Day Nine Hundred Ninety Three #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Mawuli returned to us on foot to report that all was in readiness to receive his father’s group.

Elijah and I set out with the first section. The Purser and his family stayed behind to round up the stragglers before taking up the march.

On the way we passed the tanker truck that was returning to refill at the desert crossroads. Only Jezer and Tomas were aboard, Reuben had remained to aid his stricken townspeople.

A coterie of young men orbited Elijah asking him endless questions. My friend answered them all with patience and penetrating insight. One of the more curious reached out to touch Elijah’s staff and was shocked off his feet.

The youngster stood up with renewed respect.

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Day Nine Hundred Forty Three #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

We were separated this morning and questioned. Then were reunited hours later in an holding cell with a dozen other prisoners. Our one common denominator-lack of the mark upon our bodies.

I moved to Elijah’s side and was about to ask him about his interrogation, when I realized that he didn’t want to speak with so many listening ears.

We seized the opportunity later when the other prisoners were moved out.

We were puzzled at the apparent ignorance of our interrogators here. Those in Damascus appeared to know who we were, but showed more interest in Elijah’s staff. (Perhaps they thought that by its possession they’ve rendered him powerless).

None of their suspicions appear to have followed us here.

Day Five Hundred Ten #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

One plus about this jungle – we do pass other travelers, and thankfully none of them are officers of the global government. They are either merchants or peasants traveling to or from the metropolis.

Elijah queries each one upon encounter about Hamashiach. But so far all have hurried on, expressing no curiosity by asking any questions in return.

One merchant even became belligerent, and would have struck Elijah except that he clearly saw that Elijah’s staff was bigger than his.

With a snarl he continued on towards the metropolis.

I am sure he fully intends to report the encounter to the authorities.

But we should be through this jungle and well on our way before anyone can get up a pursuit.