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“I can feel you staring,” he says.

I pick up my pace to catch up with Temra.

We know when we’re almost upon the city, because we pass by so many more people on the road. Some are entering Thersa like we are. Others are leaving, manning wagons full of unfamiliar fruits and jewelry and clothing.

The air is so moist that my clothes stick to my skin. It feels as though a light mist blows into my face wherever I turn.

The people are unusually friendly. Everyone makes a point of saying hello as we walk by. They raise one arm high into the air in greeting. Though I think it odd, Kellyn seems unsurprised.

“Thersa is a busy city that relies a lot on trade. The peopleare sure to greet newcomers warmly. It’s what keeps travelers coming this far north. That and the sights.”

Before we even officially reach the city, merchants are hawking their wares. The smell of spicy meats is thick in the air, and kabobs are brandished under our noses. Temra finally gives in and buys one for each of us.

“Mmm,” she says after taking a bite. “What is this?”

“There are only two things in abundance in Thersa: fish and flightless birds,” Petrik says before Kellyn can.

“Have you been here before, too?” Temra asks.

“No. Part of my schooling was to learn about all the major cities of Ghadra. I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of a flightless bird. Did you know that they still have wings?”

Temra grins at his enthusiasm.

Though there are people everywhere, I rest a bit easier knowing the crowds will hide me and Temra. They will keep us safe. This city is our salvation.

And it’s beautiful.

As we travel farther into the market, we can see the fjords. High cliffs tower over the inlet, and waterfalls thunder down into the water below. The sound is soothing, and the sight is unlike anything I’ve ever seen. Suddenly all the rainfall doesn’t seem so bad. Not when these waterfalls are the result.

Black-and-white birds swim through the water and waddle on the shores.

Flightless birds, indeed. So interesting.

I catch Kellyn staring at me again and glare at him. “What is the matter with you?”

“It may be lovely here, bladesmith, but you should be careful. Don’t tell anyone who you are. Many in Thersa are superstitious about magic users.”

“Magic has been legalized for a long time.”

“Sometimes change takes generations,” Kellyn says. “And sometimes people disregard the law to pursue their own beliefs.”

“But none of the territory leaders have a problem with magic.”

“Doesn’t matter. This town has a history with magic that supersedes any law or ruler. Do what you want. I’m just letting you know to watch your back now that I won’t be there to do it for you. Oh, and don’t forget about my sword. I’ll be at the Dancing Kiwi until it’s ready.”

“Here’s your promised bonus,” Temra says, stepping forward to pay the man.

Kellyn gives me an entirely unnecessary wink before disappearing into the crowd.

That’s it? Nogoodbyeorhope to see you soon? After so much time spent together, talking about orphanages and families and freckles, he leaves me with nothing more than a wink? He thinks I’m a beauty!

Why do you care? You hated talking to him.

Didn’t I?

“Good riddance,” Petrik says.

“I kind of like him,” Temra says. “He got us here in one piece, didn’t he?”