Why Oh Why

[igiko]

"Hey, elf. I have a favor to ask."

Grandiel sighs, his breath light in spite of his very full hands with Aikawa, who's entertaining Kyle and Cindy in the distance. "Another favor? What is it this time?"

"It's nothing big. You're a master wizard, aren't you? I just need you to teach me a spell."

"My magic is no longer what it was," says Grandiel, arching both eyebrows. "However, teaching is another matter. What spell did you have in mind?"

"Well, about that . . . "

Of course, nothing is as simple as a single magic trick.

--
"Is this a joke, Highlander?" asks Dio.

"It's not a joke!" snaps Sieghart, folding his arms across his chest. "I can't believe this. If you're going to waste my time, forget I said anything and walk away."

Dio bristles. "You come to me and make demands, then dare to talk down? Humans are truly arrogant."

"Hmph! If anyone's arrogant, it's you!"

When Sieghart turns away with a huff, Dio says after him, "Running away? As expected of a lowly existence."

"As if! If it's technology, there's someone else I can rely on other than you demons." The corners of Sieghart's eyes twitch. "But listen up, demon brat—I won't forget this."

"Are you suggesting that I be afraid?"

Sieghart grits his teeth against Dio's indifferent tone. "I can't stand you!"

--
"Hm . . . "

"Please, Mari. I need you to replicate the teleportation technology that demons and angels love to use."

"What do you need it for?" asks Mari.

"Huh? Well . . . it's for . . . you know." Sieghart clears his throat. "Anyway, I really need it, so I want you to make it for me. I'll do anything!"

Mari's delicate face creases into a knowing smile, and Sieghart instantly regrets his offer when she says, "Anything? Then . . . will you allow me to study you?"

"Ack." Sweating under the force of her withering smile, Sieghart swallows. "F . . . fine. I'll let you do even that—so please make me a portable transporter!"

At the end of the day, Sieghart sinks down to his knees and buries his face in his hands. He pictures himself lying on a table beside Mari, looming over his body, with many a sharp instrument in her grasp. Why does the damn moon have to be so far away!