"The Chosen will kill all of us"

"Do they come in the night?"

(pause)

"...They are the night"

. . .

I think on these words exchanged between myself and Dorian. With Vani nursing her fresh wounds, I think they finally realize the mistake we have made. I never should have stayed. I should not have been swayed with warm tea and warm words. I was inexplicably drawn to the idea of family and yet I have rotted it from within. Alas, too late, too late we realize our mistakes.

We cannot change the past, this much is true. In moments like this, we look to the future. Sometimes, a woman must do deeds that go against her values, that disgust her, all for a grander purpose. There is a saying about "not seeing the forest for the trees"... I was always good at seeing the forest. I must steel myself, like I did that night, and do whatever necessary to destroy our enemies.

I'm sick of Lucien's little games, of his taunts. Done with it. Ren too seems different. Her eyes are steely and full of new resolve. "You told me you'd do whatever it takes," I tell her. She looks at me and I see this is true. She speaks of a deal she has made. It seems she too is tired of playing by others' rules. Bird Girl also surprises me with her gift. Just when I think I have an understanding of her, she shows some new sparkling facet of herself that remained hidden until now.

With Ren's choice and Jeremiah's labors, we are ready to begin. May Nurzhan look favourably on my choices, or at least turn a blind eye.

Narcel'Uss Tanorthal

. . .

The next day's entry is much different in appearance than the other entries in the journal. Above, Narcel'Uss' letters are meticulously written and formed, reflecting her years of study and the close watch and lecturing of her tutors. The words below look hastily scrawled and they practically jump off the page. There is a burst of ink in the middle, possibly created by a pen nib snapping in the process of being forcefully pressed upon. 

The day is vibrant and alive. The blood pulses sweetly in my veins. I drink it all in, knowing that today holds infinite possibilities. I can finally put an end to this miserable business with Lucien. I have the power to build a brand new empire among these unbelievers. I could be a QUEEN! I could tear down the SUN! 

IT WILL BE GLORIOUS!