Action, mysterious power and humor! Again, you give us a terrific tale, incorporating the "tiger's eye" and jade disc elements with your own twist. Introducing a realistic threat, the outlaws ready to kill for the precious stones, and then offing them with a ferociously hungry 'kitty' gave us the perfect explanation for how a solitary merchant traveling with such desired stones would feel safe out on his own.
Despite having such incredible power at his fingertips, we get to see the lighter side of Vartan as he is welcomed back to the village (nice point about bringing the extra horses by the way - waste not, want not and all that). The setup and delivery of the pie to Xaltan's face - perfect!

--Bris