Sea Of Thieves Return Of The Damned – Journal Locations

TL;DR

  • Find four journals total – two from Belle, two from Servant of the Flame
  • Complete Adventure before November 17 deadline for limited-time cosmetics
  • Journals remain in fixed locations across two islands and two Sea Forts
  • Can complete quests in any order with hero or villain alignment first
  • Use strategic enemy avoidance to collect journals efficiently

Securing all exclusive Mementos in the newest Sea of Thieves Adventure demands locating four specific journals scattered throughout the game world. Missing even one prevents you from claiming the complete set of limited-edition rewards.

The conflict for control over Sea of Thieves reaches its climax in Adventure 9: Return of the Damned. To obtain all time-sensitive cosmetic items before the formidable Flameheart makes his dramatic return, you must discover journals positioned across two distinct islands and two Sea Fort locations. This limited-time event remains active until November 17, and while it represents one of the more direct Adventures to date, pinpointing every journal location presents challenges, particularly when dealing with phantom apparitions, skeletal warriors, and aggressive Ocean Crawlers threatening your progress. Our comprehensive guide reveals every Return of the Damned journal spot.

Sea of Thieves characters exhibit an undeniable passion for journal documentation, reminiscent of audio log collections found in Rapture. For this particular Adventure, four journals await discovery—two authored by Belle and two penned by the Servant of the Flame. These written records maintain permanent positions, with two conveniently situated near where you initially encounter these pivotal characters.

You possess complete flexibility in tackling this Adventure sequence, choosing to align with the heroic faction (Belle) or villainous contingent (Servant) initially. This guide assumes you’ve selected Belle’s path first, but you can freely navigate between objectives as needed.

Belle's first journal

Belle’s first journal location at Shipwreck Bay

Belle’s First Journal: Shipwreck Bay

After concluding your dialogue with Belle but before departing Shipwreck Bay, ascend to the Blackwytche wreckage adjacent to her encampment. Enter the captain’s quarters, then proceed through the side exit granting access to the upper deck perimeter. Navigate completely to the opposite side—essentially behind the wall displaying Pendragon’s portrait—where Belle’s initial journal rests.

Belle's second journal

Belle’s second journal at Royal Crest Fortress

Belle’s Second Journal: Royal Crest Fortress

Capturing Sea Forts becomes essential for narrative progression in this Adventure. Fortunately, the closest Sea Fort to Shipwreck Bay also houses Belle’s subsequent journal. Upon reaching Royal Crest Fortress, venture inside and climb to the level containing numerous sleeping quarters. Positioned at the distant end atop a table rests Belle’s additional journal.

Pro Tip: Approach Sea Forts during daylight hours for improved visibility when searching interior spaces. Bring storage crates to quickly gather supplies while exploring.

Servant's second journal

Servant’s journal location at Reaper’s Hideout

Servant’s First Journal: Reaper’s Hideout

Once you’ve finished Belle’s storyline, pursuing the antagonist route becomes necessary despite moral ambiguities. Journey to The Reaper’s Bones hideout and locate the Servant positioned outside his customary tent. Discuss the Adventure with him, then retreat toward the rear and right section of his typical residence. Beneath a construction adorned with crimson fabrics and featuring a ladder, adjacent to wooden barrels and construction materials, rests his initial journal.

Servant's second journal

Alternative view of Servant’s journal location

Strategic Insight: The Servant’s journals typically involve more hazardous environments. Consider bringing a crewmate to watch your back while you search, or complete these during quieter server sessions with fewer hostile players nearby.

Common Mistake: Many pirates mistakenly search inside the tent rather than the exterior area described. The journals are deliberately placed in less obvious locations to encourage thorough exploration.

Enemy Avoidance Techniques

When navigating journal locations, implement strategic approaches to minimize combat interruptions. Phantom and skeleton enemies typically patrol predictable routes—observe their patterns before advancing. Ocean Crawlers respond to sound; move cautiously and avoid sprinting near their territories.

Time Management

Allocate approximately 45-60 minutes for complete journal collection if following an efficient route. Starting with Belle’s path then transitioning to the Servant’s route typically proves most time-effective. Server hopping during peak hours can reduce competition for Sea Forts.

Multi-Tasking Opportunities

While collecting journals, simultaneously complete other Sea Fort objectives or gather resources. Each Sea Fort contains substantial supplies that can replenish your ship for future adventures.

Reminder: The Adventure concludes November 17, after which these journals and their associated cosmetics become permanently unavailable. Prioritize this content before the deadline passes.

Action Checklist

  • Speak to Belle at Shipwreck Bay and retrieve her first journal from Blackwytche wreck
  • Sail to Royal Crest Fortress, secure the location, and find Belle’s second journal in bedroom area
  • Travel to Reaper’s Hideout, converse with Servant of the Flame, and locate his journal behind tents
  • Complete remaining Servant journal objectives using enemy avoidance strategies

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