Six years ago, when doing research for "The Return", it was recommended I speak with Master Seung O Choi. Among the many disciplines he taught (including his own, world-wide recognized Choido), was boxing. He was, I was assured, a remarkable man who would doubtless provide me with valuable information.
One of the first things Master Choi told me was that my favorite, John 'Gentleman' Jackson, the darling of anything Regency and the personal friend of Alfred, Lord Byron, would have gotten his butt kicked had he come back today.
Needless, to say, I was hooked.
I began haunting the dojo, asking countless questions, and observing one of Master Choi's students, David Lawhorn, the two-time World Cruiserweight Kickboxing Champion, train. Soon, that was not enough, and I took up boxing, under Master Choi's expert tutelage.
I wish I could say I became a world champion myself, but that is not the case. By the time I reached the point in my training where I would hit and be hit, I became pregnant, and had to hang up my gloves.
Fortunately, my relationship with Master Choi did not end: I brought both children to meet him when each was born, and continued to consult with him on the choreographing of fights for my books and short stories (sometimes with the aid of Master Choi's son, Won Choi, former five-time Junior Olympic kick-boxing and boxing champion).
On 12 January 2005, one of the most remarkable men I have known, died. I feel blessed to have known him, and owe Master Choi more than I could begin to describe. He, without a doubt, influenced the shaping of Lord John Latham's character, and guided him in and out of the ring.
The world will certainly not be the same without him.