I left Katie's head and sat in the water for some time, nothing to do but think. The water felt uncomfortably thin against my skin, but at least it was distilled and there were no trace chemicals burning it.

After a time, I felt the glass rise again. I swam to the surface of the liquid and felt around for the ear canal. I squished and squeezed my way in and was soon completely connected with Katie's brain.

How did it go? I asked nervously.

Katie almost spoke in a sigh. Mission accomplished... So far... Jake is gonna be here soon to take over. Let's hope the others understand too. Can I say one more thing to Cassie?

Certainly, I said.

Thanks.

"Cassie? This is Katie. Can you maybe stay here a little after Jake comes? I just think you might be able to help me explain. He trusts you."

Cassie smiled gently, but at the same time looked a little embarrassed. "Sure."

I guess that now we just wait, I said to Katie.

Yeah. I guess so.

The next several hours passed slowly. I was beginning to feel the effects of my lack of Kandrona; besides the hunger I found it hard to keep my thoughts straight, and I was growing increasingly tired. I still had about twelve hours before starvation would occur, so I tried to hide my growing hunger from Katie. She did not need to become even more nervous.