Bartolomeu

Dear diary,   I find myself writing the last page in this small, little notebook. Fitting, as tomorrow could very well be my last day on this beautiful earth. Cute, haha. Anyway, let’s start from where I left off. Last time we were just embarking towards Roib, the famous wonder Island. The island of sin and money. And the place where no matter how rich you are you can always leave empty handed, and not only because of the markets. Hehe. This here island was empty. Nobody was walking its earth besides some guards and a strange old man, but we’ll get back to him. Everybody was sheltered in the inner city. A marvel of engineering. A city built inside a volcano nesting the best technology you could imagine.   That old man however didn’t feel scared enough to lock himself down there. He greeted us and we had a chat before he invited us into his house. His name was Ewelon Roseld, a retired merchant, he claimed. Tallion told us before that Damaschini and his party encountered this Ewelon before and nothing from his story seemed to make of this man a trustworthy one. We played stupid for a while, trying to get to know him and his intentions a little, until he obviously recognized Tallion and figured out we knew about him. We told him about our goal, that we wanted to procure transport for the people of Vedia. He gave us to options: 1) we would introduce ourselves to the high governing council of 5 that we were representatives of Vaneolin and we came here to settle the debt they had or 2) we would get rid of a couple of council members so that he could place his own people on those vacant positions to regain his lost power. We asked for some alone time to think and we started deliberating the plans and voting on our approach.   We stood as follows: Me, Eve and Tallion were against siding with him because we didn’t trust a single word coming out of his mouth. I, for example was sure that either way, he will do the killing and we would be the scapegoats. I’m not into that. And Eve and Tallion fully agreed with. We were thinking of a way to make ourselves heard and win our way inside the city so people can hear us and hopefully listen to us and get out of here before it’s too late. On the other hand, Verfy, Nixie and Heron wanted to use Ewelon’s help to get inside the inner city and work from there. Given the votes we went with Ewelon’s idea. We all stared heading towards the Great Seal, a huge metal door, impenetrable by design by normal means, that opened the way to the inner city. The door was… just immense. It was somewhere around 6 stories high (no there weren’t buildings with 6 stories in this city, but try to imagine one) and a lot wider. Right above it, on each side, there was a ballista pointed right at us, with what seemed like no person controlling it. I don’t want to know what that thing fires like. The door opened in stages, with each stage opening in a different way, from horizontal to diagonal to weird zig-zag patterns. It was amazing, and sllooooooooooooooooooooooooow…   After what seemed like an eternity we entered a large corridor that probably lead to the city’s center square. We took a left at some point towards our loggings. The tunnels were illuminated by some weird, probably alchemical stones in the celling, behind a piece of stained glass. I have no idea how that works. We were heavily guarded and we couldn’t leave our quarters, so we discussed what to tell them, the council. We were summoned quite fast though, to meet one of the council members. We were escorted to a big room with a bunch of holes in the walls and huge doors of stone with a table in the middle wits all sorts of alchemical tubing and openings and buttons and stuff. Behind the table there was our guy. We started talking nonsense and bullshit about Vaneolin and their debt, until he, obviously recognized Tallion Almas and decided to arrest him for stealing Marcon’s treasure alongside Damaschini and his party from the Roiban council. He opened the doors through his wonder table and soldiers were readying to enter. That was.. not okey. And we had no choice. We couldn’t let this happen. The trap was sprung and we had to survive. I trapped the council member in a heavily accelerated time bubble and shouted my plan to the others before I myself jumped inside the bubble to try and close back the door. It was the weirdest feeling ever. I don’t even think I recovered mentally from that, not even now, over a week after. I saw him, slowed there, almost frozen in time. But when I jumped in, I felt like my body lacked behind for a split of a second. Then he was moving at normal speed again, like nothing ever happened, but around us everything happened so so fast. I saw Verfy running at an incredible speed behind him and when the effect of my spell wore off she slowed back down to normal speed and knocked his ass out. I somehow managed to keep composure through that and started to look for the thing he used to close the door. I looked for dust marks in hopes I can find something. And I did!!!! Phew. Unfortunately I was too slow, and a guard managed to get in, but he was quickly dismissed by our fighters. After that I decided to quickly dress as the council member and I figured it’s the best time to use a new trick I learnt. After I learned how to make myself invisible by changing the way light works around myself through magic I decided to try and show people something else, rather than nothing. So I morphed my face to look exactly like that council dude. I cannot do more yet because I’ve just discovered this ability, but I am sure I will be able to keep a form for longer in the future. It’s hard on the mind. So, yeah. It was all a malfunction of the door and a false alarm. We hid the bodies and I tried opening the door again. But… well… It wouldn’t open!!!! What’s worse the seats that we were sitting all started retracting into the ground from where they came from. And a bunch of cannons appeared from the celling, everything while sleeping gas started pouring into the room. I felt first to the gas and everybody else right after me. This was not good, so so not good. I couldn’t let us die like that. I had to do something. I recalled the terror of everybody I felt back then on the boat. I couldn’t let any of those fears come true, I love these people. I, quite literally scared myself awake for a second through their pain and the realisation that their fears could become reality. I was gathered in a pile alongside everybody else while a tornado was coming towards us and a new kind of strange gas was just about to ignite the entire room. I slowed time around us and watched to see if we would be alright inside the storms eye, which we were, but the upcoming heatwave was about to be the true test to our survival. There was little to nothing I could do, but inside my time bubble I could see the explosion happening slowly moving towards us. As I tried waking everybody exploiting the connection I had with their feelings of terror I collapsed to the ground because of the gas.   I woke up in some kind of hospital, like the ones I heard about in Ionolia, where priests take care of wounded soldiers, diseased people and whatnot. But much more crazy and nice. I was taken care of, but I had to refresh my disguise in order to stay there and try and find my friends. At some point some people came checking on me. A problem soon appeared. I don’t speak their language, oh no. So I played hurt and muttered the names responsible for this mess: Tersiolis and Ewelon. They treaded me some more and left. In the corridor next to me I started hearing shouts, and explosions and fights. From what I could gather they were stagging a coup against me!!! Unbearable screeching and gianormous footstep sounds started to come and approach my room. Like a metal on metal kind of fight but with enormous strength. I was scared and feared they would find me and kill me thinking I was that poor guy Gertis. So I ran into a corner and hid myself from their eyes, and soon enough they broke into my room and I found out what those sounds were. Right next to me was a… huge statue with obsidian claws, sharpened and glowing, and… eyes?!?. That thing, that golem was searching for me. It left soon enough and I started hearing even more fights on the streets until it all went silent. There were bodies everywhere I stepped. Soldiers disembodied, pieces of golems broken apart. Even a few completely destroyed. I could see inside one of them, albeit much of what was inside was probably taken away. But I could see the traces of what was once there. There was a place for a heart, and everything looked like a human would look like. With veins of obsidian and weird pieces of quartz where a joint would be. These things were incredible, but I had no time to wonder about. I had to find the others and get us out of here somehow. I dressed as one the guards that wasn’t torn apart like a doll and made my way to what seemed like a prison. On the way there I saw a platoon escorting Ewelon and some other seemingly important people in chains and beaten up towards the prison. I followed them and pretended I was one of them. It was easy, and they led me right to the prison. I left their group undetected and started to search some cells where they could have put my party. I heard one of my songs at some point so I followed that sound, but it was such a big god damned place that I got confused and didn’t notice two guards finding me. One of them asked me something… So naturally I replied: Sir yes sir. But then he asked me something again, and I was out of tricks sooooooo…yeah… I pulled out that weird stick they used to threaten me and shot it at one of them while shouting, in roiban, traitors. He managed to parry my attempt and the other one attacked me. Luckily their armour is incredibly strong and it deflected a couple of hits. But I still got hit and at some point knocked down. Shit that’s bad, I cannot die, no please. AAARRRGGHH. Okay bart, think, use your brain, not your body. Ugh, I morphed my leg as to appear almost tored apart, like one of the defeated soldiers from before, and revealed my chest, which had a large hole in it from a golem’s hit, while fainting death. It worked, but I was also bleeding out, so I had to do something quickly. Luckily reinforcements came at my cry and saw those two carrying a body and they started attacking each other. I crawled my way out of there like the dead person I was and I ran to find that whistling. I managed to find a trapdoor in the floor leading to their cell alongside some levers that controlled some sort of punishment mechanism. I freed everybody out of there, but not before giving Tallion a quick bath. Hihi. I was sorry, there were no times for games. I ran to them and almost fainted from the blood loss. They patched me and we started to see who is missing. Vadrek unfortunately was not there. He died in that room with the gas. :( … And Eve was badly burned. Out of a sudden Tersiolis came to us, oh god why, and kind of asked for our help so he could get away with this murder case we were accused of. He basically just wanted us to tell the truth about Ewelon and what happened inside that room, and in exchange we would get to live long and happy outside of their city forever. Well, we had no choice but to accept. It was a defeat for us this time. I begged him if he could take Eve and tend to her wounds. Thank god he agreed. He didn’t let me come though. I just hope she is alright. We spent 5 days with the trial and everything and we returned defeated to our boat after we learned that they even chased our refugees away.   Ugh, we couldn’t make ourselves heard… They brought Eve when we left. She was fine, still feeling dizzy and heavy. I took care of her as much as I could, but she just wouldn’t let me. I tried bringing her food in the morning, but one day she just woke up earlier that me and sneaked out so she could take her own plate. She wants to be strong and she surely shows strength, but she needs to rest to recover. She is so stubborn sometimes. But she motivated me to work harder for what I want. If she fights like that for the sake of not showing me she is weak and in pain then I should try at least as hard as her to achieve my plans! Ah.. She does bring out the best in me so many times. I love her so much. *small little heart drawing*   Right before we left Roib we wanted to know what happened to our refugees. I suggested that Tallion could vision his way there. And he did, and found not one, not two, but twenty one dragons alongside their riders on the coast we left everybody. They sensed him and started flying towards us, so we started sailing away. There was no way we could fight this many dragons. Behind us we left Roib, the wonder island, its people still trapped inside. Right before Roib went out of sight we saw a huge cannon designed by Kelly (don’t even ask), who traded her way out of there, shoot a massive projectile with great speed towards one of the dragons. It hit and disintegrated ones head in a massive explosion of ice. Well, 20 dragon riders left. It was quickly overwhelmed by them and destroyed to pieces… That was the end of Roib. I hope somebody, somewhere managed to survive and will be able to retain its memory and knowledge. If not, then humanity lost one of their most precious information center.   We couldn’t help those refugees because of our poor choices, so naturally we gathered to discuss what happened and see how we could improve. We turned back to the moment we decided to ignore Nixie’s orders in Iomen. We discussed at length the event. Eve supported Nixie, but me and Verfy were quite violently asking her questions about her state of mind and morality. We both felt that respecting her orders would stand against everything we stood for and that the rest of this journey would come to an end for us two. No matter what happened next. We quarreled for a bit until Tallion abruptly interrupted us with a: guys I forgot why I was thinking this but the room feels weird. I looked around and yes stuff starting to float and then the wall bent and suddenly pierced Tallion. Ah yes, how could we forget about the boat demon. Our fight fuelled him and his power to the point he was able to control the magical plane around us. I laid on the floor and started recalling the last time terror overfilled our minds, trying to feel everybody again. I was quickly terrified by so many thoughts it was unbearable. But I had to do this… People wanted to form a circle of trust and help each other fight this demon, but… I couldn’t.. do that… I simply didn’t believe I trusted them, especially Nixie. After everything that happened in this journey I learned a lot about myself and a lot of stuff I would like to change for the sake of these people I love. It’s just… hard. I wanted to trust them, I wanted so bad to trust them, but I knew I couldn’t. Even though I had so many memories and adventures that scream trustworthiness, I had my doubts as well and my demons trying to stop me from believing. I hated myself for not trusting them. WHY CAN’T I JUST TRUST THEM. Yes blindly, like I do the Almighty. I never expected something from Him. But, ah. That was it. I wanted something from them. They were not enough for me. I wanted them to be perfect like I know God is. How could you not trust Him and His perfectiveness, right. But I need to trust my friends as well. With everything bad that comes with them. I cannot not trust them. I must do it!   I remember staying there, crying my eyes out ignoring everything that was going on around me, trying to feel them. Truly feel them. I wanted to understand why I cannot trust them. I wanted to see them as they don’t even see themselves. Their naked soul, bathed in the terror that surrounded it. I prayed to the Almighty and to our dear Sea they would give me the power to understand them and truly trust them as I trust Them, love them and I love Them. I just wanted to do it, so so much. *smudge* I couldn’t die not trusting them. I couldn’t. It was a struggle with myself. I froze multiple times because I couldn’t take it all, their feelings. But I persisted, I couldn’t let them down. Eventually I felt a warmth pushing me to try harder. Then another and another. I was loudly crying and screaming in pain at this moment until I just froze and stopped in time for a split second. I… did it… I felt it… I felt why. I felt every one of their fears and heard them. I felt Nixie’s despair we would die and she never got to apologise for that stupid kiss with Eve, I felt Eve’s fear of losing any of us and and her fear of being the worst soldier on the planet and the fact that she thought she would never be forgotten for her disobedience. I felt Talion’s fear of not being strong enough to fight this change, I felt it all. But behind this fear and terror, there was warmth and love. The love that brought us all together. I felt it all. I was there with them now. We all, together managed to push away this demon through our little angel Sea. She bonded us like that and she was the one we recalled back to unite our hearts against this demon once again.   We managed to push him away for now. We lost Xebec though. He died protecting Verfy. All of a sudden the door opened and a white figure, small in stature and with the warmest smile. It was Sea… She came and hugged us all, ethereally, but I’m sure we all felt it the same. She left a cookie besides Xebec, a real cookie!!! She asked us to never sit silent and she waved at us. I couldn’t stop crying… I was so happy and so sad and so full of everyone and so empty of myself and so… I cannot define what happened. I couldn’t stop crying for an hour I think. Even after that I kept shedding tears until morning. All of that really took a toll on me physically. I mean I wasn’t even sad anymore, my body just would not stop tearing, that’s all. I hugged Eve so hard I thought I broke a rib. Omg I’m sorry.   We told the crew about Xebec’s death and we gave him a burial at sea. As Verfy said, he always wanted to visit that horizon line. We departed as he sailed towards it. He was a great man and he died fighting for what was right. Now it’s time for us to continue the fighting.   We started sailing towards Vaneolin. Dillen was now in charge of the helm. I would stay next to him with the map to plot the course together. We sailed for a few days. Meanwhile I practised my singing some more while Eve read about runes. I could see her smirking at me from behind that book from time to time. She really thinks I cannot see her, does her? Hehe. So you are not letting me help you and you also spy on me while I train. No no, not like that. I made sure to push her a bit on our next discussion as I know she doesn’t want to express her opinion too often now. We are here to push each other right? :P Soon we caught sight of the first elvish lands. We were pasing by Nesim, since it was close to Fordel Forest, the bad side of Fordel (yeah it has a bad side). So we were going to Metherol since we’re faster on the sea. We had to make a decision regarding “The gamble”. A tight corridor between Irilosi Peninsula and another island where pirates used to ambush ships. Tallio entered his vision and looked over there to see if anybody is waiting for us when he saw a weird black ship with a huge titied mermaid statue with xenatine pieces on it and a pair of red eyes. He somehow saw his old crewmate, Cato, which was dead. So we decided to turn tail and run towards Nesim. When we got close to the city we were greeted by a bunch of ships crewed by undead elves bearing the three pointed lance and that weird vedian symbol with the eye. All whilst above the city flew a flag with the three pointed lance. We had no way to fight any of them and nowhere to run so our captain, Nixie, ordered us to abandon ship once we beached it at the nearest shore and run for our lives. We ran like no other day, but some undead scouts spotted us along the way so we had to keep moving. At some point we heard a bunch of rustling from the bushes and then a voice shouting at us: ”Damn your dimension”. And of course the obvious:”Tallion Almas!”. Just how can a single man be known in so many parts of SO MANY WORLDS? Ugh… This guy was Ghilders. He is a cool guy. He rambled some stuff about his dimension and how he won several events that we don’t understand, but most importantly he came to us, or rather Tallion or any of Damaschini’s party members, a letter ascking if we need help. Looks like Mr. Z (Zarkuz/ZuZu) told them about what is happening in our world and what happened to their party in what seemed like perfect honesty. I was a bit confused as to why he would do that. I though at first he was a bad guy, given what Tallion told us about him. Now he seems like a good guy. But, if everything is true he is just deranged and like playing both sides of the coin. We will have to talk about that letter from Badjid and Lullaby, but now we are nearing Metherol.   We reached the forest next to Metherol and our druids discovered that the city is under siege by a huge undead army. We all quickly decided to find a w way to enter the city and help it during the assault that was about to commence the next few days given the undead were now constructing siege equipment.   So yeah, that’s funny as this is my last page here awaiting the biggest battle I will be part of, probably ever. I will need a lot of hugs from Eve before this fight starts.   May the Almighty save the souls of those trapped by Evil’s power.

So, we would stay here in Enneth for 7 more days until everybody is ready for departure. We took this time to train and read and brew and whatever. Drenizek was recovering well. Eve took him and Xi’Xi for lessons on common. She was trying to teach Drenizek how to write and read, and Xi’Xi, well basic common. It’s a hard start, given the fact that she know nothing. I’m sure she will do an incredible job. I remember the times she was teaching me gavan. We would power through like a perfect team. Of course there were some distractions too. Hehe. Talion, I think resumed some sort of training to better understand the way higher arcane works. Verfy, Dillen and most of our muscle man were training towards, well, muscle. But I decided to join in and try to learn a thing or two about nimbleness. I want to be quicker on my feet, who knows when that might come in handy. It was interesting, and easy. I still had a lot of time on my hand while I wasn’t running away like crazy, or doing weird stepping techniques Dillen told me to do. I admit they worked. Since I was alone anyway, I decided to start rereading my diary. I know how that sounds. Why, would I? We’ve been through a lot, and in the moment you often miss stuff, sometimes important stuff, due to the natural chaos and way of things. So yeah, I’ll read. I’ll try and remember everything we’ve been through, again and again, so I can learn as much as I can from my own actions. I somehow have to detach myself from this diary, and read it as an outsider.   The week has passed. People told me Nixie went into the Glaston forest with some kind of crazy elf teacher of elemental magic. I am glad she could keep Nixie safe from all those nighthaunts. I do wonder how the curse of Fordel is affecting the mind, but I wasn’t going to find out about this here either.   We embarked and went on with our journey. We decided to go south this time. We had a debate and a vote for it. I remember even fought about it. I don’t remember what I’ve voted for. Oh, never mind. I wanted to go back from where we came and I was quite confident in the decision and brought up good points for it. But actually I voted for the south. If you ask me why, it was because I had a weird feeling. I remembered Talion told us a lot about the peoples from the west, and I figured this would be a great way for us to learn some more and gather more allies and tell people what we knew. Actually we had this conversation before we even knew if Drenizek was to survive or not, or was it after…?. Ugh, I’m a mess… I don’t know. We are going south.   I finished reading my diary a couple of times. I made quick and short notes on the more important stuff and I added things I remembered I missed. It’s funny how things happened. We, some random people, were approached by an angel because of someone we recently met and had a drink with, and went on a journey through the Great Western Desolation on a boat, that wasn’t even ours, matter of fact it is Damaschini’s boat, a person of such importance for a lot of people and of many good deeds that never heard of us, and we actually managed to survive, some of us, and we reached the place where the world was born. Beat that. Some would say it’s destiny or fate, some would say it was just a matter of very convenient coincidences. I’d say this happened because we… wanted it to happen. Yeah. Just that. We actually wanted something to happen. We continued the work of Pullius’ old party, that also wanted something to happen, until… maybe they didn’t want anymore. But I think this Damaschini still wants, otherwise he wouldn’t have given us his ship. I mean it’s a glorious ship, nobody in their mind would give out free ships like that. And crewed too. Yeah. I see that I’ve been obsessed with Eve long before I even realised. I do like to lie to myself. I’m always a little happier when I think of her.   On the ship, Nixie gathered us to tell us the tale of her and Miremis, her crazy teacher, in Galaston. She started off with saying how she met Miremis, and the tests she put her through before they went in the forest. It was interesting to listen. Getting to know more about elemental magic opens a lot of doors. I don’t think I’ll be able to do any of it, but it’s nice to imagine the ways of manipulating nature’s power to your likeness. I do wonder if nature can refuse you. Or if it likes being manipulated. But I think I should ask a druid about that. Not a sorcerer. Anyway, I remember Pullius telling us he wanted to go too, but was rejected by Miremis. Which was even funnier, for me, because we later learned they went in there naked. No armour, no weapons, no supplies. Nothing. Completely naked. I felt Nixie’s relief and Pullius’ regret right then. Haha. So, Nixie started telling her story. I do wander though. Why is she lying to us? She hid stuff in her story I am sure. That was not the Nixie I know. Maybe she fooled the crew, but they’ve only seen one side of Nixie. So yeah, at some point I wasn’t really listening to her story anymore, I just kept making remarks at the fact that she was naked there and did all of that. It was entertaining for us all. And I do wonder. I’ve never seen a naked elf. For some reasons I thought they don’t do that. But that’s what the human, uneducated mind can do. Eve got a little mad at some point and squeezed my hand to make me stop. But it was way to funny, I was just teasing her a little. Testing the ground. It’s not like I was going to strip Nixie right then and there. I slept alone that night. I took the time to focus more on my training so I wiped out my diary and started to focus on that. I still haven’t felt any different from when we left Enneth. What did I miss? Where am I mistaking? What happened?..   I didn’t sleep much.I read a lot. I remember the next day, the first thing that snapped me out of it was Nixie leaving for Galaston late in the day and the crew fighting over a bottle of wine. I tried to focus, but as they were right above me I gave up and took a break. I was alone, in our room when it happened. Looked like Nixie left Dillen in charge for the time she was gone. A logical decision I suppose. But why not Verfy, or me? Since, you know we were the other 2 candidates. I guess I wasn’t reachable, so why not Verfy then? Eh, that doesn’t matter though. What happened is that the crew were getting bored and wanted to liven up the spirits a bit, somehow. And word of Drenizek holding alcohol reached their ears, so obviously they charged towards him to ask him to give them some. He refused. So Dillen insisted, given his position, Drenizek should have given him what bottles he had hidden away. Unless he was tasked with keeping it safe. Captains orders. But, well, he didn’t say that. So I am not sure if that were the case. The others started calling each other names and all, and tried making deals and promises to get some of the wine. Dillen at some point started saying some really rude stuff towards Drenizek, calling him a liability and complaining about him getting preferential treatment. I agreed with Drenizek, but not with his approach, or words. There was more than just that that fuelled his hateful mouth. Yes Drenizek was a liability and he was getting special treatment, but of course that was happening! He was just about to die from the inside out, he needs time to recover. There was no need of calling him that. I’m sure he knew and hated it too. As for the alcohol situation Dillen was in the right to ask him to give it to him. He was now the captain of the ship. In any case. It was a hell of a fight. Verfy and Dillen were the main belligerents of it. I think Drenizek eventually gave Dillen the alcohol and everybody shared it. More or less equally. In the morning, when Nixie finally arrived back on the ship, we gathered to talk about what happened there and about Pullius’ dreams. He dreamt of his old party, more particular about Cato, who came to him, in the night, atop the main mast, with a black-reddish sword, throwing each and every one of his former party’s heads on the floor before him. It was a dreadful dream and we concluded that maybe still had some unsolved issues with them. So we talked about it and tried to help him. It seems like he felt abandoned. I hope we helped him. While he was trying to speak his mind, Eve kept on interrupting him with remarks. I told her to just let him speak, but she insisted on continuing. I don’t know if she was teasing me or genuinely mad at Tallion, again, but I slapped her to make myself clear. She stopped for a bit, and looked at me telling me she’s sorry. I took her hand and we continued talking. I caught her trying to say something mean again so I squeezed her hand, quite hard at some point, I’m sorry love, to stop her. I really wanted this to be about Pullius. She was looking at me, with her cheeky eyes. I was so mad and so in love. Nixie on the other hand dreamt of Marcel. She went on the beach and looked for Miremis, but she wasn’t there. In her dream Marcel would draw the Primordial Tree I the sand and then cut it in half and dissipate it. We tried to help her recover and not despair. I am not sure how much we succeeded. She did seem a little bit better, but she was still in shock. At some point Verfy brough up the incident from last night and I was already all done with that conflict and all conflict in general. I took Eve by the hand and went in our room to just forget about all of that and feel whole again. I was glad she came with me. I thought she would still be mad with me. We actually haven’t spoken since the Naked Nixie event.   When we returned everybody was gathered on the ship and Nixie was admonishing them for quarrelling in her absence. I couldn’t agree with her on this. She kept on insisting on the crew’s problem with alcohol like she only left for one day, and their poor, little, weak, baby souls couldn’t hold on knowing there is alcohol on the ship. She got very Heron about the situation, shaming them for what happened. When, in fact the problem was: Dillen was in charge, Drenizek refused to follow his orders and Verfy got in between and pretty much gave Dillen a hard time being in charge and opposed him. So, yeah. That’s what started all the bad mouthing and shaming everybody was now throwing around at each other. It was terrible. I felt like we should’ve talked about how to stop this from happening again, rather than discussing whether or not Drenizek is the most alcoholic man on the ship… I was kind of on the Dillen side of the argument. I was against his way of shaming Drenizek because of his state, but I agreed with the facts he presented. He was in charge, he wanted to give to crew alcohol once they found out there was some, and people didn’t respect his word. Verfy and Eve were on Drenizek’s side. During this discussion Drenizek rose up and acknowledged the before mentioned things and admitted now that he believes in the Almighty, that he is in love with Nixie and that he understood the importance of this journey we are undergoing. And the fact that more hardships will come and that he is going to take the fall for everything that happened. Now it was captain Nixie’s turn to give out punishments. She decided to punish both Dillen and Verfy. Dillen for misuse of captain privileges and causing tantrum on the ship, while Verfy was punished for disobedience towards, the then in charge, Dillen. And Drenizek would be tasked extra work, which funnily enough he was already doing, but nobody knew that… Dillen and Verfy’s punishment was: drum roll………… To entertain us in the following night… I’ve never felt so distraught. Not only the main problem wasn’t even addressed, and punishment given for what seems both sides of the argument, which I find stupid. Why are you punishing Verfy for holding Drenizek’s side, even if the orders he was supposed to follow weren’t right and shouldn’t’ve been followed. That’s why you are punishing Dillen right? He shouldn’t gave given out those orders. I couldn’t understand. I tried telling them that and I even supported Dillen’s points openly. I don’t know. Also, spoiler alert. There was no entertainment from those punished… Yeah, why even bother…   We resumed our work and sailed until we reached an elvish village, close to a human settlement, right before the Road of Storms. A place where nature’s wrath ravages everything in it’s path, unchained and untamed. We stopped to resupply and prepare for the, most probably, a continuous storm ahead of us. At noon some riders came and asked for our help. They were from the human village nearby, having heard of our arrival, and came to ask us to beat some sort of abomination, lurking in a temple nearby. We agreed and rode towards said location. I still don’t know how to ride a horse so I rode with Eve. When this is all done I’d like to learn to ride, and maybe even buy two horses, one for me and one for Eve. And we would ride them here and there, through the wind, exploring the more hidden aspect of the kindgoms that surround us. Everybody has heard of Weldyn and can imagine long, tall, never ending walls. But the true people and spirit of a people lies in the villages that surround those tall and wide cities.   We reached the temple and started searching around and inside it. It was dark and tight. It must be one of those very old Singularist temple, back when humans didn’t know about the Almighty. Inside we found the altar, broken down with dark arcane marks and leftovers all over it and above it was… well, the abomination. I cannot describe it with words. It was a mess. A mess of dark arcane energy, distorting and eating away at anything it touched. It quickly latched to Pullius with a tendril through which he would transfer a part the force received from our attacks. Eventually Heron would get himself one of those too. We tried hitting it, but it was very hard to actually hit something inside and our hits would get absorbed and distorted back through those tentacles towards us. I decided to support the others and try and distract it from latching onto more people. I managed to get it’s attention by, well, mocking it with the power and voice of everybody that died fighting it!!!! It was only just me, and I wasn’t thinking it would actually work, but it did. It jumped on me and bit me with… something then it latched onto me as well. Now my main objective was to survive what the others threw at it. Verfy lost a sword to the abomination, one of those beautiful black-steel swords from Damaschini’s workshop, back in Ionolia. But she wouldn’t stop hitting it. Heron was trying to hit as many tendrils and the abomination at the same time, seeing it worked at hurting it better. Nixie threw white fire bursts at it through her staff in which she channeled all her strength to multiply the number of bursts she could conjure, therefore hitting the abomination like no tomorrow. And Talion kept us, but mostly me and himself alive with the arcanic and healing power of the soul. He would concentrate and send out a bright flare that would pass through us and hit the abomination, returning a fraction of the damage it did as healing power to us, therefore nullifying the abominations power somewhat. Eve took advantage of our little bracelets and shielded me from some of the force coming towards myself while also tendering to my wounds through her magical touch. We eventually brought down the abomination, only to reveal the rapidly dissolving body of the priest that preached here.. He was trapped in that abomination, fuelling it with his essence. Corrupted and trapped. A dreadful way to die. Nothing was left of his pour soul…   We were all tired and after searching the temple and houses nearby we found a small button and a symbol which we’ll need to find more about. Eve went to pray at the altar, while I prepared a room for us to sleep in. Everybody else was sleeping in the main room of the temple. I felt somewhat, safe there, away with Eve. In the morning I noticed Eve seemed troubled. I didn’t bother to ask, as I found the reason obvious. We slept away from everybody. And I too felt.. bad about that. Even then, when they started fighting I ran away with her. Now too, I ran away from them. I didn’t even realize it. I used Eve as some sort of safe place for myself. I just wanted to leave the others and stay with her, because I can’t stand them anymore.. I bet she feels terrible.. Fuck.. Am I the problem? I thought we were on the same page. Why isn't anyone listening to me?   I need to read again. It must be something. It must be.   M..

Dear diary,   I am not sure how I am feeling, in any case I probably shouldn’t feel like this. I don’t know. I’ll explain.   After the day Drenizek wanted to leave, I decided to call in another one of our together training session. After seeing just how much everybody enjoys them, I might just make them more common. Hehe. I wasn’t feeling particularly well that morning, but I wanted to hold a session as I thought it was fitting now. I asked everybody to tell us how they feel going on in this journey, now with Drenizek and all, and before we reach Enneth. Nixie was actually feeling a bit better and hopeful with the whole situation. I was happy for her, she had a tough time recently with Drenizek. I am not sure is she loves him. Romantically I mean. I don’t know if Nixie does that, frankly enough. Yeah it sounds awful, I know. But she is always so.. calculated and even cold in decision making sometimes. I feel like we, humans and elves alike, we make decisions based on our feelings and emotions towards something. And that makes us special. I don’t know… Maybe I am a bit harsh. I might have grown a habit… Eve tried and successfully evaded todays training, I bet she thinks we skipped her by accident. I noticed that. I don’t like it when people don’t take my trainings seriously. I know she feels weird or maybe she doesn’t want to talk, but we need to communicate in order to fix our problems, right? Right?.. I mean people don’t really think too highly of those together trainings I can feel it. I mean, Heron barely talks, Nixie outright despises them and feels constrained by them and our stupid feelings and Eve just tries to avoid them and, maybe she is not even telling us the truth. Not fully at least… Verfy seems to like them, but I have the feel it’s only because she can’t get Nixie to tell her stuff. Coming back to the together training, after Verfy told us about her and how she felt, she quickly picked up on my, maybe not so usual stye of response or my face I don’t know, and asked me how I feel. I am usually last or first in those trainings. So yeah. I told them I felt… tired. Very tired. Recently I started thinking a lot about the stuff we’ve seen at the Sapphire Fountain and about us and how we see the world. Each one of us. “Is anybody or everybody made to save the world?” was a question that sticked with me. I don’t know, I just felt bad. The trainings too… I didn’t tell them what went through my mind though. They suggested I take this day off. It sounded nice, taking a break from everything. Eve volunteered to stay with me and cuddle. I felt a bit bad at first and wanted to refuse, for keeping her away for a day from everybody else. But I realised I was just dumb for thinking that. She really wanted to be there for me so why push her away. So she took me away to our room and gave me a wonderful massage. I even fell asleep at some point. I know we were talking about something, but it felt so good that I blacked out of happiness. I still felt my ears being bitten by her. My sneaky little poppy thought I won’t feel it, hehe. I didn’t mention it. I gave her that victory. Later that day while we were both reading, in bed, she asked me if she can play with my hair and make some small braids. I couldn’t say no. It was a perfect, relaxing evening.   I think it helped.   Next morning, very early in the morning, Nixie came rushing to our door and banged violently until we opened, looking all panicked and a bit pale. I thought something happened, I could feel the adrenaline rushing in my veins as if I were to fight something. She told us Drenizek had a dream. And in this dream there was Marcel. The demon with no mouth and crossed eyes. He showed him he was going to come after Nixie. We started by calming Nixie down. As far as we know, that’s what Marcel wants. Desperation, because it clouds your judgement and makes you an easy target for the mistake monster. That’s from an old tale my mom used to tell me when I was little. She always told me when she was angry that she would let my get eaten by this monster and I would only make mistakes for the rest of my life and so I won’t be happy. Now that I think about it. That’s like, really awful and childish. Anyway we decided to ignore that dream of Drenizek and focus on what we can do to help him survive the consumption. Bringing even more weight on his shoulders with a demon talk would only bring him more suffering. Poor man only wants to protect us from seeing him suffer, that’s why he always tries to look strong and healthy. We continued with our usual routine, streamlining towards Enneth.   Drenizek’s condition was worsening fast, so we decided to sail through the night as well and not stop. We were getting tired but we couldn’t go to sleep. At some point a cold and weird wind blew us away from course. It was somehow coarse and menacing. We looked closer and suddenly a hand fell from the crows nest. And then more pieces of Gerky started to fell. I cannot describe it. It was awful… It was a nighthaunt’s attack. We quickly rushed inside and barged the door, just when a bunch of claws went right through it. I didn’t get to see one of them as Talion purged them with a wave of arcanic fire from inside, but not after stumbling on the floor for some reason, nut I am sure they are terrifying. Being the aspect of fear itself I am sure they are no joke. The ship was clear now. We checked it thoroughly. There were only a few of them, but Gerky was the most exposed… We buried him and paid our respects and we continued towards Enneth. The winds calmed down now. Nobody could sleep after that.   In the morning we finally reached Enneth. It looked so pristinely green and lively. Even though it was bordering one of the most cursed forests the man had discovered. The city appeared as a shiny golden glimmer of hope in the middle of darkness in the morning sun. It was a beautiful and inspiring sight. We were met by a few ships of elves that came to meet and greet us. We introduced ourselves and told them about Drenizek. They, very unusually cold and distant, accepted to help us and shelter us for as much as we needed. We were glad, but I couldn’t help but notice something about the elves in this city. They are not just completely disconnected from civilization, but from life itself it seemed. They were once the epitome of faith, but since we the humans learned about the Almighty through the miracle from Marion they felt they lost their purpose in the world. That’s what I feel. It’s.. sad… I wonder if we lost our purpose too…   Enneth has this huge monument of stone, shaped like a leaf with plants actually growing from it. Right through the stone. It makes me think back towards The place where it all began. It has this ring to it, Enneth. Of that little perfect world. It’s not the same, but for everybody else, this probably feels like perfection. We went to sleep in some little elvish houses arranged for us. We even had fresh clothes for us. Eve looks even nicer in elvish attire. But I miss that look she had when we first left towards Alomir. Her riding pants in particular. Hmm. Not the time for a trip down memory lane!   After we woke up and ate, an elf came to tell us we will be speaking with the council some time later in the evening. So we started preparing some sort of speech and talked about what to tell them. They didn’t speak the common tongue so we relied on Eve, Heron, Nixie and Talion to relay our messages. So we started talking. I got a bit annoyed. Okay a bit more. A lot more, fine. Shut up. We a lot of discussions already regarding our purpose of fighting to protect life and.. I don’t know how we somehow drifted away from that, I am not sure. I get the feeling Nixie just wants to defeat Xantinya and kill her, Verfy is confused and tries her best to understand what we are telling her, Heron just seems way to aggressive in his approach, to the point of shaming people and defeating the purpose itself by forcing people to be of help. Talion just spews bullshit and irrelevant stuff. I think Eve and I think alike. I mean, we are supposed to tell people that the world is going to change. Things bad might happen. No, demons are not coming to kill us all. No Xantinya won’t come and destroy everything by herself. And no there is no apocalypse coming. This is not the end. The world is not ending. Not until the last soul gave up fighting. That’s how I see things. If we want help, we should convince them to join us by encouraging them, strengthening their hope, mind and soul. Not by carefully presenting them a list of pre-apocalypse signs and tell them, hey come help you’ll die. We were supposed to fight disbelief. Or so I thought… That’s how we protect life, by fighting whatever comes, but first we have to fight for ourselves with our demons. That’s what demons do, corrupt you. Fool you. And once you are weak enough they finish you off. They don’t attack you with a sword or plot against you with your neighbour. Wars are not started by demons, but by humans. Why is nobody listening to me?..   We then went to the council. To put it simply it was a total failure. We even quarrelled between us. I tried to tell Nixie what to say as I saw she was having a hard time, until one of the elders asked that only one of us would talk. So I sat in my corner quite from then. Pullius too was very keen on interrupting any of the elders from talking with his “BLESSED PEOPLE” remarks and comments. I felt horrible. Nixie kept on insisting about Xantinya, and signs of apocalypse while the elves were telling us: “okey, and why should we come, it seems like a human’s pronlem.” They requested to see us and talk with us separately after that. I figured they saw how we fought and were curious on our individual views or something. I, for one don’t know how to speak elvish, so I though I’d try something to relay my message. I tried to reach their souls with my voice, trying to imitate how old elvish works, but for any other language. I failed miserably, of course. I could see the elders visibly relieved I was done. So I just sat down and decided to talk my heart out. I told them how I feel we are losing our purpose, and how I don’t want that to happen and how I believe.. and so much more. I talked a lot, but, well, in the end they couldn’t hear what I had to say, so I don’t know how much they understood. And if they understood something it would only be my frustration. I guess that counts too. They thanked me (I think) and bowed very deeply before me. I am not sure if they appreciated me for my passionate stupidness or for my honesty.   I believe I was the last one and when I came out everybody asked me how it went and what happened. I told them I tried to sing to them and maybe failed. So I just told them it went good. In the night we went to some sort of barge, floating near the city where there were tables set up for dinner. It was very nice. The small waves would sometimes lift up the barge slightly. It was very cute. Also it was Eve and I’s 1 month anniversary. It’s funny just how I counted the days, every single day, hoping the next will come and we would still be together, so I wouldn’t miss our anniversary just to almost forget and also bring her nothing for our first. I took her on that barge to look at the sea, and told her. She got very red and apologised for forgetting and actually not even realising that only 1 month had passed. Honestly I was surprised too. It’s only been one month. One month since we first held hands under everybody’s eyes. One month since our first kiss. One month filled with so much more than just a month’s worth of love. I calmed her down and hold her it’s nothing. And I just asked her if she wants to just sit there and watch the sea together. She agreed so I warmly hugged her and hold her there for a while.   At some point we saw our ship moving. At first I panicked and looked towards the others but I saw Verfy and Xebec missing and Dillen and Nixie laughing about that. So I figured everything was okay. It was funny to see the ship sailing in circles in the moonlight.   Next day Eve and I went to the church here in Enneth to pray and just have a walk around. When we came back an elf was just coming to tell us we’ve been summoned to the council. There they told us the big news. They would decline our request of joining us against evil. But also they would join us if we gave up Xi’Xi. There was no way we would accept that, so we, saddened, declined. That’s when they revealed the ambush they set us, only to tell us that they would indeed join us. It was quite a scare for all of us. We were glad they accepted. They also told us Drenizek is healed and is now awake, recovering slowly. Everybody was ecstatic. I was relieved to hear Drenizek survived. The Semane really do miracles. As for the council’s decision I… was happy, I guess… I don’t know. I just felt like I was either a fool, doing nothing to convince them, maybe even helped them decline more easily, or I was a deciding factor, the hero of the day. I am not sure which one is worse.   We had a group hug after that. We are to stay here some more days to prepare for the journey.   May the Almighty guide us and strengthen us.

Dear diary,   It’s been a few days since I last wrote. I am not sure how to feel now. A lot of stuff happened on our blessed boat, as it usually does anyway. Both good and bad. Anyway let’s take it slowly.   As we were sailing the beautiful western sea, that we think connect the Siomalos sea to the Great Southern sea, Pullius from his vision noticed, in the woods nearby, some people. They were chasing something, by the looks of it. He couldn’t tell. At first I thought they were hunting something or maybe fighting some other humans and then it hit me. Wait a second, people?! Here? I cannot believe it, we’ve finally reached some civilized lands. Happy noises everywhere. Talion told us about people living in these parts of the world. They were ancient Blessed people. I thought about their culture mesmerized at the thought, until Gerky shouted he saw some people and a bigger man? On the shore. We looked closer and it looked like a fight between humans and… something. We sent Verfy, Eve, Heron and Pullius to investigate and calm the situation down. Me, Nixie and the crew remained on the ship. I saw them rowing towards the crystal blue shore and just about when they got there, a lot more humans appeared. We were very far away, it was very hard to understand what they were doing. After some time we went there, at Talion’s call, and they told us what happened. Apparently they fought of some humans which tried to kill, *cough* Xi’Xi a Strygian *cough*. (??????????) She(?) represented an ancient race, one of the four first created, Talion told us. Me and Nixie were very confused as to why they did that. I mean, I kind of understand why they helped her, but why kill so many people? We quarrelled for a bit on the subject, but before we finished anything Xi’Xi asked us for our help. She had lost her sword during that fight. We bonded, somewhat, and Nixie began to tell her our story and the fact that we have to kill Xantinya. I meant draw, because we obviously couldn’t speak her language, nor she ours. Anyway, we had to do try and gather some herbs for Drenizek so we decided we would go, with the prisoners we had, into the woods towards their settlement.   On our way we got into a trap. We were surrounded. We narrowly avoided a fight. Heron and Eve got between Xi’Xi and the humans, as they were both about to cut each other’s throats. They spoke a different tongue, but one of them, a sorcerer knew elvish. So Nixie and Heron started negotiating. At Heron’s advice we freed the prisoners we had, as an act of good will. We tried to reach an agreement, but they were constantly insisting that we give up Xi’Xi. Truth be told, I agreed with everything they said. We were hardly in the right and we were the ones that should pay. I really felt like we shouldn’t win this argument. Eventually we reached some middle ground. We learned that the strygians and this particular village were engaged in some very old war, so we held on to that thought. Nixie proposed she, I mean we, would take Xi’Xi on our boat with us, so that she may not disturb them ever again. In exchange they would let us go freely, give us that sword and send us some supplies for drenizek, mainly herbs and honey. Oh I love honey, even if I am completely terrified by bees. How can something so sweet and warming be made by such frightening little creatures. Anyway, their leader made Nixie swear she would uphold our deal on an elvish iron sword. It had a faint blue-ish glow to it. I could see Nixie was troubled, but she accepted and swore, before the Almighty that she would not betray what was spoken that day.   And so we returned on the shore, where we had to wait till next day for the herbs. We continued where we left, the fight. Mostly me and Nixie were disappointed in how the rest dealt with the situation. I mean, things could have gone much better. People shouldn’t have died… I understand, they wanted to protect the surrounded, endangered girl. But.. Eh. What’s done is done. If I was there yes, I would have done things differently. Or maybe not, who knows. I was a bit too harsh with them. Eve left at some point as night began to set. I knew she was bathing probably so I went after her to talk. I was upset, yes. But I still love her and want to see her happy. So I went to apologise for being harsh and tell her that I was indeed a bit upset. We talked for a bit. She told me something.. a bit hurting. She said she thinks we’re together, or rather, I am together with her because I like to see her admire and worship me and for our bedroom time. I don’t know.. I felt weird, disheartened for a moment. But I quickly calmed down. I know my poppy. She was sad, yes. Because I was mad with her. And sadness brings with it a lot of dark thoughts. We had so many moments where I could feel her heart more than enough times to understand what’s between us. So I tried to calm her down and assure her none of that is true. We ended up having a nice quiet time on the beach after that under the sky.   When we returned to the rest of the party they were drawing stuff on the sand to communicate, which was funny, but effective. We tried to convince Xi’Xi to come with us and talk with her kin to stop harassing the people of this village. Please. I am not sure how much she understood, but we seemed to have agreed on something at some point. I am not sure on what. She plunged into the water and swam away. That sounded like a problem to me, because when the humans would come tomorrow they would definitely ask to see Xi’Xi. So I thought of gathering some shells and make 2 crowns of friendship to use as an excuse, somehow if that were to happen.   When morning came, alongside our dearest herbs and humans, so did the dreaded question. I quickly answered she was going to collect shells for the a crown as a symbol of peace, and showed them on of them. Meanwhile Talion and Drenizek started to waste as much time as possible by thanking them for the herbs. It was hilarious, Drenizek would make these pompous statements which Talion, slowly, would elaborate even more. It was amazing. Or so did Eve told me because I don’t speak elvish. Soon enough their patience ran dry, but luckily Xi’Xi came just then, to our relief. I quickly ran to set up for my small little lie and make them believe our story, which I think they did, and after that we made the exchange and bid each other farewell. Xi’Xi told us she would come on our ship and that she spoke with her kin. We were all relieved, Nixie especially I am sure. We embarked and set sail. After a few minutes we saw some weird figures on a shore we were passing. There were more strygians waving and some of them channelling something. Soon enough our boat started to move faster. A lot faster, crazy faster. To the point I even fell from the acceleration. Xi’Xi was waving at them too. It was an awe inspiring moment. One of them, I believe her father, was wearing some sort of cape, probably resembling some sort of authority in their… village? City? Underwater caves? I am not sure how and where they live, but I must be fascinating. Talion told us some more about sstrygians after the fact. His old party inquired more on the subject.   The strong current we were on helped us cover a lot of distance really quick. It was even very steady. I had an easy time preparing some potions for Drenizek who was getting worse and worse by the day. Now he had a fever. God bless potion making, for it has a cure for almost anything I believe. I prepared him some concoctions to drink. A lot of them. So he could endure and hold on just a tiny bit more until we get to Enneth. He was angry we had gone through so much trouble just to make him feel better. But it wasn’t like that. We would have done even more than that for even less. We all care for him, Nixie the most of us all.   Later that day, in the afternoon, Xi’Xi wanted something to eat. We offered her some of our dried meat but she rapidly refused, so naturally we thought of fish. I mean, I thought that might be offensive at first, but turns out she love fish. We had no time to stop and fish though, so Nixie tried her magic and sent out a call to all life around us to come. Eventually a few fish started to jumo in our nets, then more fish and more and more. Xi’Xi was overjoyed when she saw them. But suddenly we heard a loud bang and the ship began to shake violently. A huge, blue whale started to rub against our boat. Soon enough we were riding on her back. It was terrifying and awesome. I’ve never seen a whale before, not in the flesh. I even saw that little orifice they have through which they squirt water sometimes. I am not sure what it is for. Breathing? I never thought of studding marine life. At some point we eventually began to fall of her back and we slammed into the water, breaking a few holes in our boat as a result. Repairs slowed us down a bit, but we managed them quickly. The rest of the day was uneventful. As if that wasn’t enough, haha.   The next morning wasn’t that exciting and happy. Drenizek, who was feeling better, called us to tell us he would like to leave the ship on a small rowboat towards wherever the sea would take him. He would what?!?! We tried to stop him. Heron had a weird approach of almost scolding him for leaving and calling him a coward, while me and Verfy tried to calm him down and get him to stay, but eventually it seemed like something he would really want so we kind of gave in. I wasn’t content with that. He was desperate, desperate to stop us from having problems because of him, but for us it wasn’t a problem or a struggle. We did that filled with kindness and hope. We wanted to save him. Nixie was the one who changed his heart. She was in tears and, I am sure, in physical pain. She told him she would never forgive him for leaving us like that, while barely keeping composure. It was the first time I saw Nixie cry. That’s when Drenizek fell down on his knees and fainted eventually in Nixie’s arms. He was in a bad condition and we had to hurry even more to get to Enneth.   May the Almighty give him strength and favourable winds for us.   PS: I found a note with my name written weirdly with a small smiley face on it. Drenizek really wanted to leave… I am glad he stayed. We must save him.

Dear diary,   We managed to take Sea home… What now? That’s what everybody asked themselves in their mind I am sure. I too was a bit unsure of the answer. I had the general idea of what we’d like to achieve, but we need more than guidelines if we are to succeed. After a bit of contemplating and overall relaxing… as it was a lot to take in… we gathered round a small improvised fire on the beach next to that beautiful field. I brought the map and we started discussing which way to go. I wasn’t sure why this was a question, as the only way back would be the one we came through, right? I was wrong. Nixie suggested we should take it westward. It was uncharted territory and uncharted seas. We didn’t know for sure if the two seas, Syomalos and the Great Southern Sea would be connected. We had that old Tovan/Singularist map that suggested so, but it was probably just a guess. People had different opinions on the matter so we concluded we would take a vote. After everybody presented his or her concerns and advantages about the routes we voted. I wanted to go east, back from where we came, but more people agreed to going the west route. I agreed with the outcome, as I am a strong supporter of democracy, and started to plan a route and figure where we should go to avoid the infamous Du-Ul. A land filled with criminals and every nation’s most wanted and dreaded people. Or at least that’s what I heard of it. Cursed nonetheless. Reason enough, right? Haha.   After that we told the crew our decision and everybody was very approving of it. I must say I was surprised a little. I sense they have grown a lot from this voyage, just like us. They didn’t seem to mind the extra journey we had to make, and the fact that they might not be able to go back to Alomir on this ship. I am really proud of each and every one of them. Before everybody came I took Eve by the hand and left. I wanted to spend some time alone with her in this amazing place. It was just too peaceful to miss the opportunity. I told everybody not to expect us too soon.   We walked for a while, to make sure we are out of sight of any wanderer, while holding hands, kissing and hugging a lot. We stopped and went swimming in the azure sea. It was wonderful… The sunset was perfectly caught between two pointy rocks in the distance, almost looking like a heart. We reached a place where we could sit in the water, on a soft boulder, somewhere near some cliffs. The water was very warm, and refreshing. Even though we lost the sunlight there was still enough light for us to see, and…well… play and love. I remembered our first time, when Eve used that vial. It was magical, yes and it was perfect in the moment, yes. I wasn’t imagining something that could be better in any way. But I was wrong. We had no vial now, no magically induced palace or feelings, just us. If that was perfect then, this is perfect now. I just wanted to be lost in her and never ever leave. We were a lot more restless than usual. And I don’t even care what you think, dear diary. Call me a pervert or whatever you want. I want to love my poppy-Eve and give her the best energy I can muster. We eventually got out of the water and settled on the field nearby. The flowers and grass made for amazing pillows, blankets and bed. Even though we were naked we didn’t feel any coldness. It was as if mother nature tendered to our needs. The sky was filled with stars. More stars than I have ever seen. Eve was on my chest, twirled around one of my legs with her own. Night began to set in, slowly. But I wasn’t feeling like sleeping. Everything today was indeed mesmerizing and so.. so.. pure, but I couldn’t let this day end like this. There was something still missing. I bet Eve woke up because my heart started beating a lot faster. I asked her if she was sleeping. She was awake. I told her about today, and how I felt about it and that I wouldn’t ever forgive myself if I didn’t told her this. She looked up at me, and tried to stop me. I was certain of this, and had no hesitation... Yes, sleeping together is amazing, but that is not what’s important. It’s the feelings you feel when you sit like that. Saying nothing, starring nowhere, incapable of thinking about anything else but the person next to you... That’s what I feel love is like. And that’s what I am feeling. I told Eve I love her, truly, as she tried saying something before me. She didn’t say anything. I knew it was very early, we’ve barely been together for a month, but I didn’t regret saying it. I told her it’s okay, she doesn’t need to say anything. She looked at me and asked me to say what she felt. There I saw it. She was vulnerable.. yet brave, anxious.. yet calm. Her eyes were like an open book, carefully presenting the story of the most beautiful soul I’ve seen. I replied the same. I knew it, felt it. She loved me too! I must say I was a bit scared, but then relieved. Mutual love was not something I had much contact with, but that changed now… My heart could finally rest. We went to sleep shortly after. I hold her tight the entire night and dreamt of this day for several nights to come. I… love.   The next day we both woke up smiling, it was early but the crew was probably readying the ship to leave. We quickly dressed up and went to join them, but not before a quick session of Bart kisses, as every morning from now on shall be. We were right, and a bit late, yes. Oops. We started sailing and doing our everyday trainings. Eve and I hold our usual gavan lesson, which went very smoothly. See, we can be serious together too! I went to check for some stuff in my room and came back to Eve and Verfy talking. I wasn’t aware of the discussion, but it seemed over, so I took over. Given our present situation with Pullius and his demons I found myself not needed anymore. So I suggested to Eve, as she was alone now, if I could move in with her. Her eyes literally started glimmering, I swear. I could feel her excitement, both in her eyes and her lips. Verfy approved too and encouraged Eve. I think they might’ve talked about this or something. Anyway, we were celebrating there. Meanwhile, Nixie, our very curious and INTRUSIVE captain decided to ask Heron about the naughty feeling of everybody on the ship, which of course, included us. Verfy had a surprisingly naughty idea of a threeway between her, Nixie, and Xebec. And was quite open about it too. I do wander if that’s something common for fire elementals… Anyway. Heron was now all fired up, so he had to spill everything because that’s what we told him to do. I knew I would regret it at some point. I was thinking non stop at the day before, while Eve had A LOT in mind, for the more close future. I… was surprised, yes. But intrigued. I knew her already to be crazy, but she was my crazy girlfriend. She, on the other had was not so happy with this outcome. She jumped in the water. After we brought her back on ship, Heron had already finished presenting everybody’s desires and his. Verfy was kind enough to take him away for a while, that’s when I took Eve and gave her a long kiss. I didn’t care for her naughty, kinky desires. Maybe we’ll even try some. I like her intensity. I am more of a soft guy, but I have my naughty side too. Anyway, enough with the bedroom talk. Drenizek came and hit Heron in the head with his staff, seeing he had peaked inside our minds. Eve wanted to try out hitting him too. It seemed fun so I joined in. It was a lot of fun! Hahaha. We resumed our day as normal. Eve had me take a gavan test to see if I am worthy of moving in with her. Needles to say, with such high stakes I gave my best and got it all perfect. And it wasn’t easy either. I went to pack my things up and called Eve to see how we organise our stuff. The rest is history.   The next few days were uneventful. I finished my gavan lessons and worked more on my singing. We discovered we were now sailing on a new sea. It was much more restless, with bigger waves and stronger wind. The type of sea this ship was made to sail upon. The crew was happy to work hard. I started to work on my nimbleness. Eve told me she’d like to see me more flexible and no I will not reveal the context! I asked Dillen for help as I saw he was kind of holding a class for this type of stuff. Most of my time not spent training or with Eve was in the captain’s quarters figuring out sea currents alongside Xebec, Nixie and Dillen. This sea is much more interesting, and I think we found a good route to follow. Unfortunately the weather stopped being so dandy after a while. One morning there were not so many waves nor any wind. And it felt odd. We quickly realised why as the ship started to be pulled in a huge storm. Waves were getting bigger and bigger. And the wind was everywhere, mostly in circles. Our ship held fast against the waves, but those were not regular waves. They were at least three times the size of our ship. And between the waves, entire valleys were formed. Everything felt like a never ending mountain trip. Poor Eve even vomited her guts at some point on the deck. I went under the deck to repair the damage caused by us free falling tens of meters. Vadrek came with me to help with the effort. I don’t know why I felt this would be a good idea, but in the moment I figured why not place the wooden planks inside the hole, “it would be easier to stop the water this way” Bart told me. Stupid Bart. Of course at the first crash everything burst inside and an even bigger hole was made. Everybody else was bailing as we tried to patch up the holes. We managed to survive this storm, all soaking wet. I tried hugging Eve but I still had that rowing motion in me and I fell down next to her. It was hilarious. We lost some cargo, but nothing too worrisome. I checked the sea with Xebec and it seemed we were now on a different current than the one before. He tried to keep us mostly pointed south by south-west. From what I know about sea currents, and the fact that here the water was warmer I concluded that we were somewhere west of where we were a day ago. It was a setback, but now we had a better current to take us, so we could make up for it if we are lucky. Somehow I was now in charge of where are we supposed to go until we find some charted lands. I guess I am a sailor now. Bart the Sailor Bard. That’s what the crew will call me. Heh. The next day I called for a together training early in the afternoon. I thought it would be nice if everybody told what they felt changed in their hearts, and how they evolved from our journey. Nixie told us he was feeling very anxious with the new information we got. I kind of felt let down by her. She said that she didn’t give up hope though, which was good. Maybe I couldn’t really understand what she was trying to say. Nixie seems very conflicting in general. I trust her to do the right thing, and she does, but if you ask her what is the right thing, it gets a little blurry. She is good at making decisions, but she is an awkward speaker. I noticed something at Eve when we sleep. She tilts her head to the right quite often and smiles. At first I though it was because I was there, but she does that even when I am not in bed with her, or when I’m on her left. I wonder what’s with that. I’ll ask her when we have some free time.   It was nearing my birthday and I wanted to train extra hard today. I wanted to surprise everybody with my singing, but I burned my tongue in the morning by accident… And then bit it… I hated that day. Why was suddenly the gruel hot. I guess that’s what I get for going first to take my food. I’ve learned my lesson. This reminded me of mother who was always telling me how to behave with women. I forgot about that. From now on I will only take my plate after all the girls had taken theirs. Out of respect. It’s the little things you know. Aaaand I won’t burn my tongue again. That didn’t stop me running around like a freak though. I am trying to lighten my footing. After such a day I went to sleep earlier than usual. I was sad. Sad Bart. Eve hold me in my sleep. No more sad. <3   Next morning I woke up full of energy. I concluded I must start my last year, before my twenties, with good mood and energy. In the morning we even saw the first bit of land in a while. Some orange cliffs with golden and red wave-like reflections dancing on them. It looked like the cliffs were on fire. It was an amazing sight. As we got closer we saw more glimmers and white accents to them. We decided to keep the west coast, going south. Later that day, after I was done singing and wanted to go on deck to see what everybody was doing Eve stopped me, because she had something for me. She gave me two bracelets, each with some runes carved on them and a little drawing. Mine had a pair of cherries and hers had a peach. I melted right away. And they even had a purpose too. She told me they would help us protect each other even when we are not close. We just needed to see the other and when needed an aura of protection would protect the other. It was an amazing gift. I will proudly wear it everyday. She told me how happy she was with me, and how much I have helped her grow, and… *smudge* the fact that she loves me, a lot. I couldn’t say a word… I started crying and I just hugged her very strongly for a while. There isn’t a single language, maybe apart from old elvish, that could tell her how much I felt for her. We started kissing, and we used that vial she had once again. I couldn’t care less if anybody heard us. This time it wasn’t a palace with sophisticated ornaments and whatever else, it was just a flower field…   A couple hours later we decided to go back up and see what’s everybody doing. Little did I know, these bastards were readying up a surprise party for me! And everybody was there too! They made a choir and sang my favourite songs. It was very touching and nice. Drenizek somehow managed to decorate the ship with the most intricate designs and things. THEY EVEN BAKED ME A CAKE! A fish cake yes, but it had something special on it. Everybody had put his little mark there on their side of the cake. They were all so cute and nice!!! I spotted Eve’s first, it was a circle. I immediately understood just how much I mean for her… I was very happy! The cake was delicious even though I am not a fish guy. There were games everywhere, organised by Nixie and Drenizek, and some by Dillen. From strength contests to swimming to athletic jumping to dancing. I took Eve dancing in that competition. In my opinion we were the greatest couple, but the jury decided Heron and Pullius were the best. I can’t deny their vote, after all Heron spun Pullius in the air like a ballerina. Eh, I had fun. I didn’t win any competition but I was in the top half most of the time. Eve was rooting for me at every step I did. It was such a wonderful day. At the end Vadrek brought a strange looking piece of plank with some runes on it. I figured this was Eve’s doing, so I expected nothing lame. She asked Nixie to throw a fireball at it, so I assumed some fire magic stuff was about to happen. When it hit it something wrong happened and the front of the ship was quickly engulfed in flames. Luckily Nixie brought a few barrels of water and extinguished it fast. Poor Eve was on the floor because she failed the runes. I lifted her up and thanked her, and told her how amazing it was, even if it failed. It still was nice. I laughed very hard. Haha. I kissed her on the forehead to calm her down. It was the best birthday party I have ever had, I told everyone that after I thanked them for it. You see dear diary, I never had a birthday party for me. There was always celebrations and good time whenever my birthday came across people's minds. But usually I was the one singing and providing them a good time. I didn’t think much of it then. I was in the middle of everything, so I felt good, but I never actually had a party for me. Like actually for me. These people did that for me. I am so thankful for everything. I don’t regret any of my old parties, at least now I know how to tell true friends from people that just take advantage of me. Here I had true friends. I couldn’t have asked for more from these people. They are amazing. I love them all.   I felt blessed today, God. I just want to thank you. May You forgive those beautiful people for their mistakes.

Dear diary,   I'm treating you today by writing in the most beautiful place on earth, I am sure of that. Today was wonderful and had a lot to take in, so brace yourself, it's going to take a while. Let me start off by saying this. I've never imagined I would get to know what I know now. And I must say I am scared. I feel privileged in a way, but responsible too. For a lot. You'll understand soon. It's okay, Bart will manage. He has some amazing friends near him, and the most amazing nutcase poppy girlfriend. <3   I'll start with the amazing day of... whatever actually. I forgot to check what day it is. So, the day before yesterday started like any other day. Me and Xebec were in the captain’s quarters, this time Nixie being the captain of course, plotting a course and trying to predict when we would arrive. It was due today, somewhere in the evening with good wind. Lucky us had some good windy days the past week, almost. But the fog wasn't helping. As we reached land once again, Xebec had to slow down so we don't crash into anything. Just before sunset we reached some tall rock formations, cliffs. I called Xebec to the map and we concluded we had arrived at the Sapphire Fountain, its outer edge at least. It was very foggy so we couldn't really see much, but we spotted an entrance at some point. For safety we decided it would be better if we would spend the night outside and go in first thing in the morning. Who knew what other obstacles could have been there. Next morning we set sail into one of the gaps between the cliffs. Everything was good until suddenly the ship stopped violently, as if we hit a castles wall. I went to check for rocks underneath the ship, but nothing was there. No shipwreck either, nothing. We were all a bit confused and a little panicked, as it didn't seem we had hit anything, until Pullius recognised a magic veil in front of our ship. It was a barrier. I tried touching it, and it felt very smooth and soft, but unbreakable with force. Drenizek was the one most annoyed by it since he started punching it while screaming: "LET ME IN! LEEET MEE IINNNN!!!" I quickly went to talk with the Black Sylph. I told her we arrived, we arrived home. She immediately started to giggle and jump everywhere. She was so excited she wanted to come out on deck. I offered her my arm, as she wanted to walk there herself. I told her about the crew but she didn't mind. I could see that glimmer in her right eye get brighter with every step we took towards the bowsprit. When we got out of the mess hall everybody remembered the angel that saved them from the lady of the sea. Except Dillen who was a total ass, but it's not even worth mentioning his words. I could feel the Sylph's excitement as we got closer to that magic barrier and when she reached it and pulled it towards her, the ship started moving again. We were inside.   The fog started to clear slowly as we were advancing. I was on the ledge with Eve when I saw a fish. YES! A FISH! Then I heard a seagull, then more fish and more seagulls. I couldn't believe my eyes and ears. Besides us we saw nothing but death for over a month. As the fog cleared we could see the water we were sailing on. It was the most beautiful azure blue I've ever seen. It truly looked like a sea made of sapphires. I couldn't see all of this without shedding a tear of happiness. I took Eve by the hand and hugged her for a while. We felt calm, after so much distress and loss. We kept on sailing for the rest of the day. The crew was happy to work hard once again, as the wind picked up massively. We were flying. Night came so we dropped anchor in the middle of the sea, mesmerizing at the clear sky and all the life around us. There was a beautiful scent in the air. I don’t even remember when I fell asleep. All I know is I woke up on deck, with Eve on my chest. I kissed her good morning a bunch of times and we continued to admire the view that was before us. The Black Sylph was with us and she was constantly pointing towards where she felt her home is. At some point a huge school of fish started to push us. It was amazing, I almost fell in the water. We reached another chain of cliffs and rocks similar to the one we entered from. We found an exit, or rather an entrance to something greater. We took a few rowboats, because we were closing in on a shore.   We entered some sort of heaven there. Or maybe a fracture of heaven. We noticed a small rock which had a sylph engraved on it. There was no path to follow but we went in that direction. The Black Sylph was almost dancing of excitement while guiding us towards where she felt home was. We entered a beautiful large field full of flowers. Roses, dandelions, poppies (yes, I thought of Eve), lilies, everything. The Black Sylph stopped, and so we did. The crew went on chasing some butterfly somewhere. She gave us her mask, and we could finally see her face. It was saddening… She was all black, corrupted. Except her right eye, glimmering like the brightest star on the sky. She thanked us all for helping her and hugged the ground. We could hear her! A voice in everybody’s heart, calling Ftheis. A voice so pure and brave… We watched as bits of her started flying with the wind until there was nothing left but her clothes and the cookies she ever got from us and Damaschini’s party. She was finally home, with the Almighty…   Soon after, a few butterflies came at her belongings. We looked closer and realised in awe that those were not butterflies. We were seeing Sylphs. Small winged elves. They were barely the size of a peach. They touched her clothes and flowers began to sprout from them. Nixie helped us with the translation, as they were speaking old Elvish. These elves were the Black Sylph’s family. They told us her name was Sea. A derivative from the word Seith, meaning bonding. A perfect name… She was truly an angel. She bonded us all together like nothing else could. The sylphs wanted to thank us by showing us and answering any questions we had. They brought us to a pond, where they all pointed their fingers. An image started to form. Multiple images. One of the sylphs was narrating the story as we went. Nixie tried to understand as much as she could and tell us. We were about to see the place where it all began.   It all started with a few lights of different brightness. They were the first beings created by the Almighty. Angels. One day the brightest light called upon Ftheis and asked Him for something, telling Him they where feeling lonely and wanted to love and create something. Ftheis heard his prayer and so the lights paired, each pair giving birth to an elf. Those elves were taller and had wings. They lived in the most perfect world. Beneath the celestials. The world we saw at the monument of life, filled with what we now call elvish steel and star essence. At some point the elves crowned one of their own as the king of all elves. He wore a round crown made of silver with 3 tips pointing towards the sky. The brightest light was furious, as it wasn’t his elf, despite his being the tallest, smartest, fittest and most beautiful by all standards. The light went to Ftheis asking him for something, but this time on a darker note. Then he began ascending into the sky, higher and higher, while shining brighter and brighter until he violently dropped beneath every other light and turned into a source of darkness, a shadow, a demon. He and almost half the other lights turned into shadows. That was when Heaven and Hell were born. The darkest shadow and his followers asked their elves to leave the others. And so a separation between the elves was formed as well. A war soon ensued between the celestials. A horrible war. One light was not involved in either party though. It was the pair of the former brightest light, now called Lucifer. It stood there watching the war. Her name was Aneith. The elves didn’t like the war, and they were hurt by it. Seeing their parents fight was awful. One day the king of all elves went to the now king of all turned elves. He tried to convince him to come back and live peacefully again, so that their parents wouldn’t fight anymore. Aneith then went and asked Ftheis for something, then it went and talked with the other lights. It arrived on earth where the two elves were talking and whispered something into her child’s ear. She whispered of death and murder. Elves were immortal and did not know yet of conflict and killing. She gave him that knowledge and a black sword, which he used to stab the king of all elves in the chest, murdering him. The first time blood was spilled on earth. Aneith’s eyes turned from green to purple while a choir formed of both angels and demons started chanting her new name: Xantinya. Then half chanting and praising her as loyal, while the others as a traitor. Every star essence she touched turned into Xenatine. She turned into a shadow and plunged into hell to her pair, Lucifer. The elves started massacring each other, going straight ahead into a war that would wipe them all. That’s when the king’s daughters prayed to Ftheis to save the elves and take it all upon them. A huge rupture then happened. The sky began to shatter, the ground collapsed, trees, plants, life seized to exist and in a split moment one world became 9. 9 new worlds each different and stronger in one particular way than the others. Ftheis threw the kings family in our world, the world of magic, and the turned elves into the world of death. Then He cursed them all with eternal life and Xantinya to forever be linked with the mortals' destiny, so she would finally understand them. After a long time, elves began to sprout from every corner of our world, this time tall as we know them today, but without wings or immortality. That’s where the story of when it all began stopped. These elves here where the king’s daughters. A lot smaller though. They were once tall, like every other elf, but the curse and desire of man to surpass God slowly ate at their size. The Wester Desolation being right next to this place affected them greatly.   They showed us how Sea got to us. A long time ago, when Gava fell, a powerful lich lord came here and wanted to destroy this place. The elves fought him, but he managed to capture Sea. For years he tortured her, ripping her wings and experimenting his dark magic on her. He slowly cursed every bit of her, corrupting her being. When the curse reached half of her body she disappeared suddenly into another world. The world of the soul. Where she wandered around, in an empty field until she was found.   We were all in awe and shock. Who would have thought we would live to see the world’s genesis. The sylphs implored us not to tell the elves anything. I feel weird. Relieved but stressed at the same time. Happy but sad. Our purpose evolved. We once only wanted to bring Sea home. Now we must stop Xantinya from destroying ours. The thought of stopping a demon is unnerving enough. But Sea managed to escape her immortality and go back to Ftheis, so nothing is impossible. We now have knowledge, a blessing and a curse, but most importantly we now know what to choose from. Fighting or giving up. And I won’t give up on anything, no matter how hard it might seem. We will manage somehow. That’s the beauty of life. It always sprouts. I know Sea will watch us from heaven. We won’t disappoint her. Here is where it all begins. We will miss her.   May the Almighty save our souls.

Dear diary,   I love you. Does that make me self centered? Because I'm technically loving myself. Anyway that is not a bad thing either. I love myself too. Okay, lets start over. Dear diary, it's been a while since I last wrote in you and a lot of things have happened. I feel good now and in a good mood. I feel we are getting closer to our goal, but anyway.   Last time we had just voted our new ship captain, Nixie. I must say I wasn't the happiest with the result, but you don't always get what you want in life. I sure learned that. But no, I am being too dramatic. I live a beautiful life, I couldn't ask for more. So captain Nixie started her leadership with a nice speech for the crew. It was... sloppy yes, but inspiring, I guess. I don't see the most charismatic leader in Nixie, but it's not all about that. I do believe in her and I will surely help her along the way if she needs any help. After the speech we gathered to talk about whatever the fuck happened just a day before. Pullius and Heron. Main subjects. One was oblivious of his problems, the other was naked. Yeah, I know. So we started talking. Pullius was a bit rude towards Eve at some point, and didn't seem to realise. She had enough, so just left and went to sleep. We tried to understand the problems of our two subjects. It wasn't the best of talks I must say. Things got a bit heated at some point so we decided it's late and we should rest and talk about that tomorrow.   In the morning I saw that Pullius was sleeping a lot longer than usual, so I tried to wake hip up and bring the others. He apparently had a very.. tiring sleep. He was very sluggish the whole day. We asked him about that, but he failed to say anything to us. He kept insisting it's nothing, while we all knew it's that demon's work. We tried, I guess. I don't really understand Pullius. Last night he told us, practically everything that was going through his brain. Even about our little chat from that night. He actually listened to us. But this time he just closed off. I don't know. I hope he is managing, we are trying to be there for him. After we had breakfast, a bit later in the day than usual Pullius went on deck with the others while I stayed a bit more in our room to organise some of my stuff. Just when I was going to get out and go to Laimon for something, Eve wanted to talk to me. We stopped and looked at each other. I don't know what happened, it took me a few seconds to respond to her greeting. And just after that she pushed me back into the room, saying she needs me. And I am no fool. I locked the door behind her as we started to kiss and undress each other. The past few days were horrible, death all around us and some of our comrades died whilst fighting those horrible ghosts and undead. It might have not been appropriate by some standards, but having Eve close to me helped, and I could feel her feeling the same. We both needed each other. At some point I heard a loud bang underneath the lower deck and people starting to shout and making a lot of noise in general. That's when we decided to throw any caution out the window and just... love. However things calmed down at some point. We dressed back as fast as possible, smirking at the other, and went to see what was going on. It seems we had found a marshlander, from the Lasmai tribe, Eve told us. A lizard like humanoid. His name was Marv. He was an old friend of Damaschini's. Pullius didn't meet him, but he had heard about him from Damaschini. So we could confirm his identity. He teleported into the storage section of our ship with a strange ring... I don't know how to feel about that ring or wherever he got it from, but it was a one ff. So no harm could come from it anymore. It was apparently a stone altered by some exterior and powerful will. I don't really understand how magic and will can alter stones, but it seems a very interesting subject. I heard Damaschini uses diamonds for his scythe and whatever else he has. I wonder if it's the same thing. I only heard crazy stories about him. About how he can summon a huge snowflake? of pure magic that sends black arcanic lightnings on his foes. And of course about his scythe being the vormiolese-slayer, which I found funny. That liberation war in Alomir really made him a lot more popular. I wish we'd meet him one day. Anyway, I got sidetracked. Marv is a really nice guy, he will get along well with us I am sure. He has some very interesting craftsmanship on his tail. Lots of spikes and it seems that ball at the end can even be thrown at the enemy. I am sure he didn't expect to land in the middle of the sea, between the Western Desolation and the cursed forest of Galaston (probably). We presented our situation to him and told him about our goals. I am sure he will find a purpose with us.   I went to our cook Laimon to ask him for a favor. I wasn't so sure he would accept but I had to try something. I wanted to bring Eve a very nice breakfast the next day. No reason actually. I just wanted to treat her. Just because we are together doesn't mean I should stop trying to impress her. He agreed!!!! I was so happy. I know we didn't have much on the boat, but Laimon managed to prepare a great meal anyway. I cannot wait to give it to her.   After that, a bit later into the day after we all trained a bit, Heron gathered us and told us more about his problem. Eve talked with him and told us in private about him. I am glad Heron listened to me when I asked him to talk with her. Anyway, he apparently has some sort of 6th sense. A lust sense... no, THE lust sense. He has this weird urge sometimes when people around him are more lustful, I guess. And HE CAN FEEL OTHER'S LUST AND THOUGHTS. I don't know how to feel about that. It feels intrusive I must be honest. I told him that too. But I understand his problem, and we agreed we would help him get over it. He was born like that, but that doesn't mean he cannot let it go and fight it. we came with a GREAT solution. Every time he starts thinking about, anything sexual really, and feels that urge of... going for it... we would try to make him tell us everything that goes into his brain. I hope I won't regret that decision. Oh god. I think we will manage. God dammit Heron you weirdo.   The same day's evening was booked for our together training. This time we started talking about Talion's dream. Which was indeed unnerving. It was basically a very visual way of making Pullius lose faith in our purpose. A new demon had taken the lead it seems. Verfy got a bit frustrated and impatient because we couldn't solve Pullius. That made Eve a bit mad so she decided to leave. I went after her to talk to her and comfort her a little, at least. I know she doesn't change her mind usually, but I had to try, because I care for her. I returned unsuccessful, but at least I talked with her a bit about it. The topic for this evening's session was: "why do we always complicate our lives?" and "let's establish some limits". We started to talk and we agreed on some subjects. It seems more people are very concerned about us not being able to fulfill our purpose. I tried to explain them how I was thinking and how that could that help everybody. It seems I touched their hearts there, and they agreed with me. So yeah, one problem solved. About the boundaries everybody that had a problem spoke up and we agreed on some ground rules. I sometimes feel like a father in those together trainings, it's not happening often, and by no means I mean it in a superior way. I don't know, I just speak my mind most of the time and put my heart in my words. I do care a lot for those people and our mission and I dedicated myself to it. After that Nixie called us all in to tell us about or cook Laimon. I didn't get why this was such an important matter but whatever. So, dear diary, apperently our cook Laimon is Isbel Lofkia, princess of Pelin and the daughter of the guy Damaschini and Talion burned to death in Alomir. It looked like Verfy too, knew about that. I guess I was just so oblivious of the signs, I don’t even know. We devised a plan for that. We figured her coming to this ship wasn’t for the love and appreciation she held for Pullius or Damaschini. We decided we would keep her identity a secret and only Verfy and Nixie would talk to her. Just like until now. I kind of feel weird now for that breakfast thing, meh, doesn’t matter. After that, Eve and I continued our Gavan lessons, and this time I could focus entirely on her and her teaching. I was in my element today. Eve is a very good teacher too.   I knew Eve wasn’t feeling the best from the past few discussions and events, so I asked Pullius if it was okay for him if I didn’t sleep in our room that night. Because of Marv there has been some shifting about who sleeps where, and it just so happens Eve was alone tonight. We never slept together so I decided it was the best opportunity. Pullius was kind enough and agreed. That night was probably the calmest and sweetest sleeps we had. Eve just wanted to be the little spoon and I was more than happy to deliver.   In the morning I brought her that breakfast and she slapped me for quote: “wasting food on her”. I was so mad and attracted to her at the same time. Haha. I ordered her to eat the food and we started playing a bit with the food. How cheeky of her. We had a good time nonetheless. Hihi. I went upstairs and asked Drenizek for some help with my new idea. The singing one. He showed me how he manages to touch people’s hearts with his singing and told me some tips. It was helpful advice. So that’s how I started to train for my soul touching singing, from the crew’s drunkard. What a comedy. I did underestimate Drenizek. He seems to know a lot more about us than it seems. Everybody went on with their daily trainings, as we didn’t have much wind anyway. Today I wasn’t the best at learning. I was focused too much on my singing, I decided to show Eve too. I don’t know how much of a good job I did, but she did seem more playful than usual. Safe to assume we didn’t do much Gavan that day. Ooops.   We passed some weird towers towards the evening, so Verfy and Pullius decided to stay away tonight in case anything would happen. The rest of us went to sleep. Sometime in the night Verfy woke us up because something was wrong. I don’t work very well when I don’t get enough sleep. But I quickly woke up when I saw Pullius grabbing Eve with an immense force, while still sleeping. Looks like our mage got possessed by that demon friend he had. I helped Eve get out of his grip and hugged Pullius so he couldn’t hurt the others while I started to sing, trying to reach him. The devil of him was smart though. While Verfy wasn’t paying attention he sleepwalked and grabbed a knife and used it to stab me in the back. He was unusually powerful, and those stabs really hurt, but I wasn’t going to let that stop me. I held tight but Eve pulled me back, while Verfy and Nixie held him. That’s when Pullius started to kiss Eve. It must have been funny for that demon to do that. We freed Eve and I went back in. He decided to kiss me too, which I found would actually be a good idea. I tried to empty my mind and ignore the fact I am kissing Talion and focused on something more. When I first kissed Eve it was magical. Like I said before I feel that’s the best way we managed to communicate. That’s what I tried to do with Pullius this time. I tried to communicate our dedication and love for the purpose we had created. After all, that’s what kisses are for, love. I must’ve sparked something in Pullius because he managed to get a hold of himself and wake up, therefore getting out of Axiol’s grip. He pushed me aside, when he saw us kissing, which was a true relief. I don’t know how the others reacted to this because I was back to feeling pain in my back. Eve tried to patch me up and clean my wound, but I think she panicked a bit and made a mistake because I felt I would faint from the pain of something. She quickly brought Vas to patch me up. He gave me some leaf to eat, to lessen the pain. Little did I know it lessened me whole. I must say it did it’s job perfectly, but I was so drugged I could barely walk at this point. I was a jelly. Eve brought me to a bed and stayed with me. I am not really sure what happened then. She was talking to me, trying to keep me company I assume, and then I think she left. I was calling for her and heard nothing. I remember mumbling stuff in my sleep. I had some weird dreams that night. I might’ve told her I love her. But I don’t know if she was there, or if anybody was there. I wished she was there. I woke up in the afternoon, all patched and well. I was alone in my room so I guessed nobody heard me. Everybody then told me about what had happened that night with Pullius and the Black Sylph. Looks like Pullius finally managed to defeat Axiol. That was nice, but he had another demon, a lot stronger, that was feeding of his helplessness. The Black Sylph was affected heavily by this fight. She lost a leg….. I feel bad for wishing Eve was next to me now. I put myself above the Black Sylph. I am glad they went to comfort her. I was just sleeping anyway. She needed them, not me. I am proud of Pullius, but now he has a new war to fight.   This day I didn’t do much, since I was still half drugged all the time. Eve and the others trained so I decided to spend some time with the Black Sylph. I talked with her a lot. About Eve, about our journey, everything. But mostly Eve and how happy I was with her. And how she would be a great mother. And how I was so thankful she was here with us. And everything… I felt very comfortable talking with her. I know good feelings help her get through tough times so I just spilled all my affection on the spot. I am not even sure how much we talked. She told me Eve likes cookies, and I knew she liked them too so I had this wonderful idea of baking them some cookies. I again went to… hm, hm, Laimon to ask if I could borrow some ingredients. I stumbled upon Verfy on the way there. Looks like she wanted to prepare a surprise for Xebec for his birthday. Hehe. Good on you Verfy. Now Eve and I can look at you judgingly too! Haha. Laimon agreed to help us both. For a seventeen year old girl that seeks revenge she is very kind. I think we might’ve helped her a bit, I don’t know. Verfy organised a party for “the well being of the crew”, when everybody knew it was for Xebec, but never mind that. Drenizek entertained us tonight, as I decided I would take Eve dancing. I like to sing and entertain people too, but tonight I wanted to entertain my little poppy. It was a nice party. I saw Verfy and Xebec dancing at some point, quite close I may add. Hehe. I definitely gave her one of those judging looks with Eve. As the party died down Eve and I went to sleep.   The next day I brought Eve and the Black Sylph the cookies I made! They were very happy, especially the Sylph. They were good. Laimon did help a bit. Then we returned to our Gavan lessons for a couple of hours. After that, when Nixie came to learn more Old Elvish alongside Eve, I started to practice my singing. The secret is feeling. I must first truly feel what I am singing and what I am trying to tell the people. It’s complicated but I am making progress, I can feel it. Getting your soul out there is no easy task, so I first must learn how to harden my spirit. I spend the rest of the days doing just this, everyday. We had some good windy days and we made a lot of progress. I feel we are getting really close, I cannot wait to get the Black Sylph home. Everybody made good progress with their training. I am really proud of us all. I decided to show them this. I know we spend pretty much everyday together, but I figured it wouldn’t hurt to tell them. I made a habit of going to everybody’s room at night and just tell them good night. I also gave Eve a kiss on the forehead every night before sleep. It might not be much, but it’s my way of lifting the spirits up. ^^   May the Almighty help us finish our journey.

Dear diary,   Another day passed and along with it, another disaster. It was horrid, today. As if the whole lich lord event wasn't enough. Shortly after we escaped into the sea something happened with one of out crewmate, Marc. He apparently was pierced by a blackish ghost, inducing a cold and terrifying fear in him. But not a natural one, I am sure of it. The power of evil is truly fascinating in its scale and intensity. Just when you think you've seen everything, something new comes across and blows your expectations, again. This ghost stole a bit of Marc's life essence, and was using it as a reference point to locate us. That way the lich and his army could track us and obliterate us. We decided to keep this one in house for a while, in the hopes of finding a way to de-mark Marc, or figure out what to do. We didn't want to panic the crew anymore than we had to. We began analyzing our situation. Eve knew that there must be a rune that hides life essence, so she started searching in her Gavan book for it. We on the other had had something else on our table. Dillen wanted to let the crew decide Marc's fate with a vote. People wanted to kill him to get rid of the problem, which I strongly opposed. We can't go on sacrificing people as we please with the excuse of, probably, saving more people in the process. I for one cannot decide someone else's fate like that. We are supposed to protect life. And taking lives for the sake of some other lives isn't protecting life. It's just 'trading' souls. Life doesn't care about numbers. What matters in life is what you do with it. Eve and the rest had the same opinion as me. Alas, we still had to quarrel with Dillen, until he decided to leave us alone and gather the crew in an hour or so, for the vote, if we didn't do anything.   I suggested we bring Marc to us and help him better understand his circumstances and help him regain that bit of life essence that was stolen from him. As we know, lifeblood tends to unite itself, and stay together. You can't divide life essence permanently. But his bit was magically isolated and took from him. But the soul is the strongest, and with a bit of help, maybe we could help him. I thought Pullius would be suited for this, as he was the most magically inclined. So I explained how he should try and apply his knowledge on how higher arcane works, but this time with him as the giver, and Marc the receiver. It seemed like a good idea. Pullius started to get closer to Marc, I suppose... He was trying something, but it seemed to me more of a beer talk, than a heartfelt conversation that was supposed to open up his soul to him. Anyway, Heron came and said, I quote: "Leave Marc to me, I'll make him want to get his lifeforce back", while he undressed himself... Umm, yeah. I too was speechless. He then started chasing poor Marc, all naked, around the deck. Verfy and Pullius tried to stop him. Pullius apparently slipped his fist in Heron's face, by accident. Another one of his unconscious actions... I will have a talk with him. Verfy put Heron to sleep and we came back to try and discuss... anything at this point without shouting at somebody. I could sense everybody was tense and angry. I myself was a lot quieter than usual that day. Eve came at us and told us she found a rune, but it was very complex, doable, but complex. And it would take her at least an hour. That was a problem given the time we had spent already. The lich's troops must've been close already.   Dillen then came and said that times up and lets vote. Things couldn't get any worse, right? Wrong. Let me explain. After a bit of shouting, a few mean stuff and some warm words we ended up with 4 options. Stand our ground and fight for our lives with whatever came towards us. Kill Marc and get as far away as possible as quickly as possible. Take Marc on a separate boat and carve the runes there and fight whatever was coming for us there, away from the crew. And lastly, fuck Marc in the ass. Heron's idea, Xebec's interpretation. I decided to lead by example and threw my colored stone for option number one, under everybody's eyes. Verfy and Eve followed shortly after. Everybody else voted privately, and the results were, surprisingly, in our favor. So we started to prepare. We brought what we thought we would need in a fight. I commanded the reinforcing of our main mast, so we don't lose it again. Everybody was in position, mostly, when Gerky shot Marc with an arrow. That's when everything started. Gerky rallied some crewmates to revolt, and said that they voted blindly and they weren't informed and they don't want to die. Dillen and Xebec clashed swords, and the crew took sides. It was dreadful and chaotic.   At that point I realised the Black Sylph was probably in pain. I quickly grabbed Eve and went downstairs to stay with her, and help her. I know people on deck probably needed me there, since I was good with people. But this time I didn't feel able to convince them. I am very confident in us, and our purpose. And I believe we will succeed. I am surrounded by very good people and friends. And this time I realised that maybe not everybody was thinking as me. I feel like I can already see the light at the end of the tunnel. But I don't think I can explain how. I feel ready to face anything with a clear mind. I am usually good with words, and surely I could have explained them the situation. But people weren't looking for reason at this time, naturally. And I didn't know how to communicate them how I feel. It's just as it was with Eve for the first time. We weren't talking, we were just... feeling. It was magical and true. Obviously I couldn't have used the same magic here with them all. So I was at a loss of... words, for the lack of a better word. I will have to think of a way, a better way to help people in situations like this. I was thinking of music, but now it's not the time.   We eventually managed to calm down the situation and Eve and I went back on deck to prepare for the fight. Right after Gerky spotted what was to be our enemy for this fight, I pulled Eve and hugged her strongly and hold her hand. I was there for her, and together we would survive this. Our enemy was a purple, floating Xenatine piece. A big one. A trapped soul Eve told me. The thought of it simply made me sick, not to mention the sight. A big shadow then formed around it, as it approached our ship, wielding a huge, cold, shadow blade. It was aiming for the people on top of the mess hall. Me and Eve were down, near the main mast ready to enforce any side if needed. Xebec pulled some kind of artifact at some point that helped with the fight against this ghost. A lot more ghosts started to appear on the ship's sides, attacking people at will. We couldn't do anything against them as our blades weren't doing them any harm. Only those blades infused with arcanic fire could hurt them. Eve tried to help Heron and infuse his glaive with this kind of fire, but was violently pushed aside. I ran to help her get up as I was trying to coordinate people to stop trying to fight the ghosts and just dodge their attacks. The battle up top was getting uglier, and we didn't have much to do below so I helped Eve climb on the mess hall to join the fight. Drenizek, the drunk, jumped and caught the stone with his hands and hold onto it for a long time, although constantly getting burned by it. Xebec then caught it with his net and everybody started to pull and climb to hit the stone. Nixie, after using that sweet little orb we had taken from the mines, kept invoking lightning after lightning, each one stronger than the one before. The power of those lightnings was mesmerizing, and the control with which Nixie hit was amazing. Together we managed to kill both the ghost and shortly after, as it was forming itself again, and the stone. A powerful burst of arcane pushed us all in every direction. But it was over. The small ghosts disappeared too. Me and Eve were fine. Nixie too. Heron, Xebec and Verfy were hurt a bit, but alive. Pullius too had some harsh cuts, or burns rather. We lost 4 mates. It wasn't the best outcome, but we should be glad it wasn't the worst, I guess. I helped Eve get up and we went to check up on the Sylph with the others.   The Black Sylph was hurting, a lot. I felt bad for her, and suffered more from seeing her than from the pain caused by those ghosts and the explosion. She wanted a hug and we gladly and warmly gave it to her. She was so strong... I was glad she at least was getting better from this all. After that we buried the dead we went to sleep, as it was midnight already.   Before we went to sleep we agreed we would vote for a new captain, a leader. For the boat. Given the course of the last fight where we had 3 people trying to command everybody. Before I went to sleep I talked with Pullius. I saw how he wasn't really in control of himself these past few days and decided to try and help him combat those feelings by experiencing them first hand. I didn't care about the pain, not even that day when he threw me into the mast. If anything I would have asked him to throw me again. This time with a clear conscience. To feel how revenge feels and how it destroys one's soul. This way maybe he would get over his problems with me, us or whomever. I do believe he is a good guy, and trusted the process. He didn't though. He told me he doesn't want to hit me. Even though I was insisting quite hardly, if I may say. I was almost going to hit him and start treating him bad to make him hit me back, on purpose. But I stopped. I wasn't mad, or something. I was just disappointed in a way. I know he wants to fend this of himself, but I'd take any help there is in a situation like ours. He told me that he believed I cheated and that may be what drove him into what he did. So we made it fair this time. We squared our beef with a manly game of arm wrestling. I won, easily if I may. I felt he let me win, not on purpose maybe. But there wasn't much force in his arm. I don't know what to do about him. And I know for a fact he is hurting more than just me on this boat. Expecially Eve. I hope she sleeps well tonight.   May the Almighty guide him towards the light.   In the morning we gathered to discuss on who will be our leader. Xebec proposed Verfy, Laimon proposed Pullius(why? something feels strange about him, I think I heard his voice crack at some point), Dillen proposed Nixie, who refused to participate, so Drenizek proposed himself with the promise to let Nixie lead right after. Umm.. okay? And Heron proposed himself too. Eve looked at me and gave me a hunch signaling I should participate too. I was a bit hesitant at first, but I proposed myself. The vote was on, results were: Heron 0 votes, Talion 4 votes, me 4 votes, I know dear diary, sad face Bart. But I had Eve's vote which was all that mattered to me <3. Verfy and Drenizek both had 6 votes. A tie, so we had to decide between them two with another vote. I went for Verfy, and most of our party too. Except Heron who voted for Drenizek. In the end Drenizek came out on top. So Nixie won. Hooray, we had a leader. I was happy for her. I don't really care about leading. I can inspire people to do the right thing from any role. Even the feeble little boy with his nutcase girlfriend. Nixie was a bit nervous to be in the leading role. After her speech, we went to talk in the girls' room to help her calm down. We gave her some advice too on how to handle it. Who knows what else will happen from now on.

Dear diary,   Umm, how do I start this? I came back from a funeral. You could imagine what happened before, but I'll start anyway. A couple of days before everything was nice and lovely. After my bath with Eve I had the nicest of sleeps. I dreamt of her. She seemed very happy with everything. The next day she and the Black Sylph hid away in their room for a while, working on something. I knew Eve was planning something because she was so excited for it. You could see it on her face. The light in her eyes was getting brighter by the hour. Eventually, after we ate and spent some time together she came at us with a bunch of tunics. Simple tunics to wear on top of our armour, but they had meaning. She painted them in white and drew the Ael Velle flag. It was a reminder for all of us of the purity of our purpose. They were very beautiful, I'll wear it everyday from now on. All the time. I love them.   After this very nice gesture and gift from Eve and the Sylph we resumed our everyday activities. We skipped this days together session, sadly. But I suppose it gave us more time to do more training. Eve tried to teach some basic Gavan as a start. This language is very interesting and I am very eager to learn it. Especially given the history of its people. I think I am getting it quite fast. My background in vormiolese, torasian and common surely helped. Eve stumbled a few times and I got a bit confused about some terms, but I got it eventually. She must've been very excited about the whole... you know, us thing. The fact that we can be together and not hide from everybody's eyes just makes her so happy. And me as well. I cannot believe I've fallen for her while never seeing her this happy. I seriously am thinking so much about her. I don't know, dear diary, I've never felt this way before. I feel something in my stomach every time I am with her. Maybe...   That day ended good. Nothing really happened. Me and Eve spend a lot of time alone and this time our diplomacy lessons went smoothly. I could resist her quirky faces! This time. Hehe. Anyway, morning came. And as usually everybody went on deck to check on everything. Xebec rounded us up fast to tell us the bad news. We had drifted backwards, somehow. So we lost a days progress just like that. It felt strange, I don't know. The worst of news didn't yet come. We were stuck in a sand dune, but we quickly realised it was a sunken ship we were stuck upon. So we started devising a plan to get us unstuck. The muscle of our ship were going to the front to start pushing our ship, while Nixie gathered enough wind to propel us to the side. When the boys went into the water to start pushing, Vadrek started shouting "purple eyes"! That's when everything went to shit. Panic slowly ensued on our ship. But we were quick to spot them, which gave us enough time to prepare a fight. As the undead were slowly climbing the ship we got to our posts and readied ourselves. Pullius was watching the back of the ship while his mirror image guarded the front. Me, Eve and Verfy took the port side of the ship. The fight was quite hard, these undead hit with an ungodly powerful swing. I got hit once, and almost got pulled back into the water by one of them. Luckily Eve was there, behind me and pulled me back. God I love it when we fight together. We might not be strong, but we are a very smart and nimble combo. She got hit a couple of times by some undead as we were trying to push them back into the water. Verfy on the other hand was slashing through every skeleton with her blackfire swords. Looks like that fire really is affecting them. I saw Eve trying to evade a blow that would've probaly ended her life. I helped her to evade it and pulled her out of there along with everybody else on deck in a tactical retreat, as Gerky was coming with hot, burning oil. When we got to safety Eve grabbed me and something strange... happened. As she hugged me I felt her hands, her small hands heal my wounds. I hugged her strongly as I flinched for a bit. I could feel the warmth of her heart next to mine. It was truly a magical moment. Her eyes said it all as I was back on my feet to kill another undead right after.   We managed to unstuck the ship, eventually and we sailed away. After counting our dead, a powerful burst of dark arcane magic sore into the sky. And a screeching noise, like an orchestra made of awfully tuned instruments, but with a touch of undead on top, started deafening us. It was horrible, the... thing that was there. A lich. The pinnacle of human strength, I can say. That left a scar on all of us. We got away safely. But we were mourning our dead. Ten people died today, a third of our crew. It was... sad. To think some of them will turn in undead like all the other poor souls is terrible... We managed to make a burial of some sorts for the ones we had rescued. We burned a few, and drowned the others. As per every culture's customs. That day was dreadful. I was happy to be alive, and see my friends alive as well. But the dead deserve some respect, because they dedicated their lives for our purpose. We will keep on sailing.   May the Almighty save the souls of those lost.

Dear diary,   It's been a crazy couple of days. I feel like I have been tested for something, but I am proud to say I believe I passed. The western desolation won't win today! The day started rough. There was a lot of fog around, nothing unusual, but I didn't see Eve coming for breakfast so I thought to check on the deck. There I found her sleeping all wet and shivering. I figured I shouldn't wake her up so I at least brought her a big, warm blanket to cover her up. She did wake up after a few more minutes, after everybody started to resume their work. She went straight to her room. I felt sad because I had such a beautiful sleep and she probably didn't sleep at all. We began to eat, I asked Pullius to take my plate too and the girls to take Eve's. I had a little chat with Pullius while we ate, to get to know each other better, you know. After I was done, I saw Eve in the corridor waving for me. I went to her room and we talked about us, and how are we going to tell everybody about us. Poor girl. She was so cold, and still shivering. She was panicked and worried about what will everybody thing of her. I tried to comfort her as much as I could. I hugged her and hold her tight while she was spilling everything that was on her mind. I could feel her heart slowly calming, and her breath and voice soften up. It's important to be there for your loved ones when times are hard. I was very glad she told me everything, that we trusted each other, and together we devised a plan to tell everybody about us, today. I grabbed her hand and went to gather everybody for our little planed 'get to know' meeting. God, I love them. I feel like I have lightened my heart already from everything we've discussed so far.   Verfy came with an excellent idea, as if she had listened to us. I know The Almighty works though us, and he surely worked through Verfy for us today. She said we should tell something we kept hidden from one another this time. Anything, a feeling, an action. I decided to start and tell them about me and my.... feelings for Eve. I told them we are now together, and happy. I could feel Eve squashing my hand this whole time. She definitely was just as stressed and anxious as me. But I know my friends, and I trust them. The girls were very happy for us, and wished us all sorts of good stuff. Pullius was the one who took the blow a bit harder, I am sure. He needed a few minutes of fresh air to think everything through. I am sure his mind was very troubled and conflicted because of that evil demon, trying to ruin him. Eve started to panic, so me and Nixie stayed to help her calm down. I looked Eve into the eyes and told her we will fight this together and that she shouldn't feel alone in this. We are here on a mission. I will be there for her no matter what. It's a promise. We hugged for a while and after everything calmed down we went on with our usual diplomacy lesson.   The fact that I can easily be distracted surely didn't help with my teaching. Eve was there, looking all too beautiful and... just...so... gorgeous, I couldn't really concentrate on anything but her eyes and lips, which she was biting everytime I was looking back at her. I thank You, God, for blessing me with such an amazing and smart woman. At some point she asked me to sing her my new song again, but she quickly changed her mind and decided to swap my lyre with, well... her! Haha, she never stops to amaze me. She started decorating my lyre with poppies and, as the final touch, she kissed it with some paint, to leave her lips on it. It was so sweet of her. I never usually let people close to my lyre. She definitely didn't enjoy the paint though, hahaha, as she flinched a bit from the taste. But I couldn't care less about the taste at this point. I pulled her closed and kissed her. I didn't even realise I had some paint on my cheek when we left the room. Verfy quickly noticed and told me when she saw us. What a perceptive little fighter we have. And Eve didn't tell me either!! So cheeky of her. I was so happy she was confident to pull out a stunt like this around the others. We were both very happy with everything. <3   Later that day, Eve, Nixie and I went to spend some time with the Black Sylph and try to learn old elvish. I didn't know simple elvish, but I always knew elvish was a very melodic language, so I figured I could make myself useful. I sat the entire day with my head in Eve's lap, thinking about the intonations and accents, while they tried to decipher more about meanings and grammar. We made a great team. And we discovered a lot of interesting stuff.   Evening came, and Nixie prepared some warm barrels of water from the rain that just swept by, for the girls and everybody that wanted a wash. Not so many people were eager to wash themselves tho. Anyway I knew Eve loved her time alone while swimming, so I figured I won't insist on that matter and I will wash after the girls are done. I was surprised to see her ask for me on her way there. Verfy wanted to come too, but quick and decisive Eve showed up and made her wait a bit longer for us. Hehe. Unfortunately something came up. An argument about religion broke up between Eve and Vadrek, one of the Goznian brothers. Everything started calm, I was talking about faith with Verfy, because she had a moment of disbelief towards almightysm after a small incident with the Black Sylph. Then this guy came up and started rumbling about some "boys" God has, to do his bidding, I guess. I respect his faith and religion, but I wished he wouldn't've came like that imposing his religion on poor Verfy, who was already troubled. Eve challenged him to a duel. A religious duel of some sorts. I knew not to interfere in her decision. Although I feared for her a bit. I trusted her judgement and I supported her with all my heart. They began fighting, fists only. Eve tried to evade him and push him to fall, but he was much to fast for her, so she got hit. Hard. It was hard to watch her getting hit like that. Then when Vadrek came with another rage filled punch, Eve decided to go straight into it. As a surprise for everyone she was still standing, barely, after such a devastating blow. Vadrek stopped and called her the winner and the fight ended, with everyone cheering for her. I ran towards her and hugged her as hard as I could. I was so happy for her, and proud. She told me, through her busted lips, that she was crazy. She might be crazy, but she was my crazy girlfriend and she's perfect just like that. I helped her get up and took her to those warm barrels of water, for a bath. After I took care of her wounds we had a good long bath. There wasn't much space for both of us in that barrel, but we didn't need it anyway. Hehe. It was just what we needed. Luckily nobody disturbed our privacy either. As each day passes I fell more and more attracted and surprised by her. I am just so happy. Good night Eve. <3

Dear diary,   I am in front of Eve's room. I feel like shit, like my hands, body, mind everything went numb. Truth be told I am scared I am gonna make another stupid joke out of reflex. But I am more scared of her response. Anyway this is not the time to be a coward. Sigh, let's go.   Dear diary,   It's late in the afternoon, the same day. I must tell you I am feeling very good. It's been.. a while. A good while... My body is feeling very different and sore. I mean, I have never experienced a woman's touch before, and I must say I am speechless. Anyway, I am drifting from the subject. Hihi.   I walked into Eve's room. She was alone, reading a book. She was visibly upset, and I figured I kinda didn't help combat that the past 2 days. And so we started to talk. We sat down on the bed, both of us, wondering what the other was going to say. I asked Eve how was she. I know she wasn't feeling good obviously, but I had to ask. I know she tried to appear strong and convince me she was doing.. ok, but I could feel things weren't that way. I told her how I felt about the last couple of days, and how I was an idiot for doing the exact opposite of what I was supposed to be doing, aka ignoring her. I felt guilty for it, after all I enjoyed my time with her a lot, and she enjoyed time with me. And to disappear like that, right after our trip in Iziper, was at least troubling. I could only imagine what she felt, but I know for a fact there weren't good feelings or thoughts. As I was looking at her she started to tell me about her problems, and thoughts, about Talion, and how she broke up with him. Yes! She did brake up with Talion. That caught me off guard. I mean, I knew she loved Talion a lot, and she was hoping for a lot from Talion. I don't know... She told me a lot of stuff about how she felt. She was very open with me, she trusted me. I felt that...   She then asked what was going through my mind. I told her I wanted to see her happy again, not troubled by her many thoughts. I tried to make her happy with my little inquiries. I at least wanted to be someone who wasn't bringing her pain and suffering. Because... (Okay, dear diary, I know and you know that I don't usually, actually never say this to women. But this time felt different. I wasn't just a cute little boy with a lyre for her. I was an actual person. And she, for me, was... a friend, a very good friend... More than a friend.) I really like her a lot. Yes, I told her I like her a lot. I could feel my heart bursting and beating so fast. In the moment I think my mind went blank as I said that. I just said it.   She starting looking at the floor, avoiding me. I could see her biting her lip a lot, and trembling. She tried to say something, anything I presume. At this point I was shaking too. I grabbed her hand and held it tight between mine. I told her everything will be okay, and... just smiled at her. I tried to calm her down. She asked me, still looking down, if I talked with Talion. I told her about my chat with Talion, and how I was trying to not make things worse between them two. I told her about the swimming lesson and our walk... It was all for her... All this time I was pushing myself past new barriers with every word that came out of my mouth. I wasn't thinking much of it in the moment.   She raised her eyes, her lovely green eyes, and looked at me. It appeared as time froze there, for both of us. There was nothing and no one around us, only us. I was lost at this point. I just wanted to kiss her. I... went for it. I leaned in to kiss her, and was met at the half way point by her. We were kissing. And what a kiss. It was perfect. I could feel every negative thought and fear leaving my body in that moment. There was only us.   After what seemed like an eternity of happiness and calm, we looked each other in the eyes, again, and we just hugged for a while, in silence. I could feel her very strongly hugging me. After a bit and a few more kisses, I noticed her panicked about what the others will think of us. I quickly calmed her down and pulled her close to me again. She was safe in my arms, and I in hers. We lied down, and slowly started to cuddle, and talk. I don't remember what we were talking about as I was getting filled with love and affection. Things easily began to escalate. I was out of any control at this point. Eve had a special vial, that she took from home. A vial that made everything around us perfect. We were there like one. I could feel every inch of her body, every breath, every muscle twitching. She held onto me like there was no tomorrow, and I did the same. It was a feeling, that I just cannot explain. Everything was perfect. I never felt such a strong feeling before. I just wanted to sit next to her, and hold her for an eternity. Heh. I've never been this happy.   After the fact, I noticed a few marks of love on me. Scratches on my back and a biting mark around my neck. She is very intense, and I love it. I think I might have given her a few marks of my own. Woops. I was too lost in it. I still tremble a bit of excitement when I think about her. Even now, late at night. Hm... Cheeky. Have a good night Eve. <3   PS: I noticed a small note with a smiley face at some point, left on our bed. I suppose we weren't the only happy ones with the outcome that afternoon. Hihi. I am overfilled with happiness.

Dear diary,   My back still hurts but I'll get by. I will get to why that is after going over what is more important. Yesterday morning, after my little walk with Eve in Iziper, I decided to talk with Talion and apologize to him for my behavior until now regarding Eve and their relationship. I offered my help to him, if he ever would have the need to talk with someone, about anything... I don't know how Eve will feel about this, but I will talk with her as well. But not now, I don't know...   Today's session of what's going on in our brains and let's try and understand each other better was about likes and dislikes. The best of them. We started as usual, around the room, this time beginning with Verfy. Everybody eventually said very nice things, mostly about how their favorite like is the bond we are forging right now. I decided to talk about my love for culture in general, and everything that goes with it: music, art, dancing, everything. It gives life its colors and flavor. I noticed Talion fading away at some point, which caught my attention. Eve said something about meaning, as in she likes to believe everything may have a higher purpose and meaning than we couldn't perceive. That gives her hope and makes her happy. It really made me soft and a bit sad, because I instantly thought about how she might perceive her relationship with Talion. Anyway, I decided not to focus on thoughts what will only bring me suffering. After all it would only stop me from actually doing something useful or good. Eve dislikes mediocrity the most. She said that nothing should be done half-heartedly and that bland stuff annoy her. I think I agree with her. I saw Eve upset today, maybe she was troubled by our walk, the other night. I kinda felt guilty in a way... I will talk with her when we get a moment of peace and quiet, alone maybe. The Black Sylph said she dislikes silence the most... :( I felt that.   After our little together session Verfy pulled me to the side and asked me if I was alright. Looks like my face gives out more than I would like sometimes. Haha. She saw Eve sad and asked me if I could maybe talk with her or help her since, you know, we've spent some more time together. I told her I was sad because of the state of how things are and stuff and that I will fix everything and she shouldn't be concerned about us. Anyway I appreciated her taking the time to ask. Nixie then asked me if I wanted to see some of her paintings. I didn't know Nixie paints! Her paintings were very beautiful and I was really happy she decided to show them to me. It made me realise she trusts me, on a deeper level, if I may say.   Talion asked my help because she wanted to talk with the Black Sylph. After we ate breakfast and saw the girls unusually interested in our cook, me and Talion headed towards their room. Eve was there reading with the Black Sylph next to her. I introduced Talion and his intents as innocently as possible and gave Talion the word. Eve decided to leave us the room. I saw her almost sprinting out shortly after passing us. That was...saddening... I knew the Sylph wouldn't be comfortable alone with Talion so I stayed close to her. Talion began talking and apologising for his mistakes and how he feels about the situation. As their conversation began to inch closer to his old party she started to write faster and faster. The Black Sylph wrote to him that he never listens, and whatever Talion said probably didn't help because she left the room and disappeared. Shortly after, she reappeared next to the bed, on the floor, making a heart-breaking sound as if she wanted to say something really bad. I quickly rushed Talion to bring the others to help calm down and help the Black Sylph. She then asked Talion for a hug, and my heart melted. I still don't know what exactly went inside her heart, but one thing I know for sure. She loved being around Damaschini and Lyiaria. We had a group hug, a very close but careful group hug. Eve, almost crying, asked us to stop this, seeing another piece of the Black Sylph falling of. It was a reminder for all of us how serious everything is and that we should take care of us, not only for our sake, but for the Black Sylph's.   After this moment I saw the girls talking quietly in a corner, so I decided to go back to writing my song. I was very focused on finishing it as it was bothering me quite a lot. Heron then gathered us and told us about how it would be better if he was the leader of our group. I know. It was pretty random. I am sure nobody was ready or even willing to answer that question at this point, so we decided to postpone it for the next morning after we all give it some thought. I went into my room after that.   After scratching my head a thousand times trying to write that song, Nixie interrupted me because there was a contest going on on deck, organised by her. A hand to hand tournament. I was, also, selected to participate in this contest, of which the great prize would be the best food and ale we have on board. I wasn't particularly interested in the prize, although it would be nice to win, but I had no choice nonetheless. I was placed in a group with people similar in strength with me. The first group was the muscle boys, and Verfy. I rooted for her even tho Heron was one of her opponents. Both have managed to get to the finals eventually, after some interesting fights. Unfortunately for me and Verfy, Heron won as he was much too strong for her. The second group was made of more normal sized people. The winner was Gerki. And then came our group. I fought my way to the finals along with Talion. I am starting to think Nixie really wanted to see us fight. Hehe. As the fight began I baited Talion into attacking me, but he was just standing still there. Anyway it didn't work, so I had to make the first move. After I got some good blows on him after making him dizzy with a well placed punch we ended up rambling on the floor. As I was on top of him striking at his stomach he suddenly and very violently pushed me away, propelling me into the main mast. It was a very hard blow for me, but there was no way Talion could have done that on his own like that. I tried to keep my composure as everybody around us was puzzled. Eve ran towards me to see if I was okay. I wasn't okay, but I couldn't tell them that, it would have created more chaos. They brought me downstairs and we talked about what happened. Talion said that he didn't want to do that, and that it was an unconscious move. He apologised for it at least, but I wished it didn't happen at all. I decided to take matters in my own hands, and help Talion regain his control back. It was clear to me that there was friction between us and that, evil forces (so we don't mention their names), were using that against him. So I decided to move into his room, so we would spend more time together. We decided the winner of our contest with a game of rock paper scissors, a very ancient game of deciding male supremacy among a group of friends. Talion won...   The grand winner between the three that made it to the end would be decided upon a riddle-drinking game. Everybody that knew a riddle pitched in, and the last one standing would be crowned the winner. I had some good ones, but I was more focused on trying to guess them. I tried to make some small conversation with Eve on this topic, but she was rather distant. I am sure my approach was cold as well, because my mind was troubled. I then had to sing for everybody, as the party was starting and people needed music. Heron, the winner made a good gesture and gave away his prize food to the others. After the party died down I went to go find Eve. She was hanging in her favorite spot between the nets an ropes, but this time a lot more tangled up. As she tried to untangle herself she fell into the pitch black water. I couldn't see her anywhere but I jumped face first to find her. I couldn't see anything, only a small flash of light coming from the bottom of the sea, which I found very unnerving. I asked Heron to come help me get Eve back onto the ship when I finally found her. The water was very cold so I quickly rushed Eve to her room and gave her some clothes and an extra blanket. She wanted to sleep so we left her alone. I have to say I got very worried for her. I knew how she felt about that water.   Nothing really happened after that. Everybody went to sleep, as mostly were drunk. The next day started slow. Everybody was sluggish from yesterday. I saw Verfy training with Xebec on deck when I woke up. They seem close. I spent most of my day working on my song and discussing rations and supplies with Xebec based on our recent progress and how much we still had to go. That gavan map proved very useful. I usually come in his quarters anyway to work on the map. We are exploring mostly new territories after all. The day ended fast. I didn't really talk with anyone, not even Eve. I know, dear diary. I will do something. I managed to finish my song, and I was relieved by that, but it was already late in the night. I will talk to her tomorrow. Wish me luck, dear diary.   May the Almighty watch over us.

Dear diary,   I had the worst night ever. After Eve and I got back to the ship, I went to sleep after writing a few pages in my diary, :P, but I couldn't sleep for all I tried. I had the worst of nightmares. In this dream I went and asked Eve if she wanted to be my girlfriend. She said yes, but when we got out of the room and on the deck, hands holding, everybody looked at me with a judging face and started saying a lot of mean stuff like: "you ruined their relationship for your interest", "you are nothing more than a fool", "she tricked you to see your true colors", "you are worth nothing", "you despise Talion" and many more... They started laughing at me, throwing stuff at me, pushing me around like some kind of ball. I felt horrible. Then suddenly I was alone on the ship. Nothing nowhere. Nobody to scold me, nobody to listen to me. I started getting mad at myself, at my friends, at everybody. Like what was I supposed to do? Why is everything I do wrong? Why is all of a sudden being nice to someone you enjoy spending time with wrong? It's not like I wanted to get dragged into this. Is it so wrong to like somebody? Just as I was going to feel good and accept that I am not unlikeable this hits me. I am mad, angry, sad. Like what was I supposed to do, sit there and watch? I just tried to be a good person like I always do. I saw Eve was happy. Maybe I let myself loose to much. Is it that bad? Am I the reason Eve is sad and Talion cannot do the right thing? Am I worsening everything?   I cannot believe they would say that to me. I thought we were friends, I thought they cared for me. Was everybody talking behind my back this whole entire time? I hate them.   No I don't. I shouldn't. This is just a bad dream, a nightmare. It's not true. But... I never have thought about these things. I am a horrible person. I never put myself in their shoes. I just sat there being all dandy and ruining everything for them. We are going into the Western Desolation and I am thinking about how I'd want to be with Eve, I never bothered to help them repair their relationship. What if something happens to us, and we have to stay together and make important decisions. We mustn't hesitate, and this will only bring hesitation.   But Eve likes me, right? I mean she stays with me because she enjoys my company, right? They do like me. They must be, they wouldn't have said such kind and nice stuff. I need help. Eve needs help. Talion needs help. We all need help. Maybe I should talk with Talion and Eve. Why did I have this dream? Does it mean something? Are these my frustrations, or just the curse of the land trying to grapple me?   I feel exhausted, I don't want to wake up. I just want everybody to be happy. I don't need to be happy now. My happiness only comes second to those I care for. What should I do, dear diary, what? You never have answers for me, only questions. Why am I even writing this anymore? *rips page and throws it away* Looks like I can really be an asshole when I am angry and emotional. I'd even throw myself away from anger. I am sorry, dear diary. I really am. My thoughts, were... clouded and poisoned. I just never felt this way before, and I guess I can't believe it. I like Verfy and Nixie. I don't despise Talion, I respect him greatly. I would never hate Heron. And Eve... Eve is very important to me, and I failed her. I failed them all. I won't let things end this way. I will do something. It's either that or we will walk ourselves to our doom.   I don't think I can attach this page back to you, dear diary. But I will keep it, as a reminder that I must still fight. Doing nothing is what I despise most. I'll keep you under my pillow.   Dear diary, I will try and make things right... No. I will make things right. It is time I grow up maybe. Children aren't allowed around adult's stuff for a reason. I can't behave like a child when the stakes are this high. I will write a song in memory of this dream, this nightmare. I'll call it... a child's despair. Fitting I say.   May the Almighty guide us towards salvation.

Dear diary,   I woke up full of sand this morning. I had a nice sleep. Xebec woke up full of energy when he felt the wind in his hair. We all got up went to the ship and sailed away to the Great Western Desolation once again. This time Xebec had another route in mind, one that avoided Fool's Peninsula as much as possible. Nothing in particular happened during the first day. We gathered round in the evening and I came with an idea for us to bond some more for when the true challenges come our way. Each one of us had to say what pressed him the most.   We started in order, firstly with Heron. He talked about regaining his family's honor. His biggest fear being that he won't be able to do that because of the nature of people in power, and that nobody would believe him or want to help him, therefore condemning the name of his family to dishonor for eternity. We supported him and told him that honor isn't dictated by the opinions of the others, but by your own soul. If you keep true to yourself you will be the most honorable person there is. And people will see and feel that in you. If you concern too much with people's opinions you will meet you own demise. Maybe I should learn from that as well.   Then it was Verfy's turn. She talked about how she felt she couldn't protect us and all of us will die eventually before her eyes, just how her friends and family died when she was back home in the war. We made sure to assure her that that won't happen, and we were here for everybody and we will do everything we can to protect one another. We are her new family now. And we care deeply for her, as we do for each one of us. Nixie told us about how she feels about home and her family. She and Verfy both left behind everything they had and came here to save themselves. We all know how strong elves are, and that they never die out like a smothered flame. Her family and country surely are alright. Even though they left their country while still in a war, it was near it's end, and they were on the winning side.   Eve told us about her uncertainty we could do something. She read about the deeds of the highest and most achieved people in the world, people she admires, like Illien the Great, trying to conquer the Western Desolation. They all failed in their attempts to bring back the life to these lands. We tried to comfort her by telling her that we had more simple ways than them, and that's what might just make the difference. We had no school of magic to indoctrinate us.   Talion bailed out at first. He said he didn't want to play this "game". Which I found unnecessary hurtful, as did Verfy who yelled at him. I managed to calm Verfy down, as I knew Talion didn't mean what he was saying. Eve then wanted to say something. She told us she lied to us, and that she is sorry for that. She told us what she really is most afraid of. That she would eventually die having lived a life devoid of the things she likes and loves. That in the moments before death she would feel regret rather than be at peace with herself. We thanked her for being sincere with us. She said we don't have to talk about it, so that's where we left it.   It was my turn, so after gathering myself a bit I spilled out what went in my head and everything about my life until now. How I was treated until now, and how I feared most of all that sometimes I am just a nice voice playing the lyre that smiles at people from time to time. That nobody ever liked me, or will ever do. Although we were all quite close I still had that feeling mostly because I have nothing to bring to the table. Everybody was kind enough to convince me the opposite and it really helped me at that time. I felt good about myself for once.   The night passed calmly. I went to my room a bit earlier that usual to reflect upon this day some more. The next day we had a nice amount of wind and we made some good progress towards the Western Desolation. At some point Xebec spotted a black figure in the distance. As we watched it we noticed it was rapidly approaching our ship. "A Lady of the Sea" everybody started yelling. A black specter, representing a woman, holding a great scythe was flying towards us, ready to cut our boat in half. There was nothing charming about this lady. Nixie panicked and stop the wind altogether when she tried to push us away from it. Talion tried to lift to the sky and throw lightnings at her, but he fell into the water. He still managed to throw a flare of arcane from the water into the specter damaging it, but it wasn't enough to stop it. Suddenly the Black Sylph came on deck at the bow of the ship and spawned a great black sword made of shadows with which she cut in half the lady and it's scythe, before disappearing just as she appeared. We went to check on her below deck in Eve's room. She was not alright, her fragile body was affected by that. She saved us at her own cost... We saw a few bits of her on the ground, and now she only had three fingers left. I have no words to describe how sad I felt at the sight of that. Such a precious and powerful being has the weakest of bodies. Eve said she would take care of her from now on. We all did. We decided to spend some more time with her than usual.   When we got closer to the shore the same mist from a week ago appeared in front of us. This time we saw the everyday lives of the people of Iziper. We saw merchants trying to negotiate theirs prices, workers complaining about the heat, children playing, soldiers marching, everything. This mist was the imprint left by their souls. Their memories trapped by the curse of necromancy. It was horrifying and sad. Human greed and power-lust have indeed no limits. At some point the mist dispersed and we were left with some fog. We could see the city of Iziper. It was strangely... untouched. I wanted to go there and see the city for myself. Eve wanted too so we took a rowing boat and rowed our way to the pontoon. On the way there Eve wanted to talk with me. She said I am an idiot and that I am a very likeable person and I shouldn't be concerned with that. I felt very good after that. It meant a lot coming from her. It's a special feeling when a woman wants to tell you something nice and she starts by telling you you're an idiot.   Anyway, we docked the boat and started to explore the city. It was as empty as it could get. There was nothing nowhere. Not even a spec of dust. It was very strange. We walked down the main road which was frequently used to transport gold from the gold mines from the mountains nearby. Eve told me a lot about the history of the place and I listened with fascination. We went though some houses and uncovered the fate of some inhabitants. It was dreadful, everything was like a painting in only shades of grey. It had a beauty in it though. The city was preserved perfectly, it somehow gave us a hope, that even in this devoid of life city, things could still go back to normal and life could once again sprout. I wanted to enter the fortress of the city which holds the highest building around, but we found some unnerving symbols of a lich lord all over it. Eve and I decided we shouldn't push our luck so we headed back. Despite the nothingness that was everywhere we still had to be careful. We climbed into a tower of the Vanki-Sen monastery and saw the city from above. It was spectacular, in a way. Seeing a city so empty. On the way there Eve found a small banner of the Ael Velle. She took it without hesitation. She is very fascinated with the whole Holly War lead by Illiel the Great. It was a nice souvenir.   We started to head back to the boat, when the fog started to worsen and thicken. We could barely see in front of us. I could see Eve was frightened by the scene. She grabbed my arm and came closer to me. I told her everything will be okay and kept walking alongside her to the boat. We struggled a bit to find the ship as I couldn't see 10 meters in front of me, but we managed.   It was a good walk, dear diary, a good walk.   After we got onto the boat we went to check with the Black Sylph. She was hurting. The death from all around us was hurting her. She usually doesn't feel anything, so we got worried. We decided to protect her from the death around by shielding her with life. And what better way to shield her than making her a new mask painted with everything that makes the Black Sylph feel alive. After we carved it we each took a spot on the Sylph's mask. Eve took the nose and drew a sword with a poppy on top, it was adorable. Nixie gave her wings back, this time around the eyes, while Verfy drew a circle of hands on the left cheek with a small heart inside it. I drew a small lyre with a nice and cute musical note made of a cookie and a small sun and star on the sides, symbolizing we would be there for her day and night. When we gave it to her I could feel the warmth of her heart and the smile on her face when she put her mask on. We saw a small spec falling when we gave her the mask. I swear I could have cried right then and there. The amount of pain she must be going through must be unbearable.

Dear diary,   We managed to fulfill our small side mission in Vazakis. It was quite a blast, the whole mine. Most of us, except me and Talion got their hands quite burned after the fight we had with the singularity. Eve took care of everybody using one her special vials she keeps by her side in a cute little box. She almost neglected of her own hands, but Verfy was fast on noticing that and made sure she had some treatment too. In the morning we started sailing on a merchant's ship. We were going to make a 2 days journey, first stopping in a port on the Dushen peninsula, then right in Gessen. During the first day I noticed Eve reading on the deck and I approached her as we usually sat together anyway. I was curious about what she was reading and decided to join in, that's when I remembered I didn't know gavan, silly me. Anyway, Talion was heading to Eve just as me, I didn't notice him. We arrived there simultaneously. Yep, dear diary, awkward. Eve asked us what we wanted. I was sincere and told her the above, while Talion said he wants her to teach him gavan, for the runes, I presume. Eve got extremely mad and threw the book away somewhere on the deck and left for the bow of the ship telling us to go learn gavan. I took the book and placed it somewhere I knew Eve would find it and then went to Verfy and Nixie, while I saw Talion approach Eve. The girls were very understanding as I stood there crying myself out. I don't even remember what or if I said anything to them. Nixie suggested I drink myself to oblivion, which in that situation was a wonderful idea. That's what I did with the rest of the drink I brought for the torches. I went to sleep after that, drunk. Crying doesn't make me good. It's exhausting. My little childhood traumas got into me again. I need a hug.   The next day we arrived back into Gessen, and everybody went on with their usual day. I went to see our captain, Xebec. We had to pay our crew so I told him to assure the sailors that they will get payed and I quickly ran for Verfy, who was out shopping for our stuff back. I didn't want to stop her, because of Eve's necklace, but we really needed the money... Sad Bart noises. I reached her just in time and we returned back to the ship, where everybody gathered. After we payed them it was free time once again, as we still had a day or two of repairing left. Heron went on to help the sailors rebuild the ship. He made himself very useful. Xebec told us the ship will be ready for sailing in the morning and we should get ready. During that evening I noticed Eve going of on the promontory. I wanted to go with her, but I figured she wanted to be alone. Talion kept asking about her so I figured he made another oopsie. Ugh. I knew Eve wanted to be alone but I wanted to talk with her. I wanted to at least apologize for something I said in the mines when Talion dropped cold on the ground all of a sudden. She was slapping him to wake him up and I said she enjoyed that too much. Yeah. Stupid Bart strikes again. Anyway I sneaked my way around the others and searched for Eve. I eventually found her sitting, looking at the sea. I decided to approach her. I spooked her a bit as she was not expecting me. She was visibly upset. I apologized for that thing in the mine and for demon Eve once more. This time with a little more success and heart than before. She then apologized for when she tore a piece of my shirt off. I was very glad we talked. I felt happy there, with her. I noticed she was still under the weather so I tried to brighten the mood however I could, and what other way than trying to learn how to swim and make a fool of myself, or for a start not panic and float, as the sea was right next to us. She liked the idea. I was sitting there in the water trying to follow Eve's advice from the beach. She was trying to teach me how to relax and float on my back. She definitely enjoyed my stumbling as she was laughing out loud. I think I've never seen her happy like that... She was very beautiful.. Anyway I am drifting from the subject. As I was a terrible student I invited her to join in and show me. Yes I know, daring I must say. But she joined me and showed me how to do it. She explained to me that I should steady myself and not move... or maybe it wasn't that... I don't remember. I was just looking at her. She obviously wasn't all naked by the way. After almost getting caught not listening I tried to relax and just sit on my back. AND I DID IT. The first ever time I was floating. Then I got scared by Eve and fell back into the water. I sensed a challenge. I jumped her and submerged her into the water. We had a lot of fun. When we stopped she was upset with me because her hair was all wet now, I apologized, but little did I know. That was just a trick to force my guard down. She saw our ship leaving and I immediately turned around to see what was happening. That's when she dragged me under the water again. We had a little bit of a scuffle as I was trying to bring her down with me. She successfully evaded my attempt. After I conceded defeat I promised her I would get my revenge and this wasn't the end of our little... "war". "War", as if I could believe myself.   After that we decided we should get to the others, they were having a campfire on the beach and it was already weird enough we were the only ones missing. I enjoyed our little walk and swim a lot. I got carried away, yes. I should be more careful. Eve still is with Talion, and what I did was anything but appropriate. Bart take a hold of yourself. We joined the others, having already dried ourselves as much as we could. Everybody was there. We talked about curses and oracles, especially the Opres oracle, and Talion's ex-party's interaction with it. I do have to say I don't believe in oracles or any kind of future reading bullshit. But that Opres fire brought some very interesting and scary realities. We concluded oracles are indirect curses. Once you supposedly find out your future you either grow ignorant of everything about it, or scared of everything about it. Either way you manage to make the wrong choices yourself, thinking you know what you're doing. So you end up just like the prophecy, or the weird lady or whatever said. The night was very calm and sleeping on the beach really didn't seem like a bad idea. After we had lunch I saw Talion talk with Verfy and Nixie about something while Eve tried to sneak her way into the sea. I must've sparked a new passion, haha. Anyway she definitely wanted to be alone this time so I stayed put. I decided to sing a ballad for everybody sitting there. I wonder if Eve was close enough to hear it. Everybody eventually fell asleep, and so did I. But not before seeing Talion guarding Eve's clothes. I was to tired and happy from before to worsen my day trying to talk with him. I fell asleep shortly after. Swimming might become my new passion for a while. I hope, fo r the love og God, Talion won't mess things up again. For Eve's sake...

Dear diary,   The repairs are going soundly. We barely got enough money to pay for all the materials. Luckily Eve (of course) knew about a wizard's lair somewhere inside some abandoned mines on the Vazakis Island. Having mostly nothing left to do, except for listening to my beautiful songs from time to time, we decided to embark on a merchant's ship towards Vazakis and plunder this wizard's lair. Eve told us that this wizard settled there, in the abandoned mines, to let loose his imagination and conduct his experiments. He apparently worked for a warlock, who wanted to become the king of all warlocks. That gave us a hint at the sort of experiments this wizard would have done. Nonetheless we were in desperate need of money so we went on. After arriving on the island with nothing more than a few days supply of food and water we started to gather the necessary stuff to make ourselves some torches for the caves. Eve encouraged me to go sing my way into an inn and into the people's kindness and generosity to procure some alcohol. I immediately was on board with the idea as she said she would be very disappointed in me if I failed. Naturally I gave my best and came back with a jug of some strong, nice smelling drink. I tasted it and it was amazing. I wonder if it was made out of peaches. That would have been such a fitting coincid... BART!   After my successful endeavor I found everybody gathered with the rest of whatever we needed. We didn't have any cloth though. Eve decided to rip her shirt and use it for the torches, therefore leaving me speechless in the middle of the road. After I regained consciousness, we still needed cloth and I tried to stop Eve from ripping apart more of her clothes. She told me to turn around and at first I didn't know what was that for, but I quickly found out when she ripped my shirt off for another torch. I must say I was about to scream. That was my favorite shirt. I got over that eventually. After we got some more cloth through some illicit methods we finished making 6 torches (as a matter of fact, after the fact, only the 2 torches made out of Eve's and my shirt lasted a significant amount of time).   And so we started heading towards the mine. We found 5 entrances and we randomly picked one. Inside this intricate and abandoned mine we found a number of runes connected to an orb filled with magical energy. At the base of the orbs there were either a ruby or a sapphire. Apparently these precious stones have opposing properties when put in a magical contraption. This conclusion was the collective struggle of all of us. The runes were very complicated and long. Talion didn't seem to know much about them. But through some painful experimenting we uncovered the way those runes work. Looks like these were some kind of regenerative rune, which I found completely fascinating. Apart from throwing huge amounts of electricity whenever you hit them, they had some sort of mechanism. The runes were always in pairs, opposing pairs. That kept them activated, and whatever they were connected to, powered. Along the mine, in our struggle to study and map the insides we were met with quite a lot of dangers. Falling ceilings, rocks, bottomless pits, lack of air, etc. We decided to go around the caves in some carts, Eve's idea. I wanted to sit with her, but just as I was approaching her cart, Talion jumped in without hesitation or without asking. I conceded that fight and went with Verfy and Nixie. At some point we almost got crushed by an entire wall of rocks. Our cart survived thanks to Nixie's spells, but Eve's got buried into the rocks. Luckily Heron managed to keep them safe. I own him a lot for keeping Eve safe. He knows I care for her.   After several more traps we finally managed to find a way to work those runes. Talion somehow managed to carve a rune backwards. Now, I don't know much about runes but how do you do that?!?!? Eve literally got into a coma because of that. God give me strength, please. Just how much is he planning on fucking her life? To the point of ending it, it seems. After we rested a little and gathered our strength, we solved the runes puzzle and went on discovering more of the wizard's lair. We found some gold, a nice necklace that everybody agreed it fits me best, and a gavan rune book that Eve took. We then found the wizard's main room where an orb was placed. We noticed a lot of holes in the walls. We found a journal with lots of scribble in it. We concluded these holes were for electrified dead rats, covered in runes. So Verfy had the bright idea to not use any magic. Which Talion ignored instantly. Obviously the orb went off and activated these rats which came towards us in unbelievable numbers. After we grabbed the orb, Verfy made a run for the exit and cleared a path for us, sacrificing herself for us. Me and Eve carried her out when we got out of the room. Nixie then sealed the door with some earth magic using that beautiful staff she has. Eve barely woke up from her coma when I asked her to help me carry Verfy.   Not to forget, before that huge room we had to fight of some kind of electric singularity made by magic. On the walls of the hall guarding the main room, there were a set of 3 colored circles. On one side red, the other blue. Electricity went from one to another. Eve had the bright idea of connecting the blue circles to one another using my rapier, therefore short-circuiting the system and damaging it. She immediately fell, being fried from all the electricity that went through her. After that, I went and picked her up and got her out of there while Verfy, Heron and Nixie did the same thing as Eve. It worked wonders. I was so proud of us and mostly her. We worked together like a team. Everybody pitched in, even Talion did something. He shielded us from some of the damage he did himself. So I guess, thank you? Eve is very courageous. I must step up my game. I can't let her be alone like this.   We got out eventually, mostly burned and tired, but alive. Two days have passed since we went in the mines. We discovered almost all of the mine system. While we slept I dreamed about Eve. No, dear diary, nothing in that way. We were just walking and talking. I feel lucky. The next morning we bought passage on a merchant's ship to Gessen to return to our crew and ship. Time to resume our journey, I guess.   I hate lightnings...

Dear diary,   We are leaving the Monument of Life. Eve is taking care of the Black Sylph to not break into a thousand pieces. Eve would make a great mother. Talion looks upset. Heron doesn't speak. Verfy and Nixie are chatting about something, probably faith. Overall a normal day. Xebec brought the peaches. I hope Eve will like them. I won't tell her I ordered them. I forgot to tell Xebec not to tell her. Fuck. Eh, why would she ask about that anyway. We are making preparations to go sail west towards the Great Western Desolation. Our crew is on board, everybody looks ready. We are sailing first thing in the morning. A great mist is waiting for us. Because of the desolation and the lack of rain and anything there is no wind to blow this fog that sets the entire coast of the Great Western Desolation. I talked with Verfy and she was happy to hear I wanted to teach her about the Almighty and how she can embrace our faith. I will invite Eve to our talks, she would definitely have some good input. I wonder if she is still mad with me. I couldn't tell honestly. I once again find myself eluded by the fairer sex.   We have set sail and with some good wind we made good progress. Towards the end of the day we reached the end of Fool's Peninsula when something weird started happening. We saw a random horse rider cloud which rode in front of our ship in the sky. Then voices, lots of voices and screams. Perhaps that were all the people that ever lived in this side of the world. All of their poor souls trapped by the curse of man's greed and ambition to outmatch God. Soon after disaster struck.   The one sailor we had scouting the area from the crows nest got shot with an arrow in the head and fell on the deck. Then, as we got closer and closer to the coast we started too see them. Death in all its glory. Purple eyes started to appear everywhere. Hundreds, thousands, I fear to believe there were more of them. A small fleet of 3 ships was clearly embarking to haunt the world of the living. I could feel the curse of necromancy crawling its way towards our boat. Suddenly a huge spear of destructive fire hit our ship's main mast, damaging it. We quickly tried to turn the ship around as fast as possible, but as you can imagine everyone was panicking and things were a bit messy. A female voice then started to rumble the sky. This female necromancer, Seraph, apparently knew Talion, (how in the fuck), and was glad to meet him. So she decided to greet us with more warm destructive fire spears that kept hitting our masts and the back of our ship. With the help of Nixie and my quick thinking we quickly raised up the remaining sails and a powerful gust of wind blew against us and the galleon filled to the brim with unded and we succeeded in gaining some distance. Talion then began to lift to the sky and use the power of the Almighty through the fire of his soul by throwing pure arcanic white energy in form of lightning bolts towards the enemy ship. He succeeded in disabling the enemy ships and stopped Seraph from further damaging our ship. But not before setting the ship on fire, destroying the main mast and almost destroying the second mast. The sailors barely managed to keep it standing and keep the wind in our sails. I think Talion could have moved a little quickly and save us a lot of problem, but it doesn't matter anymore. We got away safely in some random direction.   We then realized we were sitting still with no wind in the middle of the sea. That can only mean trouble, as everybody knew we met all of the requirements needed for a sea monster to come eat us. We all said our prayers and went to sleep. Sadly Xebec's captain quarters was absolutely destroyed so he had to sleep on the deck. He was alright with it, but I heard Verfy offering him to sleep in her room. She cannot hide it. She fancies him. Xebec looks to fancy her too. Later that night I overheard them talking and eating some of the good meat Xebec brought. Looks like he did his homework. Good on you Verfy, keep this one. He is a good one.   After we patched up the ship as much as we could, we sailed back to Gessen. There we found ourselves in dire need of money to repair the ship so we decided we had to sell some of our stuff to make it. I sold my... beautiful pants, Eve sold a necklace she got from her father. Everybody pitched in with as much as they could. Talion somehow managed to find this moment to complain that Verfy and Nixie took some sheets for us as second hand sails. Seriously, he couldn't've found a better moment. He of course made Eve angry, again. I don't want to talk about this anymore. Eve wanted me to keep my beautiful pants, which I found touching. And no it wasn't because I would be running in my underwear, I had spares this time. We barely managed to struck a deal for everything we needed. The ship is going to be here for 4 days, so we decided to go to an island nearby where Eve heard about some treasure hidden in a warlock's hideout. Where does her knowledge stop I wonder. She is amazing. After death almost grappled all of us her warm smile and intelligence brightened my day. I still want that hug.

Dear diary,   It's been a few days since I last wrote. I know, how dare I? I was just caught up with the Black Sylph matter. Don't worry, dear diary, it all seems good for now.   Right after that cursed night, I couldn't sleep so I just stood beside the Black Sylph. I don't think anyone saw me there. Eve might've heard me, she decided to sleep in the crows nest atop the main mast that night. The Black Sylph felt very weird, I don't know if she knew I was there or not. If she did I would be quite embarrassed. I talked a lot about how I felt about this apocalypse thing, and Eve, and everyone. I don't usually spill my feelings to everybody, mostly nobody actually, except you, dear diary, of course. You don't judge me.   Next morning, after a couple of lowly hours of sleep we continued with our normal scheduled day. Heron and Verfy continued to train together. I could see Heron actually making a lot of progress, not that Verfy didn't, but not as much. Heron really starts to become more powerful and solid. Nixie learnt some river magic and botany, which I found amusing since we were going into a land which was supposed to be cursed with the greed and death of hundreds of generations of humans. There will be no plants there Nixie, you silly. As for rivers, there might be some, but will magic work on them? I think the curse won't let her do anything there. Nixie is actually good company. I know I was afraid at first, but that's because she greeted us with her stranger's face. Now that we know each other better and spent some time I don't feel afraid of her anymore. She is well capable of controlling her magic form affecting us.   I also made a mistake today, yeah it can happen dear diary. I know I never told you about my mistakes but why should you know everything. I am not perfect. Today when we got together under our improvised tents to talk about what's to come, and what happened, I made a poor joke and called Eve a demon. It wasn't even a joke, I don't know what got into me, it was just stupid. And after what happened the night before. Stupid Bartolomeu. I let my frustrations with Talion cloud my judgement. Calm down Bart... You know it happens, mistakes.   After some consideration I decided to take it easy on Talion, because he is in a very tough situation mentally, I am sure. There is no point in making him more miserable, that would never help him and in turn us. I do feel very sorry for Eve. I usually don't upset girls but there is a first for anything... I hope she can forgive me. I need to find something to make her forgive me, or just happy in general. I think I overheard her saying she LOVES peaches, so I will talk to Xebec to buy her a crate of peaches when we get to Gessen. I, unlike Talion, care for Eve and I wish to atone for my mistakes. You can never go wrong with food, right? I learned that from dear Verfy.   Me and Eve still talked, despite my stupidity and total lack of conscience. I sang her a nice song which I composed on the spot about a knight waiting for his loved one to come back to him. Believe it or not I was inspired by Talion when he was waiting at night with the cookies. I think she liked it. I wish I could hug her now. In a platonic way of course... Yeah... Platonic... Wake up Bart you're not in love. You are on a mission to save the Black Sylph and the world.   We reached the Monument of Life, and we quickly rushed to the temple. We reached a strange looking and small pillar with a circle made on barren ground around it. We had no idea what was in front of us or what we had to do, but somehow we were all guided to go there, in front of the pillar and sit down with the Black Sylph. All of a sudden we were standing in front of a hill, with a small river flowing downhill. We started to carry the Black Sylph upstream towards the top of the hill. She suddenly started to become a lot heavier, so we pitched in to help Heron carry her. Everyone with the best of his abilities. We soon reached a point where we couldn't advance anymore. Then Talion started thinking of doing something using higher arcane. It was a good idea, but whatever he tried alone didn't work and made the Black Sylph even heavier. Eve and I came with the idea we should all come together in this and ask for His power to help us save the Black Sylph. Higher arcane, as the mages call it, is something of a leap of faith. I had to explain to Verfy, as she never truly understood our religion. She started learning about it after she met Nixie a while ago. You must have the faith, and open yourself before the horrors and evils of the world, that the power of the Almighty will flow through and save you and your soul. Although she didn't understand the concept as a whole, we as a party already made that leap of fate to one another in Marion. We promised each other we would never turn against ourselves and we wouldn't abandon this mission we are on. She put her trust in us expecting nothing in return. And we did the same. That's what makes us strong in front of evil. Little did she know, but she already accepted the Almighty in her heart. Eve was quite surprised with me after the fact. I suppose she didn't see me as a religious person, or able to be serious.   In the end the Black Sylph got better, and was alive... Partially... She is very fragile now, and seems like her body is crumbling to pieces. I made sure to collect every piece of her. Maybe we could find a way to help her regain her body and strength. She wrote to us she doesn't feel any pain, or anything for that matter. She told us about her interaction with Damaschini and Liyaria. She won't show her face to us, and I respect her decision. Eve is taking care of her now, she asked the monks for a cart and some pillows so we can carry her around.

Dear diary,   I love my life, and I thank the Almighty for this blessing everyday. Yes the others probably don't know I pray. I usually do it in the comfort of my own peace. I wonder if Talion does the same. He is supposed to know about higher arcane which involves a lot of faith. Or so I think at least. Heron and Verfy started training together to become stronger. I do wander how they manage to make those jumps and exercises on deck. Firstly it's blazing hot. Secondly it just tilts from side to side a lot. We set up some kind of tent with a few hanging sheets at Xebec's advice. Today I hung myself in a net while I was with Eve. She somehow managed to stand comfortably inside a series of ropes and nets that were holding the main mast so I decided I would try as well. I couldn't let her best me. Cause why the hell not. I managed to entangle myself enough not to fall and we continued with our usual talk.   Oh I remembered. When we left the port of Alomir, a strange shadow appeared on our ship. Naturally we went and search for any intruders, but we couldn't find anything. I swear I saw something. Xebec too. After we declared the ship intruderless, we started sailing. The girls tried to contact this intruder while we were sailling but to no avail, except a fingerprint left on a piece of paper. We didn't understand much of it. Talion went and stood with cookies on the deck. Talion is weird sometimes. Before we reached Arofa we decided to tell our crew about our plans, and where we intend on going. In the Great Western Desolation that is. As expected the people did not want to die so we had to persuade them. I tried to talk but everybody started shouting and interrupting me. Verfy was set on battling every pirate on deck to prove she can protect them, Nixie called them a bunch of babies and Talion... fell... Xebec did not have any succes either. So yeah we got ourselves a mutiny. The crew pulled the ship into the Arofan harbor and then went to the tavern to drink. We had to get them back somehow, so we went there too. After arriving in the tavern we heard news of a waterfall from Lem-Nedim, probably the oldest Singularist temple still left in the world, which got exploded and about a monk killed with some sort of dark magic blades. I was afraid we transported the one who did all of this because we did stop close to the island in which the temple was found. The others were startled as well. After some conversation with our mutinous crew Eve, after a few too many beers, started a speech which surprisingly got them all on board with us. I don't know how she managed, but her speech really was wonderful. I hope I have some merit in this. She even came to ask me how it was. I felt so proud. Of both her and me. She is cute when drunk, but it surely doesn't do her good. She spilled some of her frustrations with Talion and how her life was miserable because of him. I wanted to give Talion a beating right then and there. But that would surely have made things a lot worse between us three. I mean Talion already probably only sees me like some kind of annoying brat, while I respect him and try to help him. Talion said that his friends abandoned him, but I am starting to feel as he was the one pushing them away and the one who, granted unintentionally, brought the party's separation. Maybe he made big mistake at some point and it stained his relationship with the others. I couldn't know. I just pray all will be good.   When we got to the boat, something really weird started happening. Talion stopped randomly in the middle of the deck while telling us to stand close. There was nothing around us, but we followed his advice. This went on for a few minutes. Talion told us, his demon "friend" came back and will probably harm us. He warned us to not aproach the water, and the cabins. We started hearing some voice at some point. It just said "Talion". Eve tried to fight this voice and went to the cabin. There she screamed and fell on the deck. She wasn't injured or hurt. Looks like Talion's demon, Axiol, scared Eve while he did nothing but stand there, eyes closed and in some kind of meditation, by the looks of it. We understood the danger that wasn't around us so we started going back to normal, except for Talion who was still standing there unmoved. Eve was a bit... shocked and mad at Talion for that. Shortly after Talion did something and a small figure dropped on the deck from, well, nowhere. She looked really bad and dead, but we knew she was alive. I can't explain. Her body was as light as a lyre string and it was dying?. I have never seen something like this. She was literally cheating death. Maybe there is something about these planes of existence Talion told us about. She was the Black Sylph, the grandchild. I don't know and don't want to know what Talion did to her but we had to save her immediately. We quickly rushed the crew and Xebec to take us to the Monument of Life in hopes we would get there in time. She is too important to die because of Talion's misdoings. Looks like that demon got the best of him. I hope he doesn't drag Eve into this.   May the Almighty guide him and us on the right path.

Dead diary,   We are passing through a nice valley between the mountains, Eve told us they are called the Metops. She looks very happy to get out of Ionolia and travel around. She also likes to show her back a lot it appears. She always rides in front, I wonder if this is another one of her tricks. Or maybe Nixie keeps back intentionally to play with me or look for some reaction. These girls must've talked about me behind my back. I like it when I am at the center of girls gossip. We rode for three days before we reached the great city of Pelin, in Vormiol. Pelin is a big port city with a lively community and lots of people running around. Not to mention there is never a moment in which you can find the harbor empty of ships and boats. The road was quiet and no problems occurred. I decided to sing from time to time to brighten up the mood of everyone. I noticed Eve actually enjoyed my music and found her humming one of my songs at some point. We traded stories and legends. She told me about one of her Tall Tales. I decided to mix its story with some of mine and went on writing a new ballad. I finished it before arriving in Pelin, I think Ii nailed it. The others like it.   I quickly bargained my musical services in exchange for some food, ale and shelter for everybody at the closest inn. The least I can do. We went by the coast for a walk, to look at the Syomalos Sea. Me, Eve and Heron have never seen the sea before. It was very calm and blue. Talion went to talk with Eve, then she came back to me. What the fuck are you doing Talion. She literally waited for you to come back for a year, after her reputation was tarnished by your lack of fucks and letters. No I am not mad!   We booked passage to the island of Alomir. I heard a lot about how Damaschini, Endi'e and Lomis built up that country in the form of a republic and liberated its people from the tyranny of Vormiol's reign. It took us 4 days to reach the city of Alomir because of some stray winds. Nothing much happened on the way. I spent some time with Eve each day, I offered myself to teach her how to talk with people, and get what you want from them and she accepted. She is a good scholar, learns fast, but she does have a temper. I bet she likes it when I play teacher. Ha ha. Don't get distracted Bart. You know your place.   We arrived in Alomir and Talion once again succeeded in annoying Eve so I took her to the Fire Temple, close to the city. I bet she knew more about it than me, but neither of us knew how it looks like. After we came back we all went to the harbor to find Damaschini's ship. Which we did. We made a bad first impression to the captain of the ship so we decided we would leave the talking for the evening in a tavern where we would pay. Later that day we went to talk with the ship's captain at The Angry Fastodan. I tried to introduce ourselves, but Talion very rudely pushed me aside and began talking for his own. Eve managed to tell him what went through my mind. Looks like Talion knew this captain, Xebec, from when they were together with the other party. We got along eventually so we decided to hold a feast in our honor.   Dear diary, I am hungover and I feel like a rock that's been thrown around by kids into every wall of this city. Last night was a banger. People danced, I sang the entire night. I can't remember anything about Eve or Tallion. Maybe they weren't there, but why? Did I sing badly? Anyway, I have to excuse myself for the day from Eve, I can't hold our usual diplomacy lesson today. After we got the ship and stocked it up we each took to our cabin and got to meet the crew. We decided it would be a good idea to befriend them since we would travel together for a while. Before we reached our first destination, Tova, Eve asked me if I could sing for her while she was reading. Nothing could have made my day better. I made sure to sing something fitting to the feel of the story we were reading. She told me more of her Tall Tales which helped me with my ballads. I think she genuinely enjoys my company now. She is more friendly with me now, but not in the way it was before. She is not trying to seduce me or make Talion jealous anymore. I am happy for her. I just don't know what is happening between those two so I will try and not make things worse.   This is how we started our voyage on the calm blue sea. It was very peaceful for a while. I've even forgotten what dangers await us.   Eve is very beautiful when she reads.

Dear diary,   We got back at Talion's place together and after discussing the aforementioned event with the others, I went on to dry out my clothes. I realized I have no spares on me, so that will be a problem. Nixie volunteered to help me dry my stuff with her fire magic. I have to admit I was a bit afraid she would burn me at first, but she wanted to help me. I accepted and I did not get burned. So that's how me and Nixie became friends. I still don't want to make her mad because she could slip a fireball towards my face as she often says about other people that annoy her, but we are on a good track.   I think Verfy likes me, not in a romantic way I mean. We get along nicely and she likes my singing and told me that! There are not a lot of people who dislike my singing I am sure of that, but any little positive feedback that comes my way raises my spirits lots. I like Verfy too, even more when she eats. It sounds weird, I know, but she is so passioned about it, it's contagious! Who knew you could be charming and inspiring while eating. Her skin and hair is definitely not the only special thing about her. I'm glad I got to meet Nixie and Verfy. Talion is away at the moment, I think he went to Eve to make things right. Probably his father told him something. They came back together, although she still looks mad, and we talked some more about the recent events and more general life stuff. Talion really likes using a lot of words when he speaks. Eve is slowly getting closer to me. I mean right now. We are sitting in our sleeping beds and hers just so happens is slowly rolling towards mine. I think I should hide you away, dear diary, I wouldn't want her to see what I am writing here. I don't think I have something to hide in that regard, but it feels wrong to spy in someone else's private life.   Dear diary,   It's the next morning and I must tell you what happened last night. Eve did get closer to me while we talked, to the point that our faces were inches apart. She really knows how to make herself noticed and tease a man. We talked a bit, and she gave me some chocolate in quite a sensual way if I may add. She is testing me I am sure. Or rather she is testing Talion. I am afraid the one getting hurt from this endeavor will be me. I enjoy Eve's company so I at least would get a new friend, I hope. Verfy suggested that we, all of us, take lunch together at Eve's. Eve thought it would be a great idea and a good opportunity for Talion and her father to talk some more. Naturally I went on to buy some new clothes for this meeting, fitting for my personality. I bought some nice white skinny pants with red accents on the sides and a buffed colorfull jacket and shirt, mainly bright red. I love them. I spent every gold coin I had. I know, poor financial decisions, but I looked charming and great. We got to Eve's. Her father has a very nice and beautiful house with a huge garden worked by him and Eve. Eve liked my outfit. We stood next to each other and we talked a lot, while we silently laughed about her father looking like he would kill Talion for every second he opened his mouth. The dinner was very nice and Eve's father was very generous to have us. Overall it was a good evening, for us at least. Talion, Eve and her father had a few talks separately and I have the feeling it didn't go well.   The next day Verfy told us about a letter she sent to Damaschini. She even got a reply with him saying he would help us reach our goal. I can't believe he is going to help us. I read the letter too, Verfy gave it to me. One thing in particular spiked my interest. Damaschini said that Xantinya does not intend on bringing the apocalypse. everybody else sounds like they ignored that I am not sure why. I wonder what he meant and what is Xantinya planning with this world. Talion found himself in a court problem with Eve's father for quite a serious amount of coin. He left for a couple of days for some errands, I guess, and came back with his father blessing, two rings, one his and the other for Eve, and some gold from his father for our journey. He then went to Eve's to... propose to her? I don't know what happened there, Verfy probably knows as she followed them. She is so cute and weird sometimes. I swear we could be brother and sister. In any case, looks like Talion is no longer pursued by the law and Eve is coming with us. Maybe Talion finally managed to get Eve back. She is not wearing the ring tho. Why is this still going on like this... The girls asked me if I like Eve. You know, in that way. I didn't know what to answer. Girls chat a lot. I decided to run like a coward. God damn it Bart.   On our way out of Ionolia we went through Parmismar to buy some new gear for us. Then we met with Eve. She is beautiful even with man's wear and leather armor. I really find myself in the favor of the Almighty to get to know such people. I bought myself a leather jacket to protect me, a beautiful rapier which I will never use probably, but it looks good, and a shield behind I can cower. A problem then arose when we left the forges. I don't know how to ride a horse. Eve and Nixie volunteered to take me with them. Under the peer pressure I felt from everybody's eyes I went with Nixie. And so we left Ionolia, starting a new life for all of us. A life of adventure and high stakes I would've never thought I'd have. Time we be on our way. May the Almighty guide us on this voyage.

Dear diary,   It's raining, and my pages are wet so I will have to rewrite you in a new book. You deserve it, we deserve it.   It's raining... and I am happy.   The day started cloudy and now it was even cloudier with darker and more menacing clouds. On our way back to Marion from Usa-Laominis it started raining. Pouring. While trying to cover us and hurry to shelter a small figure started walking next to us. It looked like a child, so I immediately stood on one knee and talked with him. I was concerned for him, so I asked about his parents. I couldn't tell if the child was a she or a him.   He did not answer me. But he asked:"why is it raining?" and if the world would end. I didn't bat an eye in that moment. I was fast to assure him the world wouldn't end along with the others, Verfy and Nixie.   He began to grow as we we were speaking. The kid grew about Talion's size. I was left speechless. Was it an angel?   It told us its grandchild would soon find us and join us in our journey of saving the world. "Follow the sapphire path" it said while disappearing into the rain like it never was there.   Talion figured out it was about the Black Sylph. And our destination was the Sapphire Fountain. A legendary place, far away from our lands.   There is beauty and good in rain too.   I kinda wish Eve was here to feel this, maybe it would've helped her or made her a bit happy. At least Talion is here, maybe he'll stop hurting her.   Dear diary, It's raining... and I am happy.

Dear diary,   After some time and a lot of drama between Talion and his supposed girlfriend, Talion brought us together to tell us something very important...   But before that he went on a small few days journey to his father in Usa-Laominis. During his departure there was a nice festival held in the city of Oner and we decided to go there and participate in as many contests as we could to make some quick fair money, and of course furthermore the reputation of the famous Bart, the Bard. Everybody is talented in some way and mostly different ways so we did not have to compete against each other. I would have won my contest anyway. Verfy and Heron competed in a marathon around the city and some of its fields. They did really good. Verfy finished 2nd and Heron 7th. I did make a little bit of fun of him for getting beaten by a girl, but there was Verfy we were talking about, she is no ordinary girl. Heron then proceeded to go to a strength contest in which he definitely got lucky for winning. The last round wasn't even about strength. I could've moved that barrel, but I wouldn't've got till there that's for sure. I for one went on participating to the only contest there that was fit for me. A singing contest, obviously. I successfully reached the finals with another bard of my own, singing at a new type of instrument I found very interesting. A violin. After mesmerizing the ears of the judges with my ballads and stories it all came down to the public's choice. Which I unfortunately wasn't. Looks like the people didn't like my genre of music. I feel disappointed in them for not knowing what masterpieces sound like. After the competition I went to congratulate the winner bard and he sold me some tips about these crowds. A very good sport.   When Talion came back he told us about everything he did with his old party, Damaschini, Lyaria, Nerissa, Zarkuz, Myiun, Mazog and Evhai. And the least I can say is...wow. That was a lot to take in. Apparently the world is ending and we are going to die and it's all because of Talion. That's not what he said but I figure he is at fault for some of their problems. I just have so many questions. Eve was there too and she was just as mesmerized as me, and Eve is way smarter than me. I am quite afraid that all he said was true. He surely doesn't look like the man who would invent all of this for attention or whatever reason. It would explain his lack of happy emotions. I have so many questions. The others can't see me weak in mind. I mean I already am weak in anything physical add this and I'm sure I'll get treated like a kid and a nuisance. What are these dimensions, and planes of existanse he is talking about. Damaschini and the others really were on a whole new level of knowledge and power. I don't understand why they broke apart. I mean I only heard about Damaschini's steadfastness and of his crew loyalty. It feels weird. This Xantinya really sounds powerful. And to make matters worse we heard news that Haldric, the former king of Worania, allied with this Xantinya and left on a DRAGON. I never thought dragons would come near our world. I knew they were real and not myths like everybody was telling me.   We decided to go ask for help from the Great Council of Mages in Usa-Laominis. With the help of Talion's father we got an audience so we pitched in to make a common speech plan. When we got there and started to talk we were met with unrelenting old men who just wouldn't do anything. After Talion ignored most of our pre-speech talk and went on rumbling about some stuff we didn't necessarily find important or convincing either. I got mad and gave an archmage who opposed us a children's book of prayers to insult him. Looks like the hope of the most powerful people in the world in long lost. It seems as if the world is gonna end because of the unwillingness of the people to fight for it. These men were supposed to be the epitome of power and hope. They should be the ones to understand what the Almighty told us, and that is to fight. All those years of learning higher arcane and nothing came of it. What will become of us...? After we left the hearing, discouraged and ravaged that same guy took us into his study and told us he wants to help and we can ask him for stuff. Time we be on our way to Marion.

Dear diary,   After getting to meet and befriend a lovely group of people with very different capabilities and especially looks we decided to travel together for a while, as we had some common destinations and interests. Unfortunately a civil war started in Worania, as if the invasion lead by Yanis, the king of Vormiol, wasn't enough to ravage the country, so we had to take more care of where and when we travel. After completely ignoring our cautious thinking from before we found ourselves encircled by a rogue nobleman and his cavalrymen. I tried to keep everything calm and stop any bloodshed, mainly because I didn't want to die, I confess, but I also did not want to see my friends die. Talion warned our attackers of his power and the consequences to come if they will attack us. That's when I started saying my prayers and inched closer to Heron, but little did I know. With a huge burst of pure white arcanic flame he engulfed the riders and killed most of them, while I nervously cursed all of the things the nobleman hold dear. To be clear, what Talion did was right after I started slandering about this mans family, subjects and estates. I am not that type of man, I have some honor. After capturing the nobleman and barely kept everyone from beating him like some punchbag we managed to start anew and struck a deal with him. Or at least I hope we did. I do think he will just betray us and capture us after the fact.   After helping the noblemen in a small fight, thus fulfilling our side of the deal, we decided to entirely forget about whatever we asked of him and went to Ionolia because Talion had some unfinished business there or something. He wasn't very specific, but we agreed. Before reaching the Ionolian-Woranian border, word of Yanis conquering Weldyn quickly reached our ears. This is how Yanis officially become the most powerful man in the civilized world. That didn't really impact us on our journey as we were already close to Ionolia and who cares about some lonely travelers. I know my way around people you see. When we reached Ionolia the scenery finally changed. Enough with the "Henric's traitors", bodies pilled up everywhere and hanged all over the place. Our first destination was the city of Marion. A holy city for all humans and creatures alike that follow the word and guidance of the Almighty. The city was very beautiful, filled with large houses and good hearted people. The sacred Hill of Marion is here, where the Almightysm was born, right under the Great Church of Marion. All of those sights left us in awe and for me personally it filled me with a strange kind of...power I guess, I couldn't explain.   We arrived at Talion's place and, although it was a wide, spacious room there were still five of us, so it was a bit cramped. Luckily for us the disturbingly large amount of mirrors made the room feel a bit more big. Because of those mirrors I can't escape Heron's face while we sleep. I think it's haunting me. After we settled in somebody knocked on the door, believing it was the food I just ordered from the kitchen below, I rushed to the door to open it. Standing at the doorway was a beautiful woman with black hair, light green eyes and a fair complexion. She looked a couple of years older than me and about my size, slightly shorter. Naturally I warmly greeted the young lady that came before me and was respectfully greeted back. She then rushed to Talion and dragged him somewhere to talk with him, and not only to talk I am sure, after they talked a bit inside the room. She apparently was Talion's fiancee, named Eve, but I did not see a ring and something was indeed feeling weird. We soon found out that Talion left her and has never, I mean never, wrote a single letter to her for a merely ONE WHOLE YEAR. It all made sense when we saw Eve come back alone and Talion on his walk of shame. I am not sure what went on between them, but I am not one to get involved in others' love problems, if they don't ask me to. We got to know each other and then Eve left for some errands. After we talked with Talion about what happened I decided to tease him a little and invite Eve to eat with us. Talion opposed me, but I was already running out of the room. That's when I found myself frozen in place by an arcanic cage of force that restrained my movement. When Eve came through the corridor and saw me trapped there with Talion trying to pick me up like some kind of toy and bring me back in the room she got really mad and started beating him and scolding him. He even had the audacity to catch her hand. That was very rude of him. I wanted to leave, then and there. That was an abuse of force and Eve knew that and was on my side. She was the one who convinced me to stay. Also I think she ditched Talion because she was definitely trying to get on my good side. Or perhaps she was trying to make Talion jealous because it was quite abruptly. We all went to have lunch and me and Eve sit and talked together all night. We get along quite well and she looks very fond of me. I noticed Talion pulling Eve to the side at some point asking her to stop hitting on me. I chuckled at the sound of that, I hope they didn't realize I was eavesdropping on them.   Dear diary, I really am not a bad person but I don't want to make myself false impressions and find myself a tool of revenge for some woman. I like Eve and her company, and I get that the pain of betrayal can change one's heart that's why I am not condemning her, but I also have a heart and feelings that I wish to keep intact. Take care Eve.

So apparently everybody started writing journals about themselves, this journey, us and many other things I am sure. I mean it's not like I know what they're writing about. It's meant to be private. I definitely did not find out about this by spying on people at night when we usually go to our separate rooms. We're just really close...Okay? I figured it out on my own.   Dear diary, today I started writing a diary, yes you should feel special. A lot of things started happening for me since I left home to find more about this world and bring joy and happiness to whomever wishes to listen to my singing. Firstly I encountered, not that far from my village a man named Heron. I met him at a tavern(obviously), although he doesn't really seem the kind of guy who talks much and fits in the usual tavern atmosphere. Anyway, I got to know him after he saved my ass from an angry group of people who weren't too fond of my political views. Apparently this whole village was on their side, so we quickly found ourselves running from a bunch of armed furious peasants. Or at least I was the one running, Heron fought some of them bravely so I decided I should at least try and repay him for helping me by inviting him into my voyage. I know how this sounded, but he accepted and we went on becoming very good friends. I usually get the food, ale and rooms we sleep in for free in every tavern we go and he helps me stay alive when I accidentally get a little bit to friendly with somebody's woman. It's not like they (the girls) don't enjoy it. Perhaps that's what enrages them mostly. Heron also told me about his family and his goals and we both figured I could help him improve his standing and maybe one day he could reclaim what was once his, or at least regain his honor.   Somewhere along our journey, after a good amount of walk to a city in the southern parts of Worania where we haven't been yet, we found some very interesting characters siting and not really doing anything apart from making sure they get by unnoticed (mission failed I guess, ha ha). Sensing an opportunity to enlarge my stash of stories and legends and my circle of friends I persuaded Heron to go meet them. I also took a couple jars of ale to greet them with. On my way to their table I found myself outrun by a male dressed in white robes and carrying a small bag, probably filled with books. As Heron knows I never give up, I manned up and joined in the conversation while trying to make my best impression. I think I failed, seeing the two girls slowly trying to ease out of our hospitality, so I had to try harder. I never know when to stop, do I? I think I overheard one of the girls mentioning she loves meat, or maybe I was just lucky, I don't remember. Anyway I ordered some food for everybody (yes my purse and Heron were probably screaming at me). And that's were it all began. Love at first sight. True love. I've never seen anyone eat with so much passion and appetite. We spent the evening chatting and exchanging stories and overall having a good time together. The white dressed guy stayed with us. He was alright, smart and full of stories it seemed.   One of the girls was a dark-haired elf (I always knew elves were blonde, but looks like I was in for a treat), she called herself *holds breath* Nernixis Ibryiil-Aellavansar. I guess long names never got out of fashion for the elvish folk. She is a sorcerer capable of controlling aspects of nature and shape them to her liking. She also thinks I'll sell her and her friend as a slave. Firstly I don't encourage slavery. Secondly I don't think I could beat her in a fight. And lastly I am too afraid of even trying that.   Her friend was a fire-forged girl, and no it's not another one of my cheesy pickup lines for redheads. She really is made out of fire. I KNOW! She is the one in love with meat. I don't blame or judge her. Everybody has their guilty pleasures. She calls herself Verfys. A perfectly short and nice name. She is a really nice and beautiful girl, a bit shy but that's what makes her cute. She is a fighter, and a good one at that, just like Heron. But she has a more agile and graceful fighting style compared to Heron. Verfys and Nixie come from beyond that great barrier in the Southern sea. There are also kingdoms there with people made of fire, ice, water and earth. It surely sounds like an amazing place.   The priest looking guy is Talion. He is a wizard from Ionolia who lost his mage status for interfering in a liberation war, by the looks of it, in Alomir. I don't think what happened to him is fair, but what can you do. These are the rules there. He sounds like a good person, although I couldn't help but notice his lack of happiness. He always sounds like he has the whole world upon his shoulders.   So this is the new group I'll be traveling with for the foreseeable future. Who knows what new adventures we will live through.