Thun sniffed Gaul's fingers and then relaxed as he petted her. "She'll be fine," Pon'i reassured Gaul. "She doesn't go off unless she's frightened. And we won't stay much longer. I just need to get someone to deliver the Happy Tiktiki dress - it's in my quarters. This way."
As he led Gaul down and across more stairs, he chatted about his home. "My aunt wasn't happy because we are generally left alone by the great clans. No taxation, nobody to answer to. We don't have any desire for power, and our mushrooms afford us as much money as we want. It's a kind of freedom, honestly, and that's why I ask you to keep our location a secret as much as you can. I understand that your allegiance is to your Order, but please pity our quiet little family. You can find us easily enough on the streets of Raveran."
They reached Pon'i's private quarters, blocked off by a recessed, marred wooden door. A fine rolled-up rug rested in the recess. Pon'i glanced at it sadly before opening the door.
His quarters were simple: a living area with a small kitchenette. If Gaul was curious, he could notice an opening leading to a bedroom in the back. Pon'i was a man of simple comforts... his primary luxury was food.
He scooped a folded Happy Tiktiki dress from the table and turned to Gaul with a smile. "Sorry about the delay. I'll get a slave or cousin to deliver this, and then we can check on Itoh." His face saddened. "I hope he's going to be OK."