Gareth hadn’t been lying about putting me through hell. After a grueling six-hour practice session, I felt like I might vomit my guts out. And yet, despite the exhaustion gnawing at my body, I was exhilarated. This strange transformation within me had made me stronger than I could have ever imagined. I found myself faster, sharper, and more attuned to my surroundings than ever before. Even Icarus, who watched me spar with Gareth, stood slack-jawed in awe. He wasn’t the only one ...