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“You got me,” he replies easily, raising his palms in surrender. “There’s Merax up ahead.”
We’ve come to the peak of a hill, at the bottom of which lies the settlement of Merex. It’s as small as Kazrith made it out to be, a mere fraction of Ximos.
As we enter the town, I realize every street is filled to the brim with shops selling just about everything I can think of. Kazrith points out stores trading animal furs, building materials, and foreign produce amongst others.
I admire the beaches, the sand blacker than midnight when the water washes over its grains. The ocean aroma mixes with that of enticing food coming from the street market section of the town, exactly where we’re headed.
“They sell some great food here. Everything is freshly caught and served the same day.”
As we venture deeper into the town, I wrap an arm around the arm of my fake husband. He turns towards me with a curious look.
“Is there something wrong?” he asks.
“No, I just want to embrace my role as your wife,” I say with a smile.
Behind my happy expression is that lingering sensation of anxiety. What if these residents gawking at me suddenly take issue with my presence?
For the sake of Kazrith and me, I push those feelings aside.
“Are you ready to set up?” he asks as the carriage comes to a halt.
“Yeah. Say, Merex is a charming little town.”
“As are the people here, you’ll see. Now then, let’s get to work.”
I hope so.
Under Kazrith’s careful instruction, I aid in setting up his stall, lining the display with his various goods.
I try to ignore the demons looking at me as they walk by. At one point, I turn over my shoulder to catch one staring right at me. But in his eyes, I find only curiosity without any hostility.
Well, at least it’s not instant disgust.
I turn my attention back to the task at hand, following Kazrith’s every whim. He certainly thinks like a businessman, positioning his most eye-catching goods at the front of his display.
I can’t help but admire him while he works, watching how his face contorts in concentration.
“Do you set up the stall like this every time?” I ask.
“Only when I’m away from my actual shop. It might seem like a lot but I’m used to it. Hard work is ritualistic and rewarding to me.”
“Must be nice being your own boss.”
“There is another person I work with on occasion, but that’s mostly when I’m in New Solas. Otherwise, I answer to no one but me.”
As soon as we’re set up, the first customer of the day approaches. I practically cling to Kazrith’s side, shrinking as a volvath demon, somewhat similar in size and build to Kazrith, draws closer.
“Morning, Kazrith.”
“How are things, Gilod?”
“Very well. Is this your new business partner?” Gilod asks, turning to me. Unexpectedly, he smiles.
“This is my wife, Hanna,” Kazrith replies with pride, a smile playing on his lips. To my surprise, that small gesture warms me up and burns my skin like a flame.
“Wife! Well, you’re a lucky demon, Kazrith. You’ve finally brought back something worthwhile from all of your adventures. A pleasure to meet you, Hanna.”
I shake hands with the demon, thrown off guard by his immediate grace.
