Security Chief Hart had arrived moments behind her. “What’s wrong?” he asked in puzzlement. “You took him out with one blow. Pretty good, in my estimation.”
“Exactly the problem, Chief,” Ping continued mournfully. “It should have lasted longer. My focus failed, and with it my discipline.” She looked up at the chief with concern. “Could I be losing my touch?”
Hart patted her on the shoulder. “Don’t worry about it. We can spar tomorrow. Work out your frustrations on me.” He smiled kindly. “While I’m wearing a thickly padded vest, of course.”
Lenora, Hart, and Ping stood around Xiu Bao’s hospital bed. Lenora held Xiu’s hand. Both Ping and Hart unconsciously clenched and unclenched their fists.
Lenora spoke softly. “I am so sorry, Xiu. I was warned not to matriculate Guang in the first pla
