Quinlan stood at the merchantman's repaired rail as Narethi's crew brought them toward Sarthal, watching ships emerge from behind the harbour walls.
There were so many of them.
A broad cargo vessel passed close enough for Blossom to wave at the children peering over its side. Beyond it, masts crowded the waterfront, where cranes swung loads onto quays packed with wagons and shouting workers.
The city climbed inland behind them. Quinlan followed its roofs toward distant walls, then lost the streets among towers and rising smoke.
"We could stay here for a while," he finally commented.
"We could get lost here for a while," Aurora replied, leaning beside him.
"Blossom can find everyone!"
His dogkin lifted her nose, sniffed enthusiastically, and turned toward a passing boat carrying baskets beneath damp cloth.
"Master, Blossom doesn't know that smell!!"
"It's exciting, huh? There's so much to discover."
"Yes!"
