Nodding slightly, the Madam couldn't help but appreciate Ava's forthrightness. Most people her age would have an inkling of pride or obsession that was honestly quite frustrating to deal with at times. If Ava insisted on using knives till the very end or some obscure weapon, the Madam would really have quite a headache. Although every weapon was created to serve a purpose, the fact of the matter was that they were tools used for killing.
And like normal tools, although niche tools were useful in unique situations, some tools were just better in most situations. With a smile, the Madam said, "If that's the case, I think it'll be good for you to learn how to use a knife or dagger in a proper manner. Alongside that, would you be open to learning how to use a sword alongside a bow and arrow?"
Thinking for a moment, Ava nodded before asking hesitantly, "Is it expensive to hire a teacher? I can foot some of the bills myself if it's too much. Otherwise, I can just learn one skill."
Seeing Ava's practical nature, the Madam couldn't help but let out a laugh, "It's no trouble at all. It isn't all that expensive to learn how to use a weapon. There are plenty of retired soldiers and drillmasters around who have nothing but time on their hands and an empty pocket. And for now, all you need to learn is the basics, so it's even easier to find someone who's able to teach you."
Nodding in understanding, Ava couldn't help but feel a little happy. A coin saved was a coin earned. Although she was willing to spend money to learn, if she didn't have to spend, that was for the best.
On the other side, the Madam couldn't help but look at Ava with a little bit of apology in her heart. Although learning how to use a knife and sword was very much in line with Ava's requests, learning how to bow and arrow was a bit of a selfish request on her part. A good archer was always valued and, more importantly, protected. If Ava really ended up becoming a professional soldier, or at the very least someone who worked with weapons, she would much prefer it if Ava was somewhere far back.
Of course, while Ava learning another skill would, in the end, only be good for her, Madam was apologetic because training how to use a bow and arrow could be quite harsh, and Ava was already going to be training with two other weapons. The amount of physical strain Ava would be under would be quite a bit beyond what a normal person was willing to accept.
Of course, if Ava ended up quitting… Madam couldn't entirely say that was a bad result in her mind. Although it was a bit selfish of her, she really didn't want any of her girls to be in harm's way, and now that she considered Ava one of her girls, the same, of course, applied to her. She would be more than happy to find Ava another job in whatever sector she wanted. Of course, she wouldn't be so selfish as to sabotage Ava for such a reason.
If Ava wanted to learn weapons, so be it. She would get the best training.
Rubbing her hair, the Madam couldn't help but sigh. Why were all of her girls so troublesome? It was really hard to find one who was just willing to live a normal life. They all ended up either choosing some weird and dangerous profession or choosing to stay and work with her as a prostitute. "Alright, if there's nothing more, you girls should go to rest. I know you've been in for quite a scare today. I hope it doesn't bother you too much."
Turning to Haley, she continued, "Haley, Ahri will come by later to confirm there are no hidden injuries. I hope you can get some sleep, and don't worry about working for the next few days."
Then turning back to Ava, the Madam said, "Ava, same thing with Ahri. If you're willing, let her give you a checkup, she's quite the talented doctor. I'll contact Ruffio later today. Just remember to stop by sometime tomorrow to let him know. Come talk to me in the morning. We can go over some options for instructors."
Nodding, Ava showed that she understood.
Waving her hand with a slightly tired expression, the Madam said, "That's all for now. You two should go get some rest."
Getting up and bowing, Haley thanked the Madam before giving Ava a small side-eye and dragging her along before leading her back to the girl's courtyard.
Confused, Ava gave Haley a glance. Letting out a soft smile, Haley leaned over and placed her mouth next to Ava's ear, "Earlier, the Madam said you're a fox, you remember, right?"
Still confused, Ava let out a small nod.
Haley explained, "That means the Madam has really taken you into her heart and considers you one of us, so naturally, you'll get a room in the courtyard. Even if you don't use it, it's yours for life. No matter where you go, the Foxes Respite will always be waiting for you."
Blinking in realization, Ava let out a small nod. So it was like this. She had always been curious why it was called the Foxes Respite, as she had noticed over the past few weeks it didn't quite run like an ordinary brothel. The number of men who were kicked out on their faces was much more than the number who managed to score a night. She really couldn't imagine that people would come here to take a break considering how much they had to grovel to the girls to get anything.
Of course, after a little while, Ava also realized that the difference between what people were paying and what the place brought in seemed a little too much, and after some thought realized it was probably more of an information brokerage or meeting place for various powers then it was a brothel. At most, the girls would show some tits and do some things above the waist for a bit of pocket change and as a front.
Seeing that Ava was being quiet, Haley couldn't help but feel worried and whispered, "I hope you won't blame the Madam for this. She has her reasons for being cautious, so she couldn't help but keep you at arms bay, but once she takes someone in, she really cares for them with her whole heart, so I hope you can try to reciprocate."
Looking at Haley with a surprised look, Ava couldn't help but let out a wry smile. "Alright."