Chapter 1

Aboard ship, Brynn, Kai, and Messer agree to scout for any chance to step onto land during the annual Market, stressing that no one goes alone and that reconnaissance comes first. They head topside as the coastline appears—sheer cliffs split by a chasm holding the dock—and the sight silences the trainees.

After mooring, Instructor Gramble briefs them on rules, pairs, and limited coin, warning about ruthless Kenta. The trainees disembark. Brynn, Kai, Messer, and Aurora move through guarded stalls, buy pastries and tea, and note the Kenta soldiers’ heavy armor and cold scrutiny, especially toward Kai, heir to Alaha leadership.

As they explore, the group studies the cliff walls framing the Market. The smooth, unbroken stone suggests there is no hidden route to land, undercutting their plan and hope. They press on into a crowd watching dancers, momentarily absorbed by music and movement.

When the music softens, Kai draws Brynn into a dance despite Alaha’s Rule of Boundaries. He reassures her, then reveals he asked his parents to choose Brynn at the upcoming Matching Ceremony. Brynn, stunned and insecure about her status and lack of family, rejects the notion, shoves Kai away, and flees the floor, leaving their friendship shaken and their broader hopes dim.