"Oh, cat dirt," Sandry said in a breathless whisper, as she turned to see the great bear looming over the brave little Skiddo. Very brave, but Sandry was experienced enough as a trained to tell that the poor little thing really didn't have much of a hope against that Ursaring.

"Silk!" she commanded. The Delcatty stood to attention. "Flash, please." Polite as the words were, it was clear that Sandry had no doubt at all that they would be obeyed without hesitation.

And indeed, a moment later a bright, blinding light filled the Ursaring's eyes, and it roared. It turned madly, still trying to attack the Skiddo - but it's attacks were falling wider, it's aim off, giving Nettle more room to move out of the way.