Thought Contagion

As Xairo listened to his mother's lesson, his mind turned over each concept, examining it from every angle. Perception was a multi-faceted tool, one that could be honed and sharpened with experience and keen observation. It went beyond mere sight or hearing - it was about reading between the lines, discerning the unspoken truths that lurked beneath the surface.

Xairo's dark gaze followed Absinth as she circled the group, her ivory fur gleaming in the dappled light. He absorbed her words about how every encounter and struggle shaped one's perception, how it was an ever-evolving process of learning and adapting. His young mind grasped the importance of this - in a world filled with danger and deception, the ability to see beyond the obvious could mean the difference between life and death.

When Absinth spoke of exploiting the weaknesses of others, of reading the subtle cues in body language and demeanor, Xairo's ears pricked forward with interest. He could see the value in this skill, how it could give him an edge in any confrontation. But he also understood the warning his mother imparted - that perception could very easily be a double-edged sword.

"Xairo Saxe"