It had been a rare quiet afternoon for Alayaya. She laid on a low couch in her mother's establishment, a book of simple tales open in her lap as she practiced her reading aloud. Her voice, soft and melodic as some of the other girls listened while on their time off. A faint breeze from the open window stirred the sheer curtains, carrying with it the scent of the lemon balm burning in a nearby dish.

*Her mother, Chataya, came up to her with her usual grace, her silks whispering as she moved. "Yaya," she began, her tone warm yet purposeful. "A young lord has come to us tonight. It is his first time, and he asked for someone gentle, someone with kindness. I do not believe anyone would be a better choice."

Alayaya closed her book, setting it aside with care. Her wide, dark eyes met her mother’s, understanding passing silently between them. She rose, smoothing the silks of her dress. "Of course, Mother," she said softly. She prefered the new ones. "I’ll see to it he feels welcome."

Chataya smiled, a touch of pride in her expression. "You are a gift to this world, my daughter. He is down in the common room waiting. You wont miss him, you can recognize a first timer."

With that, Alayaya moved toward the door. When she walked down the stairs she saw him sitting alone on a chaise while Marei served him roasted duck and kept him company untill Alayaya came. Marei left as she sat down beside him and spoke to him with a light accent, begining with light conversation. "Are you enjoying the food my lord?"