Journal Entry 52
11.07.2026
You are probably wondering why I am writing a second journal entry today. Well, my dearest journal, I cannot seem to halt my racing thoughts. Over the last couple of weeks, I have been so focused on the events in the basement that I blocked out where my troubles in Rüdersdorf began.
The memory blindsided me as the train pulled into the station. Off in the distance, I saw the building—the Rüdersdorf Inn. At first glance, the five-story building, with its pointed roof, stabbed me in the gut. The Inn was the last place I remembered before waking up in the basement and vomiting the previous night’s dinner.
I had trailed two of Prime Minister Northcott’s assistants into town, only to lose them at the Zum Alten Anker pub. They were in the middle of eating their meal, so I believed it would be the perfect time to go to the loo. Even the best-laid plans can go awry. In the minute or two it took me to relieve myself, Northcott’s assistants had vacated the pub. I should have realized at that moment that they knew I was following them. To be fair, I was heavily disguised. However, I must have done something to give myself away.
My last memory of the Rüdersdorf Inn was opening the door to my hotel room. Standing in front of me were the two assistants. I am unable to conjure any additional memories of what occurred after we looked into one another’s eyes.
I came to Rüdersdorf to face my demons. With that purpose in mind, I walked directly from the train station to the docks behind the Inn. I stared at the building for a long time, studying every detail my eyes could discern. It looked older and weathered—far from well maintained.
Not long after my stroll along the docks, I walked through the Inn’s front door and asked for a room. Staying at the Rüdersdorf Inn was not part of the plan I had made to end my torment. There is no doubt that I need to prepare myself for whatever memories may be hiding within me. Perhaps those memories are part of the reason the King wanted someone to accompany me for support.
