Day Seven Hundred Sixty #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

That question has been foremost in all our minds, from the minute we stepped foot in the confines of this way station. Jordan, ever since his arrival here, has always felt that he would be the last to leave. But now after the event of our arrival, has changed his mind.

And Elijah agrees.

So, Jordan has announced his departure for tomorrow. We will stay.

Though at first, the Captain and Tomas considered leaving with Jordan’s group, that was opposed by none other than Mei.

Her decision stems from a dream she experienced over the last two nights. In each instance all of us – just our group, were outside under the moon and stars. And a dark shadow passed overhead.

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Day Five Hundred Sixty Four #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

We were a long time getting into the harbor. And even a longer time finding a berth. Debris packed the waters beside the docks, human bodies making up a good proportion of said debris.

And just like the ship master it took some convincing to change the minds of the remaining port authorities to allow us entry. Then it seemed like an eon for them to assemble some dock workers to help. (Many had fled to high ground).

Our crew set about clearing a way in, and by the time the shore crew was ready, we had already accomplished that task.

I helped Tomas and P identify containers with medical supplies and offloaded those first.

Even some listed for elsewhere.

Day Four Hundred Thirty Four #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

The fog lifted with the early morning breeze. You would think that would make a substantial difference in our headway. But it did not. In a couple of instances our forward movement was halted altogether by the incoming tide.

It was not time lost in our estimation. It was time to get our minds off of our problems and onto the One who holds the solutions. And I think we more than made up for our delay during those times when the tide was out. Way out.

By day’s end our progress was such that the port city came into our view. And like the one behind us on the mainland it appears to be untouched by the Great Destruction.

Day Three Hundred Seventy Eight late morning #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Elijah writes:

Under orders from the Captain, the crew is being held on their stations – to keep them busy, and their minds on work and off of the fiery illumination that sprang to life during the night and is still with us this morning.

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 Two Hundred Seventy Six #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Sy’s parents had been wary before admitting us, explaining that people who spend nights in the square are unsavory characters – molesters, drunkards, robbers – all around reprobates (their description). They keep locked up tight nights.

They offered us a place to stay as long as we want.

We thanked them, but Elijah countered by telling them that we are here to get them out and back to their son.

Our offer was met with frigid silence.

When the father spoke it was with adamant absoluteness. He will never leave. I saw the same resolve in the mother’s eyes.

We turned our talk to other things – of the denizens, their rulers, and the seaport beyond.

We hope they will change their minds.