The various alchemy equipment seemed to thrum with dull energy inside the dimly lit room. "...If we could collect a sample, just a sample-"<br/><br/>"Don't be ridiculous, Okuu. You know that the virus on Avalon has costs more than its benefit." Vrael stated, tossing a hollow glass ball into the air and catching it again.<br/><br/>"Hmmm... if I could ask for permission... " He mused.<br/><br/>"You can try. But don't expect anything." Vrael said as he returned the ball to its holder. "I hear there's some celebration of the Queen's birthday or something like that. Maybe you could go-"<br/><br/>"No. There we go again. I'm not leaving this place," He gestured to the room in general, "Until I find that cure or get even one of the rarer ingredients that I need."<br/><br/>"Okay. Suit yourself." Vrael said.<br/><br/>"Which means you would have to go in my stead." Okuu crossed his hands behind his head and leaned back in his chair.<br/><br/>"Can I say no?" Vrael had a nagging thought that he should not even be asking the question if the first place.<br/><br/>"It would be easier for us if you did as I asked. But I won't force you."<br/><br/>******<br/><br/>Why was he here again? Vrael thought as he threaded through the crowd, past the various stands. It was not like he had anything against Okuu but trying to appeal to his ethics made Vrael feel uneasy. He grumbled as he forced his way through a particularly difficult knot of people.