Wares were displayed to catch the eye, and the stall keepers were vigilant for buyers. Except for bits of technology and the eternal evolution of thin...s on offer, the market had not changed in places like this for thousands of years. There were, however, few thieves because the ever-present scanners sensed the CIDs of visitors, and could note when something had not been paid for.They went the rounds of the market buying various things Jazira needed, for which, even here outside the Controlled. Overall, I'd say I was dreaming and that he wasn't real. But to my surprise when I pinched myself he was still there. "Do you need a ride home Lexi?" he asked, looking as if he cared. "Would it be a burden?" I asked ready to hear him say yes and make me go home in a taxi. "Not at all," he said smiling slightly. When I seen his smile my heart started to race fast. I felt myself getting hot for him almost instantly when I heard his voice. He smelt so lovely. His fragrances filled my nostrils and. What favour do you need?' I explained that I needed some tanning sessions and she gurgled with delight.'You want me to help you get your clothes off and all that that entails?' I sighed exaggeratedly.'If that's what it takes to get a winter tan in this city, then yes'.'The spa looked deserted when I arrived there two evenings later; no lights were showing and I wondered for a moment if Inge had been playing tricks on me. I called her mobile and she answered immediately.'Luke?''I'm outside.'Half. Demure, however, was the more resilient woman even though her life amongst the Knights had been one of luxury. She would complain far more bitterly than Glade, but it was her anger and vitriol that kept her spirits the more buoyant. But the two women’s perseverance was eventually rewarded. The desert that accompanied them on their right as they walked north became less sandy. More trees and shrubs were scattered about the dusty ground. Soon, too, they saw animals they hadn’t seen for many.