Kate read the expressions on Matt and Jasper. Small utterances of words of willing themselves to be expressed. Years of harsh punishment still prevented them from speaking freely.<br/>The mage squeezed both their hands and she gazed into their eyes before ascending the stairs. "Come into my room and speak your mind. Papa can be intimidating. He cares dearly for you. I could not be happier. You both did well today and Papa knows it will take time before you speak to him as you can with me."<br/>She led them both to her room and motioned for them to sit on her bed. She sat between them. She faced Matt first as she slowly placed her right hand on his shoulder. "Easy, your not in trouble. You did very well tonight. When he finished she patted his arm. "Good Matt. What did you want to say? You can always speak freely to me."<br/>When he finnished moments later she lifted his chin, "Look at my face for 10 seconds and take deep breaths. Repeat this 10 times. Is time you learn to look at people. No more looking at your feet. Practice on me and the servants. I will ask Papa to get his permission."<br/><br/>After Matt spoke, Kate turned and faced her champion and slowly lifted his chin. "You do the same. Take your time getting the words out. She paused awaiting his reply. When he finished speaking she replied then spoke, "I want you to practice speaking to all in the household. The guards you do not have to speak to. I want you looking up when you pass them. We go into town only put your heads down to avoid the sun or you are tired. No one needs to know your past. I see you looking down when being spoken to I will pinch you."<br/><br/>Kate placed her thumb and finger on each of their arms and gave a light squeeze. I promised not to hurt you. This habit you will break. You can look left or right and at one's nose or chin. You head stays up as your gaze. Impolite to stare at one's eyes unless your daring to fight. This you avoid unless provoked. Words of warning before fists if you can."<br/><br/>Kate smoothed their hair. "I will try to keep you away from crowds. The street performers are a delight to watch. Matt, you want to go into a shop ask me. Avoid guards and keep close to me. Try not touch anything breakable. I give you reminders tomorrow." Kate wrapped her arms around Matt, "You have a long day. Your cookies were very good. Tomorrow you will get to taste lots of sweets. Off to bed with you. Do not forget to brush your teeth."<br/><br/>Kate strolled to her dressing room and changed into a white nightgown and slipped into the covers.<br/>Kate gave Jasper a tight hug then softly stroked his left cheek, "Eh Eh my touch is gentle. You will learn to trust me. I want you with me in your cat form. It is cold and you get rewarded with a long pet. Your fur is so soft. I hurt you growl. Get comfortable because I want to hear you purr."