Page 73 of The Crown of the Dark Prince
Eventually, we found ourselves in what Veric called the market district, a labyrinth of vibrant streets filled with colorful stalls. Merchants sold everything from rich textiles to elaborate pottery, fragrant spices, and shimmering jewelry. Each step brought a new scent—grilled meats sizzling over open flames, the sweet bite of cinnamon and cardamom wafting through the air.Artisans lined the narrow paths, displaying leather goods, carved wooden figurines, and delicate beaded veils.
Veric’s passion for it all was infectious. He moved from stall to stall, his energy boundless as he asked questions, teased the vendors, and insisted I sample their offerings. His admiration for his homeland shone through every word and gesture.
And yet, as we walked, I couldn’t shake the image of the Village of Life from my mind. Despite the warm welcome from the Tennebrisians—some bowing, others inviting me to dance or sample their wares—the connection I felt to them didn’t compare to what I’d experienced the night before.
Still, Tenebris was undeniably beautiful. Even here in this bustling market corridor, where people darted in and out of shops and homes, the buildings towered elegantly. Their sparkling windows and wide arches glinted in the sunlight, and every stone seemed to glow under the warm air. Even the streets themselves were works of art, painted with intricate murals of gods, mythical creatures, and sprawling landscapes.
After nearly an hour of strolling, Veric noticed me staring at one of the street paintings and glanced at me, curiosity etched on his face.
“Do you recognize it?” he asked.
I chuckled softly, my gaze fixed on the image of a beast with multiple heads, each one more venomous than the last. “I killed it.”
Veric slowed to a stop, tilting his head in disbelief. Then he laughed.
“No, I mean it,” I insisted.
His brows shot up. “You killed the Hydraxan?”
“During my magic trial. And believe me, it wasn’t easy. I nearly died.”
His expression shifted—confusion giving way to disbelief, then to something that almost looked like admiration. He whistled softly, taking my hand and leading me onward.
“You know something?”
“Hmm?”
“You’re somehow equal parts terrifying and awe-inspiring. It’s not at all how I expected you to be.”
I snorted, feeling a blush creep up my cheeks as we continued our path through the market. As we walked, I let my attention wander to a nearby cart, where an older merchant displayed an array of blades and weapons.
I approached slowly, not letting go of Veric’s hand as I studied the collection. None of the weapons seemed particularly formidable; many needed polishing or sharpening, but the hilts were beautifully carved with elaborate swirls and lines.
“They’re mostly decorative,” Veric explained as I lifted one, testing its weight with a frown. “Used to signify status or worn during special occasions.”
“Like what?”
He took the blade from my palm and twirled it effortlessly between his fingers before holding it up to the vendor. “Two silvers.”
Fishing the coins from his pocket, Veric handed them over and extended the blade to me, hilt-first, with an elaborate flourish and a bow.
“For you.”
“You didn’t have to,” I laughed, accepting the gift.
“Well, they’re worn on occasions like our party tonight. It’s a tradition for the groom’s father to etch the handle of his sword.”
“And is it tradition for the bride to have a weapon?”
He met my gaze conspiratorially. “No, but I suspect that might be a tradition you’re willing to start.”
Nessira took the dagger to carry for me while Samsa helped with the box of spices and teas Veric purchased on my behalf. At first, he’d frowned when I asked for them, insisting he could get me anything I wanted—that just further up the street were the finest bakeries and dressmakers in the country.
But I’d only shaken my head. “The spices and tea are exactly what I want.”
He seemed suspicious as we passed a cart of sparkling jewelry that stole Nessira’s attention, but I held firm. Spices and tea were practical things that I could easily bring back to Athenia. I’d save them for a time when Veric felt particularly homesick and surprise him with the familiar flavors.
It wasn’t much, but it was something. It wouldn’t give him the life he wanted here in Tenebris, but perhaps it would ease the ache just a little.
