The Diary of a Chef

[knifey]

——

Nisah 23, 7789

It's here. The Sublime Bank.

Manijeh announced her new station at the head of The Office of Public Accounts, overseeing the re-established Sublime Bank. I'm glad to hear her voice over the bellows. I was beginning to worry.

I completed my application last night. Or was it this morning? Sometime before I could rouse myself fully. I slept all day again, I hope I filled it out correctly.

——

I don't feel as- [The pen ponders a thought.] hopeless today. As much as there are still those responsible for Grenth's murder, justice has been cast on the murderer. Soon enough the cowards and conspirators will be met with their own.

But today - there's hope. I've been thinking about my conversation with Witness Nox. What would Manta think, what would Grenth think - what would she think - if they saw me like this.

To honor them is to keep living, keep moving forward - to acknowledge their sacrifice, to embody their legacies, to inspire others - so that their memories can live on through me.

——

I saw Jan again. It was brief, he gave me an old pack of smokes from an old friend of his. The pack's stained with blood something. I feel bad taking them, but he just tossed me the pack. I think I'll just hold on to these ones for a while.

Still - everyone's still giving me cigarettes. Did I sound that desperate? Am I that desperate?

I talked to Witness Nox again. He asked if I worshiped any of the Spokes - I told him of my devotion to the Wyld. We talked about the other Spokes, the Wheel, the Synod. Talked of the other Speakers and things I won't writ-

I gave him an old Kulamet robe I'd found a few weeks back, a show of my gratitude for his wisdom. Though he's a Twindari, I thought he would appreciate a priest's robes. He was very grateful. But then he realized the boots he was wearing snagged the hem of the robe - he decided to forgo the boots. "For now" he said. I think he was just being polite.

Or maybe he wanted to walk with the Wyld for a time. I think he's going to be an important figure in the Synod soon.

Soon enough.

——

[Manic, frightened penmanship.]

Is it a threat?

Veiled knowledge of my suspicion.
Whispered but known.

Is it him?

A mangled, unrecognizable corpse.
Strewn and severed.

Is it an offering?

A trophy to be consumed.
A gift from The Murderer.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 24, 7789

A curious thought to welcome the demon's gaze. How many days now have I slept through til the night? Three? Four.

I caught Selwyn on my way down from my room. I apologized to them. "Under the rug" as they put it. I hope that means they forgive me. It was nice to see the Krak bustling with life. The lonely echoes no more. Jan was taking a lesson from Peter - teachings of the Warrior. It sounded like he was keen to be baptized an Agasian.

And then there was a call for work - a few jobs out in the Ashways. Harpies, trogs, the like. It was good work. I met more new faces. A man of the wastes - Spinesplitter, his name escapes me but that was mentioned of his old tribe, or at least once was - and there was another warrior too. Then the Musafir, Antethe - a Speaker of the Wanderer - the one who found Grenth, according to the testimony at Luther's trial. Ramez was with us too.

And then there was the Sorceress - who is, or was, called Sutton. There was something about her. Him? Them? I can't place it, but there was something.

Once we returned, there was War. War to be waged in honor of his memory. I'm no healer, but I doused water among those fighting with me. In honor of his legacy.

——

He got my note, but they've muzzled him. His hands are tied and there's nothing he can do. I'm not sure I trust anyone else at the 4th. I'll have to stay vigilant, at least until I can figure out who put that in the bins.

I also got a letter from the Bank about my grant application. A meeting request to discuss further with Manijeh. It was good to see and talk with her again. I almost ruined it with my bellowing last night. Luckily there was nothing out of the ordinary today, still some leftover soup - whatever whoever is out there, spooking the refugees, is still there.

But! My application was approved! I'm honored to be the recipient of the very first grant from the Sublime Bank. It's going to go a long way in getting back to feeding those in need.

I was able to get my recipes finalized for tomorrow's cook off. These dishes hold a special place in my heart, and I hope I'm able to capture a bit of their legacies in them.

[A drawing of two loafs - one engulfed in flames, the other shaped like a fish.]

——

I was just able to catch the Musafir before her Four-Wheels-Rounding rites. Witness Nox, Claudia, Nela, Faith and I all walked the Wanderer's path with her. The Scald - where Witness Nox erected a small monument to Kamil. And then to Frostport - where we climbed the Vanarod.

No coincidence I think - places that remind me of the ones I lost. The flames of the Scalding pyre - the last time I saw Grenth whole again. The shivering air and snow of Frostport - the wicked ice of Vae Mojem, where Manta perished.

And then the caravanserai- [The thought wants to complete itself, but doesn't.]

I found myself struggling to keep up, a long day. It'll do me good to get some sleep with the rest of the world. I'll spend the night here, at the caravanserai.

——

[Some sleepy penmanship.]

I can feel you here.

Just like we used to.
The crackle of the campfire,
the night's breeze.
Looking to the stars,
lying together.
The comfort of furs and throws,
sleeping in the sands.

I can feel you again.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 25, 7789

It was quite jarring, waking up in that camp. I was stirred by the sweetest old lady - she offered me tea and mentioned some shady men whispering and glancing over at me while I overslept.

She also told me I was mumbling in my sleep, tossing and turning. I was so embarrassed - I tried to offer her some coins for the tea and the warning, but she wouldn't take it.

It was a quick walk home - Cog's spring boots made the Lover's Gap a breeze. I saw some orcs and dune raiders skirmishing about the bend, but I was already on my way.

Time to get ready for the cook off - so much to do!

——

A prefect score! My "Loaf of the Flamebringer" - first place with thirty points!

I even did the final preparations live in front of everyone. I was nervous before - but then my poor little kitchen cart started falling apart. I don't think anyone noticed, and I was still able to get everything done quite heroically - if I do say so myself.

I should talk to Cogs about repairing and updating the cart. But maybe after the restaurant is open.

Bashir needed a model for his dress, so I offered - it was a beautiful dress. [There's a note in the margins "mangoes" - accompanied by a little star reminder.] I might buy it if I can save enough. But he paid me, which was nice. I was able to make a little more progress on the restaurant.

——

Luther's selling his helmet. The Darkhelm - probably just a fucking bucket painted black.

I found this Magnus person. Not what I was expecting. An old man, but he was spry and able. He has a tonic, but not what I was looking for. He did confirm Luther was hired though, but that's not news.

Sayburgh had an assassin come after her in the Krak. I don't know how to feel about that. I wouldn't wish her dead, despite what I think about her politics. Doesn't matter, she's got the Banda protecting her anyways.

I don't know how to feel about a lot of things lately. I feel hopeless nothing again. Why? Things were just starting to look up, today was good. I should find Witness Nox again. I guess I'll just sleep in the meantime - tomorrow Durgin gives Grenth his rites.

——

[That familiar penmanship returns again.]

The helmet. I need it.
For the rest of him.
And then the weapon.

Together, The Murderer.


Until then - why?

Why do they die,
and I become rich.

Her - and I'm here, home and Voiced.

Manta - and I've a reputation and a restaurant.

Grenth - and I've grants and prizes.

Why? What did I do?

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 26, 7789

I am in awe of Agaslakku.

Grenth - the Flamebringer. Magnificent flames that measured the walls of Got Valdazhr. Avatars of light, fire, and warmth appearing in the pyre - protecting us, emboldening us.

I offered a last meal to the flames - the same dish I gave him before his trials, "just in case." If only I had known. I might have stayed longer after his victory, I might have served him a greater feast.

I even saw one of Kula's angels - with my own eyes! A gryphon - carrying Aeronwy on its back and into battle. In a state of cursed fear - my guardian angel. Her Its marvelous wings, protecting me. He- Its razor talons, tearing through the orcs. Wyld watch over me.

There was a moment I went down though - unconscious. I saw Ulfgrim - and then I was back on my feet. Grenth was Was Grenth there too? I didn't see him, but I could feel him.

There was much said, and many deeds witnessed. I'm glad we had a priest of the Martyrs with us. Witness Noxieos - I saw him linger over the embers at the end. The Warrior's rites and a song from The Twins to see him down the banks of the Edutuu.

I will always be glad to have witnessed this.

——

I spent some time with Cort - hanging around the Well, some jobs on the board. I was working at least, Cort was just hanging around the Well. Dante made Luther "apologize" for a pardon. I didn't need to hear any of that - he already sold the helmet to Manijeh anyways.

I made some more progress on the restaurant. But there's still more to do. It is coming along nicely though. I just need to find a solution for cleaning the rug every day.

There was a battle of wits and rhymes in the Krak today. Linlett and that Soldier Hans. Lieutenant Colmes showed up, and I went over to the garrison to report the stuff I found in the boxes. He heard me out at least - it looked like he was taking notes. But- [A defeated thought lingers in the ink.] it's just rumor and happenstance. It doesn't point to anything. Just dreams and feelings.

And when I got back to the Krak - they were still going at it! Linlett won in the end, you could tell she's done this before. Cort was good company.

——

[Sleepy penmanship ensues.]

The Murderer.

In the pyre.

I saw the flames.
The same in the Scald.

I need to know more.
I need to know Him.

He knows.

The Murderer.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 27, 7789

It was an early morning. Errands around the Well. Lieutenant Colmes called for me down at the garrison. He had some follow up questions for me, and took the evidence. He brought up Selwyn and Cort - he's concerned about the association. I am too.

I had a some flowers made for the restaurant. They're nice - and add a little of the Wyld's touch. It's starting to look like a proper restaurant, the election is almost over. I'll be able to open soon.

Dudley helped me move some furniture, she got a sneak peak at the restaurant for it. She's still looking for a worthy refugee to claim her offer of a Voice and a merchants license. She's very strong - seeing her carry all that furniture, she even managed to run with it! I'd like her to carry me-

——

A decent day of work, taking advantage of the upper board while I still can - barring any accidents - I'm not sure they'll let me sign for them much longer.

I need to talk to Zina soon. As much as I know Zina's the best candidate - I just want this election to be over. I do hope she wins though.

As I've been trying to make Casa Manta a reality - I've been able to add a few mementos and some memorabilia I have of him. I even found the dress he designed and bought me. I took the colors and dyed it to my own outfit - I'm going to keep the dress at the restaurant, something to decorate the shelves with.

——

[Some barely legible scribbles.]

Soon.

Many things, soon.

[The rest of a blank page.]

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 28, 7789

Finally. It's over.

Zina didn't win. Unfortunately. But I think the Rose needed Sayburgh to win. And they've got resources. Not that Zina doesn't - but she's just one woman!

Anyways, I'm glad it's over. Though it did get me thinking. I spoke with Durgin a bit, he gave me some perspective. I should try to be more conscious - these things affect more people than I think. And then later Sister Selsi- [A moment of thought lingers on the page.] Amelie Selsi. Narwen was there too. Perhaps I've been too quick to judge.

——

Some board work with Witness Nox - he got his Voice now too. We were talking about goals for a bit. Taking his grand and vague ideas of honoring The Martyrs and studying The Law - and turning them into digestible goals. Like continuing the work on his Book of the Dead or becoming a Magistrate.

More new faces. Everyday there's new faces - but I guess I can't be too surprised.

I did leave some nicer meals for the refugees - it's a celebration for some after all, and I'm imagining all the needy she's promised to uplift are having quite the time celebrating.

——

[Some loose penmanship follows.]

Legates.

Promises.

Legates make promises.

Them.

Promises.

They make promises.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 29, 7789

Another day of sleepless nights. Or is it another night of sleepless days?

Another day of waking to the stars.

The damned howling again.

A tenacious pack tonight - but nothing that couldn't be handled. Magnus, a Nadiri, and I. What was her name - I know I've seen her around.

I must say, fighting with this- [A brief hesitation.] skewer - a dragon's foil it's called? It's pretty nice. It's especially easy to stab things where it hurts. A wonderful gift from Witness Nox that I'll treasure for some time.

I should talk to Magnus again. He speaks of The Axe. As much as there are many Agasians - it's always The Warrior. I know enough of The Warrior! Victory, war, honor. Noble things. I need to know more about The Axe. More about The M—

——

I heard a rumor - and I can only pray it's not true. The Nadiri mentioned it - Manijeh might have disappeared. I hope that it's just another escapade of hers, and that she'll be back in no time. Of course she will. [The pen lingers after finishing the thought, disbelief in its own words.]

Maybe Zina will know where she put it.

Speaking of - I hope I can find her soon. I'm so close to being able to open the restaurant. I just need that bar and some final touches!

And then to clean up and organize the kitchen. And a few more chairs. And then wine to stock the bar. And to hire someone I can trust. And then- [The writing comes to an abrupt stop.]

Just the final touches.

——

[Some manic penmanship.]

Water the garden.

It's time to water the garden.

The toil has finished - and now we tend.
Soon the harvest - and then we reap.

But now we water the garden.
We wet the sands.

The sands are
thirsty.

And they crave
blood.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 30, 7789

I woke up to howling again. Damned dogs.

It was deja vu. I can't even remember who I was with. The same howling. The same cries. The same blood. Everything felt the same.

I can't even remember who I was with. I think Cort was there? Selwyn?

Oh Selwyn.

I have a feeling they aren't too happy with me being friendly with Cort. They think I'm trying to match with him "for whatever reason." I can't don't even like him like that.

Once I got back, the board clerk told me "no more upper board for you!" The bastards. But, it's a bit of a rite of passage I suppose. Just means I'm earning a reputation. I can always take those relaxed jobs I guess.

——

A triumph for the War effort today. A Titan down, a fortress left in flames, and a stalwart defense of the camp. I was tasked with launching the flares, Aurelio showed me how and gave me direction. He said I did a good job, but there were some groans of friendly fire when we returned to camp. I did have a little trouble, but I think I did OK.

By the end of it all, we found five prisms! Luther was a bit upset he didn't have a chance to cast dice for one - I guess he didn't hear me when I said we had five of them. I gave him mine. Jan didn't want me to, said I earned it and Luther missed his chance. But Luther knows what he did, and I owe him for that.

Marcellus requisitioned some new leathers for me. It's quite nice, and certainly more suitable for War. I'm just not used to wearing a skirt! I hate the way it makes my thighs look. I guess proper armor isn't supposed to be flattering.

——

A lot happened. There's a brooker in the Well. I shouldn't write any of it down.

[The rest of the page is left blank.]

——

[Familiar sleepy penmanship follows.]

Can't sleep.
I can still hear the howling.
But they're dead.

I killed them all.
The sand wet
with their blood.

I thought I heard her again.
Screaming in the wind.
But she's dead.

So much blood.
The sands were drowning
in her blood.

And then the fire consumed.

——

[knifey]

——

Nisah 31, 7789

Something happened last night. A storm unlike any other - almost like something else was causing it. Some people banded out against it. I'm sure I'll found out more about it sooner than later.

There was some companion duels this morning - dogs, spiders, elementals. It was quite entertaining. Jan was on a losing streak with his bets, I cut him some slack on a double or nothing. Obviously the dog was going to lose to Cog's animated halberd. But it was a magic dog - at least when it fought Luther's ghost spider! That was funny to see his reaction, a little bruising of the pride.

It's good to stay humble. I need to remind myself sometimes, especially now that I have a bit of a reputation. Dueling sounds fun though, maybe Luther can teach me a thing or two. I'd let him teach me a thing or-

I passed Cort as he was heading out to deal with the spider nuisance. He mentioned something about goblins after. Thronging. I might have blushed a touch. I hope I didn't come across- [The pen hesitates.] no, of course not.

——

I'm still a bit uncomfortable in the armor. It's nice, but it's hard getting used to a skirt like that. I still have my old outfit - maybe I'll just keep the armor for War. A new helmet might be nice.

[A drawing of a simple helmet with a single spike atop.]

[Another drawing - of a chef's hat.]

I spent some more time with Cort. We took care of those goblins. Asherias came with us. Nox, Gio and Baelerie too. I was teasing him a bit. He wants to see if there's a market for the slug- [A pause, looking for an appropriate word.] slime. It's more of a-

A productive day. Rent's paid and I've some coin in my pocket. I hope Zina returns from her trip soon.

I even cooked up a new idea. I can't wait for someone to taste it. I think Cort will like it.

——

[The manic penmanship returns.]

I think she'd like him too. I think Gozan would be wary - but he'd warm up.

I know she'd like Selwyn. I think Gozan would mistake them for a fennec.

I still have more friends now than ever.

I hope.

——

[The penmanship devolves into scribbles.]

Blood and fire
Blood and fire

A chef's best friend

Blood and fire
Blood and fire

A cook's worst nightmare

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 1, 7789

A busy day ahead. I'm surprised how rested I feel.

A few new faces about the Well. I didn't catch their names. A dwarf I'd seen once or twice before, the Witness knows him. And two women - one more confident. The other like a lost hound.

They were going about some minor tasks - I offered them some coin if they could bring me some jelly for my lollipops. A decent haul from them. Could still use some more jelly though.

Meanwhile the ashfolk acolyte was collecting signatures - for distinctions of Voiced and Voiceless to be removed from the Law, and lowering the cost of a Voice.

For the first assembly under the new Legate.

There was a call to the Tower - an audition - a special team to see to the "Containment Procedure" at the Lake. Seeking strong willed volunteers. They tested us with fearing magic and doom. I can't believe they could have killed me.

"All under control" they said. But still - what if it wasn't. Jan panicked when he saw the curse pulse. Shoved a crystal in my hands. Saved my life he might have. I gave him the horn I had - enchanted to keep the mind clear. Hopefully it will help to keep the incomprehensible nightmares at bay.

——

We set off to aid the Accord camp - Cort, Selwyn, the Sister, Melody and one of the Soldiers too. The orcs have been sending small warbands to test our defenses as the rest of our forces push towards Bet Nappahi.

During the skirmish, I came upon one of their champions in single combat. A curious blade. Antique even. [The pen pauses, deciding to conclude the thought.]

Then they returned. Most of them. That poor Nadiri. Anilia. Anilia Antipode. The same from the other day - how awful that I couldn't remember her name. And now- [A hesitation.] she's gone.

"It was bad." Jan said. He seemed unnerved. More than usual.

Vaporized. Undone. Made into mist. It sounded bad.

She was bright. Enthusiastic about her work and research. A shame she came to her end. I hope that she might have died doing what she loved. And I pray that it might have been painless.

There wasn't much time for memorial. The frontline was advancing. There was only time for War.

The orcs are stronger here, as we approach the final siege. Their magic more sinister. Several times my own wards stripped from me. Black voids tearing at reality. Cort went down at the peak, a vicious last stand by the holdouts. Thank the Wyld he was alright. I shouldn't- I can't get any closer. He might- [The ink halts, a thought unwritten.]

——

I knew it. A vindictive hypocrite. So much for Asterabadi democracy. Voices for everyone but don't use it to vote Gold. Lest they seize your property and punish you for participating.

The assembly as a whole was a farce. A Banafsi envoy showed up - questioning the whereabouts of one of their Soldiers? Officers? The look on his face as he realized Komemnos had him fed to the lions. I will admit - he has my respect for his resolute frankness in detailing the account.

It wasn't until I stepped away when I'm told that they discussed - with enthusiasm - opening the voter rolls to find and punish those who voted for Zina. Seizing their property and levying fines. And the compromise to the absurdity? Stealing the Emporium, among other properties, from Zina.

I hope she comes back soon.

——

[Exhausted and frightened penmanship scribbles about the page.]

Nightmares.

Incomprehensible nightmares.

Doom.

He's dead.
That blade.
Antique and bloodied.

I can't stop it.
I'm too close.

The blood.

It's everywhere.
On my hands.
In my hair.

Everywhere.

——

[Near illegible scribbles.]

I can't sleep.
Nightmares.

I won't.

I won't see him
like that.

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 2, 7789

I stayed the night - and most of the day - in the restaurant. I won't let them take it from me. They'll have to kill me.

I didn't get much sleep though. Nightmares again. I think Cort was in them?

Nobody's come though.

Yet.

I had to get out, I couldn't stay cooped up. Just in time to catch a group headed out to see to some bandits waylaying the caravans again. Claudia was there. And Maqqari? Dandrik?

Bandits. If you could even call them that. As disorganized as ever, and hardly the lot of them. Things were just starting to feel therapeutic - and then they were all dead.

I thought I recognized one of them. One of the younger ones - always waiting for me when I went to drop off some of my soup. That look in his eye, I think- [There's some hesitation.] he recognized me too. And then his skull was caved in by a particularly zealous swing of a mace.

I hope it wasn't him.

——

It's happening.

Katya - volunteering a shift at the Emporium. She's not even one of Zina's clerks. And she wouldn't answer Cort's questions about where the sales were going.

Luckily we were able to save most of the valu-

If it's true - I hope they have the decorum to return her belongings.

I doubt they do.

Cort filled me in on a few more things. Many of the Voices she sponsored and funded voted against her. Betrayed from all sides. First, the Serene who baptized her as her own - only to abandon her as soon as the politics began. And then, those who would benefit from her generosity.

Traitors and hypocrites.

——

[Loose penmanship appears, cigarette ash stained across the page.]

What do I do?

What do I do?

Run?
Fight!
Murder.

What do I do?

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 3, 7789

"New policy" - that's what Luther said when he searched me this morning. At least he was polite enough to ask first. He said the old antique sword I found was on the Balladeers list or something like that. It's just an old sword - he didn't say anything about that though. I shouldn't be carrying any of this around.

He was surprisingly delicate though.

I spoke with the Witness again. First about my fears - the results of this election, the assembly, my safety. He was reassuring - telling me that as long as I'm not alone, that I can show the good I do for the Well - that I would be safe. He's right. Cort, Milo, Cogs - we're all in this together. There's no room for redemption in the Well - you are what they assume. I need to open the restaurant.

I've been conflicted. Grenth's murderer is dead - but the conspirators are still out there. I asked about the Twin's justice - and when that fails, what of the Wroth's? There was less- [A moment to ponder.] confidence in his voice. There was something said - "Slip through the grasp of the Martyrs" that sometimes evil may not meet the Twin's justice. But I think they cannot escape the Wroth - the vengeance. I should seek a priest of the Eighth. I still need to know more about The Murd-

——

Nox was able to procure a bar for me - and at a fraction of the price Zina was going to charge. The restaurant is all but finished now, at least the front of house is. Time for the final preparations, and then planning the grand opening.

I've heard word that Zina won't be returning - and by extension, Haldar too. It's not safe for her. I understand, and I hope the two can live out their lives in peace. Manijeh too - no word from her. I hope she's at least safe. I'll need to find new funding for my charity meals. Hopefully the restaurant will be successful enough to enable that - I should talk to the Sisters soon.

I have fewer friends now - fewer close to me. Perhaps for the best. But the loneliness, it makes me vulnerable.

——

I spent time working the boards with Cort. First the goblins - their incessant thronging. The need to keep their numbers in check is important to keep the Well safe. The last thing we need is another threat with the War nearing its climax.

Then it was time to investigate a missing Sandstone expedition. One of the Many Vaults. The poor souls didn't make it far - but there was quite the treasure to be found.

The Pyramid has been quick to act. New laws - apostasy and blasphemy. Anti-Dome and Modini edicts. Hypocrites. What of the refugees they care for oh so much. Those fleeing the sinking city. The Well is not welcome for all anymore.

——

[Manic penmanship scribbles about the page.]

It's mine now. In my possession.

The Darkhelm.

What now?
What has it seen?
Who does it know?

The Murderer knows.

Offer and ask.

Simply offer and ask.

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 4, 7789

More sleep and little rest. It's a wonder I'm able to do anything at all.

Some more work for the Sandstone College. Vae Moj Dilimb Zuen. What could they be looking for in such a cursed place like that. The poor souls consumed by shadow. It was a nightmare, a maze of darkness and despair.

And then- [The ink is apprehensive.] brookers. They wore Rose cloaks, not anyone I'd seen before. True apostates. A djinn of fire. Then a door left open - a portal to their realm.

——

I knew it! I can't believe it, but I knew it. Twenty percent! Taxes increased to twenty percent!

They won't take it from me - so they resort to these backhanded, tyrannical practices. "Voiced and homeless" that's what Cort said. That's what they want. All I can do is work harder - I won't let them put me down. Not after I've put so much of myself into this place. After I've bled for this place.

It's not just about me either - anyone who calls Ephia's Well home. Suffering for all in an attempt to bleed the "gluttons" and the wealthy. As if I'm either of those things.

——

[That loose penmanship appears.]

Deja vu.

Familiar feelings in an unfamiliar place.

I thought I heard her again.

Through the door ajar.
She called for me.

It couldn't be.
Deceivers.

She's dead.
Her blood in the sands.

Dead.

Is she?

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 6, 7789

Where did the days go? Already the sun rises. Is it the 7th now then?

Two days gone.

I stumbled back to my room. My room. For how much longer, we'll see. I saw Cort, and Aurora, standing outside the Apothar's room. Selwyn was meeting with them. Cort looked a little worried - they were whispering.

[A conflicted hesitation.] Good.

I can't be the reason he dies get too close.
We were talking about the League. A proper meeting soon. I think Aurora wants to run. I won't lie - it's crossed my mind. But then to have to work with Sayburgh.

I'd rather eat sand.

——

Some decent work during these twilight hours. Cort, Claudia, Dante - Magnus, and an elf I'd never seen before. Raylin? I think was his name, a Sandstone student.

Before we set off, Sayburgh was floating back and forth between the bellows and the Priory - she didn't even look at me. The snake. She doesn't care about anyone - just amorphous ideas. "Refugees" "Needy" - but me? Individual people? She can't even look me in the eye as she tries to take everything I've worked so hard for.

And on our return? A call to charge Dante and Manos for Apostasy. What a load of shit! As if either of them have even attempted to convert a Wheel faithful. I've never even so much as heard Dante talk about the Dome.

Nonetheless, Dante was quite encouraging during our work. Some sage advice to Cort and I - not to sacrifice ourselves for this place. Maybe he's right. Maybe he's not. But the point being - a Pyramid so willing to overlook my own contributions and see to it that I struggle, perhaps it's best not to give more of myself.

For now.

——

[Some sleepy penmanship appears.]

More nightmares.

Fire
Blood
Death

What does it mean.

——

[knifey]

——

Iyar 7, 7789

The Well's been abuzz today. Preparations. Some whispers of a march forward in the War. Dante's words ring in my ear. Sacrifice. Does he know something?

During all the bustle, I found Baelerie. Cort was wondering about the armory. If it was by choice or not. It was Durgin's idea - to make use of an empty hall as the Duunthall's ranks dwindled.

I spoke with Idrees in the Souk - he seems to be doing well enough. He asked me to join the League of Purple. I don't think he knew I was a member of the Gold. But it seems we're in agreement regarding the current government.

——

[A few tear drops dot the page, the penmanship is shaky.]

So many. So many of them - dead. Sacrificed. If I hadn't heeded Dante's warning, would I be among them?

The Well is a different place now. Everything is different now.

——

[The loose penmanship returns.]

Sacrifice.

There will always be Sacrifice.

Willing or not.

——