Day One Thousand Two Hundred Thirty One #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

We found the redoubt empty and in disarray. It had been abandoned in a hurry. Whether it was to join the battle or to flee we didn’t know.

Mawuli and Tomas opted to keep vigil. Through the whole night.

But I took over at midnight and sent them in for a much deserved rest.

Actually there was nothing to watch or guard against. Save wild animals. And none put in an appearance.

Elijah led us out in the early morning. He wants to reach the village at the edge of the wilderness by tonight.

No matter how late.

Along the way the Captain shared a premonition. He doesn’t think he and Tomas will arrive at the hiding place with us.

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Day One Thousand One Hundred Forty Seven #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

We stayed another day in the village at the edge of the wasteland. But this time it was not Elijah’s call. Both Tomas and myself sensed the urge to remain – for some crucial reason.

While roaming about the town Reuben discovered a cache of food in tins half buried under a trash heap. Wild animals had uncovered them and made off with that which they found interesting.

But that ultimately was not the reason behind what held us here. That became clear before the sun set.

A group of a half dozen men came out of the west under Tomas’s watchful gaze. With a cry Tomas sprinted out to meet them.

They were all that remained of Elijah’s two bands.

Day Four Hundred Three #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

We have reached the last village on this plateau. Ahead a vast wilderness awaits. I figure it must be part of the other one we crossed a few days ago further to the west.

The locals tell us that we must plan for at least three days to pass through to the other side. They also inform us to be prepared to ward off wild animals.

As we have dealt with that type of problem before, we are unconcerned. I am concerned, however, if Stan is in pursuit. It wouldn’t do to be overtaken in such a place.

For now Elijah thinks he is probably too busy trying to pull things together after his failed meeting in the riverfront town.

Day Seventy #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Lyle reported this morning that someone was outside our camp last night. He is sure that it was not a wild animal.

There was nothing to see nor was there a sound. But Lyle says the presence was unmistakable.

In the light of day we both checked the surroundings for any signs or tracks, etc. we found none. So, we broke camp and took up our path.

Just around the next bend we found the path blocked by some hewn tree branches. And a message scratched in the dirt, ARE YOU.

It was easy to go around, so we continued on. Puzzled about the words, but unfazed. The tone no longer seemed to be threatening.

I called.

No one answered.