The train slowly built up speed as it started to pull away from the station, steam billowing out from the engine as the piercing sound of the whistle filled the air. Just before the end of the platform, I took one mighty leap and reached out for the rail of the platform of the parlor car.
Pulling myself over the railing, I stood for a moment and straightened out my topcoat. Upon entering the car, I was thrown onto an oversized chair as the train tilted to one side. The wheels screeched and sparks flew as the train rounded the curve at high speed.
The car swayed from side to side and the clickity clank of the wheels indicated the train was gaining even more momentum. The only light in the car came from the full moon and cast just enough light to reveal Electa Flint sitting across from me. Even if we were not the only two people in the car, I would have easily recognized her. She was twirling a strand of shoulder length blonde hair in her fingers.Those blue eyes felt as if they were looking at my soul.
“You’re late Nate Atwater, I really don’t like it when someone can’t be on time.”
“My apologies Electa.” I replied, noticing her ample bosom supported by a brown leather underbust corset.
She wore a gold coral pearl blue enamel locket pendant that rested at the top of her cleavage.
“Admiring the view, are we?”
“Never mind, let's get down to business.”
“I have the plans you asked for, Electa.”
She stood and crossed the aisle to take the seat next to me. She wore a pair of brown pleated skirt and matching boots. Glancing out the window, I saw the barren landscape caused by the war with the cloud city of Stratos flash by as the train sped onward.
“It’s been ten years since our city, Ironhagen began to decline due to lost jobs, rampant disease and pollution. Eventually, it became so bad, that those who were well educated and wealthy, escaped up to the clouds and built the city, Stratos, on one.”
“I realize that, Electa and I also knew that negotiations for the new technologies developed by scientists in Stratos that could save us, fell apart along with a plea for us to live with them in Stratos.”
“For the last four years, the two cities have waged war.They have a more superior force than Ironhagen has. I hope what you have for me will turn the tide in our favor, Nate.”
As we talked, I noticed the concrete platform of the next station lit by only the light of the moon. The train came to an abrupt stop with metal grinding against metal. The car lurched forward, then backward. I reached into the inside pocket of my overcoat and Electa grabbed my arm.