Sails of Spring.

[GameMaster]

Phineas aided Horat in finding passage to Baldur's Gate, and minor employment upon a ship of The Yellow Fleet, renowned for its vast and vibrant sails, became his vessel of choice, promising a voyage as golden as the dawn.

The timing was critical, for Greengrass, the festival heralding the arrival of spring, was nigh. The air buzzed with anticipation, merchants bustled with increased fervor, and the seas teemed with heightened piracy, as the abundance of goods spurred the greed of the sea brigands.

Horat's ship, the Celestial Voyager, was a magnificent galleon laden with treasures and trinkets, destined for the bustling markets of Baldur's Gate. To ensure safe passage amidst the growing threat of piracy, the Celestial Voyager was flanked by a protective entourage. Two nimble scout ships, the Sea Wraith and the Windchaser, danced around the main vessel, their eyes ever-vigilant for signs of danger. Alongside them, two formidable warships, the Steel Sentinel and the Storm's Fury, stood as bulwarks against the threat of marauding pirates, their very names invoking a sense of dread and respect.

The journey, under the watchful eyes of such guardians, was as serene as a still pond. If there were whispers of pirates or the echo of distant cannons, they never reached Horat's ears. Instead, his days were filled with the mundane yet essential tasks that kept the ship afloat. He swabbed the deck, ensuring it gleamed under the sun's gaze, and checked the stores, counting and recounting to ensure nothing was amiss with inventory and seals on packages.

As Baldur's Gate's silhouette began to paint the horizon, the end of Horat's journey neared. The first mate, a seasoned seafarer named Thalen Broadcrest, acknowledged Horat's diligence and contribution. With a nod that spoke of respect earned on the high seas, Thalen handed Horat a small coin purse. The jingle of one hundred silver pieces sang a melody of gratitude and acknowledgment.

With a quill in hand, Horat signed his name in the ledger, a simple act that sealed his agreement and acceptance of the payment. It was a modest sum, yet it marked the beginning of new chapters and untold adventures in the bustling city.

As Horat steps off the gangplank of the Celestial Voyager, the vibrant cacophony envelops him, a stark contrast to the rhythmic cadence of the sea he'd grown accustomed to. The docks are alive with activity, a bustling tableau of commerce and festivity, magnified by the impending celebration of Greengrass.

The air is thick with the scent of salt from the sea, mingled with the earthy aroma of fresh produce and the tantalizing smell of street food. Merchants shout over one another, vying for the attention of passersby, showcasing exotic spices, intricate textiles, and curious trinkets from distant lands. The sounds of haggling, laughter, and the occasional squawk of a seagull create a symphony unique to the harbor.

The architecture of Baldur's Gate is a sight to behold, a mix of sturdy stone buildings and elaborate wooden structures, each telling a story of the city's rich history and diverse culture. Flags and banners flutter in the breeze, their colors a vivid display of the city's spirit, especially pronounced on the eve of Greengrass.

Children dart between the crowds, their laughter ringing like music, while performers entertain clusters of onlookers with juggling acts, fire-breathing displays, and lively music. The sense of anticipation is palpable, as decorations of flowers and ribbons start to adorn the streets and plazas, transforming the city into a canvas of natural beauty in homage to the festival's celebration of spring and renewal.

The dock itself is a marvel of activity. Sailors secure their vessels, unloading goods that have traveled across the seas, while others prepare their ships for the next voyage. The clatter of wooden crates, the splash of water against the hulls, and the creak of ropes and pulleys blend into the maritime orchestra.

As Horat walks further into the city, the smells become more varied and enticing. Bakeries display their goods, with the scent of fresh bread and sweet pastries wafting into the street. The aroma of roasting meat from a nearby tavern makes his stomach rumble, a reminder of the simpler, yet profound pleasures of land life.

The people are a diverse tapestry, with faces reflecting many nations and cultures. Their attire ranges from the practical garb of fishermen to the exquisite dresses of the city's elite, each person adding a thread to the vibrant mosaic of the city.

Horat's senses are alight with the new experiences, each step unveiling another layer of the city's rich tapestry. The communal vibrancy is exhilarating, a testament to the city's ability to enthrall and embrace every newcomer in its lively embrace. As he takes in the sights, sounds, and smells, Horat feels a growing excitement for the festival and the new chapter of his life unfolding in this bustling city.