Chapter 10.3
The two stood facing each other in the vestibule to the tower. Two doors stood in front of them, one led up, the other led down into the ground. Katashi felt a strong but subtle pull to take the door that led up into the tower. He would do so but first he had to deal with Jaala. He turned to face him.
“Before we go any further I want you to tell me about this order of the silk shield. I have felt for some time now that there were things you were keeping from me, secrets. This is at the core of it isn’t it?” Without waiting for an answer he finished. “Tell me Jaala. If you and I are to continue on this journey you must tell me all.” Frustration was in Katashi’s voice and a trace of anger. It was not becoming one of his station and he noticed it even as he tried, unsuccessfully, to let go of it.
Jaala looked at Katashi as he spoke. He seemed nervous, like an animal caught in a trap with the hunter closing in. He had no where to go. He knew he had to tell Katashi what he had asked but this was neither the time nor the proper setting to do so. If this was handled wrong the order could lose a most valuable asset. He started to open his mouth to speak.
At this moment a noise was heard from outside. Both their heads turned to look to see where the sound was coming from. Beasts, hard to tell just what, were running towards them clearly intent on attacking. Nothing was available to barricade the door. Jaala’s demeanor immediately changed to one of confidence.
“I will tell you everything you ask, but not here, not now.” With that he turned and bolted towards the door, the one going down into the ground.
“No!” Katashi yelled, but too late. Jaala was gone.
Katashi was faced with a decision. Follow Jaala down and increase their chances of survival by staying together, or take the path upward where the pin was leading him.
