Wind and Stars: A Day in Al'Rihar

The air shimmered with afternoon heat, a promise of adventure whispered on the desert breeze. Kiri, her brown eyes sparkling with excitement, stepped out from the cool, shadowed gate of the School of Trade and strolled out into the vibrant chaos of Al'rihar's bazaars and small alleyways. The sun blazed down on the ramshackle merchant stalls, a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and luring shouts of bartering and playful haggling filled the air, thick with the heady aroma of cumin, cinnamon and niharin peppercorns. Eagerly, she headed out into the shadow-strewn labyrinthine alleyways, each turn revealing new sights and wares from all over the continent. A playful smile took its place on her lips, ready to embrace whatever the day held.

 

The tantalizing scent of sweet pastries led her steps to a small food stall, laden with treats. "Welcome, welcome!" the vendor, a young woman with dimples and a bright smile, said, offering her a date-filled pastry. "Here, have a taste - it is my grandmother's recipe, a family heirloom." The date pastry melted on Kiri's tongue, the sweetness a burst of pure pleasure. Closing her eyes for a second, she asked, "What news grace the bazaars today?" "Ah, whispers ride on the wind," the young girl replied with a conspiratory smile, leaning closer. "A shipment of fine cotton arrived late from Al’Nahar. And then, there's Omar..." "Omar?" Kiri raised an eyebrow. "His wife went out and..." The vendor lowered her voice, sharing the latest gossip. A few minutes later, with a gentle smile and a promise to return shortly, Kiri secured a slice of rosewater cake.


Nibbling on the delicate cake, she walked off whistling a quiet tune, when her ears caught the cheerful sound of children's laughter echoing from a nearby alley. Curious, she turned. A small leather ball skipped to a halt at her feet. A cluster of children, eyes wide and expectant, watched from the alley's edge. A mischievous grin bloomed on Kiri's face. She scooped up the ball, the leather warm and familiar, and with a playful flick of her wrist, sent it soaring back. A chorus of delighted shrieks erupted, and without hesitation, Kiri plunged into the game. As the game ended, Kiri, still smiling, followed the winding alleyways, her feet carrying her towards the rich, earthy scent that grew stronger with each step – the unmistakable aroma of well-oiled, supple leather, beckoning her towards a stall laden with handcrafted goods.

 

A weathered merchant, his hands moving with practiced ease, was carefully shaping a piece of dark leather, his tools gleaming under the stall’s lantern. Kiri paused, drawn by the meticulous craftsmanship. "That leather looks remarkably pliable," she observed, her gaze following the intricate pattern he was forming. The merchant glanced up, his eyes, though aged, still sharp. "Aye," he grunted, not pausing his work. "Treated with a blend of spiced oils and waxes, a technique passed down through generations of my people." He held up the leather piece, revealing the subtle curve of a pouch. "Strong and supple, perfect for holding… well, anything."
Kiri's eyes flickered to the array of belts and pouches hanging from the stall. "Anything, you say? Even… secrets?" she asked, a playful glint in her eyes.
The merchant chuckled, a low rumble in his throat. "Secrets are heavy burdens, little bird. Best kept close." He set down the pouch and picked up a length of thick, brown leather. "Now, what brings you to my humble stall? Looking for something specific, or just admiring the craftsmanship?" "A bit of both," Kiri admitted, running a hand along a sturdy belt. "I'm travelling often, and a traveler needs… practical things. Like a belt with a hidden pouch."
The merchant's gaze sharpened. "Ah, practicality. And what secrets do you plan to hide, little bird?"
"Only those whispered by the wind and the stars," Kiri replied, her voice a playful grin. "A map to the stars, perhaps? Or the recipe for a potion that will make even you laugh? I'm quite certain I could."

The merchant's gruff exterior softened, a hint of amusement flickering in his eyes. "For a woman of such intriguing… needs, I might have just the thing." He retrieved a belt of supple brown leather, its buckle concealing a cleverly disguised pouch. "This one has guarded the secrets of many a desert wanderer. It might serve you well."
"Its wonderful," Kiri said, her smile widening. "And what price does this guardian of secrets demand? "
The merchant paused, his weathered gaze lingering on her. "A fair price, little bird. But tell me," he gestured to her worn boots, "are those soles holding up well? I've got a batch of fresh leather perfect for repairing them. If you're willing to barter that too, I'll give you a discount on the belt." Kiri glanced down at her boots. "They've seen better days," she admitted with a shrug. "A discount and sturdy soles? That's a deal I won’t pass on." They haggled over the price for a while, and soon, Kiri left with a new belt, a lighter purse and a promise to return for a pair of new soles.

  As the sun began to wane, Kiri paused, her weary feet carrying her back homewards toward the caravanserai. Soon, the caravanserai's sturdy gates loomed ahead, a welcome sight as the last rays of the sun painted the desert sky in hues of orange and violet. Kiri adjusted her bag, filled with new treasures and stepped through the arched entrance. The familiar sounds of students chatter and the booming voice of Hassan performing a weapon’s drill filled the courtyard. With a contented sigh, she made her way towards her chambers, ready to sort through her new acquisitions and perhaps, just perhaps, grade a few papers for school. As she entered her room, softly closing the door behind her, she set her new belt on the table, and ran a finger along the hidden pouch. "Wind and stars", she whispered to herself, and smiled.

Comments

Author's Notes

An entry for the Ink and Essence Challenge by the wonderful Lady Wynter


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Feb 28, 2025 21:43 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

I love the atmosphere. Really felt like I was there are the market with Kiri.

Emy x
Explore Etrea | Reading Challenge 2025
May 26, 2025 14:10

Glad you enjoyed your stroll across the bazaars!

Join me at the sandy beaches of Aran'sha for new adventures.
Mar 1, 2025 09:19

Hmm, I'm a little torn. I agree with Serukis, I also felt like I was really there. Your descriptions really bring the places to life. On the other hand, I'm not sure where this story is going. I trust that the bag has a meaning, but I'm not sure why you included the bakery in your story. They always say you should show and not tell. I know that refers more to direct speech, but sometimes in your articles I get the feeling that you tell too much. Well, I'm very excited to see where this little episode takes us, if you expand on it at some point.

Summer Camp is back! Rippling waves lead you to my answers of this year's prompts.
Mar 1, 2025 10:39

Im glad you enjoyed the bazaars. I wanted to try something new and opted to go with a "slice of life" story for her instead of a self contained story. Think of it as if you would accompany Kiri for a little stroll.

Join me at the sandy beaches of Aran'sha for new adventures.
Mar 2, 2025 23:02

I would love to hear more about her. There are so many things I want to know. You did a wonderful job of peaking my interest.

May 26, 2025 14:11

Glad to hear that - I plan to tell more stories with her in the future.

Join me at the sandy beaches of Aran'sha for new adventures.