Chapter 9
The Dance of Pieces

I had barely finished my move when my partner took her king's pawn and advanced it to face mine. Our eyes met briefly.

Without hesitating, I defended it by developing a knight.

The mistress of the game did not lose an instant. Her fingers placed the silver general just behind her pawn, strengthening her centre.

I advanced the pawn on the king's bishop file two squares to put on the pressure.

The opening was taking on the look of a reversed Vienna Game, or an improved Latvian Gambit—I liked it a lot.

While she was thinking, I noticed her faint smile. She seemed to savour every nuance of the position.

I was going to be able to create dynamic play with my open lines—my favourite terrain.