Chapter 5 Summary and Analysis

Pan Learns Script

Mark learns more about Pan's background. Pan lost his father at a young age and his two older brothers considered his martial arts training was a waste of time. This forced Pan to practice secretly. During the day he did metal work with his brothers and practiced his skills at night. He let no one know about his training until he registered for a national competition and emerged as China's grand champion.

One day Mark is refused entry to the training facilities. He eventually learns that the country is undergoing a nationwide purge of leftist elements under the Party Rectification Campaign as well as a move to rid the country of western ideas. Mark is never allowed back in the training hall. Pan continues their lessons on a rooftop of a public bathhouse. Pan is away often, accompanying...