Chapter 93

• 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 astonished by my newfound abilities—I surprised myself time and time again, instinctively dodging, blocking, and countering every move Gareth threw at me.
• For the first time, I executed every combat technique Oberon had taught me with precision—something I had never been able to do before. It was as if my body had unlocked a hidden wellspring of skill and strength, allowing me to move effortlessly, almost as if I had been born for this.
• "Lady Thalassa... you actually kept up with Master Larkspur! You're incredible!" Icarus cheered, his voice filled with genuine admiration, even though I knew I was still far from matching Gareth’s true skill.