Chapter 5
That evening, a warm breeze blew from the inland deserts and grasslands, leading the long, filmy curtains in a delicate dance. They mesmerized Jahl, and he could have watched them rise and drift down, billow out, then gracefully fold in on themselves all evening.
Dinner was an exotic treat. He’d never tasted chicken before. He thought it would be similar to wild duck, but he was mistaken. He also enjoyed small berry-type fruits called olives, and juicy red grapes, then fish with sauce and rice. And red wine, which made him feel simultaneously dizzy and happy. Eager for more, he asked Mari to pour his second mug, prompting Brocknor to caution him.
“Not too much. You might be feeling joyous now, but if you’re not used to it, you could find yourself suffering in the morning.”
Af
