“It feels strange leaving now,” she murmured. “The festival’s so close.”
“It’s why we’re leaving,” Eirin reminded her, his tone brisk. “If we don’t bring back what’s needed, there won’t be much of a festival at all.”
“You act like this is a punishment,” Riona said, her voice teasing. “Glenn na Mara is practically a treasure trove.”
“For you, maybe,” Eirin muttered. “Some of us have to work.”
“And some of us know how to balance it,” Emry said, his tone warm and light as he glanced back at the group. “Besides, she’s not wrong. Glenn na Mara’s market is famous for a reason. Spices, fabrics, artifacts. It’s the kind of place you’d want to visit, even if it’s work.”
“You’re also forgetting the books,” Rhosyn said dryly, her lips twitching into the faintest hint of a smile.
“Among other things,” Emry replied with a grin.
Riona nudged her horse closer to his, her eyes glinting with amusement. “Just don’t let those books bankrupt us.”
“Excuse me, I’ll have you know I’d use my money,” Emry said, his grin widening. “I’m a very discerning spender.”
Sorcha leaned toward Rhosyn, lowering her voice. “How long do you think they’ll keep pretending they’re not together?”
“Too long,” Rhosyn replied, smiling and rolling her eyes.
The journey continued for hours, marked by serene landscapes of golden fields, dense forests, and gentle slopes. As the afternoon progressed, the salty air grew stronger, and by the time the sun began to dip, they reached the final hilltop, offering a view of Glenn na Mara. The town below shimmered in the sunset, its bustling harbor filled with activity. Ships gently swayed on the water, their sails decorated with ribbons and charms. The streets wereadorned with crushed seashells and pearlescent stones, which scattered the golden light, creating dancing rainbows. Vendors crowded the market square, their stalls overflowing with colorful goods: silks, intricately carved runes, and a blend of spices filled the air. “It’s beautiful,” Sorcha whispered.
“It is…” Eirin agreed, his gaze encompassing the town. “Let’s not get too distracted.”
Rhosyn began listing the items they needed: “Sacred bowls, spices, silks, and runes. It shouldn’t take long.”
“Unless you let Riona shop,” Emry teased, drawing a glare from Riona.
“We’re allowed to shop,” Riona stated, gracefully dismounting. “And while we’re at it, someone will surely find the perfect book.”
Emry replied, “Can’t make any promises,” though a smile played on his lips.
Eirin feigned disgust, saying, “Could you guys just stop already?” Laughter erupted from Sorcha and Rhosyn.
The group separated to explore the market, planning to meet at the harbor once finished. Sorcha and Rhosyn strolled through the stalls. A gown that shimmered in the fading light caught Sorcha’s attention. Its emerald-green fabric appeared to move like water, with gold embroidery adorning the bodice. “That one would suit you,” Eirin murmured, having silently joined her.
Surprised by the warmth in his gaze as he admired the gown, Sorcha responded, “It’s not practical.”
“Not everything has to be.” Eirin’s lips quirked, but his voice was softer than usual.
“That’s the one,” Rhosyn said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument.
Sorcha hesitated, brushing her fingers over the fabric. “It’s beautiful, but… isn’t it a little much?”
“It’s the Festival of Light,” Riona said, appearing beside them. “It’s one of those nights you can, and should, dress like a goddess.”
“She’s right,” Eirin said as he paced, his arms full of goods.
“And it’s more than just a dress,” Emry added, stepping closer. His tone was thoughtful. “The designs here reflect the gods’ influence. Wearing something like this is honoring their presence.”
“Careful, Emry,” Riona said with a smirk.
Sorcha flushed, finally relenting. “Fine. But if it’s too much trouble to pack—”
“It’s not,” Eirin interrupted, already signaling to the shopkeeper.
Rhosyn was with Emry and Riona, while Eirin hung back with Sorcha as they walked through the vendors. They needed scraps of clothing for the corn dollies to be made for the children, decorative bowls for the fruit and grains, ingredients for the Lammas loaf, mistletoe, and, last, cleansing runes. The coast hailed many of them as being one with the sea.
