Moon Witch, Spider King

Fasisi, the “seat of the Empire” (87), is filled with books and knowledge. Sogolon longs to unlock their secrets, but she can’t read. She bristles at the unfair advantage men have in this world, and she turns that anger toward Keme. Within days, the court accepts the petition of Komwono House and agrees to an audience. With nothing to wear, the mistress sends Sogolon to find something appropriate. Keme leads her through the enormous market until she finds suitable fabrics. Keme aspires to become a member of the “Buffalo Legion,” a highly trained warrior unit.

The night before their meeting, Sogolon notices Keme riding out of the city. Curious, she follows him. She finds his horse untethered by the side of the road. She sees him walking across the open air on floating planks. She follows him to a floating village. She slips and nearly falls into the abyss, but Keme grabs her. He explains that “children of Go” (93) live here. Go is a town that floats at night and rests on the ground during the day. Although suspended in midair, the town bustles with activity. Keme leads her to a tavern and introduces her to his friends—including a lion—who discuss the politics of the court and the looming threat of the witchfinder.