"Why do you bother?"

The miko thanked another seller, placing a silk ribbon in her basket. "With what?"

"Bartering."

She frowned. "Because then I wouldn't have enough money for next time."

"Are your funds so limited?" His brother had never mentioned a financial need—though Inuyasha would rather eat Tessaiga than ask him for help.

But he was under the impression the miko was well cared for due to her healing services.

"You have someone else do your shopping for you, don't you?"

"I have no time for such liberties."

"Educated and rich?" she asked, winking. "Definitely a prince in disguise."