I HADN'T EXPECTED HER TO use her energy against me, and the blow that threw me into the door winded me. Loi stood in the middle of the floor, her face tense and fists ready at her sides.

I scrambled to my feet and quickly unbuckled the dress, tossing it to the side, so I stood in the silk pants and undershirt; better than ruining the dress.

She threw energy at me again. I easily deflected it, throwing her back on her ass. I felt a moment of vindication, which quickly ...