Day One Thousand One Hundred Sixty #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

I let a day go by and pondered Tomas’s concern and thereby it became my own. Only then did I bring it up with Elijah.

He listened to me without interruption. But when I had finished, he asked me a simple question – what did I propose be done?

And I realized I had given little thought to it. Rather I had concluded and was hoping that Elijah would do something.

But then an idea came to me. Could we not send Quasimo and his cousin to help our friend? They knew Babylon and Mr. Kagi.

Elijah pointed out were not our friends mature? (Here he included Mawuli). And did they not know the One in whom we place our trust?

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Day Seven Hundred Fifty #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Tomas brought back a lot of intelligence about the habitation in the clearing. We sifted through it, point by point before making our decisions.

The habitation is marked by signs of the presence of the world government. Tomas saw their flag at the entrance on the far side of the compound. So, the Captain’s advice seemed most appropriate.

There is a very good road leading out of this area upon which Tomas had observed tanker trucks. Thus Stan and his people have the same idea as the Supreme Commander’s army.

And so, we will have to steer clear of that access. More’s the pity.

We wait again while Tomas searches another exit.

All of us, including Mei live in hope.

Day Six Hundred Seventy Six #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Each one of us has stated his idea as to the best course of action going forward. And each idea has been vetted by the others in a full discussion. Mine has met with the most approval.

It’s based on a simple enough proposition. I pointed to the north and the ample presence of snow and ice on the mountain ranges in that direction and deduced that that offered the best possibility for water along the way..

But that being said we are all agreed to the need for waiting upon the Spirit’s leading and not our own understanding.

Elijah is concerned for what the army will do in this situation. He wants them where they need to be also.

Day Six Hundred Seventeen #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Tomas hammered away all morning at Elijah with reasons why we should travel to the other side of the city and seek refuge with Mr. Kagi’s uncle.

After Elijah dealt with each argument in turn, Tomas proposed going by himself. This idea in particular upset the Captain greatly. Tomas reminded him that nothing can happen to either of them apart from one another, if they are to believe the prophecy spoken over them.

The Captain countered by agreeing with him in that instance but was at pains to point out that other outcomes equally undesirable were also possible.

“Like Tomas,” I interjected, “being scooped up as an army conscript. What would we do then?”

Waiting can test the best friendships.

Day Six Hundred Nine #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Our time here is drawing to a close. We all feel it. The Captain wants it sooner rather than later, before the path westward is closed off by the completion of the army base.

Tomas, however wants to explore other ways first.  Perhaps to go through the city and head westward on the other side.

I thought the idea commendable but wondered if there might be an easier way to turn up the information.

I asked Elijah about going to our neighbor to sound him out on his knowledge of the lay of the land. Certainly he has proven trustworthy.

Elijah was open to the idea, but cautioned to make no promises.

We called next door and found him gone.

Day Three Hundred Fifty Four #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

I was of the opinion that we depart right away, lest the authorities change their minds and forbid our leaving. Of course, the Captain would not hear of departing until he had a first mate. But Elijah quietly stepped forward with both an idea and a plan.

In talking with Tomas, Elijah had learned a lot about the young man – not only has he studied at this country’s maritime academy, but has also worked on ships in his father’s merchant fleet.

The Captain was familiar with the family shipping firm and expressed his wish to meet the young gentleman.

Elijah went ashore and brought back an amenable Tomas to meet the Captain.  

Our ship now has a new first mate.

Day One Hundred Thirteen #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

I was so far west, I did not have time enough to get back before the gate closed. A local denizen, however swept me off the street. Kip guessed my plight and kindly offered a place to spend the night.

I’m very thankful. He is the only one that I’ve met who didn’t have an outright animus towards me, the poser of questions.

I asked him where I could find the rulers of the city. He didn’t seem to think that a very good idea and added people usually went out of their way to avoid their notice.

He explained that they’ve been adverse to strangers ever since large numbers migrated out of the east.

I need to inform Lyle.