Day Eight Hundred Twenty Five #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

His tribal home, that is. The shepherds were members of his clan. But unlike his immediate family they had not left in the Glorious appearing. They had been scoffers then, and were still. They just wanted to be left alone. So much so that they even refused the mark.

Quasimo welcomed the opportunity to answer their questions. And they were full of them. And in each instance his answers always came around again to his testimony to what he had seen and heard. But nothing he said or showed them convinced them, not even the fact that he no longer bore the mark in his person.

For all of their rough edges they were hospitable, especially to Elijah and myself.

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Day Seven Hundred Thirty Eight #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Mei remained at the rear of our troop, while Lung kept by Elijah’s side most of the day. He had many questions and appeared eager to listen to Elijah’s answers.

At one point I dropped back to keep her company. She remained taciturn to most of my comments. She only became animated either during those times when Tomas returned from the advance, or when she raised her rifle at the slightest hint of danger. And she almost blushed when Tomas joined us to inform me about a fork ahead in the road.

We left her company to confer with Elijah and the Captain about which direction we should take.

The main road continues paved. We will take the unpaved one.

Day One Hundred Twenty Eight #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Today was a day of waiting. For answers. For people. For the appointed hour to come. In short, a trial in patience.

Lyle went to meet with Kip in the west end. I kept busy with chores until they were complete. Which was early. I  needed something to do, so I went for a walk here in the east end.

I discovered a quiet place, a walled courtyard, set off from the main thoroughfare. In short order, I walked its whole area and took in its sights. Then I sat in the quiet.

Later, the rustle of leaves stirred me from my reverie and I returned to the widow’s house and news of the vote.

Stan won.

We wait again.

Day One Hundred Eight #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Our roles have undergone another reversal today. This time the widow and her son are taking the lead. They have been given a home, and Lyle and I are assigned to live with them.

What it all means, we do not know, but we are looking for answers.

Lyle and I have been given permission to circulate freely within the city. A privilege that we will make good use of.

Already we have heard many strange rumors. Some disquieting. I shall endeavor to ascertain the truth in each situation. I sense that many things need to be resolved before I pass on to the desert beyond.

Yes, someday soon we will leave this all behind.

We are here for now.