Jack's Diary - Day 19, October 4th 2013

     I don't recall if I ever wrote that I was lonely, but if I did, I take it back. Duke is like an annoying little brother in a young man's body. He's rude, snide, narcissistic (well, more so than I am at least), has an annoying voice, hasn't said one nice thing to me since I met him, and worse of all, he's a complete coward who belittles me for my violet ways, yet clings to me for protection. I don't know how he survived this long in life. He also considers himself my intelligent than me, which made me laugh at the fact that he thought that way and how he voiced this opinion openly (snotty and proud apparently). If you're wondering why I haven't deserted or killed him yet, my only answer is pity. He'd surely die on his own and I at least want to get him to a safe place before leaving him. Besides, he was a good pac-mule to use to carry my stuff and he might come in handy in other ways in the future though I have my doubts.
     Well, enough talking about Duke. We traveled for two days and were a mile or two near the outskirts of a city. Along the way, I asked Duke about his past, which prompted him to begin a speech about his "great adventures" and "noble deeds". I'd write it down for you to read, but sadly, I have no motivation to spread falsified self-proclaiming stories. From there, the travel was much smoother after I threatened Duke that if he spoke again, I'd slam his head off a tree until I could see his skull. Things were pretty quiet, other than the occasional slip up on Dukes part, which I graciously forgave. We found a high place that required climbing skills and upper body strength to reach, making it useful for fending off roaming soulless. We climbed up and decided to rest until dawn before heading into the city, which gave me the chance to scout the area. There were a large number of soulless in Haleton and I could even see a few survivors moving about. Sadly, a number of them didn't live to see the next morning.
     As darkness was fully upon us, I quietly discussed the plan with Duke who just seemed to nod agreeing without even caring. He still had that dissatisfied smirk, one that told me that he thought it was stupid. It is true. We could have gone around the city, avoiding danger all together since we had everything we needed. However, Jane could very well be in this city, along with other people who may need protect (and who might be less of a jerk then Duke). I'm going to get some sleep. Duke just sat on the ground, looking off into space. Usually with other people around, I'd be afraid they would hurt me or steal my stuff while sleeping since it is the time when I am most vulnerable, but Duke is a coward and he knows that without me, he would surely join the soulless ranks.

- Jack's Diary