It's only a half-ball on a flat surface, but it's kicking my butt. I actually feel sorry that Boot is forced to train me because it's a losing proposition. Without King's guarantee Boot won't kill me, I'd be worrying non-stop. Besides grumbling one-word commands, the man hasn't spoken.

"One foot," he barks.

Wow, two actual words.

I'm standing close to the wall so I can use it for balance. My palm hasn't left the smooth surface because I fall as soon as I try to ...