(...)
I am quite aware that my research into magic is – well, it’s madness. People have burnt for far less. But curiosity and risk always go hand in hand, as my father used to say.
To properly study the arcane, I need research material. Books, to be precise. I hear there is one particular shop in Svartrau, near Altenmarkt Square – a man named Henrik is supposed to have quite a collection on offer. I’ll visit him tomorrow.
(...)
It’s funny – these days my obsession with magic is… Not a factor, to be honest. What once caused sleepless nights and a feverish pursuit of knowledge now seems foolish, trivial even. A man’s heart is a curious thing, isn’t it?
(...)
I worry about Henrik. He is too good, too pure… too gullible for this world. Many would gladly hurt us, just for who we are. And there are some people from my past who might still remember my transgressions. What if they find me in Svartrau? Hurt Henrik because of my mistakes? I need to find a way to protect him.
(...)
Got the book. Henrik will be mad that I ‘borrowed’ it, but better to apologise later once he's seen what I’ve done for him. The bracelet is perfect for this. And after I’m done – no more black magic. No more worrying.