Chapter 48

Master Damien fed me throughout, but made our lunch into a training session. It was fun like Christof and I used to have. He laughed heartily at my approximation of a Warrior, but helped me get a little better at the fundamentals.

At one point he handed me the bowl and told me to feed myself while I watched him. I ate heartily and watched him demonstrate some of their moves. He made a really impressive site.

When lunch was over he walked me back to the compound along the sheltered trail. I was absolutely stunned when he reached down and took my hand. Suddenly he stopped and looked down at me. His other hand cupped my face in a gentle gesture.

"We were very unhappy when you were in the village, Ciara. It bothered us a great deal, more than we thought it would," he told me looking uncomfortable.

"It was awful, Master Damien. I won't do that again. I promise I wasn't trying to escape," I pleaded my case again.

Master Damien chuckled softly and pressed o