Spring Snow (Part Two)

In late March, the cold air still lashed at people's skin, but the breath of spring had begun to arrive.

It was there not only in the air, mingled with a hint of warmth, but also on the ground, where flecks of tender green had appeared.

The snow had melted away half a month earlier. The spring wind still carried a chill, though, and across the mainland's dark earth, the new grass showed only in sparse, pale patches.

Yet even while the grass and leaves were still fragile, they had the power to lift the spirits.

For several days, the servants at Rokas Baron Castle had been busy.

Their Baron was going to sea for the first time.

The servants had to prepare his clothes and choose the attendants who would accompany him.

They had heard that Gold and Silver Island was warm and beautiful. Every attendant with any standing wanted to go with Baron Rokas, but in the end, only eight were chosen.

On the morning of March twentieth, a group of visitors arrived at the docks of Far-Sail Town.

They were formidable men on fine horses, escorting a carriage at a slow pace.

Sukar, the mayor of Far-Sail Town, came as soon as he heard the news. He greeted Baron Rokas when he stepped out of the carriage, then went to prepare the ship.

Baron Rokas had no ship of his own, so his visit to Gold and Silver Island required him to borrow a large vessel from Far-Sail Town. As one of Romon's trusted subordinates, Sukar knew what to do. He provided not only a ship but a full crew of sailors and deckhands.

"Mm. Very good." Baron Rokas looked at the respectful Sukar, nodded, and returned his greeting with a smile. Sukar was a Knight, after