June 19, 1999
Dearest Jane,
I am sorry I have not written in such a long time. These last two months have been very busy. Now that I have been Released, it seems that that means any of the older mages in the Chantry can assign me tasks. Apparently, John has been filtering the assignments up until now. I have to learn how to either tactfully say "No." or explain to each one just how much magical research I am currently undertaking. I have to prioritize things. Otherwise, I will be overwhelmed.
Besides that, I am not going to be here for much longer. I have just found out where I am going to be assigned. It is a place called Aragon in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. At first, I was shocked. I was going to the San Francisco Chantry? Only the best and brightest go there. I do not care how good a neonate is, no neonate is sent to the San Francisco Chantry on their first assignment.
Then, I discovered it was not the San Francisco Chantry. I was both disappointed and relieved. Aragon is a small area near some place called Concord, in Contra Costa county. It is about 40 kilometers from San Francisco. I suppose I have been a bit secluded, but it never occurred to me that there would be another Chantry in that area, outside of the San Francisco one. But, now that I think about it, it makes sense.
I am quite nervous about this assignment. I have never been to the States. I hear that things are much looser, less formal and a lot more... dangerous. Anarchs, Sabbat and the like. Yet, at the same time, I am quite excited. Much like going off to college for the first time again. Being on my own. Almost like I have grown up all over again. I think John will miss me. He will not admit it but I can sense it in him - the way he speaks to me and my leaving for the new Chantry.
I wish you could be there with me. It is no fun starting a new adventure without your partner in crime. Though, I promise, I will keep you updated on my experiences. I miss you.
Love,
Kayley
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