The tension in Erinna’s shoulders released slightly, knowing she wasn’t in the midst of a mind reader. They were a rare sort of mentalist, but she’d heard of at least one that was still alive and doing the king’s bidding.
They made their way toward Market Square, closer to academy-owned property and, more importantly, closer to securing a carriage ride to Crown Quarter—where she’d be meeting Captain Barker and her father, who apparently had secured his own means of travel.
Erinna wondered, briefly, what her father was up to. Securing a ride would be no issue for him. As the island’s only druid—with the ability to manipulate wood and soil—many would find ways to accommodate him. Her apprehension lay in the uncertainty of his dealings. What kept them from going together? What was he keeping her away from?
“What’s troubling you?” Damien’s brows knit together in concern as they navigated the worn stone streets.
Erinna shook her head and offered a flat smile. “Just nervous about the meeting.”
“I see,” said Damien, but Erinna knew better than to think he believed her. They had been friends for over a decade, and she was never a great liar. At least he didn’t pry. Erinna was grateful for that.
They strolled through the bustling streets, weaving through crowds gathered at stalls, ready to purchase wares from local artisans. The path wound closer to Market Square—a popular hub of commerce near the Academy of the Arcanum.
The closer they got to the academy, the wealthier the area became. Houses with sagging roofs and patchwork paint gaveway to sturdy two-story homes. Businesses went up in stature and station, replacing tarped canopies with real storefronts. Still, Erinna preferred Harbor Market.
On a corner, just before formal academy-owned grounds at the edge of Market Square, sat a small bakeshop. The two friends had finally arrived, and Erinna couldn’t hide the rumble in her stomach as the smell of fresh scones and bread seeped from the inside.
Mad Batters was a small bakery frequented by locals, students, and travelers alike. There was always a line, no matter the season, and the small space inside packed quickly. In the window sat the mouthwatering confections of Madds Nadir.
A group of waiting customers was already gathered inside, threatening to spill out the door and into the street. From their attire and the regulatory badges that hung around their neck, she could tell most were from continental kingdoms.
A gong echoed from the tower, and the murmuring crowd paused for a beat. Silent respect, growing fear.
Damien and Erinna pushed and weaved through bodies in search of their usual bench, tucked into the corner just beside the counter. Erinna’s gaze stalled on fresh-baked garlic rolls cooling on shelves in the back. An old woman moved in a flurry of bright pinks and florals, hastily taking and preparing orders to appease the crowd.
Damien sat and secured the small booth while Erinna edged her way to the back just within Madd’s eyesight.
“Little Rinna! Always a delight,” chirped the old baker as she quickly finished an order before turning her attention to Erinna. Crows’ feet and laugh lines graced tanned skin. Stray silver hair peeked out beneath her baker’s cap.
Erinna pulled a small pouch of coins from her bag. “Madds, you’re too kind.”
The old woman took it and frowned at the extra weight. They always tossed in extra, much to the baker’s chagrin. Madds opened her mouth to protest, but her warm brown eyes darted to Damien. She grumbled but kept her contempt silent. The Nadir family was one of the Yarrows’ closest allies, and the establishment had been used more than once to aid in aberrant affairs. Complaining wasn’t worth the risk of exposing them to an academy mage. No matter how friendly Damien may be.
“Hold on,” she said and disappeared into the back despite the growing protests from the stalled line.
The smell of yeasted dough wafted from the ovens, prompting another gurgle from Erinna’s stomach.
Madds returned with a bag of her own, though instead of coins the parcel contained a few loaves and some buns.
“Oh, and I can’t forget…” She waddled quickly to a line of fresh, sweet buns and wrapped them in paper. “See that your father gets one. He’s been asking about them lately.”
Erinna took the goods and grabbed two mugs of Aramoorian coffee to bring back to the table. The warmth and earthy smell eased her apprehension slightly.
Damien smiled at her approach. It reached his hazel eyes and filled Erinna with warmth. She remembered the way he used to make her heart race when they were younger. Reminded her of the times when she more freely wondered if there was a chance they could ever be something more to each other.
But things could get complicated with mages. Especially if your Talent was aberrant in nature.
“Time for business, then?” he teased, crossing his arms in front of him with flair.
Erinna laughed. “Thank you for agreeing to meet with me.” She summoned her most professional tone.
“To what do I owe the pleasure of your company?” His voice sang, and he graciously accepted the warm drink.
They had planned this meeting a week ago with only one exchange. Erinna asked for a simple favor, and in return she promised him another installment of her parents’ old travel journals. Damien had been quick to accept and refused any follow-up. As a man who craved adventure, there were few things he wouldn’t give for more tales beyond Tarthan shores.
“I was hoping you could get me a ride in an academy carriage.” It was a small request, but Erinna appreciated any help he could offer. She wasn’t fond of relying on anything academy-related, but it was hard to deny its efficiency. Damien possessed more authority around the academy. More than Erinna could ever hope for as an apparently Talentless individual. He’d be able to secure a carriage ride much more easily than she could.
Sure, she could walk the length of Capital City’s main road from start to finish. But the journey would take over three hours, and she was not particularly inclined to show up at a business meeting drenched in sweat.
