As Kael finished up the preparations for their upcoming journey to the city hosting the slave auction, he made his way to the main office. Carter was already there, going through a series of reports and surveys.
"Found anything interesting?" Kael asked as he entered the room.
Carter glanced up from the maps and documents. "Nothing too unusual, but it seems like we're headed to a less populated area this time. Desert cities are always less crowded."
Kael nodded in agreement. "That's what makes them suitable for these dark auctions. We'll have to be even more cautious this time."
Kael took out the parchment with the details of the auction and placed it on the map, marking the path they would need to take. He noted some possible routes, but the final decision would depend on what their scouts reported back.
"We're heading out soon," Kael said, addressing the main crew members who were present in the room. "Start making the arrangements. We'll be facing tough conditions on this journey."
The crew members nodded in acknowledgment and began discussing the logistics among themselves.
After the meeting, Kael and Carter headed back to their cottage. Maya, the young girl they had recently rescued, was waiting for them with a radiant smile. In her hand, she held a polished stone that glistened with an array of colors.
Kael smiled down at Maya, and with a gentle ruffle of her hair, he asked, "What's this, Maya?"
Maya beamed up at him. "It's a good luck stone, Kael. I found it and thought of you. You've saved me and others, and this stone will bring you good fortune."
Carter watched the exchange between Kael and Maya, a softness in his expression. He was well aware of Kael's caring nature, particularly when it came to children.
Kael accepted the stone from Maya and thanked her with genuine warmth. "It's beautiful, Maya. I'll keep it with me, and it will remind me of the people we've saved and the good we're striving to do."
However, Maya's visit wasn't just about presenting the stone. She hesitated for a moment, her gaze flickering between Kael and Carter.
Kael noticed her uncertainty. "Is there something else, Maya? You can tell us."
Maya finally gathered her courage. "Kael, I want to learn how to protect myself. I want to join your crew and help others like you do."
Carter's eyebrows shot up in surprise at Maya's request. Kael considered it carefully. Teaching Maya self-defense and allowing her to join their crew was a serious decision. It wasn't an easy life, and it came with its own set of dangers.
Kael knelt down to meet Maya at eye level. "Maya, it's a tough path we walk. It's not just about protecting yourself but also helping others. It's a life that can be dangerous."
Maya nodded eagerly. "I understand, Kael. I've seen the harshness of this world, but you've shown me there's also goodness. I want to be part of that goodness."
Kael exchanged a meaningful look with Carter, who seemed to agree with the girl's request.
"We'll teach you," Kael said with a reassuring smile. "But it won't be easy. Are you sure about this?"
Maya's determination shone in her eyes. "I'm sure, Kael. I want to make a difference."
Carter put a supportive hand on Kael's shoulder. "Then, welcome to the crew, Maya. We'll train you, but remember, it's not just about learning to fight. It's about making a choice to protect those in need."
Maya's eyes sparkled with gratitude as she thanked them. This new addition to their crew marked the beginning of a new chapter in their journey, and they were determined to ensure Maya was well-prepared to face the challenges that lay ahead.
Kael was both surprised and delighted by Maya's determination to join their crew. He had been working as a saver of people for many years, but never before had he encountered a young girl so eager to take up this challenging life. It was a glimmer of hope in a world that had grown dark and sinister.
Carter was equally taken aback by Maya's request. He had seen how harsh their life could be, and the dangers that lay ahead. He looked at Kael for guidance, silently asking him how they should proceed.
Kael smiled at Maya, a mix of pride and warmth in his eyes. "Maya, your determination is truly admirable. It's rare to find someone who wants to help others in such a selfless way. But this path we walk is filled with challenges and dangers. I can't allow you to join us unless you're prepared."
Maya nodded, her resolve unwavering. "I understand, Kael. I'm ready to do whatever it takes to be a part of your crew."
Kael appreciated Maya's determination but wanted to ensure she understood the gravity of her choice. "Maya, I need you to find two more women who are willing to learn to protect themselves and help others. I want to be sure that you're not alone in this decision. It's not just about your safety; it's about supporting each other and standing together."
Maya accepted the condition with determination. "I will find the women who share our ideals, Kael. You won't be disappointed."
Kael and Carter exchanged a look. They knew that finding two more like-minded individuals wouldn't be easy, but they admired Maya's spirit and her willingness to take on this challenge.
Carter, always resourceful, decided to take charge of the situation. "We'll help you, Maya, but it won't be a simple task. It might take time to find the right candidates. Until then, we'll start your training, so you're well-prepared when the time comes."
Maya's eyes lit up with gratitude as she realized that she was one step closer to achieving her goal.
As they began discussing the training schedule, Kael couldn't help but think about the past and his own family. He was driven by the memories of his younger brother, William, and his father, Hector. They were separated, and Kael had been searching for them for years. The pain of their absence still haunted him.
With Maya's determination and the potential addition of two more women to their crew, Kael couldn't help but feel a renewed sense of purpose. He was determined to keep pushing forward in his quest to reunite his family and to bring hope to those in need.