Eternally white, the moon ruled over the cloudless night, casting pale light to the earth below. Vagrant breezes from the distant sea drifted through the woods, cooling the heavy warmth the bright summer's day had left behind. Zann Ayler sat on the edge of a well worn trail, savoring the calm summer's night. He was unusual for his species, Elf, half as tall as most of his kind, with dark skin and the usual long ears and pronounced nose. His eyes were half closed giving the impression that he was half asleep. But anyone that knew Zann, knew not to be mistaken by his air of easygoing idleness. He was known as a quick and dangerous warrior, immensely strong and wise in the ways of battle. But their was another side to him. He was also an obedient son and loyal to his King. In the woodlands behind him his friends slept. From beneath half closed eyes, Zann watched, missing nothing. From somewhere a nightingale warbled it's short, rich tune. Zann whistled a reply on his flute, aware that someone was creeping on him. He knew who the intruder was by the way she approached.
" I hear ya missie! Couldn't sleep, huh?" His friend Vannan climbed slowly over an elm tree and slid down beside him.
" No one could ever suprise you, swifteye! Phew!" She looked up absently at the stars, hoping to find something to talk about.
" You know, you should really try to find a way to sleep. It's your turn to watch next. Don't want anyone to ambush us, sleepybutt!" he smiled slightly. He knew if their was a battle, she would be the first person he looked for. She was exceptionally good at firing a bow. She rarely ever missed, even moving targets couldn't escape her flying shafts of death.
" Whatever you say, lazyeyes!" With that, she strolled back to her companions and roughly dropped down with a sigh. A few minutes passed and Zann knew she was asleep by her calm breathing. He relaxed a little and played a tune on his flute.