Seaweed Vendor in Toronto Market Before Dawn

Deep shadows cloak a narrow flea market lane in Toronto as the first hint of dawn approaches. A vendor stands behind a wooden counter, hands resting on stacks of dried seaweed packets wrapped in clear plastic. Rim light traces the edge of a weathered tarp overhead, catching floating particles of spice dust that hang in the cool air. Late autumn coats the concrete ground in scattered brown leaves. The packets display bold red and gold Korean characters against the dim interior. Texture of rough wood contrasts with the smooth plastic wrap. A faint glow reflects off the edge of a metal scale on the counter.