The waterfront stank of churned mud, horses, and a tang that reminded Irenya of tar, or creosote. A group of men were loading furniture and carpets over the side of a large boat, some staggering under burdens too much for one man. Near a pile of wooden crates, several men haggled in loud voices. People milled about, tugging animals or carrying bundles of anonymous goods. Clearly some folk were managing to do business, though the long, mostly empty dock also spoke of curtailed trade. A cold, spray-laden wind whipped Irenya’s cloak and hair in all directions and stung her face. She saw Julis supervising their horses. The tall figure of Gedric straightened from the inspection of his gelding Aseli. Given that brief warning, Irenya pretended not to have seen him; she hadn’t yet worked out if sh
