Happy Returns

Barg has been returned to us. I know the significance of our existence is of import to the multiverse. But I am just happy he has been returned to us. I have too oft felt the weight of our journey as of late. I understand the sacrifice of the priests was necessary to help secure the return of our companion so that he may take his place in helping correct the Guide's mistake. But it should have bothered me. And it should have bothered me that it didn't bother me as much. Have I become so uncaring and so focused on what we mean to the world that I think less of others existence? If one life matters more than another, then do the multitudes matter at all? In which case, why save existence at all? I have a lot of prayer and meditation before me on these thoughts. Maybe speaking to Never would help. She seems very grounded and "of the world" and "of the people" these days. Or our new avian companion. Maybe Barg has some insight as well. He seems, different. Wiser? As I become more enlightened, I feel less... happy? I yearn for the return of innocence and dare I say ignorance.
 
I continue to embrace my expanded knowledge of divinity. Realizing that all "gods" and "divine powers" are simply aspects of one source of power, on our plane as well as all the others has been truly enlightening. It causes one to wonder, though, how that divine source is connected to time and fate. And what terrible experiments and mistakes the Guide's people have caused to disrupt that. I have much to think about these days, and much knowledge to acquire. It has been difficult to keep to my studies as it always has. The struggle to concentrate and avoid distraction is a shortcoming I pray to overcome daily.
 
But enough of all the doom and gloom. We are headed back to my family. Winnie is near at hand. Sorry, the Bishop is near at hand. And maybe I will get to see Oopha at mother's birthday celebration. It has been so long since I wrote to her. And longer still since I have seen her mischievous smile and heard her infectious laugh. She was always the ringleader and had the best ideas.
 
I wonder what fate will befall Shirriss when we leave. Should we abandon it to the catastrophe surely heading its way? Should we stay and defend it. Will the reinforcements from Never's order be enough? I am so full of doubt these days! We seemed to be coming into our own and gaining the skills to help the people dear to us and defend the populace and communities we inhabit. But after that abomination... and the nightmares before it... I am not so sure we are up to the task.