Two more weeks passed. Ning kept to the cleansing schedule, measured inhalations, and broth. Her last scan showed no refinery residue in the marked tissue. The passages were clear, but Fan wanted one final examination before they called the treatment complete.
Ning sat upright while he checked her pulse and listened to her breathe. She asked him to compare the new image with the original one. He laid the two mirror plates side by side and pointed to the lower lung tissue that had once held the stubborn patch.
“It has settled,” he said. “The residue is gone. The damaged living tissue is still recovering, but the target is ready for the final palm.”
“Will this be like the last time?”
“The same method. I’ll watch your breathing. If you want to stop, tell us.”
Ning looked at Yan. “I want to go through with it.”
Qinghe reviewed the placement, then stepped back so Yan could take his position. She did not need to guide every movement now. He knew the complete Returning Spring Palm and the marked location. Fan watched the mirror and Ning’s breath. Ning placed a hand on the cot rail, settled her shoulders, and told Yan when she was ready.
