The next morning, Qinghe found Su Lan’s channel inflammation had worsened despite the cool compress and rest. Su flexed her fingers, then stopped when the ache returned.
“I still want to go to my market shift tomorrow,” she said. “Can the Palm help without leaving me unable to carry a basket?”
Qinghe explained that the art might repair the irritated channels, but Su could choose ordinary treatment instead. She described what Yan would do and how his own practitioner cost would give him life. Su asked Yan to explain the process once more.
“The healing benefit would be yours,” he said. “The method’s cost belongs to me. If you don’t want it, I won’t use it.”
Su thought for a moment. “I choose the Palm.”
Yan set his hand where Qinghe directed and performed Returning Spring Palm. The method moved smoothly through his body. Its intended lifespan cost became renewed life and vitality before any harm could occur. Su’s circulation steadied and the inflamed channels began to close.
Qinghe checked the response and confirmed that the pain had eased. “You still need the aftercare. No heavy baskets today.”
Su nodded. “I can ask my sister to cover the stall.”
