The sun glares down at us through the haze, and on any other day, I’m sure this kingdom is a glorious sight, but right now, the place is like spoiled wine. Next to me, the Bargainer squints up at the sun, which now burns bloodred through the haze of smoke. “I’ve always hated this place,” he says. “Too bright for my taste. But this…” He shakes his head. “This makes me wish for those insufferably bright days.” He takes my hand, and with that, the two of us head toward the looming mountains.
