Chapter 32: Shadows of the Marketplace
The marketplace was alive with the cacophony of bartering voices, the clinking of metal trinkets, and the occasional bark of laughter. Despite the bustling energy, Adam couldn't shake the sensation that they were being watched.
Henry strolled beside him, his hand on his blade's hilt, his eyes darting from stall to stall. "That upgrade better be worth it. I swear half these people are eyeing us like we've got gold strapped to our backs."
Adam adjusted his backpack, keeping his pace steady. The AI's quiet hum in his pocket was oddly reassuring, a constant reminder that he wasn't navigating this chaos alone.
Adam paused mid-step, scanning the crowd casually. Sure enough, a group of three figures lingered near a weapons stall, their gazes flicking toward him and Henry before quickly looking away.
"They're not subtle," Adam murmured.
Henry followed his gaze. "Amateurs. Want me to scare them off?"
Adam shook his head. "No. Let's blend in. Stick to the crowded paths."
Navigating the winding paths of the marketplace was no easy task. Vendors shouted offers at them as they passed, displaying everything from intricately designed armor to glowing potions in crystalline bottles.
At one stall, an old man with wiry hair and a crooked smile leaned forward, his eyes gleaming. "You there! A young traveler with discerning taste, yes? Come, see my wares."
Adam was about to decline when something caught his eye—a dagger with a blade so black it seemed to absorb light.
"How much?" he asked, stepping closer.
The man grinned. "Ah, you have an eye for the Shadow Fang. A mere 300 credits, or perhaps... a trade?"
Adam frowned. "What kind of trade?"
The old man leaned in, lowering his voice. "Information. You bring me something valuable—a secret, a map, a name—and I'll consider the blade yours."
Adam stepped back, shaking his head. "Not interested."
The old man's grin faltered, but he didn't press further.
They continued through the marketplace, weaving between stalls and avoiding the prying eyes of their pursuers.
Henry nudged him as they passed a food stand. "We should eat. You haven't had anything since we got here."
Adam hesitated, but his stomach growled in agreement. "Fine. Something quick."
The vendor, a burly woman with flour-dusted hands, handed them each a steaming meat pie. Adam took a cautious bite, savoring the flaky crust and rich filling.
"You boys look like you've been on the road a while," the woman said, her tone conversational. "Looking for anything in particular?"
Adam shook his head. "Just passing through."
She nodded knowingly. "Be careful. This place may look lively, but it's got its fair share of shadows."
Henry laughed. "Yeah, we've noticed."
As they finished their meal and started moving again, the sense of unease returned. The three figures from earlier were still tailing them, keeping a careful distance.
"They're persistent," Henry muttered.
Adam's mind raced. If they left the marketplace, they'd be vulnerable in the open. Staying here wasn't much better.
Adam's gaze landed on a nearby stage where a performer was juggling flaming torches. A small crowd had gathered, cheering with every toss.
"Over there," Adam said, nodding toward the stage.
Henry grinned. "I like the way you think."
They slipped into the crowd, keeping their heads low. The performer's energetic movements and the crackling of flames provided ample cover. Adam guided Henry through the throng, careful not to lose sight of him.
The moment the crowd roared in applause, Adam seized the opportunity. He grabbed Henry's arm and ducked behind a row of stalls, slipping into the narrow alley between two tents.
"Think we lost them?" Henry asked, his voice low.
Adam peeked around the corner. The pursuers were scanning the crowd, their frustration evident.
"For now," Adam said. "But we need to keep moving."
Adam nodded, leading Henry deeper into the maze of tents and stalls.
The secondary exit was quieter, guarded by a single bored-looking man. Adam handed over a small fee, and they slipped through without incident.
Outside, the forest loomed, its trees casting long shadows in the fading light. Adam took a deep breath, his muscles relaxing for the first time in hours.
"That was close," Henry said, glancing back toward the marketplace.
Adam nodded. "Too close. We need to be more careful."
"Duly noted," Adam said.
Henry smirked. "Talking to your phone again?"
Adam grinned. "It's got good advice."
They set off into the forest, the weight of their journey settling over them once more.
End of Chapter 32