Tired of watching the progress of his romantic rival, the Juggler decided to go for a walk.  The circus would not perform again until later that evening, which gave him several free hours -- plenty of time to do a bit of exploring.  Carefully, he tucked his golden balls into the pouch he always wore tied to his belt.  Then he began strolling toward the city.  In only a matter of minutes, he’d joined the river of people constantly flowing into it.  And since he had no particular destination in mind, the Juggler let himself ride the river like a leaf, swept along by the whims and desires of others.<br/><br/>This current soon carried him to the city’s central marketplace.  Even on normal days, it was renown for the the beautiful and rare goods traded there -- and on the day before the grand masquerade, it was almost marvelous beyond imagining.  In addition to the seemingly countless vendors selling masks and costumes, there were also silk merchants, and spice traders, and dealers in rare curios brought from distant lands.  One booth displayed beautifully painted paper lanterns, while another showed off vases full of glass flowers.  The Juggler possessed very little spending money.  But that didn’t keep him from enjoying the spectacle.<br/><br/>Eventually, the Juggler’s wanderings brought him to a stand selling warm buns.  The air around it was filled with the scent of honey and raisins -- smells which made the Juggler’s stomach rumble hungrily.  Unfortunately, he couldn’t afford the edible luxuries.  But perhaps a deal could still be made?  Catching the merchant’s attention, the Juggler introduced himself with a theatrical bow.  Then he made his offer.  “If I double your sales in the next hour, will you give me a few of your pastries?”<br/><br/>The merchant looked skeptical.  But what did he have to lose?  So, after a moment, he gave a hesitant nod.  Almost as soon as the merchant agreed, the Juggler began snatching up pastries.  At first, fearing attempted theft, the merchant shouted a protest.  But then the Juggler’s plan became clear.  As nimbly as he’d tossed the golden balls, he began juggling warm buns -- much to the delight of the crowd and the slight consternation of the merchant.