"I present to you, Taneleer Tivan...The Collector."
The Krylorian assistant to Tivan finished her revolting introduction to her master as I assailed my ears for more torture from her lips.
The man looked confused as he approached me. He let out a deep sigh, and a confused look crossed his features. "I must admit, you have stunned me, my dear. You are beautiful."
"And why is that?" I asked defiantly.
Tivan's deep brown eyes raked over my body. "Because you have me at a standstill. Most of my customers are old men, not absolutely beautiful young women. Who are you, if I may ask?"
"Ceres Franks." I replied evenly.
He leaned down and exposed a white gloved hand, taking mine in his. Gently bringing my hand to his lips, Tivan kissed my hand and smiled at me. "Ceres, you are very welcome here in my collection."
"I'm here for the stone, Tivan." I whipped my long blonde curls ever so slightly and Tivan sighed, nodding.
"My dear Ceres, I'm afraid that stone is not for sale. I have other beautiful items that may picque your interest, such as-"
"I'm not interested in those!" My temper flared as my voice rang out in the museum. "I'm interested in the Aether."
Tivan exhaled loudly, locking his deep brown eyes with my light blue and remaining there for several long moments. "I truly apologize, Ceres but I cannot sell you the Aether. It is for my private collection only. I am the only being who has seen it since its arrival here, besides my attendant."
"What makes you so worthy of such a prize?" I asked vehemently. I hoped the seething anger coming from me struck him.
Tivan sighed, allowing his lungs to steam the breath he'd been holding. "Perhaps I could explain to you over dinner tonight, Ceres?"