Chapter 69

OUT IN THE CORRIDOR EVERYONE listened intently and the girls tested their ability to sense each other's energy.

'I think it's good now,' announced Kassie. She glanced at Loi and Sian who agreed.

'Okay, I'll lead the way.' Yakov stepped to the door and gave it a light rap with his knuckles, then after a pause, opened it.

They followed him in.

Alek and Cat stood close while Alek instructed her on her hold using a wooden practice sword. The atmosphere in the room felt free and easy. Cat looked back to them and gave a bright, delighted smile. Kassie exchanged a happy smile with the others; it worked! They all settled into practice while Yakov, acting as the time keeper, watched.

SHE'D DEMANDED HE NOT HOLD back and he didn't. Within a quarter hour Alek had smashed the first of Cat's swords. Her eyes belied the fear she felt but she fought back hard. When she broke his sword near the end of their session she let loose a shriek of delight. He laughed at her, she was on to her fourth sw