Day Three Hundred Twenty Six #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

It took the better part of this day to clear the wide-ranging obstacle and we are now back on a southerly course.

Elijah tells me that the crew is quite upset over the recent developments. They have taken to blaming the missing government official (Stan) for everything. And avoid his former cabin like the plague.

The Purser caught an earful and passed their objections on to the Captain. I accompanied him when he went forward to see things for himself and to calm his men. He became alarmed when he could not open the cabin in question. He sent for his machinist mate to evaluate the problem.

At that point I felt I was in the way and left.

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Day Three Hundred Twenty Three #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Elijah assures me that Stan had been totally unaware of our presence. And further, Stan’s perception is so deceived that he fully believes that he commands the fantastic being and hence every situation.

He stated this revelation to me on the bridge of the ship, as we stared back at the island shrinking in the distance. The skies above it have returned to normal. And the Captain watches with approval as the darkness flees from before us.

The Purser reports that the world government official (whom we know as Stan) failed to return before our stated departure. He can only surmise that he has remained with his cargo. This is at odds with their original understanding.

I await more revelations.

Day Three Hundred Twenty One #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

In my dreams, the world government official had no face. But it was not surprising that he turned out to be our old nemesis. He saw me, of course, but I am certain he does not realize that I saw him.

He disappeared as the ship entered the island’s single port.

Elijah and I were well away from the ship on our errands before unloading commenced this morning.

We passed through the town and made directly for the summit of the mountain, which is the whole reason behind the island’s existence. A caldera actually.

The minute we set foot on the trail, a tremor staggered us. We did not turn back, but pressed on.

Something is stirring within the mountain.

Day Three Hundred Nineteen #DiaryoftheEndoftheWorld

Though I had those dreams, I’ve kept them to myself for now. I’ve no need for an interpretation, the meaning is plain enough. It’s only a matter of waiting for the right time and place.

What is most disquieting is that it will involve the world government official who is currently on board. It makes me the more curious to see him – I wouldn’t need to meet him – and to see exactly what is in their container. Though I am sure that it would make no difference to Elijah.

The weather remains clear and optimum for a swift passage. The Captain tells us that we should sight the island later today and make landfall tomorrow.

I am not so sanguine.