Fifth Journey Day 42: Steam Against Grey

Date: June 19, 2025
Location: Tallinn, Estonia

I got to Tallinn late this morning. The city greeted me quietly. It was dimly lit, the cobblestones were damp, and there was a faint smell of the sea in the air. As I left the train station, I noticed that the old stone walls seemed to hold the air differently, as if making the quiet more intense.

After dropping my bags off at the guesthouse, I didn't walk far. My legs felt heavy from traveling, so I moved slowly. The streets here curve and fold in ways you might not expect. The old town feels both intact and slightly softened by time — not rigid, but settled. The rain had left shallow pools on the stones, and each pool showed off different shades of blue from the sky.

I found a small café in a courtyard between narrow alleys. The chairs were a little damp, but the staff wiped one down for me without any trouble. I ordered blackcurrant tea. I could feel the warmth of the cup in my hands against the cold air. The steam rose up and caught the gray light before it disappeared. The other customers around me spoke quietly, and I could barely hear them over the sound of the city.

What I remember most is the sound of distant bells from one of the towers. The notes weren't loud, but they filled the air like a slow, steady breath. I watched a small bird land on the edge of my table. Its feathers were slightly puffed from the damp.

I didn't draw today. It didn't seem important. I didn't need to use my eyes. The textures, the colors, and the rhythm of this place are already making their way into my thoughts.

Tonight, it's raining again. The sound of raindrops hitting the window is even and steady. I feel calm and relaxed here, like the city is letting me be myself.