Satisfied the medicines were securely packed, she turned to the theatrical supplies. Marie’s magic was real; of that, Claire had no doubt. But that magic wasn’t always easy to see, and people seemed to believe more truly when there was a burst of color to prove the strength of the charm. The sachets of sparkling powder were on the lower shelf, next to a spool of red thread, and some soft goat-leather strips. Claire swept the items into her box. She picked up a few extra amulets and poppets. They sold well on nights such as this.
She carried the box to the wagon, securing it in the back next to Marie’s items. Blood oozed from a cat carcass, joining older stains on the wooden slats. Claire wrinkled her nose at the mess, leaning close to wipe it up, and noticed a small bag made of dark fabri
