The onlookers explode

in good-natured jeers

toward the fallen man

who Zahra helps up,

a show of chivalry.

The officer steps forward,

claps Zahra on the shoulder.

Well done, son.

You still a squire?

If Zahra responds

her voice is muffled

by her helmet, her visor.

I think that a blessing

until—

he reaches out

flips up her visor

and freezes.