The Ambassador Return to the Beginning

A new generation rises. Together, with the Old Guard, they must find ways to train the next generations to protect the Local Neighborhood from the invading Olmeri.

This is the final book in the eight-book series. The lives of the characters remain intertwined and gradually separate.

Micha and Sentar have settled into their new lives. Beth is getting ready to graduate. Galen has been working long hours to catalog the books while he still has time. Sentar and Micha talk about taking Beth to the Library. Micha arranges a party for the graduates. She asks Beth, Dorana, and Tebrin to stay late. Sentar has arranged a video call with N'amani, Kell, the Doctor, Maru, and B'ani. N'amani reveals that President Smbarak retired and he is the new High Council President. Sentar and Micha go to the graduation ceremonies. They meet Beth, Dorana, and Tebrin as they are getting off the train. They return to the Training Compound together. Later, N'amani calls. He's coming with the Magellan to pick them up for Beth's graduation party. Sentar and Micha take Beth to the Library. Galen offers her a book on plants and seeds. She can hold the book without destroying it. Next, she must learn that not all the books are kind. Galen passes. Beth becomes the Keeper of the Keys to the Library at Nareem. Micha and Sentar go to selections.

The stories offer a rare glimpse into the inner world of traditional martial arts training. The Ambassador and her four old friends embody the five elements of Xingyiquan (Metal, Water, Wood, Fire, Earth) grounding the series in the long history and storied traditions of authentic Chinese martial arts. Their colors (White, Black, Green, Red, Gold) reflect their elements, personalities, and special skills (xingyi, taiji, qigong, bagua, sword).

Throughout the stories, the focus is on taking care of each other, what honor, integrity, honesty, and kindness mean, how we pass on what we have learned and bring up the next generations, and all sorts of positive character questions that are fundamental to traditional martial arts.