Raven is barely listening to his guide as they progress through the
market. He begins to notice that the outsize books and scrolls which
form the furniture of the market are beginning to look a little
shabbier. The bigger ones which act as tables, pedestals and walls
look scuffed at the edges, some dust jackets are ripped or partially
missing, scrolls replaced with rolled up newspapers.
He's about to mention these changes to his guide when they are
overtaken by four old women, bent with age, hobbling at some speed.
“Tea,” one of them squawks, “Tea,” the others echo. A dog
runs past them to block their path, bringing them to a huddled
standstill. “Tea,” one of them says.
“Walk Up” shouts a voice, somewhere behind them. The dog begins
to walk towards the group of women, who retreat from him as he does.
