[ kaveh's voice rises. kaveh stands at the foot of his bed, a golden toss of righteous fury. alhaitham looks at him with a tilt of his chin. four days alone had given him pent up energy. the lack of purpose has sunken in. alhaitham cannot sympathise, but he can, as he would, understand. he has put kaveh into this situation with deliberation. he now reaps the consequences.

alhaitham rolls his eyes. ]

Were you expecting me to stay behind and keep you company, Kaveh? Lounge about in sleepwear so that I can trade barbs with you, perhaps? I wasn't aware you had such an expectation. As an honoured guest, perhaps you can file a formal complaint. I'll receive it with grace.

[ and then, in the exact same tone: ] Your meeting with Elham is tomorrow night. You will be provided with directions. She cannot leave the slave quarters for long, but you will have an hour before she is missed. You may do with that time as you wish.