1 April 1997
It's been four weeks since the Harvest, and I believe that Sunnydale is reaching a new equilibrium.
The mortality rate has fallen since the immediate aftermath, due largely to citizens taking measures to protect themselves: avoiding staying out past dark, and if they must, traveling in groups and carrying crosses.
Of course, everyone is reacting differently. Principal Flutie has developed an obsession with raising student morale. Ambulances are no longer sent out at night. There's an extremely nihilistic doctor at the hospital who's become rather too free with his prescriptions. The Mayor has turned into something of a rallying figure, going so far as to make defiant statements on the television against the Master. Perhaps too defiant, as more than a few seem to be encouraged to carry on with their lives as normal.
Last night's patrol was eventful. We saved three people, using the methods I described before. The children have started referring to it as "cross-and-grab". They're working quite well together. And Ms. Calendar is now only occasionally infuriating.
Amy Madison killed a vampire using magic for the first time. In general, she's becoming more aggressive in her methods. I wish I could say that this was an unequivocally positive development. However, her mother's influence – and, to be honest, her mother's very presence in Sunnydale – continues to concern me.
The vampire she killed was wearing a ring inscribed with symbols, which has led my research to the Order of Aurelius. I believe he may have been in town for a very specific and troubling purpose.
Unfortunately, this means that the rest of my research has been put on hold. Staying abreast of the supernatural goings-on in a town like Sunnydale is overwhelming, even with Ms. Calendar's assistance. I cannot forget that whatever balance we've reached is a fragile one, and a single misstep could send the town, and all its residents, to its doom.
Though we are managing as best we can, we are no substitute for a well-trained slayer. I believe I've made this clear to the Council. I've also noted to them how useful any resources would be. Of course they will act, the only question is when. I continue to await their response.