Within the Kingdom of Ghanbar, among the arid savannah, rests the city of Abarion, a sprawling maze of flat-roofed homes and market stalls, built with sandstone and acacia.

Generations ago, the city had been built by the then-king of Ghanbar, the Wealth King Abarion. The city had been named after him, and had been his seat of power after he had inherited the throne.

In this day, the city was as bustling as ever. It was, after all, the place that saw the most foreign activity in the Kingdom. A place of merchants and wanderers, there was much to see in the city. The pleasant scent of incense and the unpleasant scent of live animals drift through the streets.

Colorful flashes of color can be seen, as the capes of extravagantly-dressed merchants flit to and fro, eager to make a profit despite the early hours.

---

By the northern edge of the city, a caravan is parked. A number of merchants argue with the guards at the gate. The topic of the conversation is a strange one.

Talonor knows he is being argued over. He doesn't exactly speak the language of the men he had been accompanying, but this much is obvious given the body language. Standing just over six feet tall and powerfully built, Talonor looms over most people, at least among the folk of this land.

While his bronze skin does not set him apart, his red hair certainly does.

Talonor's clan had been tragically wiped out after being attacked by a beast many had thought a legend, the Long Claw. However, Talonor had managed to avenge them, and defeat the wounded beast. The damned creature was capable of eating a moose in one sitting, and just that can tell you it had not been an easy fight. But, Talonor - and his young bronze axe - had triumphed over the creature, tasting its blood. Now, he wore a mantle of its flesh. Just the creature's lower jar was enough to cover his broad shoulders.

It was a great conversation starter, he had found.

Since his clan had died off, Talonor decided he needed a new purpose in life. He had wandered the Iderran Wilds, but ultimately decided without his clan, he would not join another group. So, he headed south, as he had heard stories of a magical valley where beasts never attacked, but food was not an issue.

Eventually, Talonor encountered this group of merchants and got sidetracked. He had saved them, as they had been under attack by a Hill Panther. Talonor was an expert hunter, and had managed to sneak up on the occupied beast, and split its skull in twain with a single blow. The merchants had been very impressed, as had Talonor. These things were usually tougher to take down. Perhaps he had gotten lucky? Must have.

Anyway, the strangers spoke an unfamiliar tongue, but clearly they were well-off, adorned as they were. They were very grateful, that much was clear, and Talonor decided he would stay with them. He could continue his quest on foot, but it would be a shame if he died in the wild - a real possibility considering he would have to fight (alone) for every meal, given he had no real supplies on him.

Thus, Talonor had joined the group. They must have been cursed or something, because two further beast attacks took place on their journey, but Talonor managed to fend the wild creatures off both times. One had been what his people called a Kefal (Lion) and the other a Razak (Boar). The first he had scared off by acting loud and bigger than he was. The other he had been forced to fight. Razaks would sooner die than retreat from a charge, and he knew that. So he had let it stampede towards him, meeting its charge with an axe to the face.

Anyway, Talonor now stood a little awkwardly, as merchants argued with guards about him. It seemed the guards of this city were uncomfortable letting him inside... He picked up a few words here and there, but this language was far more complex than the one his people had spoken back in the wilds. So many damn words! How many things were there really to talk about, in the first place?

At least the merchants seemed to be loyal, clearly putting in some effort to repay him for his toils.

What will Talonor do?

As the sun begins its descent, painting the sky in warm hues, Kavian finds himself navigating through the bustling market. The day's business had extended longer than anticipated, and now, in the late afternoon, the market is alive with activity. The recent arrival of a large caravan has drawn a multitude of merchants, creating a vibrant and crowded scene.

Despite the urgency of the hour, Kavian weaves through the throng of people, his senses heightened by the buzz of trade and the fading light. The air is filled with the aroma of spices, the calls of vendors, and the animated chatter of buyers and sellers negotiating deals.

As the market's cacophony fades behind him, Kavian reaches the well. The sun, now a radiant orb on the horizon, casts long shadows around the well's opening. Without hesitation, Kavian secures the leg of mutton he had acquired during the day and begins his descent down the swaying rope ladder.

The well, standing unobtrusively on the outskirts of town, is a modest and weathered structure. Little more than a simple orifice in the earth, it holds a worn rope ladder that dangles into the darkness. The stones around its opening, marked by the passage of time, bear the faint traces of countless hands that have drawn water here.

Beneath the town's surface lies a hidden world of limestone caverns, a vast network carved out by the patient forces of nature over millennia. These caverns, shaped by the ebb and flow of rainy seasons, now house the region's lifeblood – an extensive aquifer that holds the collected waters of countless years.

In these caverns, away from adult eyes and the harsh elements of the surface, Kavian and his gang find solace. The limestone walls, silent witnesses to countless moments, stand as guardians of their secrets. The distant sounds of water droplets create a soothing background melody, and the play of shadows cast by his small oil lantern against the cavern walls feels like a familiar dance.

With a practiced ease, Kavian releases the well-worn end of the ladder, allowing it to slip through his fingers. The descent is deliberate, and he plunges softly waist deep into the cool waters at the bottom of the well. In the dimly lit cavern, he raises the lantern high, its glow casting ripples on the water's surface.

Kavian, lantern still held high and the leg of mutton carefully above the water, begins to wade through the cavern towards a distant firelight. The flickering flames dance on the southern cavern wall, serving as a beacon in the otherwise dim expanse. As he moves forward, the water gradually becomes more shallow, allowing him to navigate with greater ease.

The sound of sloshing water accompanies Kavian as he nears the cooking fire. The warm glow illuminates the forms of ten boys, a spirited congregation of various ages ranging from eight to fourteen years old. Their roughhousing, hollering, and excited jabbering reverberate against the cavern walls, creating a lively atmosphere.

However, as Kavian's approach becomes evident, a hush falls over the gathering. The raucous activities cease, replaced by intrigued silence. The boys turn their attention towards Kavian, their faces illuminated by the firelight, and then further illuminated with excited exclamations that ripple through the group. The anticipated arrival of their leader brings a spark of elation, and the cavern's atmosphere shifts from energetic chaos to an eager reception.

With a genuinely toothy smile, Kavian presents the prized mutton to the awaiting group. Greedy exclamations mixed with oohs and ahhs erupt through the boys as they marvel at the savory treasure. Kavian, soaking in their excitement, clambers up to the dry portion of the cavern.

As he reaches the solid ground, he hands off the mutton to the eager hands of Salim, who receives it with gleeful anticipation. With a swift motion, Kavian extinguishes his oil lamp, reserving the valuable fuel for another time.

Amidst the shifting shadows, Kavian assumes the role of an older brother, his affectionate demeanor evident in the way he greets each boy. He rubs heads, shares playful shoves on the shoulders of the older ones, and the cavern echoes with the laughter and camaraderie of a tight-knit group.

In the midst of the joyful interactions, Kavian, his tone now authoritative, commands, "Alright, my young conspirators! Bring out today's acquisitions!" The boys respond with eager nods and excited chatter, rushing to reveal the treasures they've gathered throughout the day. The air is charged with anticipation as the cavern becomes a stage for the unveiling of the day's accomplishments.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:50, Wed 17 Jan.

The communion between the abandoned and the forgotten takes place, in a darkly appropriately manner, in the dismal underground.

Yet, the atmosphere is not one of dread or wistfulness, but one of camaraderie and hope. This is thanks to the efforts of one Kavian Aminar.

Once a street urchin like the rest of the gathered scoundrels, Kavian's supreme natural wit and charisma led him to soaring above his lot in life - at least in secret.

In reality, though Kavian and his gang may still live rather squalidly, thanks to Kavian's efforts, they do not starve, and they always have a warm place to stay the night. Furthermore, their trained efforts in information gathering have led them to a position where they hold valuable information, that can both serve their community, and act as a powerful tool of negotiation, if handled with great care.

Tonight, the group - cast in the sharp, messy shadows of an ancient grotto - simply shares what they have earned. Younger boys pull out loaves of bread or stale fruits, while the older boys bring out spare scraps of wealth. The earnings would be measly and insufficient for any one individual, but when selflessly pooled together in this way, everyone has just enough to scrape by for another short period of time.

Every member of this group has undergone vetting to ensure they have the determination to not reveal any of Kavian's secrets. The older ones have also been trained personally by Kavian, on how to carefully and accurately gather information.

For this reason, every pair of youthful eyes present, holds behind it a raging fire of will and spirit, a desire to see their lots in lives improve, and a devotion to their adopted family, in the form of Kavian and their brothers.

While this fortitude is not often put to the test, Kavian's instincts tell him these younglings, from children to adolescents, would surprise him in how far they would go to protect this little community.

Kavian's group currently numbers in at about a dozen. Fourteen of them, to be exact. All young males, the group has grown over time as Kavian has occasionally accepted new members from among the riff-raff.

Perhaps it saddens Kavian, or perhaps not - but no matter his efforts, he knows his current influence is not enough to save every child from poverty. Furthermore, there is nothing he has done for young women or little girls. For whatever reason(s), his group is solely comprised of males.

Currently, every one of the fourteen inducted members are present. There are many other individuals who are helped by Kavian's group, but none of them have been shown much of anything.

The fourteen young men and boys that are currently feasting and playing around Kavian:

---

Spoiler text: (Highlight or hover over the text to view)
OOC : Feel free to use as much of this as you want. I'm creating some profiles here, but you can change any of the ones you don't like or would rather replace with different ideas.

You can also mention if you want to the number of members to be higher or lower than I set them as

Ruhan Aminar, 14Y, Tall/Average/Handsome, responsible, capable and extremely loyal
Background: Your first mate, so to speak. He has been with you the longest and would probably die for you if it came down to it. Ruhan speaks the most freely with you out of everyone, and is also a sort of leader in absentia for the other kids.

Amir Aminar, 13Y, Tall/Thin/Average, cautious and patient
Background: Often paired with Mabarak to counterbalance his 'reckless' tendencies. Taken off the street five years ago, by Ruhan.

Mabarak Aminar, 13Y, Average/Wide/Ugly, rough and somewhat impatient
Background: Often paired with Amir to counterbalance his 'cowardly' tendencies. Taken off the street four years ago, by Ruhan.

Khan Aminar, 12Y, Average/Strong/Handsome, intelligent and unempathetic
Background: A young boy with a powerful physique and a naturally ruthless mind. Shows little care for anyone beyond the group, and even within the group is known as a relatively cold person. Not unloyal. He was found after killing an assailant who attacked him.

Tamur Aminar, 11Y, Average/Chubby/Average, quiet, diligent and loyal
Background: He is a bit slow, but he follows orders to the letter and without complaint. Rescued from starvation two or three years ago. He has an almost puppy-like loyalty to Kavian and Ruhan in particular.

Qassar Aminar, 11Y, Tall/Average/Average, perceptive and intuitive
Background: the abandoned bastard child of a merchant and a prostitute, Qassar seems to have inherited the sharp mental tendencies of a merchant. Qassar was found in a bad place, soon after being abandoned by his mother who could no longer care for him. His mother died of disease soon after.

Laz Aminar, 11Y, Towering/Strong/Average, brotherly, humble and highly loyal
Background: The physically strongest member of the group, Laz is actually somewhat of a gentle giant. However, he does not shy away from violence if he is told to deliver it. Rescued from starvation two or three years ago, he is fully loyal to Kavian who personally took his hand when he needed it most.

Bazat Aminar, 10Y, Short/Fat/Average, hardworking and pessimistic
Background: Bazat is paradoxically someone who is unmotivated, but someone who puts in maximum effort during assignments. Bazat was previously part of another, disbanded group of urchin boys. Has some immature skills as a thief or scout

Sharid Aminar, 10Y, Short/Average/Unattractive, no descriptors (quite bland)
Background: A newer member. Not much to say about him.

Yasil Aminar, 10Y, Short/Thin/Scarred, blind and depressive
Background: Yasil was blinded in a freak accident, and could no longer perform most types of labor. Since the incident, he has been chronically depressed and even verging on suicidal. However, he is highly adaptive, and has learned to perform many tasks even without his sense of sight. He has a promising talent, according to Ruhan. Kavian may or may not recognize that.

Salim Aminar, 9Y, Short/Thin/Average, eager and excitable
Background: A member of one year, Salim fits in very well because he is outgoing and cooperative. He doesn't have any particular skills, but he is good enough at most things that don't require extreme caution in execution.

Anzar Aminar, 9Y, Average/Average/Average, talented, bright, clever, and optimistic
Background: A natural genius (though not at the level of Kavian), Anzar is still young but seems to be good at everything he touches. Ruhan has been struggling to decide how to apply his talents. Kavian has the final say, of course.

Ishrami Aminar, 9Y, Short/Emaciated/Average, chronically unhealthy, silent and terrifyingly intense
Background: Ishrami is the only member of the group who was first to approach them, instead of the other way around. He first appeared, terribly injured but completely in his wits. After lots of questioning, it was confirmed no leaks have taken place. Ishrami somehow managed to deduce your existence on his own. He was accepted into the group, as he has never refused or failed a single job he has been sent on. Ishrami is a complete loner, and the other children avoid him because his eyes give off an overwhelming feeling of intensity that few can face for long. Even Kavian and Ruhan find it exhausting to deal with him for more than a minute.

Najid Aminar, 8Y, Short/Thin/Cherubic, delicate and shy
Background: Ruhan refuses to say how he found Najid. He seems traumatized by whatever it was. Najid is ethereally beautiful, his every feature painted with complete innocence and delicacy. Najid is currently too young to do much, and he rarely says a word. However, Kavian has noticed that merely having him around has had... some sort of effect... on the group. It's hard to pinpoint, but Kavian's instincts tell him to keep the boy around, and his wits inform him that the direction of their lives are being accelerated in a favorable direction, ever since Najid appeared.

---

In the quiet enclave beneath the city, a tradition unfolds, binding the small gang of street children together. Kavian, their leader by unspoken decree, takes on the role of the provider. Gathered around a makeshift fire, the group prepares for a communal feast.

Kavian orchestrates the distribution of portions, a ritual that has become an integral part of their shared existence. Salim, the gang's unofficial cook, stands by the cooking fire, his hands deftly preparing the mutton and other dishes. With the assistance of Qassar and Ruhan, a modest but nourishing spread is crafted from the meager resources they have.

The aroma of cooking food mingles with the warmth of the fire, creating a sense of comfort and anticipation. Laid out on a simple spread near the flames, the feast beckons – a testament to their resilience and unity in the face of adversity. Each boy, weathered by the challenges of street life, receives his share with a mix of hunger and gratitude.

With a shared understanding, the boys exhibit a disciplined restraint, resisting the tempting aroma of the feast before them. Obediently, they wait, anticipation lingering in the air like the flickering shadows cast by the fire.

Once all have received their share, Kavian rises, and a subtle wave of excitement ripples through the group. With purposeful steps, he joins them at the communal fire pit, where worn mats await their eager occupants. The boys sit expectantly, their eyes reflecting a blend of hunger and anticipation, as they gather around the flickering flames.

Kavian takes center stage as the fire pit casts its warm glow upon the gathered boys. With a nod of acknowledgment, he singles out Salim, the gang's culinary maestro, and his assisting comrades, Qassar and Ruhan, for their efforts in preparing the nourishing feast. The boys respond with a chorus of thanks, their applause echoing in the confined space. Some add a touch of light-hearted teasing, offering playful critiques of the culinary creations.

Kavian recognizes each specialized team of boys in succession, celebrating their distinct contributions with brevity and a touch of lightheartedness. The scavengers, the water boys, the errand runners, and the beggars each receive their well-deserved moment of recognition.

With the last acknowledgments shared, Kavian raises his bowl and bellows, "Feast! Feast!" The chant reverberates through the cavern as the others quickly join in. The formalities conclude, and hunger takes center stage. The small gang eagerly digs into the meal, the night unfolding with a sense of celebration and freedom in their hidden sanctuary beneath the city.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:19, Fri 19 Jan.

As the assorted scrappy kids eat rather messily, quiet overtakes the group. It is not an uncomfortable or comfortable one, just one that signifies everyone present feels the need to sate their hunger and thirst for the night.

Once some have started to finished, conversations pick up here and there.

Kavian overhears Amir and Mabarak arguing about something inane, as they are wont to do.

Ruhan is patiently explaining something to Tamur, who is doing his best to understand.

Laz is roughhousing Sharid and Qassar, both of which seem slightly exasperated at his antics

Anzar helps Yasil clean up while giving him a well-intentioned motivational speech. The blind boy seems humiliated by this, rather than inspired.

Salim offers a second serving to Bazat, who declines.

Khan, Ishrami and Najid sit separately, each giving off different levels of approachability.

-- Overall, it is a regular gathering. Not more special than any other one, but equally precious to many of the group. Even the loners of the group decided to show up, which counts for something.

With the gang all here, does Kavian wish to announce anything, speak to any of them individually, simply rest for the night, or perhaps go on an outing alone, or with a few choice followers?

The city is your oyster! Well, at least a bit!

As evening transitions into night, Kavian reclines on his mat, inviting each boy over one by one. They share the morsels of news they've gathered during their day's endeavors.

Having internalized the training provided by Kavian to the point of it becoming second nature, the boys offer precise details, including names, specific locations, and languages spoken. Kavian, drawing upon his well-honed skills, closes his eyes, orchestrating a mental map that encompasses both the city and its surrounding region. With each piece of information, his intricate web of understanding expands. In the recesses of his mind, Kavian strategically positions each puzzle piece, gradually bringing the final image into sharper focus. Interjecting intermittently, Kavian poses probing questions, pushing the boundaries of the boys' memories and extracting additional details that might not have been immediately apparent as significant.

As Kavian concludes with the last boy, he sits up on his mat and eases his mind into a state of relaxation. In the quietude, he remains seated for a while, entering a meditative state to process the influx of new information. Behind his closed eyelids, rapid eye movements betray the workings of his powerful mind. In this mental landscape, secrets are unveiled, and new connections and relationships between the influential figures in the region are forged. The dance of his thoughts reveals a profound understanding as the intricate tapestry of the city's dynamics unfolds within the canvas of his consciousness.

Respecting Kavian's need for reflection, the boys refrain from interrupting during this contemplative time. They go a step further, managing to subdue their usual noise-making tendencies. The older ones take on the role of mentors, occasionally chastising and shushing the younger ones to maintain a tranquil environment, allowing Kavian the mental space he requires for his profound reflections.

After an hour of deep reflection, Kavian opens his eyes. A weariness seems to settle upon him, signaling the end of the day. He lies back down as if preparing to sleep, and several of the boys sit up expectantly. From his bundle of private belongings, Kavian retrieves a pouch, and their attention heightens. With a theatrical touch, he produces a dried date, holding it over his reclining head as if contemplating it.

Commencing a series of short phrases in foreign languages, Kavian meticulously selects expressions the boys might encounter during their work. Each phrase is paired with a specific fact he seeks to ascertain. The boys respond eagerly, shouting out the origins of the sounds with haste. The first boy to correctly identify the language is rewarded with the sweet. After each sweet reward, Kavian ensures a comprehensive learning experience by providing a translation for the previously spoken phrase.

In this manner, Kavian systematically enhances the capabilities of his team, elevating the value of their observations. The linguistic exercises not only sharpen their language skills but also contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the information they gather, turning each encounter into a valuable opportunity for learning and growth.

As weariness finally claims Kavian, he gently returns his pouch to his bundle, signifying the conclusion of the linguistic exercise. A few remaining boys who were still participating express their disappointment with audible groans. Undeterred, Kavian turns to his side, placing the bundle beneath his head, and succumbs to the embrace of sleep.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:33, Sun 21 Jan.

OOC: LMAO, did Kavian just do a jimmy neutron brain blast? I love it xDD

After entering a session of deep reflection, Kavian emerges having synthesized and organized all the new information gathered by his gang. For their part, they watch hushedly in practiced quiet, as their boss undergoes the familiar procedure of becoming totally still. The more observant kids also notice that his eyes move frantically underneath his shut eyelids, as if he is in a deep sleep...

Regardless of whether they have any inkling of what goes on in that steel trap mind of his, they recognize the pattern, and can only appreciate that each time he emerges from this exercise, he is both totally exhausted and soon to deliver them some insane flashes of insight.

In his mind, Kavian has collected and ordered all the new information, and now begins applying it to his own ever-growing paracosm. This mental construct is represented by a mind map so solid and so lifelike that to Kavian it is nearly corporeal. He can almost touch it, taste it, feel it.

Kavian has long known his mind works differently than others. Most would acquiesce that it just works better, at least in certain fields. Since his first memories, Kavian has always had an absurd ability to observe his surroundings and to analyze information. He also rarely forgets anything he has witnessed or even briefly considered.

His intellectual faculties are not perfect, but they are damn better than most.

It is with this natural gift, clearly, that Kavian has been able to survive and even thrive in the situation of his unfortunate birth. Kavian may take great pride in his accomplishments, or perhaps he is a more humble sort. Regardless, it is undeniable to even the densest person that is familiar with him, that Kavian often thinks on a higher level than most people.

With this mind map of the city's functions and trends updated and in some places cleanly edited, Kavian's mental image moves ever closer to a clear, unflawed understanding. Yet, there are still gaps. These gaps may frustrate Kavian, or perhaps they entice him with the possibility of acquiring further knowledge.

Regardless, this exercise is a tiring one. One that pushes him past his normal limits, and leaves him enervated. Now, he must rest. In the morning, his considerations will flow to the top of his consciousness as they usually do, and he will be able to act on them.

With little talk, the whole group prepares for sleep, following Kavian's lead. A few of the boys leave for the night, intent on sleeping elsewhere, but most stay, having no place else to go.

---

There is no slants of sunlight to peek through the uneven limestone tunnels, alerting those who rest within that another day has dawned. Instead, they are left to rely on their internal clocks.

Fortunately, many of the children here are adapted to this kind of schedule, and a number of them wake up at the very same moment, their rhythms clearly synchronized.

As Kavian's eyes open up, thoughts are already swirling in his head. He takes a moment to calm and wrangle them. Some dissipate away from him, but enough are left to fill his day.

Kavian has realized the following:

 - A group of peasants have arrived from the Akaz Basin, the agricultural center of Ghanbar. They seem to be seeking military aid in quashing a dark danger that has emerged in their lands. Might be superstitious hogwash.

 - A number of arms-dealing merchants have arrived from Cantel. They were seen selling top-shelf bronze weaponry to some merchants in the city. These will likely be resold elsewhere in Ghanbar to military leaders, thus bolstering their offense for the upcoming Sedorian assault. Could be interesting.

 - A nobleman Kavian previously had a positive opinion on, now leaves him with a sense of incongruity between his true self and his appearance. Perhaps this warrants further investigation.

As the new day unfolds, Kavian awakens, his mind immediately consumed by the myriad possibilities ahead. His attention is drawn to Yasil, lying nearby, prompting a cascade of considerations. Discussions with Ruhan have shed light on Yasil's unique talent for information gathering—a blind child with an extraordinary attention to detail and a natural ability to sift through the relevant and irrelevant.

Contemplating Yasil's potential, Kavian envisions a role that transcends the limitations of a blind beggar. With a pensive expression, he explores how Yasil's skills could elevate the gang's capabilities. The untapped potential in this young member holds the prospect of a valuable asset—a silent observer adept at navigating social engagements without arousing suspicion.

However, amidst these hopeful considerations, the weight of the boy's despondency presses heavily on Kavian. Feeling an urgent need to intervene, he acknowledges that swift action is imperative. The plans for the boy's future cannot afford delays.

Amidst the multitude of other matters demanding follow-up and investigation, Kavian deliberately sets them aside for the moment, choosing to prioritize his quest for Yasil. The boy occupies a special place in Kavian's thoughts, and he has something significant in mind for him—a plan that comes with a considerable cost.

Kavian contemplates seeking assistance from a particular person, understanding that to make the impression he desires, he must present his best self. A swift self-examination leads Kavian to a sober realization – in his current state, he deems himself unpresentable. The marks on his clothing and the lingering scent on his person become undeniable factors in this assessment.

Faced with the reality that he cannot afford the luxurious oils and perfumes favored by his kinsmen to remedy his present state, Kavian relies on a more accessible solution. Acknowledging the abundance of soap and water at his disposal, he has learned to make do with the simple yet effective combination in the absence of opulent alternatives. While drawing enough water for a bath proves to be a laborious endeavor for many in his community, Kavian finds solace in the unique perks of living within the well.

Emerging from the depths of the well as the morning sunlight spills over the arid landscape, Kavian ascends to the surface. With a purposeful stride, he strolls through the bustling streets of the city. His journey leads him to a distinct change in scenery—an expansive walled estate in the affluent part of town.

As he approaches the imposing walls, he nonchalantly leans against them, and with a casual demeanor he begins to whistle a tune of his own creation, a calling card that echoes through the air. The sound carries a subtle announcement of his presence, a signal understood by a particular one within the enclave.

After a brief interval, a subtle creak breaks the stillness as a discreet courtyard door opens, revealing Leila on the other side. Their eyes meet in silent recognition, and without a word, Kavian is ushered inside the walled estate.

Entering the nicer part of town is possible even for someone with his current appearance. His practiced purposeful presence, perfected by years of trying to fit in and make something of himself, combined with a natural dignity rising from his intellect, Kavian manages to approach a walled estate.

It is still early, but Kavian's whistling tune, an unique calling card between him and his friend and ally, is quickly picked up by the intended target.

Soon, a short, mousey and waifish girl of about 16 years in a traditional outfit for a female servant of the nobility emerges from a door to the main building, and crosses over the lawn, only slightly skittish.

Opening the reinforced wooden gate that is embedded within the construction of the sandstone wall, Leila huffs lightly from the exertion on her smaller frame. This task would usually be done by multiple men, but it was more a matter of stamina than pure strength, and if Kavian could say anything about Leila, it is that she is an enduring person... Well, more than anything, she is loyal, but enduring is probably her secondary quality in terms of prominence.

Helping Leila close the gate behind them, Kavian himself is slightly winded by the exercise, but it goes by much faster with two than one.

Re-doubling along the lawn, Kavian follows a subtly nervous Leila as they enter the manor. She always suffers this kind of anxiety when meeting with him, which brings Kavian some guilt, however he ultimately knows he has to rely on her for this task.

His understanding of her character leads him to believe this sense of trepidation doesn't arise from a fear of getting caught in the act, but from an internal sense of duty she holds to her master and his estate. Loyalty is a double-edged blade, Kavian supposes. Perhaps the reason Leila is just an accomplice, and not a core member of his team whom she can share almost everything of his plans with.

Not that he is always the most forthcoming about his convoluted plans, that is. Those are generally too difficult to impart in full in a single sitting, and he has dozens of them brewing at a time. At least Ruhan, his lieutenant so-to-speak, has gotten incredibly good at picking up on the general details without needing to have it explicitly spelled out for him.

A small part of Kavian envies others for their ability to understand things purely through intuition, for him, he is much more clearly in the category of someone who understands by contemplation, methods of analysis, and logical understanding.

---

The estate is quite empty, with the faint sounds of a couple other servants being heard, but ultimately it is not so crowded that Leila finds it remotely difficult to secretly usher in Kavian. Even on busier days, Leila is adept at avoiding the other servants. It is possible they have an inkling of her activities, but as embarrassing as it is they would likely assume she is bringing in a secret lover she is too shy to reveal. It is not true at all, but it makes for a good cover if well-laid plans ever go ass-up.

Passing through the grand entryway to the estate which poses a magnificent and striking view, Kavian doesn't spend much time looking around. He knows it makes Leila uncomfortable when he lets his eyes wander, so he keeps his eyes on the figure ahead of him.

That doesn't mean he isn't (almost half-consciously) mapping the contents of the area around him. He can't help himself, it's a cognitive habit he has developed after living a life where environmental awareness was key to a long and free life.

Leila leads him down a flight of stairs to the laundry room, located near the cellar and other subsurface rooms beneath the main estate.

The laundry room is basically a giant closet space, with a lot of well-organized but limited amenities, from stacked wooden pales to racks of scented soap. The main bathing area is actually on the second floor of the manor.

An unfortunate design choice, as servants are given the unenviable task of making trips up the main stairway, carrying (and being incredibly cautious not to spill) buckets of water fetched from the private well outside, which are then heated in the kitchen area on the ground floor, before being brought up-stairs.

The laundry room here is mostly empty, as the master of the house is away, and his kin are also not currently present in the estate.

Leila knows the drill, and so heads over to one corner of the room, where she has stowed away some personal sewing supplies.
Noting that Kavian has only brought his own outfit, Leila nods.

"Just you, this time?" she asks, referring to whose clothes he needs patched up, cleaned, and modified to be more cohesive.

Leila has some really good skills, Kavian freely admits.

Honestly, Kavian is constantly just a little surprised that she would go so far to repay him. He had helped her out in a major way once, but that was many years ago, and she had been young enough back then that it wouldn't be unreasonable for her to simply forget the favor he had done her, or not understand the significance.

Clearly, Leila was a good cookie, and Kavian was careful to never overextend in what he asked from her. He didn't want to abuse her gratitude and generosity, so he made sure to limit his requests and visit infrequently.

Kavian, adopting a mischievous smile, replies, "Yes, just me. I've got some business to attend to. A certain girl I need to impress." He leaves the statement intentionally vague, allowing Leila to catch the undertones while maintaining a teasing air of mystery.

Leila held a place in Kavian's life that echoed the bonds of family. As much as his gang felt like a brotherhood, Leila stood as a sisterly figure in his world. Yet, as time marched forward, marking the evolution of Leila from the girl he knew to a young woman, Kavian couldn't help but entertain a subtle uncertainty. While the camaraderie and loyalty remained, he found himself pondering whether her commitment extended beyond the debt of favor owed.

Maintaining a casual tone and feigning innocence, Kavian artfully presents his request to Leila, all the while keenly aware of her reaction. With a playful demeanor, he tests her response, curious to discern any nuances that might unfold as he invites her into the realm of his personal affairs.

Funnily enough, Leila does have a strong reaction to Kavian's words, though not the one he may have expected.

Her face clearly shows surprise, before some words come out of her mouth without any thought, "Wait, really?"

Perhaps realizing her words may be insulting, she schools her expression and bows her head slightly in apology, "Sorry, I was just... um... surprised."

She continues her task, not distracted from her work enough to stop in her tracks for more than that one moment.

However, she does give him occasional glances, with a raised eyebrow basically asking a silent question, 'Are you serious?' - clearly disbelieving but not sure why he would lie about such a thing either.

The mischievous smile seems to fly over her head, as she doesn't pick up on the fact he is joking. To be fair, Kavian is normally rather serious, though that doesn't mean he never loosens up now and then. Leila also isn't stupid, but she doesn't exactly have much worldly experience.

How does Kavian feel about the fact that him being interested in a girl is so shocking to Leila? Is he amused, perhaps, or depressed? Something else?

Leila's surprised reaction, evident in the subtle raise of her eyebrows, doesn't go unnoticed by Kavian. Engaged in her work, she tactfully questions him without causing offense. For Kavian, this unexpected response triggers a mix of emotions. While he didn't have specific expectations, it stings his pride slightly that the notion of his romantic interest surprises her. After all, he fancies himself as a bit of a ladies' man.

Simultaneously, there's a twinge of relief. Leila's reaction implies that she doesn't see him in a romantic light, sparing their relationship from potential complications. Secretly, Kavian harbors plans to depart from the city, and preparations for his eventual leave are already in motion. His romantic entanglements have always been short-lived, serving a purpose and always fleeting. However, he is adamant that Leila won't be subjected to such transience.

The mischievous tone in Kavian's statement to Leila wasn't woven from deceit; rather, it stemmed from a genuine truth – there was, indeed, a girl in the picture. His playful proclamation carried a sense of honesty, yet the mischief lay in the playfulness, a deliberate attempt to elicit a reaction from her. Even though the response didn't align with what his pride might have anticipated, the mischievous twinkle in his eye spoke more to a lighthearted teasing, a way of engaging with Leila aside from pure business.

Kavian, maintaining a playful demeanor, continues to jest with an exaggerated sense of injury. He raises an eyebrow and quips to Leila, "Seriously? Is it that hard to believe I'm a sought-after commodity with the opposite sex? Take a good look at me!" He gestures towards himself theatrically. He leaves the door wide open for a witty retort, Kavian grins, well aware that Leila is armed with her own brand of humor.