Trade City of Abarion
As Li Hua explains the necessity of carrying a weapon as a young woman alone at night, Kavian listens attentively, his expression thoughtful. He hadn't brought attention to the weapon without understanding something so fundamental. Despite the seriousness of her explanation, Kavian can't help but grin at the misunderstanding and the lengthy defense of her weapon.
"I meant no offense, Li Hua," he interjects gently, his tone reassuring. "When I said you wouldn't be needing it, I meant that you're safe here with us. Asherah and I pose no threat to you." He pauses, then continues, elaborating on his point. "Besides, openly wearing such a weapon can be misconstrued as an intention of violence in these parts. It's better to have a small, concealed defense or carry something so commonplace that it wouldn't raise suspicions. It will likely to attract unwanted attention from the authorities." He allows his words to sink in before continuing. "It's important to stay safe, but it's also important to avoid unnecessary trouble."
As Li Hua defends her choice of attire, Kavian's attention sharpens. He watches her closely, his gaze lingering thoughtfully on her elegant gown, shimmering in the dwindling sunlight. He nods thoughtfully, considering her words, before responding. "It's a beautiful gown, no doubt," he concedes, "but I was simply concerned about its well-being. We're about to enter the well, after all." His tone is gentle, a hint of humor underlying his words.
Both women seem to pick up on his guardedness about the meeting, and Kavian decides to address it directly. "I just wanted to share something with you both," he explains, his voice earnest. "Something difficult to explain, and fragile. But I also have to be careful about who knows."
In his mind, he's thinking of his network of children, the gang he's formed over the years. They thrive on secrecy, living beneath notice, and he knows the wrong influence could endanger everything he's built.
Kavian's heart quickens as he feels the weight in the air intensify, a sensation unlike anything he's experienced before. Li Hua's sudden expletive jolts him out of his thoughts, and he watches her warily as she steps away, her hand instinctively reaching for her sword. He feels a shiver run down his spine at her words, her sense of impending danger echoing his own. "I feel it too," he admits, his voice tight with unease. "But a god? Here?" His mind races, trying to make sense of the situation, but the feeling of impending doom only grows stronger with each passing moment.