Market-day

As the day ends, stalls above the ground are dismantled, bench blankets are stacked, and dogs search the worn grass for anything dropped. The smells of fried dough and tar diminish as the evening air cools and neighbours leave for supper. The closing routine follows both wins and losses, but the sound of departure changes with the result. Victories produce singing and boasts, whereas losing supporters disperse quietly and kindly, a response Goro finds harder to bear after the defeat.