Seronga watched helplessly as Bishop Max died. The clergyman’s head jerked back, even as his body was propelled forward. The first thing that died were his eyes. Seronga could see the light go out of them. A moment later, the bishop fell face down on the tile floor. Blood ran with ugly speed from a hole at the base of his skull. The guard’s pistol had been so close that its flash had blackened the flesh around the wound. In an instant, the terminal became a madhouse. People have the same reaction when anything dramatically unexpected occurs. There is a moment of paralysis after the fact. If the danger passes, such as a car accident or an explosion, people tend to resuscitate slowly. The mind tells them there is no longer a risk. It gives them a long moment to process the situation, to adjust to the disorientation. If the danger persists, such as a fire, flood, or storm, the mind steps aside. It recognizes the danger and allows instinct to override the shock.
