#(Feel free to spam my inbox with starters for Nocturne)

[songs-of-future-past]

Goodbye, for now.

To all who receive this, I'm sorry. When I began investigations with the Drifter and our late friend Eris Morn, I had no way of knowing it would end like this. Oryx returned in some regard. The Dreadnaught, breathing again. The Deep- or rather what lurks inside it- reaching out and speaking in ink and tar. Perhaps intentionally setting foot into that echo chamber is a poor choice, but sometimes such things are necessary. I suppose doing something reckless for the sake of research is one of the most cliché things a warlock can do, but I digress. This letter is not to be a long-winded explanation of the why's and how's of what I'm doing. This is to prepare for the potential fallout of this decision of mine.

To my friends in green and gold, respectively. Shin and Germaine. You've had your differences in the past, but you two better than any I know are aware of the risk, and are willing to do what is necessary. If it comes to, gather a team and do not hesitate. I would return to the Light at the hands of none other than one of you two.

To Deputy Commander Sloan and Ahsa: I thank you for your guidance. If I return, it will be by your teachings. If I do not, know that it is in no way a failure on your part. It is by you that I have walked this path as far as I have. Thank you for that.

To the Vanguard, there is much to say and few words to say it in. We've had our differences, but I am proud to have fought at your side over these past years. Commander Zavala: your ability to stand tall in the face of everything thrown our way has been an inspiration. Rest easy. Ikora: despite our past arguments, I am proud to have called you a mentor. There was much I could not have made it past without your guidance. Crow: You have far, far exceeded my expectations over the years. Do not forget your past, but rise above it knowing that you have become so much more.

To Saint-14 and Osiris, two of the greatest men I have ever known. Now more than ever, I hope that you find your peace. I have learned as much from you both as Saint claims to have learned from me. Live beyond what you mean to others, and live for each other. You have found a finer thing than any amount of silver or glimmer. I know few others who can treasure it like the pair of you.

To Lord Shaxx and Valus Forge. I'm sure you both hate to see one another mentioned in the same sentence, so I hope this letter reaches you both with leagues between you two. If it doesn't, please do not tear the Tower apart arguing, but know that I hold you both in equally high regards. While Ikora taught me what I know about the light, you two taught me what it means to be a guardian. Even when I strayed to uncharted territory, your teachings kept me from following the unworn path into corruption. If I do return free of black fire, it will be in part by the memory of what I learned from you just as much as the resolve learned from Deputy Commander Sloan.

To Banshee-44, Ana, and Elsie (and Archie), I cannot imagine my journey without any of you. You are all a credit to the Tower any guardian would be proud to call friend.

To Failsafe, I cannot thank you enough for what you've done for us. I know you said that wanting to help is part of your programming, but in my opinion you have gone above and beyond. I cannot thank you enough for keeping an eye on the little rabbit while I have been unavailable. I don't think it would've bounced back like it has without you.

To Empress Caiatl and Misraakskell, I (and many others) value our alliance far more than words can express. There are few leaders I would bend a knee for, and I would do so for you both with pride. And to Eido, Variks, and Nimbus, your aid and council is just as valued. I know we Guardians can be a difficult lot to handle, and you five have all done so with a level of skill I can only hope to emulate.

To Luzaku and Fynch, my words are simple. You are brave to stand against not just your brood but your entire species. Walk in the Sky.

To RZ-3 and Gerda-3, I have known you for a short period, but I appreciate your presence all the same. These past weeks have been difficult, and even if it can be difficult for me to fully express, I truly did enjoy those times spent in your company.

To Elyan, you are braver than you know. I know how tempting it can be to walk dangerous paths when you're scared and confused, but I trust that you have the strength to remain on the straight and narrow. Your journey is just beginning. Listen to Crow and keep working with Sloan. It's hard, I know, but you'll get there.

And finally, to my candle in the dark. Ellis. When we first met, it was in a time where I was struggling to find a reason to continue fighting. And like a lighthouse in a storm, I found you. If the worst happens, I regret only breaking the promise I made to you. You reminded me of how important it is to be with others, and as I walk into the dark alone, my last thoughts will be of you.

Ad memoriam, to all those we have lost. The Speaker. Cayde. Amanda. Rasputin. Eris. Sagira. Targe. May you all rest in peace knowing that those you have touched have all been bettered by your presence. You will never be forgotten.

I thank all of you for your time, patience, and presence in this second life of mine. If I am lost, I couldn't be leaving the Sol system in better hands. If I return, these words ring no less true. I am proud to call every one of you a friend, and I thank you for your time and your company.

~ Nocturne Minsk