Welcome to the Night Market!
Artist: Asma Kazi of Kaleidodrama
An enterprising vendor recently approached artist Asma Kazi and me with a proposal. (I caught a glimpse of what might have been a wily old woman in a green-and-gold sari, but she cloaked herself in shadows before I could be sure.) Having observed mortals and their interest in tourism, this vendor felt that the legendary Night Market of old should also offer souvenirs—for a price.
Knowing far more people wish to shop at the Market than will ever find it, Asma and I agreed. I described what I had witnessed on my trips there while writing Star Daughter and other things, Asma translated my words into glowing art, and the mysterious vendor made use of equally mysterious enchantments to turn Asma’s illustration into wares for sale.
Once that was done, the talk of money began. Our visitor insisted on charging in chambers of hearts and cherished memories, but we bargained her down to what she called “boring mortal currency.” As she hurried away, I thought we’d gotten the better end of the deal—until her cackle echoed through the gloom.
But never mind all that. You’re here because you, too, wish to experience the wonder and whimsy of the Night Market, and that’s exactly why we’ve opened this shop.
A word of caution: even its souvenir form, the Night Market isn’t known for staying put. Tales abound: floor cushions changing bedroom walls into a section of cloud-wreathed noon sky; prints slipping off their hooks in the late hours and transforming kitchens into portals to other realms; rakshasas and kinnaras making themselves at home in dens and streaming show after show until the algorithm is completely confused and refuses to make recommendations ever again.
If none of this deters you, then step into the great peacock’s golden beak . . . and learn for yourself what mischief and delight await beyond.