Chapter 72

ELENA WATCHED, PLEASED WITH CAT'S progress. The redhead's eyes were wide while she watched the flaming ball she'd created.

It was nearly time for them to leave and with reluctance, Elena spoke up. 'Please draw your energy back into yourselves. It will be time to leave shortly.' The expressions of surprise on the girls' faces amused her.

'Has it really been that long?' Kassie sounded bewildered.

'It has. You've all done exceptionally well for a day's work. I am sure you must be tired and hungry by now.'

The women drew their energy back and the humming noise finally left Elena's mind. It was only audible to those who were gifted. She sighed in relief at its absence, after a while it gave her a headache. Elena released them from the circle she'd cast to drown out the noise while they practiced. Then they relaxed as they waited for Loushka and Tomiar.

LATER THAT EVENING, WHILE I lay in bed, I extended my hand and stared at it for a moment. At a thought my fingertips lit, the flames