EIDER: Chapter 5
by Jaina Jacen (September)
The marketplace is everything I knew it would be: loud, crowded, overwhelmed with wares and raucous debate. The air lies heavy with the aroma of meat over open flames. Ales poured from huge silver casks make quiet men loud. We’re careful when we walk past to tuck our heads; our double moons make midnight like noon, and the silvered surface of the vats reflects every passerby.
“This way,” Taisa whispers.
“Where are you taking me?” I say, slowing my step.
“Somewhere safe.”
“I don’t want safe.” I yank my arm free of hers. “It is my Twelvemonth. Which means I get to be in charge.”
Upon turning away, I slam into the side of a man whose shadow darkens everything.
“Little lady, watch where you’re stepping,” he slurs and burps, the air above me f
