The small grove came into view; it was not very large. As previously mentioned, the grove was about the size of a typical market area. However, a wide, cleared road stretched ahead. Nearly all the approaching small boats were oar-powered, stopping at the periphery. Alka and the others also halted their boat there.
Alka then led Jason and the others toward the area.
Upon entering the grove, two guards in inconspicuous clothing and masks glanced at them, then paid them no further mind. They stepped onto wooden frames made of bamboo, which creaked underfoot as they proceeded inside. These wooden frames were built around the branches of the surrounding trees, and nearly every tree had a stall beside it.
There were not many people here. People coming and going generally kept a certain distance from each other. Despite the number of people present, the place felt remarkably silent, creating an eerie quiet.
