Echo of the Exodus

Week 1, Day 3

Well boredom was finally gotten to me so I decided to write in this journal I bought on the dockside on the day of the Exodus. It was been an uneventful journey so far. Seeing the land I used to call home from a distance is quite a shock. I never imagined it was so massive, until now. It's our third day of sailing and still I can see it. But it is fading fast and maybe the life I left behind will fade away from my memory also.

I never wanted to leave. I had no choice. I still cannot believe I am writing this in this book. But it must get out from my mind. Being stationed on the southern plains was never easy. Bandits were always present and it felt good to bring them to justice. As the kingdom begin it's push to conquer the surrounding territories the men left behind to protect became vultures. Some of the men began to get drunk and have their way with men. I never believed it until I saw it and stopped it. I can still feel my warm blood from the soldier I had slain. It was a feeling of horror and disgust. But the woman's screaming was so unbearable I had to go check. But when I saw his large body trying to push himself on her I had to react. I had to protect and I did. My blade thrust itself through his back. I reacted out of anger, out of hate. So I ran, far from plains hidden in my brown cloak. I cast my armor and sword into the closest river. I was no longer the imperial guard known as Riclen. I am now just Riclen one of the settlers. One of the flock who seek freedom. It was very fortunate that I overcame the parade of broken people escaping to the docks of Linding. It was fate I believe, the True One blessed me with this gift. Now my fate pulls me overseas. Maybe the True One wants me to protect the people of ship number six. Now I will, it is my responsibility to watch and protect these seekers of new lives. They are now under my guard. None shall know that I was an imperial guard. They all have quite a distaste for us. Seems like the plains the only place in the kingdom with the problem of bored soldiers. But I will always miss my little sister Alexis. My father did speak of leaving Hilan. Maybe he did get out…

Riclen