Chapter 2: Jailin

She jumped to the highest branch on the center tree in the garden. As she stood perfectly balanced, her dark hair shimmering in the light of the half moon I noticed her figure for the first time.

She was slim, medium build and had a nice face. Her hair would look better curled, but what can you do. Her eyes were dark; the starlight causing them to shimmer like dark pools of water. She was wearing a simple black button down shirt. The shirt was just long enough to cover the belt holding up her black-leather pants. She wore a jacket, also of black leather, which kept her secrets hidden from detection. At her belt she carried something that looked and felt like a taser. I should know ‘cuz the first time I met her she used it on me. Long story, another time.

Now, perhaps a bit about me. I'm 6 foot 7 inches with long wavy hair and a smile to die for. Yup, that's me. Or... not. I'm about 5ft 7, straight short black hair and my eyes have nothing to commend them. My favorite color is blue. Which, now that I think of it is probably why I am wearing the same thing she is... but in blue.

Neilara jumped off of the tree. "Oy, Jailin You having delusions of grandeur again?"

"Ha ha, But of course my dear, is that not how you know me?"

She glared at me. Though we grew up together I don't think she likes me that much; ah well. She walked over to the pool and knelt down.

"We should leave."

"What? Why?"

"Don't question me, just go get ready."

"Wait, Nei, where are we going?"

"It'll be a long journey."

"Darling... where are we going?"

"I told you not to call me that."

"Hello? You there?"

"The Capital ok?"

"Do you mean our capital or the Capital?"

"The Capital."

"What?!? You do know how long it will take us to get there. It will take weeks on foot just to get to the nearest way station not to mention trying to find a ship that will take us there!"

"Yes."

"This is a crazy plan. Have you talked to the elders about this?"

"Yes."

"And they agreed?!?"

"Yes."

"This must be a joke... this is ridiculous."

"Make your preparations. Mine are done."

"This is insane."

"You going to tell me why?"

She looked at me sternly. She had her mind set. Ok then, off to the Capital for some reason.