Equivalent Exchange

The Dark One shouted at me, I turned to catch the girl as she collapsed. Her body lax in my arms.

Moments later she came around. She tried to stand but I could tell whatever that was had drained her of her strength.

What was that. What happened to her.

"Thank you, but I'm alright now."

"Alright."

The girl stood to her feet and turned to face The Dark One. Whatever Dark deal this was she agreed to it. I know there is no way out for her at this point.

All I could do was stand and watch. But without a doubt the whole thing felt wrong.

"Now on to the agreed terms. Hold out your hand."

The Dark One then extended and pulled in her right hand in one swift movement.

Instantaneously a swap occurred. The ribbon in the girl's hair disappeared. Her hair that was held in a ponytail fell down.

Now floating in The Dark One's palm was the girl's ribbon and now in the girl's hand was the small vial.

"Now that you have what you want, please leave."

Without a word the girl bowed, turned and walked out of the castle.