Journal Entry Three continued …

After Zlata’s fall from grace, and her death, Gunnar healed up Roth and we took him back for justice. It is strange that after everything, Zlata would not come easily. Did not peg her for the suicide type. I was worried that we could not pin any of the crimes on her, but Roth spilled the beans and Inquisitor Dale believed that Zlata was guilty of everything, so that was it.

After all that, still no investigation. The whole thing was trumped-up as a random event. Bullshit! After these last two years, I will always remember Zlata and the Bloody Swords!

The Rejects, the Helpers, and the Travellers of the Road were commended for their involvement. We got drunk that night too. So many deaths, but no conclusion.

The Count rewarded us with seven hundred slips, which I used to pay for Pela’s apartment for the next two years, and she is letting me stay. I have to sleep in the second room, so I do not get any loving, but she was not my true love after all. She friend-zoned me after I moved in.

The Rejects received a few jobs because of our increased reputation after removing Zlata from life. Still do not understand why we had to save Roth, as that bit us on the arse more than once. Fricking Bloody Swords!

Went back and started my training with Kilroy, which was great. That year was the first time I entered the Champion of the Hall competition.

The important thing is, we continue asking questions about the whole incident as we hear further rumours about Zlata’s interfering, but most times we find out nothing. Just snippets, after Stillwater roughs up a few of the unsavoury types. We still hear that there is someone out there with the description of Zlata, but I saw her die. Yet I have felt her eyes on me a few times. Which is weird.

We have had a few jobs. We found the culprits responsible for the 'Great Spoon Heist'—so stupid. We started using Stillwater's house as our base of operations. She still complains about us messing up her tablecloths. Eventually Pela joined the Rejects as well.

I miss those early days. I regret so much; there is still a great deal to document before I leave for the front.

I wish I could have saved more, but you can only be the hero you can be.

J.Q.