Chapter 193: Strange

She attempted to dismount, but Azriel's grip tightened around her waist, keeping her in place. 

"We will go," Azriel said, pushing his horse forward with his reins. "But you would still have to ask the King's permission."

And so they rode. They rode past the market, and the people parted for them like waves. Penelope drank her fill of what was once her usual life, the bargaining and haggling and advertising of wares filling her ears like music. Ripe fruits called to her, the rain booming them with life, their colours vibrant. When she caught sight of the candy shop, she stared at it, watching the trader wave at her.

Azriel pulled at the reins of the horse and turned back to the shop.

"Give us about ten pairs of different sweets," he told the trader. And to Penelope, he asked, "that's enough right?"

Penelope stared at him, and could only manage a nod.