Kiah was still fuming, and the blazing sun above only worsened her mood. The heat pressed down on her, and after that long rant in the restaurant, her throat felt painfully dry.
Stepping out into the crowded street, she immediately spotted a small stall a few meters away selling drinks and snacks. Without hesitation, she made her way there.
A middle-aged man stood behind the counter, arranging bottles and pastries.
Kiah picked up a chilled drink in a transparent plastic can and asked, "How much is this?"
"One gold coin," the man replied.
She fished out the coins and handed them over before popping the cap. The drink fizzed softly as she took a long sip, the cool liquid sliding down her throat.
She let out a satisfied sigh. The relief was instant.
The drink had a curious flavor, slightly tangy, faintly earthy, and oddly refreshing. She studied the bottle, frowning. "What's this called?"
"Dustwater tea," the vendor said cheerfully.
