Looking down at the kneeling assassin, I felt a mix of satisfaction and surprise. Her complete submission had come faster than I'd expected, but the healing of her old injuries had clearly sealed the deal.
"What's your real name?" I asked.
"Phoebe," she replied, still maintaining her bow. "Phoebe Chen."
"Alright, Phoebe. Stand up. We need to discuss your new role."
She rose gracefully, her movements already noticeably smoother now that her meridians were functioning properly. The difference in her posture was remarkable.
"First, let me be clear about something," I continued. "Your primary responsibility will be protecting someone very important to me. My fiancée, Evelyn Reed."
"Your fiancée?" Phoebe's expression shifted slightly. "Is she in danger?"
"She's the CEO of a major company and connected to one of the most powerful families in the city. That makes her a target for anyone wanting to get to me."
"I understand. You want me to serve as her bodyguard."
