[ a fussy, bad-mouthed and old-grandpa-like bodyguard, kaveh thinks. that brings to mind a very specific image of person, one of a older gentleman with that hammer over his shoulder, casting a jaundiced eye at whatever that happens to walk through his forge. kaveh has been through school; he has met men much like that description guard their domains with hammer and pick and a particularly scathing grading system for interns who can't quite pull their weight. just thinking about it is bringing kaveh back to some anxiety-ridden day in his akademiya years where he hasn't quite figured out the difference between flaring and punching, and is too terrified to ask.

well, kaveh thinks, a person like that is unlikely to use the word friend so easily. but for altria to be able to describe the man using those terms, they must have a bond. kaveh smiles. ]

I've had Master Craftsmen who mentored me and who matched that description, I think. I can imagine what sort of man he must be. I'm glad he made you your outfit, and with such a level of detail. To me, that speaks of care for his craft, and his regard for you.

[ satisfied, kaveh nods. ] Thank you again for tonight, by the way. You made the journey here with this fence a quick and easy one.