Someone offering triple the current bid would be a triple red flag to me. I would think that they are really dumb or that they were scamming. If they wanted it, they would place a bid, even set at triple the current bid.
In your case they turned out to be scamming, wanting an off ebay transaction and probably it would get worse from there. Who knows what their real intentions are? They are trying to bait you and you are smart to not engage them.
In my opinion, these people are predators, bullies. They don't want to take no for an answer. They attach themselves to you and won't let go. They want a dialog, like you said. But that is their way for them to argue and intimidate.
So you have to take away their power.
NEVER respond to them again, ever. You are correct; you don't owe them anything. If you want to read their messages out of curiosity, for psychological insights into the mind of a bully, then fine. Keep in mind though, that bullies, like the one that latched on to you, will deliberately try to incite you, challenge you, guilt you, and emotionally manipulate you. They are desperate for you to respond; a bully without a willing target to engage with their drama, is a powerless bully.
You may want to consider reporting and forwarding their messages to ebay, especially if their are clear indications of them wanting to buy outside ebay. Perhaps ebay would give them a swift kick out the door?
ON VACATION
GONE FISHING
BACK AT 6
