Suddenly, Kaya stopped.
Her eyes had landed on a stall where thick animal hides were spread across a woven mat. At first glance, it was just like the others—but something about it made her pause.
She stepped closer and crouched down, her fingers brushing lightly across the material.
It wasn't just raw hide. Some of it had been sewn into garments—tunics, cloaks, belts, and rugged pants. Rough but beautiful, styled in a way that spoke of a deep-rooted culture. She couldn't deny the craftsmanship. Each piece was made with care, some lined with delicate stitching, others layered with fur for warmth.
Still... not her type.
Too bold. Too wild. Too tribal.
But the hides themselves—those were different.
She examined them with quiet focus. Some were pure white, almost silvery in the cave light. Others came in shades of dusty brown, deep charcoal, and smoky reds. One, in particular, caught her attention—a solid black hide, smooth and thick. Clean. Practical.
