*Calix*

Each blow I made seemed only to drive me further back. I made no progress as my opponent easily beat me time and time again. Breathing heavily, I shifted into my human form and toweled off my sweat.

The trainer walked toward me, his elderly face grim.

“Lord Aldrich, I recommend you rest. You will strain yourself if you push too hard right now.”

“I don’t care,” I snarled. “I have to do this. Too much is at stake.”

“And ...