Lin Xiao arrived at the sparring platform.
Looking up, he saw Zhu Zhuqing standing on one foot atop a tall bamboo pole.
Where anyone had found that pole, he had no idea.
It was thinner than the heels of her high heels, yet it supported all that weight without breaking or even bending.
This could fill two episodes of Approaching Science.
Wind swept through the air above. The pole trembled gently, and her black hair streamed in the breeze. Her body tipped to one side now and then before she swiftly pulled it upright again, her ankle making constant tiny adjustments as she fought to keep her balance.
She had held the pose for a long time. Fine beads of sweat had gathered at her temples.
Lin Xiao walked forward slowly and looked up at her.
"Is she practicing her balance?"
Master Guga nodded.
"Boss, martial arts demand a solid foundation, so every part of the body moves at the mind's command.
Her center of gravity leans forward. That affects her balance, and as she grows, the shift will only increase. She has to keep practicing, guga."
Lin Xiao glanced at the culprits behind Zhu Zhuqing's shifted center of gravity and wholeheartedly agreed.
The next moment, a bird alighted on Zhu Zhuqing's outstretched right hand.
The sudden weight threw her off balance.
Her foot slipped, and she fell.
Lin Xiao rushed forward, stretched out both arms, and caught Zhu Zhuqing against his chest.
"Zhu Zhuqing, are you all right?"
Zhu Zhuqing stared at his face, momentarily dazed. When she came to her senses, panic filled her eyes.
"Mm... could you put me down?"
Her voice was soft. She turned her head slightly, letting her black hair hide half her burning face.
Lin Xiao gently set her on the ground and