and Ki-strong?' Or, how about the complete package-a whole-body prosthesis with every attribute we offer? Those are too expensive for any but our noblest, richest, highest-class patron-I'm sorry, I shouldn't have brought it up. I'm sure I didn't want to insult your means…" The woman trailed off with a long-practiced appraising tone in her voice.
Iahn was amused, seeing the art of the deal in action, but he didn't betray his disguise. He was only a servant. Instead, he continued to watch the plangent, looking for her physical nexus, where one swift blow or slash would collapse her life. Because of all her crystal enhancements, locating her weak points was proving difficult, despite his expertise in detecting such things.
Ususi said, "I don't think I can decide all at once! I mean, the choices! Plus, how do I know what you say is even true?"
Tebora sang out, "The customer asks for a demonstration! Hmm… why don't I wrestle your manservant? That should prove something. Certainly a normal woman of my shape would be hard pressed to overcome a man accustomed to hard work?"
Iahn began, "Madam Urale, I don't think…"
"Perfect. That, I'd like to see," said Ususi. Iahn sighed. Ususi didn't know his illusory guise might not hold up to rough physical contact. He shambled forward dejectedly, and said with a feigned accent, "What does the lady wish of me?"
"Fabulous!" The woman was obviously delighted to show off her plangent-granted prowess. "Face me. Each of us will attempt to throw the other to the ground. It should be fairly obvious… well, you'll see!" The woman laughed.
Iahn stood before the plangent, waiting, watching, looking for the least weakness in the poise and posture of his enemy. Ususi said, "Go!"
The vengeance taker did not sinuously plant his palmed dagger in the woman's kidney, nor did he smash her windpipe with his left elbow, twist her around to choke the blood supply between heart and head, or even sweep her legs from beneath her. He stood and waited for the woman to make the first attack.
The Body Shop attendant stood poised, unmoving. She, too, waited for her adversary's opening.
"Come, sir! Don't let your station keep you from it! Come at me! I assure you, I can take care of myself!"
"By the Voice!" muttered Iahn under his breath, but be nodded. He threw a purposely clumsy punch at the woman. As he expected, she ducked aside. And as he feared, she