Crimson Bazaar
The Crimson Bazaar was divided into four parts—spice markets, food stalls, antique alleys, and the fourth, rarely spoken of: a district crawling with criminals. Most locals didn't even count it as part of the bazaar.
Kite walked through the lively lanes, holding Harley's hand. Out of the corner of his eye, he noticed her sneaking glances at him—more specifically, at his hand. A faint smile tugged at his lips.
"Do you want to ask something?"
At his question, both Audrey and Chu-Chu turned their heads curiously.
"No… it's not like that…" Harley mumbled, suddenly shy.
That side of her took Kite by surprise. "It's alright," he said gently. "Go on."
"Your finger…"
Kite glanced down at his blackened index finger. It pulsed faintly with a deep red glow. Even Audrey looked shocked now.
"Yes, Kite," she asked. "What happened to your finger?"
"Nothing to worry about," Kite said, brushing it off. "It was just an accident."
"But… there still must've been a reason?" Harley insisted.
"Just know I was a kid back then."
His tone shut the subject down. They let it drop.
---
Town Square
The carriage pulled to a stop in front of the famous Carynthos clock tower. Kite and the others stepped down. Audrey paid the driver and watched the carriage roll away.
Kite stood for a moment, admiring the tower. It was even more beautiful than the stories described. Intricate engravings climbed its stone surface, depicting the history of Carynthos. Tourists gathered around, pointing and marveling. Market stalls lined the square, filling the air with a cheerful buzz.
As Kite turned to look around, he accidentally bumped into someone—a messy-haired man with dark eye bags.
"Sorry, I wasn't paying attention," Kite said.
"Nah, it's alright. My fault too. See ya around," the stranger replied with a casual grin before walking off.
Kite stared after him.
Something's… off about that guy.
"Kite, why are you standing there?" Audrey called.
Snapping out of it, Kite jogged to catch up. "Coming!"
---
Silkshore Dock
By the time they reached Silkshore, the sun was already sinking. A crowd of tourists gathered along the dock, their attention drawn toward the horizon. Goods were being sold directly from boats—cheaper than market stalls, with no middlemen involved.
But what truly captivated everyone… was the sunset.
"Look there!"
"Wow…"
The crowd gasped. The setting sun drenched the ocean in gold. Light bounced off the waves, turning the water into a sheet of glittering amber. Kite found himself stunned, unable to look away.
This really is the city of memories…
"There's an old saying," Audrey said beside him, voice soft.
Kite turned to look. The golden light bathed her skin, making her glow.
"No one leaves Carynthos without memories."
Kite smiled and turned back to the horizon.
I can confirm that.