By the time Bracken Span came into view, Rell had checked the path behind them four times.
The knocking had followed them out of the forest, fading over bare rock and returning beneath the roots. It stopped only when the path climbed above the trading stop.
Bracken Span was larger than the distant platforms had suggested. Immense trees rose from a cleft in the basin, their exposed roots crossing the gap like bridges. Houses and stalls occupied the thickest sections, linked by rope walkways. Nets hung beneath them to catch dropped goods. Above, a suspended ridge moved through the clouds, its shadow drifting against the sunlight.
"Tell me those roots aren't going to move," Nova said.
"They move," Rell replied. "The important part is knowing when."
"Wonderful."
Lunaris stood beside his boot, watching a group of long-necked pack animals make their way along the main bridge. Their hooves were wrapped in fabric, with baskets strapped to their flanks.
