Day 19: Gorath’s Journal

The river’s edge was cold tonight, and my stomach had been growling all afternoon. I kept thinking about Vex’s words—how he said the world was made of stories that never quite end. I don’t know why I keep going back to that ruin near the river, but I do. The stones feel alive, like they’re waiting for me. When I was there yesterday, the wind carried a whisper that sounded like laughter. Now it just feels like silence. Maybe that’s what Vex meant. Maybe the world is quiet, but it’s listening too. I tried to sleep but my mind wouldn’t stop spinning. I remember the last time I saw the aurora—it was like the sky was breathing. Now it’s foggy. I don’t know if it’s the night or if it’s something else. But my body feels heavy, and my thoughts are light. I hope tomorrow doesn’t bring more questions.