Chapter 169: Elena Ward Said Smoothly

"This is a Ward family tradition," Elena Ward said smoothly, repeating the excuse she'd grown almost convinced of herself.

Of course, her healing force couldn't possibly have come from The Wards. Her worthless father would never have been capable of such a thing. But her birth mother... perhaps there had been something special about her. How else could this power have manifested in Elena out of nowhere?

"A family tradition? Excellent!" Director Carter's eyes lit up. "If we could standardize your acupuncture technique, think how many veterans with old injuries could benefit. You wouldn't believe how many soldiers develop chronic conditions from years of training—rheumatoid arthritis isn't just my problem..."

Elena quickly cut off his hopeful rambling. "Director Carter, this technique isn't for teaching. I've already explained to the General—it's not that I won't teach it, but that I can't." If people could learn this like any other skill, she thought wryly, why would I bother with this charade?

Director Carter's expression hardened, clearly suspecting selfish motives. "Comrade Ward, surely in this modern era we've moved beyond keeping secrets—"

"Director Carter," Elena interrupted firmly, "it's truly not my choice. The General can explain the restrictions. This technique has... unique requirements. Not everyone in my family could master it either."

Daniel Carter rubbed his hands anxiously. "Little sister, give me a treatment too! This leg injury's been holding me back forever—every time we do weighted runs—"

A sudden chill ran through Elena. Her fingers turned icy.

When she didn't move, Daniel's face darkened. Was she refusing him after treating the Director?

Seeing his expression, Elena managed a weak smile. "Director Carter, could I trouble you for a blanket?"

The older man blinked. "You need a blanket for acupuncture?"

Outside the door, Daniel Ward stiffened at the word "blanket." He knew that signal—his sister was about to crash.

"Elena!" He burst in and immediately grabbed her freezing hands, wrapping his military jacket around her without hesitation. "Another chill?"

Director Carter gaped. "Comrade, it's the middle of summer—"

"I'm her brother," Daniel said tersely, fastening the jacket. "Every treatment drains her vital energy, causing hypothermia. That's why the technique can't be taught—others lack the constitution."

Skeptical, Director Carter touched Elena's forehead and recoiled. "She's like ice!" He hastily poured hot water.

Clutching the cup, Elena popped a candy into her mouth, color slowly returning to her cheeks.

Daniel Carter scratched his head guiltily. "Sorry, little sister. I didn't know it took so much out of you. My leg can wait—"